Brazil reopens market after TiLV virus concerns fade

Vietnam's tilapia industry is set to expand its global footprint following the reopening of the Brazilian market. This development comes after Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's diplomatic visit to Brazil, which has helped alleviate concerns over the Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) that had previously halted exports.

Market Context

The global demand for tilapia is on an upward trajectory, with the market projected to grow from $10.6 billion in 2024 to $14.5 billion by 2033. This growth is driven by the species' adaptability, affordability, and appeal across diverse consumer segments. The United States remains the largest importer, accounting for approximately 200,000 tonnes annually. With China's supply facing challenges due to trade barriers, Vietnam is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the market.

Implications for Vietnam

Vietnam's tilapia exports have already shown significant growth, reaching $41 million in 2024, a 138% increase from the previous year. The United States has been a major contributor to this surge, with export revenues increasing nearly seven-fold to $19 million. The first quarter of 2025 continued this positive trend, with exports nearing $14 million. The Vietnamese industry is leveraging free trade agreements and restructuring production to maintain this momentum.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the promising outlook, Vietnam's tilapia sector faces several challenges, including inconsistent seed quality, disease threats, and high production costs. The industry is addressing these issues by investing in disease-resistant breeds and improving production standards. Nguyen Hoai Nam, General Secretary of VASEP, emphasised the need for farms to meet international standards and enhance supply chain transparency through technologies like blockchain.

Future Prospects

Vietnam's tropical climate and abundant water resources offer ideal conditions for tilapia farming, with plans to expand the farming area to 40,000 hectares by 2030. Tran Dinh Luan of the Department of Fisheries highlighted the potential of integrated farming systems, such as tilapia-shrimp rotations, to enhance productivity and sustainability. As global demand rises, Vietnam aims to solidify its position as a leading tilapia exporter by focusing on quality improvement and market development.

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