Fish Cake and Surimi Exports Show Signs of Recovery
After a relatively weak first quarter, Vietnam fish cake and surimi exports 2026 showed clearer signs of recovery in Q2, particularly in June. According to VASEP, exports reached USD 148 million in the first six months of 2026, down 2% year-on-year. Although the sector has not returned to positive growth, the decline has narrowed compared with the beginning of the year.
The improvement indicates that demand in several markets is gradually recovering, while Vietnamese exporters are adjusting their market focus and order structure to maintain export activity.
Recovery Comes with New Pressures
The Q2 recovery does not necessarily mean an easier second half of the year. VASEP noted that fish cake and surimi exports are facing pressure from the additional 12.5% U.S. tariff, stronger competition in Northeast Asia and increasingly strict traceability requirements in the EU.
As importing markets place greater emphasis on raw material sourcing and supply-chain transparency, exporters need to strengthen not only product quality control but also documentation, traceability and raw material management.
Adaptability Will Be Key in the Second Half
For Vietnam fish cake and surimi exports 2026, growth opportunities remain as demand for processed seafood products continues across international markets. However, competitiveness will increasingly depend on cost control, market diversification and the ability to meet import requirements.
For seafood producers and suppliers, maintaining a stable raw material supply, clear product specifications and complete traceability records will be increasingly important to navigate market changes during the second half of the year.
Source: VASEP – Vietnam fish cake and surimi export updates, 2026.