Vietnam Trade Trends May 2026
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According to data released by Vietnam’s General Statistics Office, the country’s trade activity continues to expand, with both exports and imports reaching record levels and reflecting the strong integration of the Vietnamese economy into global supply chains.
Exports rose significantly, reaching a record value of USD 46.93 billion in May and continuing the positive trend observed throughout the year. Over the first five months, exports increased by 19.5 per cent year-on-year to USD 215.66 billion, highlighting the sustained competitiveness of Vietnam’s export-oriented industries.
Processed industrial goods remain the main driver of export growth, accounting for nearly 90 per cent of total exports. This performance underscores the country’s strengthening manufacturing base and its growing role as a regional production hub.
The United States continues to be Vietnam’s largest export market, with export turnover reaching USD 69.6 billion, confirming the importance of bilateral trade relations and the strong demand for Vietnamese products in international markets.
Imports of production materials account for the vast majority of total imports, reflecting industrial activity and ongoing investment in manufacturing capacity. China remains Vietnam’s largest source of imports, supporting the supply of intermediate goods and components essential for the country’s export-oriented production model.
Overall, trade indicators highlight the dynamism of Vietnam’s economy, supported by expanding manufacturing activity, strong export performance, and deepening integration into regional and global value chains. These developments continue to reinforce Vietnam’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly growing economies.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a political and economic union, has a population of 667 million and a territory of 4.5 million km². It is currently the third-largest economy in Asia-Pacific and the fifth-largest in the world. The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) has a combined GDP of USD 4.2 trillion, according to estimates for 2025.