Vietnam's trade ecosystem is witnessing promising signs as the total import-export turnover reached $127.07 billion USD during the first two months of 2025, marking a 12.0% increase compared to the previous year. This surge included exports rising by 8.4% and imports increasing by 15.9%, achieving a merchandise trade surplus of $1.47 billion USD.
Specifically, the performance of the agricultural, forestry, and fishery sectors has been noteworthy. The total export value of these products stood at $9.38 billion USD, reflecting an 8.3% rise compared to the same period last year. Within this category, agricultural exports accounted for $4.89 billion USD (up by 4.5%), livestock exports reached $72.2 million USD (up by 4%), seafood saw great success with $1.42 billion USD (up by 18.6%), and forestry products earned $2.68 billion USD (up by 11.9%). Notably, salt exports doubled to $1.4 million USD.
Tourism figures also demonstrated encouraging growth. February 2025 welcomed nearly 1.9 million international visitors, signifying a 23.7% increase over the previous year. Altogether, Vietnam hosted approximately 3.96 million international tourists within the first two months of 2025, representing a remarkable 30.2% rise from the same timeframe last year. This influx is attributed to favorable visa policies and intensified tourism promotion efforts.
With inflation registering at 0.34% higher from January to February 2025, various sectors are adjusting to remain stable. Specific goods and services saw price increases, prompting analysts to monitor consumer patterns closely.
Education also underwent significant reforms, with plans unveiled by the Hanoi People’s Committee to prepare for high school admissions for the 2025-2026 academic year. The enrollment exam is set for June 7 and 8, 2025, including Math, Literature, and one additional undisclosed subject.
Strengthening domestic consumption is high on the agenda for the Ministry of Industry and Trade, which has outlined measures aiming to boost local consumption by 12% throughout 2025. This initiative will hinge on exciting consumer demand, ensuring supply chains are adequate, and enhancing trade infrastructure to connect the supply with demand effectively.
On the legislative front, the National Assembly has undertaken revising its structure as it prepares for its agenda. On February 18, the Assembly confirmed the composition of its Standing Committee, reinforcing roles for the Chairman and six Vice Chairs, alongside distinct committees aimed at managing diverse matters.
Hanoi is taking proactive steps to manage urban transportation. Commencing March 1, 2025, there will be restrictions on vehicles with over 16 seats operating within the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake during peak hours, aside from buses and educational transport vehicles.
Meanwhile, the traffic sector is ramping up control measures to prevent accidents through regular patrols and targeted interventions against key traffic violations nationwide, beginning February 15 until future directives adjust the approach.
Economically, Vietnam is set to reflect on its export capabilities, with the Ministry of Industry and Trade aiming for over 12% growth and forecasting significant trade surpluses. On March 9, the country reported 16 banks adjusted their savings interest rates downwards, highlighting the financial sector's responsiveness to economic conditions.
Highlighting the agricultural sector, as of the first two months of 2025, nearly 21,000 businesses have registered, with substantial registered capital amounting to 230 trillion VND, reflecting nearly 5% growth compared to last year. This increase indicates the resilience and adaptability of the business community amid shifting economic landscapes.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is flourishing within the wood and timber industries, with recorded investments surpassing expectations. The report indicates Vietnam's export turnover from wooden products reached approximately $15.89 billion USD, primarily fueled by growth from major markets like the USA and China, which boosted the sector's profitability.
United States exports accounted for 55.5% of the total wood exports, demonstrating Vietnam's strategic positioning within the global trade networks, with notable contributions also from China, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.
Considering these elements, the government has outlined clear directives aimed at capitalizing on traditional markets, negotiating new agreements and maintaining sustainable growth across sectors as economic indicators show positive upward trends.
With investment policies and structural adjustments being made, stakeholders are motivated to innovate and explore new market opportunities to secure Vietnam’s competitive edge globally.
Vietnam seems poised for significant trade expansion, sustained by both local initiatives and international demand amid the dynamic global market.