Container cargo operations at Lach Huyen Port, Hai Phong City. (Photo: Vu Sinh/TTXVN)
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On the afternoon of January 8th, in Hanoi, the Import-Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade) held a conference to review professional work in 2025 and outline tasks for 2026.
Reporting at the conference, Mr. Tran Thanh Hai, Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department, stated that in 2026, the department aims for an export-import growth target of over 8% compared to 2025, with a trade surplus exceeding $23 billion, a 15% increase from 2025.
To achieve this, the 2026 import-export tasks include finalizing legal documents, including four decrees: one detailing the implementation of the Foreign Trade Management Law, another on rules of origin, a decree on criteria for Vietnamese origin goods, and a decree on rice export-import business. Additionally, a Prime Minister’s decision on importing gifted vehicles will be revised.
The department will also gather feedback from localities and agencies to propose amendments to outdated circulars.
Mr. Hai emphasized that the department will propose solutions to promote sustainable export growth, collaborate with Mexico to recognize Vietnamese steel plants, and review textile export commitments to Mexico.
Furthermore, the department will study measures to comply with the EU’s steel industry protection regulations and consult with the Eurasian Economic Union on textile safeguards.
Textile production for export. (Photo: Hong Dat/TTXVN)
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The department will work with the Ministry of Agriculture to negotiate market access and push China to sign protocols for agricultural products. It will also actively participate in FTA negotiations and upgrade existing agreements, including with the United States.
Ms. Nguyen Thao Hien, Deputy Director of the Foreign Market Development Department, highlighted the challenges of an unstable global trade environment and the need to combat illegal transshipment, especially for agricultural products.
She stressed the importance of maintaining traditional markets like the EU and US while exploring niche markets and developing organic products.
Mr. Chu Thang Trung, Deputy Director of the Trade Defense Department, noted the increased coordination required in 2026 for trade defense cases and legal development.
Mr. Tran Viet Hoa, Director of the Industry Department, pointed out the need for innovative solutions as market expansion slows, focusing on FTA utilization and sustainable import growth.
Mr. Bui Nguyen Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of the Domestic Market Department, emphasized the importance of the logistics development strategy and the need for legal frameworks to support regional logistics centers.
Vietnam’s 2025 trade report showed a record $930 billion in total trade, a 18.2% increase, with exports growing by 17%. Processed industrial goods led the growth, and the trade surplus reached $20 billion, contributing to macroeconomic stability.
Durian export consolidation in Tan Phu District, Dong Nai Province. Exports are Vietnam’s primary GDP growth driver. (Photo: Hong Dat/TTXVN)
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Export structure improved, with a shift towards processed goods. Key products like machinery, textiles, footwear, and agricultural goods rebounded. FTAs, especially new-generation ones, significantly boosted exports to markets like the EU, Canada, and Japan.
Imports focused on production materials and technology. Despite achievements, over-reliance on a few large markets remains a concern.
In 2025, the Import-Export Department issued two decrees and 12 circulars, with four more decrees in progress. Three key strategies were approved, focusing on logistics, raw material diversification, and tariff utilization.
The department also streamlined administrative procedures and business conditions. (Uyên Hương – 21:40 08/01/2026)
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