Canned tuna accounts for over 82% of Vietnam’s tuna exports to Egypt, with the remainder being processed tuna products and frozen tuna loin. While Thailand currently dominates Egypt’s canned tuna supply, Egyptian importers are seeking new partners like Vietnam to diversify sources and reduce dependency, presenting a good opportunity for Vietnamese exporters.
Egypt has gradually overcome a two-year foreign currency shortage, boosting its imports and creating favorable conditions for Vietnamese businesses.
As Africa’s second-largest economy with a GDP of USD 347.59 billion (IMF, April 2024), and the region’s leading FDI recipient, Egypt is Vietnam’s largest trading partner in North Africa. Since early 2025, both governments have held talks to facilitate market access and strengthen sustainable trade cooperation. Bilateral trade reached USD 486.6 million in 2023, with Vietnam exporting USD 432 million worth of mainly agro-fishery and textile products.
Facing challenges in key markets like the US and EU, Egypt emerges as a promising alternative for Vietnamese tuna exporters. However, competition is intensifying as other countries, including China, also target Egypt. Vietnamese firms must proactively adapt to seize opportunities.
To support export growth, Vietnamese businesses hope the government and related agencies will promptly resolve sourcing bottlenecks and address obstacles faced by exporters.
