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Why Pangasius from Vietnam Is Gaining Global Popularity — And How to Source It Safely

  • Writer: CMDX Global
    CMDX Global
  • Jun 24
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jun 25

Known for its mild flavor, affordability, and versatility, pangasius (also called basa) is quickly becoming a staple in the frozen seafood category. As of 2025, Vietnam remains the world’s top exporter of pangasius — with rising demand in the US, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.


But as demand grows, so do the risks: inconsistent glaze levels, mislabeling, and poor cold chain practices can turn a low-cost fish into a high-risk import.


In this guide, we’ll explain why pangasius is on the rise — and how smart importers source it safely and profitably.


✅ 1. What Is Pangasius — And Why Is It So Popular?


Pangasius (Pangasius hypophthalmus) is a freshwater white fish farmed extensively in the Mekong Delta. It's prized for:

  • Soft, boneless fillets

  • Neutral taste (ideal for foodservice and mass retail)

  • Affordable pricing compared to cod, tilapia, or haddock

  • Excellent yield when cooked or processed


It’s also highly adaptable to value-added formats: breaded, marinated, portioned, etc.

💡 CMDX offers multiple spec options for pangasius fillets, including 60–90g, 90–120g, and 120g+, tailored to regional preferences.

✅ 2. Top Markets for Vietnamese Pangasius in 2025

Region

Why It’s in Demand

US

Used in institutional catering, frozen meals, retail chains

Africa

High protein per cost ratio, sold whole or in fillets

EU

Preferred by value-based retailers & ethnic grocers

Middle East

Halal-certified, versatile in flavor profiles

CMDX ships pangasius to all four markets — with documentation tailored for local compliance.


✅ 3. Risks When Sourcing Pangasius (And How to Avoid Them)


⚠️ Common Issues:

  • Excessive glazing (up to 40% in some markets)

  • Species substitution or mislabeling

  • Inconsistent fillet sizing or excessive trimming

  • Improper cold chain management

  • Incomplete export documents (EU catch cert, CO, Health Cert)


✅ How to Source It Safely:

  • Work only with EU/FDA-approved processors

  • Confirm net weight after glaze

  • Always request lot traceability and processor ID

  • Conduct pre-shipment inspections or receive packing photos

  • Use partners that offer real-time shipment tracking


CMDX offers full documentation support, including health certs, FDA Prior Notice, EU labeling compliance, and optional 3rd-party inspections.

✅ 4. Key Pangasius Specs to Confirm Before Ordering

Spec

Why It Matters

Fillet size (g)

Impacts cost per portion, buyer preference

Moisture & glaze level

Affects net weight, pricing accuracy

Trim level

Full trim vs. semi-trim affects yield

Packing format

IQF (individual), block, or retail-ready

Certifications

HACCP, ASC, Halal, BRC, ISO

CMDX will help you select specs based on your market — whether that’s institutional foodservice or frozen food retail.


✅ 5. Why CMDX Is a Trusted Pangasius Partner


Unlike typical exporters, CMDX is a US-based company with boots on the ground in Vietnam and EU logistics in Rotterdam. That means:

  • Faster communication

  • Western-level transparency

  • Reliable compliance

  • Access to product kits, pricing, and trial orders before committing to full containers

Download the full CMDX Seafood Product Kit 2025 to explore available specs, packaging formats, and export documentation.

Final Thoughts: The Right Pangasius Supplier Is Your Competitive Advantage


Vietnamese pangasius isn’t just a low-cost fish — it’s a globally in-demand product. But not all suppliers are equal. When sourced properly, pangasius can become a high-margin, low-risk category winner in your frozen food portfolio.


Looking to import pangasius in 2025? Contact CMDX for pricing, spec samples, and a sourcing plan built around your market.

 
 
 

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