In 2025, Vietnam’s green lobster exports to China recorded a breakthrough year, reaching a turnover of $840 million—a staggering 131% increase compared to 2024.
With an export volume of 24,067 tons, accounting for approximately 34.5% of the market share in China, Vietnam has risen to the top position in green lobster exports to this market. This achievement surpasses Canada, which held the top spot for many years but saw its exports fall to 15,355 tons, representing roughly 22% of the market share.
One of the primary factors driving this shift was trade policy. Starting March 20, 2025, China imposed an additional 25% tariff on various Canadian seafood products, including lobsters. As a high-value yet price-sensitive commodity, this tariff rendered Canadian products less competitive, forcing importers to seek alternative sources.
At that critical juncture, Vietnam emerged with distinct advantages, including geographical proximity, rapid delivery times, and flexibility in shipment sizes—all of which are essential factors for the live and fresh seafood segment.
According to data from Vietnam Customs, 2025 was a breakout year for Vietnamese lobsters, particularly in the mainland China and Hong Kong markets. The total export value of Vietnamese shrimp and lobster products to these two markets reached $1.3 billion, a 55% increase over 2024. Specifically, green lobsters contributed $840 million to this figure, acting as the primary engine of growth. This momentum continued into early 2026; in January alone, green lobster exports to mainland China and Hong Kong exceeded $100 million, up 6% over the same period last year.
However, the landscape is expected to shift again starting March 1, 2026, as China lifts the 25% tariff on Canadian lobsters and crabs following a bilateral agreement. This move is predicted to ignite a new round of fierce competition, as Canada has a strong incentive to regain its market share, particularly within high-end restaurant chains and the premium gift market.
The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) noted that despite the export surge, domestic lobster farmers still face significant hurdles. Intense competition from Australia, Canada, the United States, and Southeast Asian neighbors such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia has placed heavy pressure on domestic procurement prices.
Furthermore, China's decision to lift the ban on Australian lobsters will further squeeze Vietnam’s market share. In addition to price competition, the Chinese market is tightening regulations regarding quality standards and the registration of processing facilities.
To maintain growth momentum, VASEP suggests that Vietnamese enterprises must closely align with market trends by stabilizing quality, standardizing product specifications, optimizing logistics for live goods, and strengthening direct ties with modern distribution systems.
VASEP remarked that while 2025 proved China is willing to "buy big" as the premium segment recovers, 2026 will be a true test of resilience. In an increasingly competitive environment, the suppliers who can maintain quality, delivery speed, and strong ties to distribution channels will be the ones who successfully defend their market share.
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