Tiếng Việt
中文 (中国)Vietnam’s Trade Gets a New Push from Macro Policies
Major macroeconomic reforms from removing legal barriers to expanding markets are creating a significant push for Vietnam’s exports and imports. Not only big corporations but also SMEs and startups are emerging as the most agile players to seize this chance and expand globally. At the recent Vietnam Economic Forum, Ms. Nguyen Cam Trang, Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade), revealed that exports one of the key pillars of economic growth recorded over 15% growth in the first nine months of 2025. “We are confident that if no major shocks hit the global market, the export growth target will be achieved, making an important contribution to Vietnam’s overall economic growth,” Ms. Trang said.
Institutional Reforms and Market Expansion
In the context of global uncertainties from trade tensions and geopolitical conflicts to U.S. counter-tariff measures Vietnam’s exports and imports are forecast to face significant challenges. To adapt, Directive 29/CT-TTg (issued on September 23) emphasizes diversification of markets, products, and supply chains; trade promotion; administrative simplification; digitalization; and the removal of unnecessary business barriers. Government agencies are also reviewing the legal framework, addressing overlaps, filling regulatory gaps, and drafting amendments to ensure a more favorable environment for enterprises.
*Opportunities for SMEs and Startups
With streamlined legal frameworks and supportive integration policies, SMEs and startups are positioned to benefit significantly. As of September 15, Vietnam’s total trade volume reached USD 637.21 billion, up 17.2% year-on-year. Exports hit USD 325.26 billion (+15.8%), imports reached USD 311.95 billion (+18.8%), leaving a trade surplus of USD 13.3 billion. Mr. Nguyen Trung Thanh, CEO of National Fortune Import-Export Co., emphasized: “Exports are no longer the privilege of large enterprises. Success now depends on global connectivity, speed, and the value delivered to partners.”
*Digital Transformation and ESG Imperatives
According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Trinh Thi Thu Huong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Economics and International Business (Foreign Trade University), the number of enterprises engaging in exports is rising rapidly, with many startups targeting international markets from day one. However, Dr. Huong stressed the importance of building internal resilience, governance capacity, and adopting ESG practices. Failure to comply could risk exclusion from global supply chains. Despite initial costs, ESG adoption is an essential long-term investment. She also highlighted the importance of SMEs joining networks and alliances to enhance competitiveness.
*Sailing into Global Markets with Policy Support
Practical experience shows that success in modern trade requires a global mindset, openness to learning, digital adoption, robust management systems, and ecosystem connectivity. With strong macro policies and proactive enterprises, Vietnam’s SMEs and startups are well-positioned to step boldly into global markets, contributing to the national goal of reaching USD 800 billion in trade exports in the near future.