Meksea.com –  According to VASEP, Vietnam pangasius exports to Saudi Arabia have shown a remarkable recovery in the first five months of 2026. Despite geopolitical tensions affecting logistics across the Middle East, export value increased by 28% year-on-year, highlighting the resilience of Vietnamese pangasius and the market’s growing demand for high-quality frozen seafood.

1. Vietnam Pangasius Exports to Saudi Arabia Continue to Recover

Vietnam Pangasius Exports to Saudi Arabia Continue to Recover

Saudi Arabia remains one of the promising destinations for Vietnam pangasius exports to Saudi Arabia, with demand recovering steadily throughout the first five months of 2026.

In May 2026 alone, pangasius exports reached USD 5 million, representing a 69% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Cumulatively, exports totaled USD 18 million, up 28% year-on-year.

The positive performance reflects Saudi Arabia’s stable demand for frozen seafood products that offer competitive pricing, consistent supply, and convenient preparation. Vietnamese pangasius continues to meet the needs of retail chains, foodservice distributors, hotels, restaurants, and household consumers across the Kingdom.

2. Frozen Pangasius Fillets Dominate the Saudi Market

Product structure remains heavily concentrated on frozen pangasius products. Frozen pangasius fillets (HS 0304) account for 77.1% of total exports, making them the leading product category. Meanwhile, frozen whole fish, steaks, and butterfly-cut products (HS 0303) represent 22.8%, while processed pangasius products (HS 16) contribute only 0.1%.

This product mix suggests considerable opportunities for Vietnamese exporters to develop more value-added seafood products tailored to Saudi consumer preferences. Expanding Halal-certified, ready-to-cook, and convenience seafood products could significantly enhance export value while strengthening Vietnam’s competitive position in the Middle East.

>>>Vietnam Pangasius Exports to Colombia Grow 48% in 2026

3. Geopolitical Challenges Caused Temporary Disruptions Before Demand Rebounded

Vietnamese pangasius exporters entered 2026 with strong momentum, recording a 60% increase in January compared to the previous year. However, exports declined slightly by 6% in February as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East disrupted regional logistics. Increased risks around the Strait of Hormuz and shipping routes across the Gulf resulted in higher freight uncertainty, delayed bookings, and temporary shipping constraints affecting several Middle Eastern destinations, including Saudi Arabia.

The decline proved temporary. Exports recovered by 9% in March, accelerated to 17% in April, and surged 69% in May. The sharp rebound indicates that market demand remains fundamentally strong despite short-term supply chain disruptions.

Looking ahead, continued improvements in regional shipping conditions, combined with careful management of logistics costs, marine insurance, and import certification requirements, will be essential for sustaining export growth.

4. Meksea – The Leading Seafood Distributor in Vietnam

MEKSEA’S PANGASIUS PRODUCTS

Pangasius Steak

Breaded pangasius fillet

Frozen Pangasius fillet

Pangasius fillet

As global demand for Vietnamese seafood continues to expand, choosing a reliable sourcing partner is more important than ever. Meksea is a leading seafood distributor in Vietnam, supplying premium Vietnamese seafood to customers in more than 120 countries and territories. With extensive experience in pangasius sourcing and export, Meksea offers a wide range of frozen pangasius products, including fillets, portions, steaks, and value-added solutions tailored to international market requirements.

Committed to quality, food safety, and customer satisfaction, Meksea works closely with certified processing plants and maintains strict quality control throughout the supply chain. Flexible packaging options, customized specifications, and reliable logistics support enable buyers to source Vietnamese seafood with confidence.

This August, Meksea returns to Vietfish Expo 2026 as a Platinum Sponsor, marking 10 years of partnership with Vietnam’s largest seafood exhibition. To celebrate this milestone, we’re preparing something special for our valued partners. Our booth has always been a familiar place to connect, discuss the seafood industry, and explore new opportunities together. Don’t miss this special occasion! VIETFISH EXPO 2026 Meksea Booth: Platinum Sponsor Date: August 19–21, 2026 Venue: Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Don’t hesitate to contact us to explore more Vietnam  seafood!

Mr. Hoang Duy – Commercial Director

Mobile/WhatsApp/Wechat: + 84 903 872 469

Email: hoang@mekseaconnection.com

Joy Nguyen  (Meksea Team)

If you found this topic interesting, please click the Like button below, so we may continue to expand this topic. Leave a comment with your thoughts for the author team to discuss