Vietnam strengthen foothold in Taiwan’s high-end seafood market
Taiwan’s appetite for shrimp and catfish drives Vietnam’s export growth
VIETNAM – Vietnam is increasing its presence in Taiwan’s premium seafood segment as demand for shrimp and basa fish continues to rise, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).
Data from VASEP released in early October shows that Taiwan’s growing import needs are creating fresh opportunities for Vietnamese seafood suppliers, particularly for shrimp and basa, a catfish species native to the Mekong River.
In 2024, Taiwan brought in seafood worth nearly US$1.9 billion (US$1.9 billion) from 86 different countries, with Vietnam ranking fourth and capturing 9 percent of the total import market.
Among the most popular products in the Taiwanese market were shrimp, salmon, squid, scallops, and halibut, reflecting consumers’ preference for diverse seafood varieties.
Taiwan’s seafood consumption is among the highest in Asia, with an average of 31.65 kilograms per person in 2023, well above the global average of 21 kilograms.
Premium seafood such as lobster, crab, and oysters remains in strong demand, particularly in high-end restaurants catering to affluent diners.
The rise of fine dining has further stimulated seafood imports, with Taiwan now home to 49 Michelin-starred restaurants that rely heavily on imported seafood products.
Vietnam has been quick to seize the opportunity, recording seafood exports worth US$168 million (US$168 million) to Taiwan in 2024, which represented 1.7 percent of its total seafood export earnings.
Between January and August 2025, exports to Taiwan reached more than US$123 million (US$123 million), reflecting an 18 percent year-on-year increase.
Shrimp shipments grew by 37 percent during this period, led by whiteleg and black tiger shrimp, while basa fish exports climbed by 31 percent.
On the other hand, squid and octopus exports fell by 5 percent, and mollusc exports declined sharply by 45 percent, pointing to growing competition in certain product categories.
Competitive edge and challenges
Shrimp and basa fish continue to give Vietnam a competitive advantage in Taiwan, where there is strong demand for processed seafood that meets high-quality standards.
However, Vietnamese suppliers face significant competition from China, Japan, and Norway, which dominate segments such as salmon, squid, and other marine fish.
Taiwan’s strict import inspections by the Food and Drug Administration also pose hurdles for exporters, especially around product certification and traceability.
VASEP has advised companies to concentrate on their main export strengths while investing in high-value processed seafood that highlights freshness and quality.
Building partnerships with Taiwanese chefs and restaurants, taking part in international trade shows, and maintaining compliance with food safety standards are viewed as key steps for brand visibility.
With continued growth through 2025, Vietnam’s seafood industry appears well-positioned to expand further in Taiwan, though experts stress that maintaining this progress will depend on consistent quality control and strategic market engagement.
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