As Chinese and Brazilian tilapia exporters grapple with steep tariffs, Vietnamese fisheries companies have identified a lucrative opportunity. By 2025, Vietnam's tilapia exports to the United States surged to $53.15 million, marking a 173% year-over-year increase and establishing America as Vietnam's largest tilapia market, accounting for half of its total export value.
This dramatic growth reflects broader shifts in global trade dynamics. The U.S. imposition of 55% tariffs on Chinese tilapia and 50% duties on Brazilian products has created favorable conditions for Vietnamese exporters to expand their market share.
Vietnamese producers have strategically adapted to U.S. market preferences. Frozen fillet exports demonstrated particularly explosive growth, soaring 499% to $40 million and driving the overall expansion. In contrast, exports of processed products and dried fish declined sharply by 39% and 68% respectively, revealing American consumers' preference for convenient, moderately processed tilapia with consistent quality.
The industry's competitive advantages—including lower production costs , reliable supply chains , and rapid compliance with U.S. food safety standards —have positioned Vietnam for continued growth in this sector. However, maintaining this momentum will require ongoing optimization of product offerings, enhanced value-added processing capabilities, and effective responses to competition from emerging production regions.