Tiếng Việt
中文 (中国)Amid unpredictable global economic fluctuations, Vietnam’s import and export activities have still recorded strong growth. This is an encouraging sign, reaffirming Vietnam’s rising position on the global trade map. Let’s join Tin Thanh Phat in exploring the details of Vietnam’s trade performance in the first eight months of the year and its export growth targets for 2025.
Vietnam’s Trade Maintains Strong Growth Despite Global Challenges
Despite global uncertainties, Vietnam’s import export have sustained impressive momentum. This positive trend was emphasized by Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien at the Trade Promotion Conference held on September 9 in Hanoi.
According to the report, Vietnam’s total trade turnover in the first eight months was estimated at nearly USD 600 billion, up 16.3% year-on-year. Exports reached USD 306 billion (+14.8%), already surpassing the full-year 2025 target. Notably, the trade surplus reached almost USD 14 billion, contributing to macroeconomic stability and strengthening Vietnam’s international trade reputation.
Impressive Results in the First Eight Months
Vietnam has emerged as a bright spot in global trade, achieving high growth despite worldwide difficulties. Key highlights include:
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Exports: USD 306 billion, surpassing the annual plan in just 8 months.
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Imports: USD 294 billion, ensuring balance in supply for production and consumption.
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Trade surplus: nearly USD 14 billion – the highest in recent years.
This growth was driven by flexible trade promotion policies, effective use of free trade agreements (FTAs), market diversification, and continuous improvement in product quality.
Challenging Targets in the Last Four Months
To achieve the 12% export growth target in 2025, Vietnam must secure an additional USD 150 billion in the remaining four months — averaging over USD 37.5 billion per month. This is highly challenging and requires close coordination between the Government and businesses.
Minister Nguyen Hong Dien emphasized three strategic market groups:
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Low-growth markets: Minimum target of 8.5%.
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Medium-growth markets: Maintain stability, aim for 12% growth.
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High-growth markets: Act as “locomotives,” exceeding 15% growth to drive overall exports.
Key Strategies to Achieve 2025 Export Goals
The Ministry of Industry and Trade outlined several strategic solutions:
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Diversifying export markets
Expand into potential markets in the Middle East, South America, and Africa instead of relying heavily on the US, EU, and China. -
Maximizing FTAs
Agreements such as CPTPP, EVFTA, and RCEP offer major opportunities. Businesses must fully understand commitments and rules of origin to benefit from tariff preferences. -
Green transition and digital trade
Global trends demand sustainable production and reduced carbon emissions. Vietnamese businesses must adopt green technologies and transparent traceability systems to meet international standards. -
Expanding cross-border e-commerce
E-commerce is growing rapidly, especially in the US and Europe, creating opportunities for SMEs to access global markets at lower costs. -
Proactive trade promotion
Trade fairs, business networking, and “Made in Vietnam” branding campaigns should be intensified to enhance competitiveness.
The Significance of the USD 14 Billion Trade Surplus
Maintaining a trade surplus for consecutive years not only balances payments but also:
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Increases foreign exchange reserves, stabilizing exchange rates.
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Creates room for flexible monetary policy.
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Reinforces Vietnam’s position as a safe and reliable destination in global supply chains.
The trade surplus also reflects the growing proactivity of Vietnamese businesses in global markets with high-quality, diversified, and internationally compliant products.
Outlook for 2025 – New Export Milestones
If Vietnam maintains this growth momentum, exports could reach USD 450 – 460 billion in 2025. This would not only help achieve socio-economic goals but also strengthen Vietnam’s standing in global trade value chains.
Minister Nguyen Hong Dien affirmed:
“To achieve the 12% export growth target in 2025, we need collective efforts from the entire political system, enterprises, and workers. Vietnam has sufficient potential and advantages to make breakthroughs if opportunities are seized effectively.”
Conclusion
Amid global challenges, Vietnam’s trade results in the first eight months of 2025 are highly encouraging. With nearly USD 600 billion in turnover and a USD 14 billion trade surplus, the economy is making solid progress.
The road ahead remains challenging, but with decisive direction from the Ministry of Industry and Trade and strong efforts from the business community, the 12% export growth target for 2025 is entirely achievable.