Dynamic Start to $1 Trillion Goal: Vietnam’s Jan Half-Month Trade Hits Over $39 Billion

According to the latest data released by the Customs Department, Vietnam’s total import-export turnover for the first half of January 2026 (from January 1 to January 15, 2026) reached an impressive $39.25 billion. This remarkable start underscores the economy’s robust recovery and the business community’s adaptability amidst global geopolitical uncertainties. Within this total, exports amounted to approximately $19.8 billion, while imports reached $19.45 billion, maintaining a slight trade surplus and ensuring a stable trade balance from the outset.

Momentum from Free Trade Agreements and New Orders

Key sectors such as electronics, computers, textiles, and footwear continue to drive export growth. Effective utilization of new-generation free trade agreements (FTAs) like CPTPP, EVFTA, and RCEP has enabled Vietnamese goods to penetrate demanding markets with preferential tariffs. Notably, traditional markets such as the United States, China, the EU, and ASEAN have maintained double-digit growth rates, reflecting a global rebound in consumer demand after a period of spending restraint.

Ms. Phan Thi Thanh Xuan, Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnam Leather, Footwear, and Handbag Association (LEFASO), stated that businesses in the sector have secured orders until the end of Q2/2026. “The recovery in consumer demand from the U.S. and Europe, coupled with order shifts from neighboring countries, has significantly benefited Vietnam,” noted Ms. Xuan.

However, she emphasized that experts are closely monitoring the EU’s increasingly stringent technical barriers and environmental regulations, such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). These challenges necessitate a swift green transition for businesses to sustain long-term growth.

Echoing this optimism, Mr. Nguyen Van Cong, Director of a textile enterprise in Bac Thang Long, shared: “Our production lines have been operating at full capacity since early January. The standout feature of 2026 is that orders have increased not only in quantity but also in sustainability requirements. Our proactive use of recycled materials since 2025 has secured high-value contracts from Nordic partners during the recent holiday season.” This shift underscores a significant transition from processing to responsible production, meeting global standards.

In agriculture, positive trends are evident across raw material regions. Mr. Le Minh Nam, representative of an agricultural export company in Can Tho, reported: “In January, export orders for rice and fruits to China and the Middle East surged by approximately 20% year-on-year. Thanks to stable official export protocols, we no longer face border congestion issues. Our goal this year is to increase the proportion of processed agricultural products to enhance value, rather than exporting raw goods as before.”

Optimizing Logistics Infrastructure to Achieve the $1 Trillion Goal

To reach the $1 trillion import-export turnover target by the end of 2026, the government and ministries have prioritized enhancing logistics capacity and port infrastructure. Key projects such as the Can Gio superport and the expansion of Lach Huyen port are accelerating construction, even during the Tet holiday. Reducing logistics costs to below 15% of GDP will significantly enhance Vietnam’s price competitiveness in international trade, especially given ongoing uncertainties in sea freight rates due to tensions in key maritime routes.

Leadership from Saigon Port Corporation reported a sharp increase in cargo volume during the first weeks of the year, prompting the adoption of advanced technology and the promotion of “green ports” and “smart ports” to prevent congestion. The Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) highlights the growing synergy between road, waterway, and air transport, forming a seamless and efficient supply chain.

Commenting on the early-year trade performance, economist Tran Du Lich praised the impressive start but offered insightful recommendations. He noted that while the $39 billion figure for the first half of January is encouraging, achieving the $1 trillion goal requires more than just quantitative growth.

“It is essential to promote official exports and build a strong national brand to ensure that the value of the $1 trillion goal genuinely benefits Vietnamese citizens and businesses,” Mr. Lich emphasized. He also urged the government to continue administrative reforms and digital transformation in customs and specialized inspections to unleash business potential.

On-the-ground observations reveal a bustling atmosphere at border gates and seaports nationwide during the early days of 2026. At the Huu Nghi International Border Gate and ports in Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City, cargo trucks depart from the early morning hours. The synergy between government policies and business dynamism is creating a positive momentum. If this pace is maintained, the $1 trillion import-export turnover goal for 2026 will transition from theory to reality, cementing Vietnam’s new position on the global economic map./.