November 10, 2011

Vietnam's seafood exports to Middle East up 23%

Vietnam's total seafood export to the Middle East during the first half of 2011 recorded a 23% increase or US$141 million as compared to the same period of 2010.

The trade report was released by Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) in line with their participation at SIAL Middle East, an international trade show for the food, drink and hospitality industry, set to take place from November 21-23, 2011 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

According to the report, total seafood export to the Middle East in the year 2010 reached US$236 million. Saudi Arabia, Egypt and UAE remain the top three import markets for Vietnam seafood in the region, throughout 2010/11.

Frozen pangasius has been the top strategic export product to the region with a growth of 10% in volume and 24% in value (in comparison with H1 2011 to H1 2010), followed by frozen shrimp and canned tuna. Abundant domestic supply, stable price and low cholesterol content are favourable conditions to boost the export of pangasius to this region.

Kim Ngan, Promotion Vice Director of VASEP commented, "Seafood exports of VASEP members represent 80% of Vietnam's total seafood export. SIAL Middle East becomes far more important in B2B markets with a multiplier effect to our seafood industry. Vietnam Seafood Pavilion at SIAL Middle East will bring in major seafood enterprises to develop their market share substantially across the globe, including the Middle East as we see growing consumption of seafood in the region in late months of the year."

Meanwhile Mohammed Hilal Al Muheiri, Director General of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) commented, "SIAL Middle East is one of the most important food exhibitions in the region and an exceptional opportunity for the international food companies to present and promote their products in the region's markets."