Insights

The Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) announced that Norwegian seafood exports to Vietnam continued their impressive growth trajectory in the first half of 2025, building on the success of 2024. 

In the first seven months of 2025, Norway exported a total of 88,500 tonnes of seafood to Southeast Asia, an increase of 13% compared to the same period last year. This amounted to a total value of NOK 5.4 billion (approximately VND 14 trillion), driven by strong demand for species such as salmon, trout, and mackerel. This represents a 10% increase in value over the first seven months of 2024. Fresh salmon and trout exports saw a significant volume increase of 31%, reaching 41,259 tonnes, while total value grew by 4% to NOK 3.5 billion.

Total Norwegian seafood exports to Vietnam in the first seven months of 2025 reached 32,400 tonnes, maintaining a stable volume compared to the previous year. The value of these shipments, however, saw a remarkable increase, rising by 17% to NOK 1.5 billion (approximately VND 4 trillion) compared to the same period in 2024. This robust performance solidifies Vietnam’s position as one of Norway’s most important markets in Southeast Asia and reflects a strong consumer trust in the "Seafood from Norway" brand. 

Through enhanced strategic partnerships between the NSC and local partners, Norwegian seafood has become more accessible to Vietnamese consumers, from importers and distributors to retailers and food service businesses. Major Vietnamese retailers have embraced Norwegian seafood, strengthening the presence of these products in the market. With an average per capita seafood consumption of 34 kg per year, Vietnamese consumers now have greater access to sustainably sourced, high-quality Norwegian seafood. These collaborations are enriching Vietnam’s seafood options with top-tier, responsibly sourced products that meet growing consumer demand.
Fresh salmon remains the leading import product in Vietnam, while Norwegian frozen salmon is also widely popular, particularly the demand for salmon belly for use in sushi. This has driven a deeper market entry for Norwegian seafood products. Total Norwegian salmon exports to Vietnam increased by 18% in volume to 12,500 tonnes, with a value of NOK 628 million (approximately VND 1.608 billion), a 7% increase from the same period in 2024. The volume of fresh salmon saw a significant jump of 42% to 4,900 tonnes, while frozen salmon products also grew by 12% to 5,500 tonnes. Norwegian mackerel exports were also notable, with a 22% increase in volume to 11,900 tonnes, and a 59% increase in value to NOK 332 million (approximately VND 850 billion). This strong growth is a testament to Norway's focus on high quality, sustainability, and traceability, which have built significant trust with Vietnamese consumers and businesses.