Vietnam Pangasius Market Trends and Forecast 2025

Current State and Future Outlook of Vietnam Pangasius Market Trends

Pangasius has come a long way from being “just another white fish.” Vietnam’s pangasius industry has weathered economic storms, pandemic disruptions, and shifting consumer preferences to emerge as a resilient powerhouse in the country’s seafood export portfolio. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes of market uncertainties, 2024 marked a significant turnaround for the industry.

The secret behind this resilience isn’t just luck—it’s a combination of adaptive strategies, quality improvements, and market diversification that has propelled pangasius from being merely a budget protein option to a versatile seafood choice appreciated by consumers worldwide.

Global Pangasius Market Trends: Production and Export Analysis 2024

The year 2024 was nothing short of remarkable for Vietnam’s pangasius exports, with values exceeding $2 billion—a testament to the industry’s recovery after navigating the choppy waters of 2023. This resurgence wasn’t accidental but the result of strategic pivoting and product innovation.

The key products are: Frozen Pangasius fillet, Pangasius (whole, steak) and breaded pangasius. 

Source: Customs data

Much like a chef who transforms simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces, Vietnam has expanded beyond traditional frozen fillets. Value-added pangasius products, particularly breaded fillets, emerged as stars in the export constellation, especially in the U.S. market, where they witnessed an astonishing 40-fold increase compared to previous years.

This diversification strategy—branching out into coated, pre-cooked, and convenience-oriented products—has given Vietnam’s pangasius exports a competitive edge, appealing to time-pressed consumers seeking quality seafood without complex preparation requirements.

Pangasius Market Trends by Region: Top Importing Markets

The global appetite for pangasius has distinct regional flavors, with each market presenting unique opportunities and challenges for exporters and importers alike.

Source: Customs data

The U.S. market has developed a renewed hunger for pangasius, particularly for value-added products that align with the American preference for convenience. After digesting the oversupply issues of 2023, this market has found its balance again, driven by consumers seeking affordable protein alternatives amidst rising food costs. It’s as if pangasius has found its second wind in America, with ready-to-cook options flying off the shelves faster than hot cakes.

Across the Atlantic, the EU market continues to set the bar high with its emphasis on sustainability and traceability. Gone are the days when pangasius was viewed with skepticism in European circles. Vietnam’s commitment to improved farming standards has helped pangasius swim back into European favor, with Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium leading the school of importers.

The Chinese and Asian markets remain the backbone of pangasius exports, accounting for over $581 million in 2024. China’s growing middle class has developed a taste for both traditional and innovative pangasius products, creating a steady demand stream that shows no signs of slowing down.

Source: Customs data

Meanwhile, one of pangasius market trends we could see in recent time is emerging markets are like hungry newcomers to a feast. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia have developed an appetite for pangasius, attracted by its competitive pricing and quality improvements. These markets represent the new frontier for Vietnam pangasius export forecast 2025, offering diversification opportunities beyond traditional importing regions.

Vietnam Pangasius Production Forecast 2025

The foundation of any strong market lies in its production capabilities. For pangasius, 2025 looks to be a year where sustainability meets innovation, creating a stronger base for market growth.

Sustainable Pangasius Farming Trends

If the pangasius industry were a student, 2025 would be the year it graduates with honors in sustainability. Sustainable pangasius farming is no longer just a buzzword but a business imperative, with certified farming areas expected to expand significantly throughout the year.

Like responsible parents raising their children, pangasius farmers are adopting advanced water treatment systems and optimized feeding practices that not only enhance product quality but also minimize environmental footprints. This shift isn’t merely altruistic—it’s a recognition that sustainability sells, especially in markets where consumers increasingly vote with their wallets for environmentally responsible products.

Technological innovation is also swimming alongside sustainability. Automated monitoring systems are becoming the watchful eyes of pangasius farms, while improved breeding programs are helping farmers raise healthier fish more efficiently. This marriage of technology and traditional farming practices is set to increase productivity while maintaining a steady supply chain—a win-win for both producers and importers.

Pangasius Market Regulations and Policy Changes

In the regulatory ocean, several significant waves will impact pangasius exports in 2025. New quality standards are being implemented to enhance product safety and traceability—think of them as the industry’s guardrails ensuring that only the best pangasius reaches international plates.

The EU, always at the forefront of environmental regulations, is tightening its sustainability requirements, pushing exporters to adopt even greener practices. Rather than viewing these as obstacles, forward-thinking businesses see them as opportunities to differentiate their offerings in a competitive marketplace.

Meanwhile, the CPTPP agreement continues to provide tariff benefits that make pangasius more competitive in markets like Mexico, Canada, and Japan. These trade agreements are like favorable currents, helping Vietnamese pangasius swim more easily into international markets despite the occasional regulatory tide.

See another post: Vietnam Seafood Export full overview of 2024 (update) – Market Insights & Key Trends 2025 -> click here.

Pangasius Market Challenges and Opportunities 2025

Every market has its sunshine and shadows. For pangasius in 2025, several challenges loom on the horizon, but with them come opportunities for the prepared and the innovative.

Pangasius Supply Chain Trends and Disruptions

The global supply chain remains as unpredictable as the weather, with rising shipping costs and logistical delays continuing to challenge even the most experienced importers. Like sailors preparing for potential storms, smart businesses are diversifying their supplier networks and establishing contingency plans to navigate these disruptions.

Competition from alternative white fish species like tilapia and Alaska pollock is also intensifying, creating a crowded market where differentiation becomes crucial. However, this challenge presents an opportunity for value-added pangasius products to shine, offering unique selling propositions that set them apart from the basic white fish crowd.

Pangasius Price Trends and Market Opportunities 2025

Pangasius price trends point toward stability with potential modest increases driven by rising production costs and growing global demand. This relative price stability, compared to wild-caught alternatives experiencing more significant fluctuations, positions pangasius as a reliable option for cost-conscious importers and consumers alike.

Several golden opportunities await in the pangasius market:

First, as sustainability becomes a consumer priority, pangasius’s credentials as a farmed sustainable seafood option position it favorably compared to many wild-caught alternatives facing overfishing concerns.

Second, in a world still grappling with economic uncertainties, pangasius offers an affordable protein alternative without compromising on nutritional value—a compelling proposition for budget-conscious consumers.

Finally, the ongoing shifts in global trade dynamics, including the U.S.-China trade tensions, create favorable conditions for Vietnamese pangasius exports, with tariff advantages that make this white fish even more competitive in key markets.

See another post: Why are US buyers switching to purchase tilapia fish from Vietnam?

Pangasius Market Forecast: Expert Predictions for 2025

Looking into our crystal ball (backed by data and expert analysis), we at VNSeafoodInsider predict that Vietnam’s pangasius exports will maintain a steady growth trajectory, potentially reaching $2.1 billion by the end of 2025. This growth won’t happen in a straight line—market dynamics rarely do—but the overall trend points upward.

Price stability will be the watchword, though slight increases are anticipated as production costs rise and global demand strengthens. For importers, this relative predictability offers a planning advantage in an otherwise volatile seafood market.

Our strategic recommendation? Prioritize suppliers who offer traceable, certified pangasius products. As consumer awareness grows, the market is increasingly rewarding businesses that can demonstrate responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship. Think of certifications not as extra paperwork but as passports that open doors to premium market segments.

Pangasius Market Strategy Guide for Importers

Now that we’ve mapped the pangasius landscape for 2025, let’s focus on how you, as an importer or distributor, can navigate it successfully.

Key Pangasius Market Trends for Importers and Distributors

If there’s one lesson the past few years have taught us, it’s that dependency on a single supplier is a risk few can afford. Diversify your supplier network to create resilience against potential disruptions. Think of it as not putting all your pangasius eggs in one basket.

The rising tide of value-added products offers exciting opportunities. Coated fillets, nuggets, and pre-seasoned pangasius options are no longer niche products but mainstream offerings that cater to consumers’ desire for convenience without sacrificing quality. These products often command better margins and face less direct competition than basic frozen fillets.

Finally, embrace sustainability not just as a compliance requirement but as a business strategy. Partnering with suppliers who invest in eco-friendly farming practices positions your business on the right side of history and consumer preferences. It’s like planting trees for future generations—the benefits may not be immediate, but they’re substantial and lasting.

See another post: Top 5 shrimp processing companies in Vietnam

Conclusion: Swimming Ahead with Confidence

As we navigate the currents of 2025, the pangasius market offers a sea of opportunities for those equipped with the right knowledge and strategies. By staying informed about pangasius market trends and the Vietnam pangasius export forecast 2025, you can position your business to capitalize on this versatile fish’s growing global popularity.

At VNSeafoodInsider, we’re committed to being your trusted navigator in these waters, providing timely updates and insights that help you make informed decisions. Remember, in the world of seafood imports, those who anticipate market shifts rather than merely reacting to them are the ones who truly thrive.

The pangasius story continues to evolve, and with the right approach, your business can be an important chapter in its success story. Stay connected with us for the latest insights and updates as we continue to monitor the dynamic world of pangasius exports.

After all, in the ocean of seafood options, pangasius isn’t just staying afloat—it’s making waves that savvy businesses can ride to success.