Vietnam’s Pangasius Exports Flourish in April 2026: 18% Growth Driven
MEKSEA.COM – According to Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), Vietnam’s pangasius exports have experienced significant growth in April 2026, achieving a remarkable 18% increase over the same period last year. In the first four months of 2026, total pangasius export revenue reached $720 million, reflecting a 17% increase year-on-year. This resurgence is particularly notable in key markets such as the United States and China. This article breaks down the latest export figures and market trends, highlighting the opportunities and challenges within the pangasius industry.

Vietnam’s Pangasius Exports Flourish in April 2026: 18% Growth Driven by US and China Markets
THE MAJOR MARKETS FOR PANGASIUS EXPORTS
China: Leading Importer
China continues to be the largest importer of Vietnamese pangasius, with exports to this market hitting $53 million in April 2026, a 26% increase compared to last year. Over four months, exports to China totaled $197 million, accounting for nearly 27% of the overall market and showcasing the highest growth rate of 54% among key markets. The rapid recovery in demand from Chinese consumers has been pivotal in this growth.
United States: Recovery Signals
The United States ranks as the second-largest market, with pangasius export revenue reaching $39 million in April 2026, an increase of 20% from the previous year. Cumulatively, exports to the US stood at $106 million, reflecting a 4% increase as the market begins to recover from previous challenges.

The United States ranks as the second-largest market, with pangasius export revenue reaching $39 million in April 2026
Brazil: Mixed Results
The largest market for pangasius in Latin America, Brazil, recorded a 13% increase in April with exports totaling $17 million. However, the cumulative exports for the first four months of 2026 dropped 7%, reaching only $57 million.
EU Market Trends
Exports to the European Union (EU) experienced a slight decline, totaling $57 million from January to April 2026, down 4% year-on-year. Nevertheless, April figures indicate a small rebound, with exports reaching $17 million, reflecting a 5% increase.
CPTPP Growth
The CPTPP continues to show strong growth, with pangasius exports reaching $128 million, an impressive 21% increase over the same period last year.
>>>Vietnam Seafood Exports Continue to Recover in 2026
PRODUCT STRUCTURE AND MARKET INSIGHTS
During the first four months of 2026, 98% of the pangasius export value was generated from frozen pangasius fillets (HS Code HS03), where frozen fillet products (HS Code HS0304) alone contributed $594 million, representing over 82% of total export value and achieving a 20% increase. In contrast, high-value-added products (HS Code HS16) contributed only $13 million, a decrease of 16%, indicating untapped potential in this segment.

98% of the pangasius export value was generated from frozen pangasius fillets (HS Code HS03)
The results of Vietnam’s pangasius exports in the first four months of 2026 reveal a positive growth trend, driven mainly by demand from China and the CPTPP markets. While exports to the EU and Brazil have shown signs of stagnation, this presents an opportunity for Vietnamese businesses to enhance product quality and adapt to evolving import standards. The potential for growth in the processed high-value segment remains significant, especially as global demand for convenient food and value-added products continues to rise.
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