Vietnam sets new trade record as import–export turnover nears $840 billion
Vietnam recorded its highest-ever trade performance in January-November as import–export turnover surged, driven by strong export growth and a continued trade surplus.
THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam’s total import–export turnover climbed 17% year-on-year to nearly US$840 billion during January–November, according to the General Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance.
Dinh Vu Port in the northern city of Haiphong. Photo courtesy of the port company
Exports reached an estimated $430.1 billion, up 16.1%, while imports climbed 18.4% to $409.6 billion. This difference resulted in a trade surplus of more than $20.5 billion for the 11-month period.
Growth was driven by 36 export items exceeding $1 billion in turnover, including eight surpassing the $10 billion mark. Vietnam’s export structure continues to be dominated by processed industrial goods, which reached $381.7 billion and accounted for 88.7% of total export turnover.
Agricultural and forestry products brought in $35.6 billion (8.3%), seafood exports reached $10.3 billion (2.4%), while fuel and mineral products contributed $2.5 billion, making up 0.6%.
On the import side, 47 product groups topped $1 billion, with six above $10 billion.
Foreign-invested enterprises remained the largest contributors to Vietnam’s exports, accounting for more than 76% of the total. Foreign businesses (including crude oil) exported $327.7 billion, up 23.1%, while their imports rose 28% to $281.2 billion.
The United States continued to be Vietnam’s largest export market with $138.6 billion, while China remained the biggest import partner at $167.5 billion.
Vietnam’s total trade for 2025 could reach $920 billion or even higher, placing the country among the world’s top 15 trading economies, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien said at the Government’s meeting on December 6.
To achieve this goal, the ministry will continue supporting businesses in maximizing free trade agreements and expanding both traditional and high-potential markets, especially those with strong growth prospects, he said.
