Processed Tuna: Vietnam’s Key Export Product to Japan

Vietnam’s seafood exports to Japan show positive signals as tuna export turnover in October 2024 increased by 31%, reaching $3.5 million. This contributed to raising the total 10-month seafood export value to $28 million, up 5% year-over-year.

According to Vietnam Customs data, processed tuna products under HS code 16 (smoked tuna meat, seasoned tuna slices) are leading export growth. To maintain product quality, businesses have invested heavily in cold container shipping systems and optimized cross-border logistics supply chains.

Tuna exports to Japan have maintained high growth for two consecutive months.

Over 20 Vietnamese enterprises currently export tuna to Japan. Three leading companies – Mariso Vietnam, AH Fishco, and Evertrust Food – account for 66% of total turnover by establishing stable international shipping networks and meeting Japanese partners’ transit time requirements.

Despite Japan reducing imports from most sources in the first 8 months of 2024 according to ITC statistics, Vietnam maintained its position by optimizing logistics costs and ensuring cold supply chains from harvesting to export.

International shipping experts predict Vietnam’s seafood exports to Japan have strong growth prospects due to advantages in cold container shipping services and ability to meet this market’s strict logistics standards. Businesses are actively investing in upgrading cold storage systems, specialized containers, and optimizing cross-border shipping processes.

Additionally, optimizing sea freight costs and cold supply chains has helped Vietnamese seafood products maintain price competitiveness in Japan. Logistics companies support exports through door-to-door services, real-time shipment tracking, and ensuring accurate delivery times.

The consumption trend of high value-added processed seafood products in Japan is forecast to continue increasing. This opens significant opportunities for Vietnamese exporters and international transport service providers.

To maintain and expand market share, the logistics industry needs to continue investing in cold container shipping service quality, optimizing maritime transport costs and time, while ensuring end-to-end cold supply chains meet Japan’s strict market standards.