Crab exports from Vietnam to the United States reached 36 million USD in the first half of this year, marking a 74% increase compared to the same period in 2025, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (Vasep).

The US market's share of Vietnam's total crab export value has also grown, now accounting for 82%. Vasep noted that this indicates the United States is not only increasing its purchases but also establishing an increasingly dominant position in the overall export structure.

Vietnam ranks as a key crab supplier to the US. In 2025, the country supplied 4,143 tons, trailing only Indonesia (14,290 tons) but surpassing the Philippines (2,417 tons) and Sri Lanka (820 tons), according to data from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

This year, Vietnamese crab exports to the US saw accelerated growth from Q2, with a notable increase in orders after May. This surge comes as the US market enforces stringent requirements for products with clear origin, consistent supply, and adherence to new import standards.

A significant factor contributing to this trend occurred in May, when the US National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) reviewed its compliance conclusions regarding the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) for crab. Following this review, NMFS decided to prohibit imports from the Philippines, while allowing imports from Vietnam, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

Overall, Vietnam's total crab exports across all markets reached 43 million USD in the first six months of the year, a 56% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The export value for this product has shown consistent month-on-month growth. Vasep identifies crab as currently the fastest-growing product within the broader crab and other crustaceans sector.

Dy Tung