Vietnam's Trade Surplus Highlights Economic Resilience

In a remarkable display of economic strength, Vietnam reported a trade surplus of $7.63 billion in the first half of 2025. This achievement comes as the country's export earnings grew by 14.4%, outpacing the import turnover increase of 17.9%, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Finance.

Lach Huyen Terminal in Hai Phong City in January 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Le Tan

Export Growth Driven by Foreign Investment

June alone saw a 16.3% year-on-year surge in export turnover. The foreign-invested sector, including crude oil, led the charge with a 24.4% increase, despite a 5.7% decrease in the domestic economic sector.

Key Export Sectors and Partners

Processed industrial goods dominated exports, contributing $194.28 billion or 88.4% of the total. The U.S. emerged as the largest importer of Vietnamese goods, with a turnover of $70.91 billion, while China remained Vietnam's biggest import source at $84.7 billion.

Trade Dynamics with Major Partners

Vietnam's trade surplus with the U.S. expanded by 29.1% to $62 billion, and with the E.U. by 11.6% to $19 billion. However, trade deficits with China, the Republic of Korea, and ASEAN highlight ongoing challenges.