Vietnam's trade landscape has shown a remarkable increase as the total value of imports and exports reached over 162.78 billion USD by March 15, 2025. This figure represents a 12% increase, or an additional 17.46 billion USD, compared to the same period in 2024. The first half of March alone accounted for 35.66 billion USD in trade, marking a 10.7% rise from the latter half of February 2025.
According to preliminary data released by the General Department of Customs (Ministry of Finance) on March 28, 2025, exports during the first half of March amounted to 17.98 billion USD, reflecting a 6.3% increase—or 1.07 billion USD—compared to the previous period. This brings the total export value for Vietnam to 82.29 billion USD as of March 15, 2025, also up 6.3% from the same time last year.
Leading the charge in exports was the category of computers, electronic products, and components, which surged by 27.7%, equating to an increase of 878 million USD. Other notable increases included wood and wood products, which rose by 12.4% (77 million USD), and coffee, which saw a significant jump of 42% (675 million USD). However, the phones and components sector experienced a slight decline, decreasing by 137 million USD, albeit still reflecting a 6.3% increase overall.
On the import side, Vietnam's total value of imported goods during the same period reached 17.68 billion USD, an impressive 15.5% increase, or 2.38 billion USD, when compared to the latter half of February 2025. Key drivers of this growth included machinery, equipment, tools, and spare parts, which rose by 22% (418 million USD), and computers and electronic products, which increased by 18.5% (885 million USD).
By March 15, the cumulative import value for the country stood at 80.49 billion USD, up 15.2% from the previous year, translating to an increase of 10.61 billion USD. The contribution of foreign-invested enterprises (FDI) to this figure was notable, with their total import value reaching 11.15 billion USD during the first half of March, marking a 16.9% rise from the previous period.
As a result of these robust trade activities, Vietnam's merchandise trade balance recorded a surplus of 307 million USD for the first half of March 2025. Cumulatively, the trade surplus from the beginning of the year to March 15 reached 1.81 billion USD.
The total import and export value of foreign-invested enterprises also saw substantial growth, reaching 110.09 billion USD, which is a 10.8% increase, or 10.73 billion USD, compared to the previous year. This sector accounted for a significant portion of the overall trade figures, underscoring the vital role these enterprises play in Vietnam's economy.
In 2024, Vietnam's import-export turnover hit a record 786.29 billion USD, up 15.4% from the previous year. Exports alone accounted for 405.53 billion USD, a 14.3% increase, while imports reached 380.76 billion USD, reflecting a 16.7% rise. The merchandise trade surplus for 2024 was recorded at 24.77 billion USD, though this was lower than the surplus reported in 2023.
The statistics reveal that Vietnam's trade dynamics are not only recovering but are also on an upward trajectory, indicating a strong performance in the global market. The country’s ability to maintain a trade surplus amid increasing import values showcases its growing competitiveness and resilience in international trade.
As Vietnam continues to navigate through the complexities of the global economy, these positive trends in trade are expected to bolster economic growth. The focus on high-value exports, particularly in technology and electronics, positions Vietnam as a key player in the global supply chain.
Overall, the data released by the General Department of Customs presents a hopeful outlook for Vietnam's economy, highlighting the importance of strategic trade policies and international partnerships in achieving sustainable growth. As the country progresses through 2025, stakeholders will be keenly watching how these trends evolve and what new opportunities will arise in the ever-changing landscape of global trade.
