The growth continues a boom that began in 2024, when exports to China rose from US$141 million in 2023 to US$404 million, an increase of 186%.

Vietnam has emerged as the top beneficiary, exporting over 17,365 tons of lobster, nearly triple the volume of the same period, valued at US$556 million. Advantages include favorable tariffs, proximity allowing efficient live transport, abundant supply of green lobsters, and strong recovery of major farming areas, enabling Vietnam to compete effectively with Canada, the US, and other countries.

However, VASEP warns that domestic producers still face challenges. Prices have previously dropped due to oversupply after holiday seasons, intense competition from Australia, Canada, the US, and Southeast Asian countries, as well as tighter Chinese regulations on quality and processing facilities, including the new Order 280, which could create bottlenecks for exports.

Nonetheless, Chinese demand is expected to remain strong through the year-end and Lunar New Year period, thereby continuing to support Vietnamese lobster shipments.

Vietnam’s lobsters claw back prominence in China

Vietnam’s lobster export to the Chinese market in January-September rose 33 folds year-on-year on the back of lower prices and stronger trade ties between the two nations, the South China Morning Post said on October 22.