China’s imports peaked in February at $154 million, 150% higher year-on-year, and remained steady at between $78 million and $87 million in the following months, official figures show.
China continues to be the largest consumer of Vietnamese lobster, driven by stable demand for live seafood, particularly in the premium segment serving restaurants, banquets, and the gift market, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers.
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A lobster seen at a seafood restaurant in HCMC. Photo by VnExpress/Tran Truong |
Vietnamese lobster also enjoys several competitive advantages in the Chinese market. Its close geographic proximity shortens transportation times and helps preserve the quality of live shipments.
Exporters can also supply the market through both land and air transport. In particular, small- and medium-sized blue lobsters are competitively priced and well suited to the preferences of Chinese consumers.
Beyond these inherent advantages, changes in global supply have also created opportunities for Vietnamese exporters. In 2025, several traditional suppliers, including Canada, the U.S., and Australia, were affected by tariffs, trade disruptions, or slow production recovery, creating room for Vietnamese lobster to expand its market share.
As a result, Vietnam has emerged as one of China’s key lobster suppliers, providing a foundation for continued export growth this year.
Industry experts forecast that if consumer demand in China remains stable and exporters continue to maintain a reliable supply of high-quality products, Vietnam’s lobster export will have further room to grow in the second half of the year.
However, the industry will need to closely monitor changes to China’s import policies, quarantine requirements, and quality standards to maintain its competitive edge and ensure sustainable growth.
Sourcee.vnexpress.net
