The value of tuna exports since the beginning of the year has reached US$343.4 million, a yearly increase of 48.2 percent. In July, the value was $57.4 million, up 126.8 percent over the same period last year.

According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the US is Vietnam’s leading tuna importer.

In the first half of July, the US’ imports of Vietnamese tuna soared to 202.5 percent, accounting for 60 percent of the country’s total tuna exports.

It is forecast that tuna exports to the US continue to increase in the remaining months of this year.

The association added that despite the current economic difficulties, tuna exports to the EU market in the seven months of this year increased by 47.6 percent compared to the same period last year.

Vietnamese tuna is also one of the most popular aquatic products in Japan, a top-end market with strict food hygiene and safety regulations.

The value of tuna exports to Japan during this period also rose, reaching $40.781 million, a rise of 44 percent.

Meanwhile Israel ranks fourth amongst Middle Eastern importers in the value of seafood imports from Vietnam but takes the lead in the value of Vietnamese tuna imports.

To boost exports, VASEP has advised seafood exporters to learn more about the demand for their products as well as ensuring their quality.

Another notable market for Vietnamese tuna exports is Mexico , which has been one of the top ten importers of Vietnamese tuna since May this year.

In May and June, Vietnam reported a growth of 365.7 percent and 921.5 percent respectively, in tuna exports to this market over the same period last year.

At present, global demand for tuna is larger than the supply. It is forecast that in the remaining months of this year, Vietnam’s tuna exports will keep increasing and the export value this year is likely to double the figure recorded last year, according to VASEP.