South America, particularly the Mercosur bloc (including Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay) is emerging as one of the most promising markets for Vietnam’s pangasius. With a population of over 600 million, rising per capita income, and a growing trend toward healthy food consumption, Mercosur is becoming an ideal destination for whitefish products, especially Vietnam’s pangasius.

1. Vietnam’s pangasius rising in the Mercosur market

Mercosur is currently the fifth-largest economic bloc in the world in terms of population. Demand for imported food, especially nutrient-rich seafood, is rapidly increasing. In countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia (an observer of Mercosur), urban consumers are increasingly prioritizing lean animal protein sources rich in Omega-3, convenient to prepare, and reasonably priced. They are all key advantages of Vietnam’s pangasius.

Vietnam’s pangasius rising in the Mercosur market

Among these, Brazil leads the region in pangasius imports from Vietnam and ranks as the third-largest consumer of Vietnam’s pangasius globally, after China and the U.S. As of mid May 2025, Brazil imported Vietnam’s pangasius reached USD 70 million. It’s a 70% increase compared to the same period last year. In Q1 2025 alone, the figure totaled over USD 48 million, marking a strong growth rate of 73%.

Vietnam’s pangasius is well-suit for favorable consumption trends 

Consumers in major South American cities are shifting toward healthier, more convenient food choices. Vietnam pangasius, known for its boneless white flesh, mild flavor, soft texture, and competitive price, is increasingly replacing premium whitefish products like cod and pollock imported from North America and Europe.

Vietnam’s pangasius is well-suit for favorable consumption trends

Beyond frozen fillets, value-added pangasius products such as breaded fillets, cut portions, and fish balls are gaining popularity among consumers in Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina. Major supermarket chains in the region are also expanding their imported seafood categories. This is a trend that aligns perfectly with Vietnam’s efforts to grow its market share.

The  strategic lever between Vietnam Mercosur FTA

In June 2023, Vietnam and the Mercosur bloc officially began feasibility studies for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) which is actually a major strategic step. Once signed, the FTA is expected to remove high tariff barriers still applied by countries like Argentina and Uruguay, boosting Vietnam’s price competitiveness against other exporters like China and India.

Moreover, the FTA will open opportunities for deeper cooperation in logistics and cold-chain infrastructure, helping reduce delivery times and transportation costs that enhance product competitiveness in distant markets.

The  strategic lever between Vietnam Mercosur FTA

Despite the opportunities, Vietnam’s pangasius still faces several challenges in South America. High shipping costs and long delivery times can impact freshness and market competitiveness. In addition, Mercosur countries are gradually tightening regulations on food safety, traceability, and eco-friendly packaging. Therefore to compete effectively in the Mercosur market, seafood businesses are enhancing their capabilities and leveling up to meet global standards.

2. Meksea’s strategy: Seizing opportunities in the Mercosur market

Meksea is not just a seafood supplier, we are a strategic partner for the Mercosur market, delivering safe, high-quality products with competitive pricing. We are driven by a mission to bring responsible, value-added seafood solutions to global buyers. By prioritizing quality, professionalism, and dedication, Meksea actively builds its reputation as a trusted leader in Vietnam’s seafood export industry.

Meksea has deepening ties with local distributors to develop cold supply chains and introducing product lines tailored for regional preferences such as pangasius fillets, breaded fish, and fish balls to address logistics, technical barriers, Meksea is executing a focused export expansion strategy. Certified by ASC, BAP, and Halal, Meksea ensures every shipment aligns with global standards. Backed by stable output and a clear regional vision, Mercosur is set to become one of Meksea’s fastest-growing export markets.

Some products of Meksea : » Vietnam pangasius

Pangasius Steak

Pangasius Fillet Semi Trimmed

Pangasius HGT

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Do you look for a Vietnamese seafood distributor? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Mr. Hoang Duy – Commercial Director

Mobile/WhatsApp/Wechat: + 84 903 872 469

Email: hoang@mekseaconnection.com

Joy Nguyen  (Meksea Team)

(Reference: Vasep)

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