Tra fish export: Gradually moving to Asian markets (10-05-2018)
In the first three months of 2018, tra fish export was estimated at US $ 438.2 million, up 18 per cent compared to the same period last year. Of which, tra fish export to the main markets saw a positive growth rate, such as China - Hong Kong increased 45 per cent, USA increased 22.7 per cent; ASEAN increased 56.5 per cent, etc.
China – Hong Kong
By the end of March 2018, tra fish export to China – Hong Kong reached US $ 101.1 million, increasing by 45 per cent compared to the same period last year and accounting for 23 per cent of total tra fish export. Until now, this is still the largest import market of Vietnamese tra fish in 2018.It is forecast that, in 2018, tra fish export to this market will continue to grow positively thanks to good import demand, diversified prices in many market segment and product categories. However, China market is well known f for its unstable demand and payment method. Therefore, in order to be successful in this market, government should research and development long- term strategy, such as marketing programs, communications to promote tra fish products in China market.
USA - EU
USA and EU are traditional markets of Viet Nam throughout decades. Nontheless, these two markets have set many barriers for Vietnamese export activities in general and seafood export in particular in recent years. By the end of March, Viet Nam’s tra fish export value to the USA reached US $ 75 million, accounting for 17 per cent and up 22.7 per cent year on year. Tra fish exported to EU reached US $ 41 million, a reduction of 17.7 per cent compared to the same period last year. In 2018, tra fish continues to cope with difficulties from technical and commercial barriers in these markets.
ASEAN
In the first three months of 2018, tra fish export to ASEAN market reached US $ 46.7 million, up 56.5 per cent over the same period last year. Of these, the three largest import markets were Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines with high growth rates of 97.9 per cent, 26.8 per cent, and 32.7 per cent respectively compared to the same period in 2017.
With the export results in the first quarter of this year to the ASEAN market, Vietnamese exporters are moving successfully to Asian markets. It is expected that in 2018, ASEAN will continue to maintain its position as the third largest importer of Vietnamese tra fish (after China and USA).
It can be seen that in the first three months of this year, Vietnamese exporters are making great efforts to adapt difficulties from traditional markets. Although, it must be confirmed that the US and the EU are always two key important markets that cannot be lost for our tra fish products. However, the imposition of strict and harsh rules, even some unreasonable ones from major importers led many tra fish exporters to find new ways for their products through other alternative markets.
Thuy Quynh