Vietnam Sets New Trade Record: China and US Markets Account for $422 Billion in Exports and Imports

According to the Customs Department, the total import-export turnover is expected to reach the $900 billion mark between December 22 and December 26, 2025. The customs authority estimates Vietnam’s total import-export value to hit $920 billion in 2025, a 16.9% increase (equivalent to $133.07 billion) compared to the previous year.

The import value for 2025 is estimated at $449.41 billion, up 18% (equivalent to $68.42 billion), while the export value is projected at $470.59 billion, a 15.9% increase (equivalent to $64.65 billion).

The Customs Department reports a consecutive 10-year trade surplus, positioning Vietnam as a stable exporter with a trade surplus exceeding $20 billion for the past three years. In 2025, the trade surplus is expected to reach $21.2 billion.

In 2025, 36 out of 45 commodity groups are estimated to have export values exceeding $1 billion. Among these, 8 groups will surpass $10 billion, totaling $319 billion, accounting for 68% of the country’s total export value.

Processed industrial goods remain the largest export category in 2025, with an estimated value of $400 billion, a 16.6% increase from the previous year, representing 85.2% of the total export value.

Agricultural and aquatic product exports in 2025 are expected to reach $44.46 billion, a 14.1% increase, making up 9.5% of the total export value.

On the import side, 49 out of 53 commodity groups are projected to exceed $1 billion in value in 2025. Eight groups will surpass $10 billion, totaling $281 billion, accounting for 63% of the total import value.

Imports in 2025 focus on computers, phones, components, machinery, textile and footwear materials, steel, and metals. There is also a rise in consumer goods imports, particularly automobiles.

Vietnam maintains trade relations with over 230 countries and territories, with 34 export markets and 24 import markets exceeding $1 billion in value.

China remains Vietnam’s largest trading partner in 2025, with bilateral trade estimated at $252 billion, a 26.5% increase. The U.S. is the second-largest partner with $170 billion, also up 26.5%.

Vietnam has become the 8th largest trading partner of the U.S. and the 4th largest export market in ASEAN. Together, China and the U.S. account for $422 billion, or 46% of Vietnam’s total trade, contributing $82 billion, or 62% of the total trade increase.

The U.S. continues to lead as Vietnam’s top export market, reaching a record $151.85 billion, 32% of total exports, with a $32 billion increase from the previous year.

China is Vietnam’s largest import source, with a value of $183 billion, approximately 41% of total imports, and a $39 billion increase.

At the ceremony, Mr. Nguyen Van Tho, Director of the Customs Department, emphasized the sector’s comprehensive measures to boost production and trade, helping Vietnam’s import-export turnover reach $900 billion.

The customs sector has streamlined procedures, reduced administrative costs and time, eliminated unnecessary business conditions, facilitated trade, and promoted exports.

Additionally, it has implemented information technology and digital transformation in line with Resolution 57 of the Politburo on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Mr. Nguyen Van Tho noted that the customs sector has actively addressed businesses’ concerns and challenges in customs procedures.

It has also enhanced international cooperation, participated in negotiations, and fulfilled international commitments to promote balanced trade, ensuring national competitiveness and sustainable economic development.

The Director acknowledged the decisive contributions of businesses, organizations, and individuals nationwide in achieving the $900 billion milestone.

“Export-import businesses have adapted, innovated, and maintained operations despite challenges and natural disasters,” Mr. Nguyen Van Tho emphasized.