According to Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the first eight months of 2025 marked a turning point for Vietnam’s tilapia industry. According to Vietnam Customs, tilapia exports (including red tilapia) reached over USD 63 million, up 174% compared to the same period in 2024. This is the highest level in the past five years, surpassing even the post-pandemic recovery phase.

The U.S. –  Vietnam’s Core Market for Tilapia

Tilapia Fillet Skinless, CO-treated

Black Tilapia WGGS

The U.S. accounted for more than 62% of Vietnam’s total tilapia export value, reaffirming its critical role. Tilapia alone recorded USD 52 million in export value, soaring 359% year-on-year, with the U.S. making up nearly 70% of this figure. Meanwhile, red tilapia exports reached USD 11 million, down slightly by 1% compared to 2024, with the U.S. still holding a 25% share.

This remarkable growth in tilapia has been the primary driver of Vietnam’s overall fish export performance in 2025.

Tilapia – The Most Popular Whitefish in the U.S.

According to the International Trade Centre (ITC), the U.S. is currently the world’s largest consumer of tilapia. Tilapia has not only surpassed pangasius but is also outperforming several traditional whitefish species such as cod.

Tilapia – The Most Popular Whitefish in the U.S.

In the first seven months of 2025, the U.S. imported more than USD 1.1 billion worth of whitefish (+8% year-on-year). Among these, frozen tilapia fillets (HS code 030461) were the most popular with American consumers, reaching USD 262 million, up 19% and accounting for 23% of total whitefish imports.

Vietnam has now risen to become the second-largest supplier of HS 030461 products to the U.S., just behind China. This milestone demonstrates that Vietnamese tilapia is gaining a stronger foothold in the global seafood market.

Opportunities and Potential for Vietnamese Exporters

The strong growth of Vietnam’s tilapia exports can be attributed to several factors:

• Consistent quality: Processed in modern facilities, meeting international food safety standards.

• Product diversity: Beyond frozen fillets, various product forms are available to suit U.S. consumer demand.

• Consumption trends: American consumers increasingly prefer mild-flavored, boneless, affordable whitefish — characteristics that tilapia fits perfectly.

While China still dominates the market, Vietnam’s rise to the second position in the U.S. highlights the industry’s growth potential. As consumers place greater emphasis on product origin and quality, Vietnamese tilapia holds significant advantages to further expand its market share.

Meksea – The  leading seafood distributor in Vietnam

Meksea is a leading seafood distributor in Vietnam, offering premium tilapia among its key products. Sourced from well-managed farms and processed in modern facilities under strict international standards, our tilapia delivers consistent quality, food safety, and fresh flavor.

We provide a diverse range of tilapia products — from whole fish and fillets to value-added cuts — all tailored to meet the needs of different markets. Every order can be customized in terms of size, specifications, packaging, and labeling, giving our partners maximum flexibility.

Meksea – The leading seafood distributor in Vietnam

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

Mr. Hoang Duy – Commercial Director

Mobile/WhatsApp/Wechat: + 84 903 872 469

Email: hoang@mekseaconnection.com

Joy Nguyen  (Meksea Team)

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