Fish Farming Brazil’s Exports Hit Record High in 2025
Record-Breaking Export Value
Brazil’s aquaculture sector is starting the year on a high note, with a historic milestone: the highest export value ever recorded for a quarter. Between January and March 2025, the country exported a whopping $18.5 million in farmed fish, representing a staggering 112% increase compared to the same period in 2024. There was also a significant jump in export volume, reaching 3,938 tons – an impressive 89% increase.
Tilapia Dominates Exports
Tilapia continues to lead the way in Brazil’s fish farming exports, accounting for 92% of the total value exported by the sector. In Q1 2025, tilapia exports generated $17 million, representing a remarkable 105% growth compared to the same period in 2024. In terms of volume, more than 3,455 tons of tilapia were exported, equivalent to approximately 72,000 supermarket carts full of fish.
Native Species Shine
Native species drive growth in fish farming, led by curimatá’s $580,000 in exports, a remarkable 333% surge. Additionally, tambaqui’s $479,000 in quarterly exports shows impressive growth. Meanwhile, pacu’s small base in 2024 fuels a significant percentage increase, driven by its modest starting point. Tilapia and other species are expected to follow suit in the coming quarter.
Government Support Boosts Sector
The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, André de Paula, attributes the impressive results to the Federal Government’s proactive support. Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock collaborates to access new international markets for fish farming. Meanwhile, the government advances structural improvements, such as aquaculture environmental licensing. Additionally, new concessions for tilapia production in Federal Waters have been granted, ensuring legal security for responsible producers to grow steadily.
Vietnam Sees Significant Increase in Seafood Exports to Brazil
Vietnam surges seafood exports to Brazil to $48.2 million in Q1 2025, a significant 73% increase year-over-year. Brazil’s tilapia production expects a further boost consequently. The country’s fish farming industry will strengthen in turn.
Brazil’s Fish Farming Industry Poised for Further Growth
As the aquaculture sector continues to grow, Brazil is solidifying its position as a global player in farmed fish production. With the government’s continued support for the sector, experts predict further growth in the coming quarters. As Francisco Medeiros, president of Brazilian Aquaculture, notes, “The challenge is the market because we continue into 2025 with supplies of fish at very high levels.”
In conclusion, Brazil’s fish farming industry achieves a historic start, driven by the strong performance of aquaculture species. Moreover, government support fuels growth. Meanwhile, increasing international demand poises the sector for further expansion.
Source: Embrapa Fisheries and Aquaculture