Introduction – Vietnam’s Dried Seafood Market: A Quantitative Overview
Ever wondered why Vietnam is considered a powerhouse in the dried seafood world? The answer lies in the numbers. Vietnam is not just another seafood-exporting nation — it’s a global player with a reputation built on quality, variety, and sheer volume.
In 2024 alone, Vietnam’s seafood export turnover reached a staggering $10 billion, growing by 12.7% from the previous year. While shrimp, pangasius, and tuna took center stage, dried seafood continues to ride the wave of global demand. With a total output of 9.6 million tons that includes both wild-caught and aquaculture sources, Vietnam is clearly scaling up in both quantity and quality.
For businesses looking to source dried seafood, choosing the right supplier isn’t just about who has the lowest price — it’s about data, performance, and reliability. Platforms like Freshdi are empowering buyers by offering transparent market insights, verified suppliers, and real-time RFQ trends to make smarter procurement decisions.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
Let’s break down the numbers that matter. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (mard.gov.vn), Vietnam’s seafood industry saw huge gains in 2024:
- Shrimp exports: $4 billion (up 16.7%)
- Pangasius (tra fish): $2 billion (up 9.6%)
- Tuna: Nearly $1 billion (up 17%)
- Total seafood output: 9.6 million tons
- Wild-catch: 3.85 million tons
- Aquaculture: 5.75 million tons
The top export markets? The U.S., China, and Japan. Despite a 20% tariff, the U.S. still accounted for $85.1 billion in shipments in the first seven months of 2025 alone (reuters.com).
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The U.S. NOAA recently denied Vietnam a “comparability finding” under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which could restrict exports of tuna, squid, crab, and swordfish starting in 2026 (reuters.com). This highlights the importance of market adaptability and supplier diversification.
Platforms like Freshdi help interpret these market signals by analyzing RFQ volumes, price trends, and supplier activity — giving buyers a solid base for strategic sourcing.
Top 9 Verified Dried Seafood Suppliers in Vietnam – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Now to the main course — the best of the best. Below are the top 9 dried seafood suppliers in Vietnam for August 2025, selected based on their export performance, certifications, global reach, and buyer ratings on Freshdi.
1. TRADER
This powerhouse supplier has built a strong reputation for consistent quality and reliability. Known for a wide range of dried seafood products, TRADER is a go-to for bulk buyers across Asia and Europe.
2. VIMEXCO IMPORT-EXPORT JOINT STOCK COMPANY
Specializing in dried anchovies and other premium seafood items, VIMEXCO is known for its international certifications and sustainable sourcing practices.
3. Mikeco Industrial Seafood
Mikeco stands out for its vertically integrated supply chain — from catching to processing and exporting. Their dried squid and cuttlefish are especially popular among Japanese and Korean importers.
4. Blue Sea Co., Ltd.
Blue Sea Co. focuses on high-quality dried seafood and is often featured in Freshdi’s “Suppliers of the Month” rankings. Their ability to scale quickly for large orders makes them a favorite among wholesale buyers.
5. Meli Food Company
Meli Food champions traceability and food safety, offering a wide range of dried fish and shellfish. Their export numbers have been climbing steadily in 2025.
6. 99 Gold Data Processing Trading Company Limited
While known for dried sea moss, 99 Gold also deals in a variety of sea vegetables and niche seafood products. Ideal for buyers looking for plant-based alternatives.
7. Global Vinafoodstuff Agent
Global Vinafoodstuff offers a robust selection of dried shrimp, anchovies, and squid. Their export destinations include Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
8. Kks Exim
Highly rated for reliability and competitive pricing, Kks Exim is a rising star in the Vietnamese dried seafood landscape.
9. Huvy Export Import Co., Ltd.
This supplier is well-known for its salted baby shrimp and dried anchovies. Their commitment to quality and timely delivery has earned them consistently high ratings on Freshdi.
10. VIET FARGIMEX COMPANY LIMITED
Fargimex offers premium-grade dried seaweed and sea vegetables. They are a top pick for health food brands and niche markets.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind — rankings like this can change month to month. Platforms like Freshdi feature dynamic updates such as “Suppliers of the Month” and “Quarterly Export Leaders,” based on recent RFQ activity, buyer feedback, and transaction volume. So, it pays to stay updated.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
When it comes to dried seafood, not all months are created equal. Understanding seasonal demand can be a game-changer for buyers.
For example, dried anchovies and squid see a price spike during Lunar New Year and major export seasons. Meanwhile, seaweed and sea moss are in higher demand during Q2 and Q3, aligning with wellness market trends in the West.
Looking at historical RFQ data on Freshdi, there’s a noticeable uptick in demand from Korea, Japan, and the U.S. between April and August. This is when many importers lock in contracts ahead of festive seasons.
Also, pricing tends to dip slightly in Q1, making it a strategic time to place bulk orders and stock up for the year.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
Vietnam’s dried seafood sector isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving. With export figures soaring and production infrastructure getting stronger, the country remains one of the best sourcing destinations globally.
But here’s the kicker: choosing a supplier isn’t just about looking at a product catalog. It’s about understanding the numbers, recognizing market trends, and evaluating supplier performance.
Platforms like Freshdi are changing the game by giving buyers access to verified suppliers, dynamic RFQ trends, and real-time export data. Whether you’re sourcing dried anchovies, squid, or seaweed, this kind of insight helps you make smart, strategic decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Vietnam’s seafood exports reached $10 billion in 2024, with dried seafood playing a big role.
- The U.S., China, and Japan remain key markets, despite trade challenges.
- Verified suppliers like Mikeco, VIMEXCO, and TRADER are leading the way in export performance.
- Market intelligence from platforms like Freshdi helps buyers navigate trends, RFQs, and pricing.
Checklist for Dried Seafood Buyers
- ✅ Verify supplier certifications and export history.
- ✅ Check seasonal pricing trends before placing large orders.
- ✅ Use RFQ tools on Freshdi to benchmark offers.
- ✅ Evaluate logistics capabilities during peak seasons.
- ✅ Stay updated on regulatory changes in your target markets.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025 and beyond, Vietnam aims to hit an ambitious $11 billion in seafood exports. With more focus on sustainable sourcing, improved quality control, and market diversification, the dried seafood sector is expected to grow even further.
As trade dynamics shift and digital procurement becomes the norm, platforms like Freshdi will play a crucial role in helping buyers stay ahead of the curve.
FAQs
1. What dried seafood products are most popular from Vietnam?
Dried anchovies, squid, shrimp, seaweed, and cuttlefish are among the top exports.
2. When is the best time to buy dried seafood in bulk?
Q1 (January–March) usually offers the best prices due to lower seasonal demand.
3. Are all suppliers on Freshdi verified?
Yes, Freshdi verifies suppliers through documentation, certifications, and buyer feedback.
4. Can I get samples before placing a bulk order?
Most suppliers on Freshdi offer samples upon request to help buyers evaluate quality.
5. How do tariffs affect Vietnamese seafood exports?
Tariffs like the 20% U.S. duty can impact pricing, but Vietnam’s cost advantage and quality often offset these challenges.
References
- Vietnam Seafood Exports Reach $10 Billion in 2024 – MARD
- Vietnam July Exports Up 16% YoY – Reuters
- NOAA Seafood Export Ban Update – Reuters
- Heritage Vietnam Airlines – Seafood Export Overview
- Tuoi Tre News – Vietnam’s Seafood Export Surge
