Over the past decade, Vietnam has transformed itself into one of Asia’s most dynamic export-driven economies. Supported by strong manufacturing fundamentals, competitive labor costs, deepening global trade integration, and extensive free trade agreements, the country has steadily expanded its footprint across international markets. Today, Vietnam exports span electronics, textiles, footwear, machinery, furniture, and agricultural commodities, positioning the nation as a critical link in global supply chains.

According to Vietnam export customs data and Vietnam customs statistics, the total value of Vietnam exports reached USD 403.2 billion in 2024, marking a 6.4% year-on-year increase. Based on global trade data, Vietnam ranked as the 21st largest exporter worldwide, underlining its rising economic relevance. This upward momentum continued into 2025, reflecting both resilient demand and strategic export diversification.

Vietnam Export Performance: Growth Trends and 2025 Outlook

Vietnam’s export growth has accelerated in recent years despite global economic uncertainty. Based on Vietnam shipment data, exports totaled USD 102.8 billion in Q1 2025, representing a 10.6% increase compared to the same period last year. During the same quarter, Vietnam’s total trade turnover reached USD 202.5 billion, growing 13.7% year-on-year.

In the first five months of 2025, Vietnam recorded a trade surplus of USD 4.67 billion, driven largely by strong shipments to the United States, China, and the European Union. These figures highlight the country’s strengthening export engine and reinforce the strategic importance of Vietnam exports within global trade networks.

Historically, Vietnam exports have grown consistently:

• 2014: USD 150.21 billion

• 2018: USD 243.69 billion

• 2021: USD 335.79 billion

• 2024: USD 403.20 billion

This steady climb reflects Vietnam’s shift from low-cost manufacturing toward higher-value production, particularly in electronics, machinery, and processed goods.

Vietnam Exports Products: Top 10 Export Categories by HS Code

Vietnam is widely recognized for its diversified export basket. The country’s export structure balances high-tech manufacturing with traditional labor-intensive industries and agricultural commodities. According to Vietnam export customs data and Vietnam export statistics by HS code, the top Vietnam exports products for 2024–25 include the following:

1. Electrical Machinery & Equipment (HS 85)

With export earnings of USD 121.7 billion, electrical machinery and electronics dominate Vietnam exports, accounting for nearly 29.5% of total shipments. Products include smartphones, displays, semiconductors, and electronic components, largely driven by multinational manufacturers.

2. Footwear (HS 64)

Vietnam’s footwear exports reached USD 25.4 billion, reinforcing the country’s position as a global footwear manufacturing hub supplying major international brands.

3. Machinery & Mechanical Appliances (HS 84)

Machinery exports totaled USD 23.5 billion, covering engines, pumps, industrial machinery, and agricultural equipment.

4. Apparel (Knit) (HS 61)

Knitwear exports amounted to USD 21.2 billion, supported by strong demand from the US and EU markets.

5. Apparel (Not Knit) (HS 62)

Non-knit apparel followed closely with USD 19.7 billion in export value.

6. Furniture and Bedding (HS 94)

Furniture exports stood at USD 14.2 billion, reflecting Vietnam’s growing role as a global furniture sourcing destination.

7. Fish and Seafood (HS 03)

Seafood exports reached USD 9.8 billion, with shrimp, fish fillets, and squid leading shipments.

8. Wood and Wood Articles (HS 44)

Exports of wood products totaled USD 6.5 billion, despite rising regulatory scrutiny in key markets.

9. Coffee, Tea, and Spices (HS 09)

Agricultural exports in this category reached USD 5.6 billion, with Vietnam remaining a top global coffee supplier.

10. Rubber and Articles (HS 40)

Rubber exports amounted to USD 4.3 billion, serving automotive and industrial markets.

Together, these categories highlight the breadth and resilience of Vietnam exports products across manufacturing and agriculture.

Vietnam Exports by Country: Major Trade Destinations

Vietnam’s export success is closely tied to its diversified global market access. Based on Vietnam exports by country and Vietnam shipment data, the following markets dominate Vietnam’s export landscape:

United States

The US is Vietnam’s largest export destination, with shipments valued at USD 113.9 billion, accounting for 27.5% of total exports. Electronics, textiles, footwear, and furniture dominate trade flows.

China

Exports to China reached USD 60.7 billion, driven by agricultural products, machinery, and intermediate electronics.

South Korea and Japan

South Korea (USD 28.2 billion) and Japan (USD 26.8 billion) remain key Asian partners, reflecting deep supply-chain integration.

European Union

Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and France collectively form a major export bloc for Vietnam, particularly under the EVFTA framework.

Other important Vietnam trade partners include Hong Kong, Thailand, and India, highlighting the country’s balanced export geography. This broad base reduces reliance on any single market and strengthens export resilience.

Vietnam Trade Partners and Free Trade Agreements

Vietnam’s extensive FTA network plays a critical role in sustaining export growth. Agreements such as CPTPP, EVFTA, and RCEP provide preferential market access, tariff reductions, and regulatory alignment. These frameworks enhance competitiveness for Vietnam exports, particularly in electronics, textiles, and machinery.

However, exporters also face evolving challenges. US Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum, along with proposed reciprocal tariffs, have introduced uncertainty. While some measures remain paused, exporters are increasingly focused on origin compliance, traceability, and diversification into non-US markets.

Leading Exporters Driving Vietnam Exports

Vietnam’s export ecosystem is supported by a mix of multinational corporations and strong domestic enterprises. According to Vietnam exporters data:

• Samsung Group (Vietnam) remains the largest exporter, contributing approximately USD 65 billion annually.

• Intel Products Vietnam, LG Group, and Foxconn Vietnam anchor the electronics sector.

• Domestic leaders such as VINATEX, Intimex Group, and Vinamilk represent strength in textiles, coffee, and food exports.

Notably, foreign-invested enterprises account for over 70% of Vietnam exports, underscoring the country’s role as a global manufacturing base.

Vietnam Export Customs Data: Insights for Buyers and Suppliers

Vietnam export customs data reveals that manufacturing and processing goods account for nearly 89% of total exports. Electronics alone represent around 35%, followed by textiles, footwear, machinery, agriculture, and furniture.

For international buyers, Vietnam offers scale, reliability, and cost efficiency, but tariff volatility and compliance requirements necessitate careful sourcing strategies. Long-term contracts, early bookings, and FTA optimization are increasingly important.

For suppliers, strengthening documentation, investing in value addition, and expanding into EU, ASEAN, and African markets are key strategic priorities.

Future Outlook for Vietnam Exports

Looking ahead, Vietnam exports are projected to grow 10–15% annually, potentially surpassing USD 450 billion in 2025, barring major tariff disruptions. While geopolitical tensions and environmental regulations pose risks, Vietnam’s strategic positioning within global supply chains remains strong.

With continued investment, policy reforms, and trade diversification, Vietnam exports are set to play an even more influential role in shaping global trade flows.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s evolution into a global export powerhouse reflects a combination of strategic policymaking, manufacturing excellence, and market diversification. From electronics and apparel to furniture and agriculture, Vietnam exports products continue to gain traction worldwide. Supported by strong Vietnam trade partners and robust Vietnam export customs data, the country is well-positioned to navigate 2025’s challenges and opportunities.