Viet Nam imports nearly 8,000 tons of Norwegian salmon, leading the growth rate in Southeast Asia.

In 2025, Norwegian fresh salmon exports to Viet Nam are expected to reach 7,900 tons, a 40% increase year-on-year. This is the fastest-growing market for Norwegian seafood in the region.

Viet Nam has officially become the fastest-growing market for Norwegian salmon in Southeast Asia, with import volumes reaching nearly 7,900 tons in 2025. According to a report from the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), this represents a 40% increase compared to 2024, reflecting a strong shift in domestic consumer demand for premium seafood products. 

Breakthrough growth trajectory in the 2025-2026 period

Statistics from NSC show that the trend of salmon consumption in Viet Nam shows no signs of slowing down. As of the end of February 2026, exports of fresh salmon from this Nordic country to Viet Nam continued to increase by 16% in volume compared to the same period last year. Notably, the frozen salmon segment recorded a significant jump with a volume increase of up to 37%.

Looking back over the past three years, the presence of Norwegian salmon in the daily meals of Viet Namese people has grown steadily. From 6,281 tons in 2023, production reached 7,900 tons in 2025, equivalent to a 26% increase over the entire period. This product also dominates the total value of Norwegian seafood exports to the Viet Namese market, affirming its position as a product with transparent traceability and sustainable standards.
Driving forces from macroeconomic fundamentals and consumer trends.

The main driving force behind this demand stems from the economic recovery and changes in spending habits. Experts predict that real household spending in Viet Nam could increase by 7.2% in 2026. This is seen as a crucial foundation for premium imported food products, including Norwegian salmon, to continue expanding their market share from retail to the Horeca (food service) sector. 

Brand Awareness Enhancement Strategy 2026

Ms. Åshild Nakken, Director of NSC Southeast Asia, emphasized that the focus for 2026 will be on strengthening cooperation with trade partners in Viet Nam. Through core values of consistent quality and traceability, NSC will promote the "Seafood from Norway" brand campaign along with intensive training programs for chefs and retailers.

NSC's presence at the Food & Hospitality Viet Nam 2026 exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City is considered a strategic step to promote trade cooperation. This activity not only opens up new business opportunities but also contributes to strengthening bilateral relations between Viet Nam and Norway on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Source: DaNangNews