Vietnam trade has reached a historic milestone, with the country’s total import–export turnover surpassing the 900 billion USD mark for the first time, according to figures announced by Vietnam Customs, underscoring a major advance in Vietnam’s international economic integration.
At a ceremony held on December 25, Vietnam Customs said total trade turnover in 2025 was estimated at around 920 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 16.9%. Exports were valued at approximately $ 470.59 billion, up 15.9%, while imports reached about $ 449.41 billion, rising 18%. The figures resulted in a trade surplus of roughly 21.2 billion, marking Vietnam’s 10th consecutive year of recording a surplus.
With this performance, Vietnam has entered the group of the world’s 25 largest trading economies. Data from the World Trade Organization show that Vietnam currently ranks 21st globally in exports and 20th in imports, an improvement of 11 and 12 places respectively compared with a decade ago.
In 2025, the import–export turnover of the foreign direct investment sector was estimated to exceed 600 billion for the first time, reaching around 663 billion. This accounted for about 72% of Vietnam’s total trade and contributed nearly all of the overall trade growth. Trade conducted by domestic enterprises stood at roughly 257 billion, remaining largely unchanged from the previous year.
Vietnam now maintains trade relations with more than 230 countries and territories. China remained Vietnam’s largest trading partner in 2025, with bilateral trade estimated at 252 billion, followed by the United States at around 170 billion. Together, the two markets accounted for about 46% of Vietnam’s total trade value and contributed 62% of overall trade growth.
Customs data show that Vietnam’s cumulative import–export value during the 2015–2024 period reached 5.52 trillion. Trade turnover rose from approximately 328 billion in 2015 to 786 billion in 2024, representing a 2.4-fold increase over the decade. The 900 billion threshold was officially crossed between December 22 and 26.
Vietnam’s trade sector has previously reached several major milestones, including 100 billion in 2007 following the country’s accession to the WTO, 200 billion in 2011, 300 billion in 2015, 400 billion in 2017, 500 billion in 2019, 700 billion in 2022, and the record 900 billion level in 2025.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nguyen Van Tho, Director of Vietnam Customs, said 2025 was marked by continued global and regional uncertainties, while domestically, the economy was affected by natural disasters and floods that disrupted production and business activity. Despite these challenges, he said the trade sector delivered strong results and emerged as a key bright spot.
He noted that surpassing the 900 billion mark reaffirmed Vietnam’s status as a highly open economy with deep international integration and rising competitiveness in global trade. He attributed the achievement to the leadership of the Party, the management of the Government, and the coordinated efforts of ministries, sectors, and the business community.
Nguyen Van Tho said the customs sector will continue to advance administrative reform, modernization, and digital transformation, strengthen risk management and anti-fraud measures, reduce inspection rates, and promote compliance among enterprises to further facilitate trade and enhance Vietnam’s role in global supply chains.
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