Vietnam officially opened its market to British live seafood products on Tuesday, offering local consumers access to high-quality British crustaceans like lobsters and brown crabs, according to the British Embassy in Vietnam.

The Shellfish Association of Great Britain estimated that this market access will generate approximately £20 million (US$26 million) for the UK seafood industry over the next five years.

Seafood exports from the UK to Vietnam have seen significant growth in recent years, with fresh, frozen, and processed products seeing a 40-percent increase in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, according to the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Vietnam ranks as the top per capita seafood consumer in Southeast Asia, with an average of 37 kilograms per person annually.

The UK’s entry into this high-demand market is expected to strengthen bilateral economic ties and promote trade collaboration.

The market opening came after successful negotiations and cooperation between UK agencies -- the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Department for Business and Trade -- and Vietnamese authorities. 

These UK agencies also showcased the high standards of British seafood production.

Minister for Food and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said that this market access agreement demonstrates the UK’s commitment to promoting exports by helping businesses reach promising international markets.

David Jarrad, CEO of the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, hailed the market opening as great news for the UK seafood industry, emphasizing the strong global demand for British shellfish.

These agencies will collaborate closely with British seafood businesses and associations to facilitate trade and connect Vietnamese importers with UK suppliers.

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