In recent years, Vietnam exports have become a key driver of its rapidly growing economy. With strategic location advantages, cost-effective labor, and a strong manufacturing infrastructure, Vietnam is increasingly asserting its role on the global trade stage. According to VietnamExportData, the country exported goods worth $403.2 billion in 2024—a 6.4% increase from the previous year—making it the 21st largest exporter in the world. The first quarter of 2025 alone has continued this strong momentum, with exports hitting $102.8 billion, up by 10.6% year-over-year.
In this article, we take a closer look at what Vietnam exports the most, examine the top categories by value, and explore Vietnam’s major trade partners and leading exporters. This deep dive is informed by Vietnam customs export data, Vietnam shipment data, and global trade insights.
Vietnam Exports Overview: A 2025 Snapshot
Vietnam’s export growth is fueled by sectors like electronics, textiles, agriculture, and machinery. According to Q1 2025 trade data, Vietnam’s total trade turnover reached $202.5 billion, with a trade surplus of $4.67 billion by May. The country's ability to balance high export growth with strong international demand has made it a magnet for foreign investment and manufacturing relocation.
With 88.7% of its exports coming from manufacturing and processing, Vietnam’s economy is deeply rooted in industrial output. Electronics alone account for 35% of total exports, followed by textiles and footwear (18%), machinery (10%), and agriculture (9%).
Top Vietnam Exports by Product Category (HS Code)
Understanding the top Vietnam exports helps explain how the country remains competitive in global markets. Based on VietnamExportData, here are the top export goods by category:
1. Electrical Machinery & Equipment (HS Code 85) – $121.7 Billion
Electronics are Vietnam’s top export product, contributing nearly 30% of total export value. With global players like Samsung, Intel, and Foxconn operating plants in the country, this category covers smartphones, semiconductors, home appliances, and more.
2. Footwear (HS Code 64) – $25.4 Billion
Vietnam is one of the largest footwear exporters globally. From sneakers to sandals, the country’s footwear industry services brands worldwide and contributes 6.1% to the total export pie.
3. Machinery & Mechanical Appliances (HS Code 84) – $23.5 Billion
This category includes industrial machinery, agricultural tools, and mechanical equipment. Growing demand from both Asian and Western markets has pushed this sector to 5.7% of total exports.
4. Knit Apparel (HS Code 61) – $21.2 Billion
5. Non-Knit Apparel (HS Code 62) – $19.7 Billion
Textiles and garments are long-standing pillars of Vietnam’s export economy. These two categories collectively account for over 10% of total exports and make Vietnam the second-largest textile exporter globally.
6. Furniture and Bedding (HS Code 94) – $14.2 Billion
With rising demand from the U.S. and EU, Vietnam has become a major source of wooden furniture, mattresses, and home décor.
7. Fish and Seafood (HS Code 03) – $9.8 Billion
Vietnam’s seafood, including shrimp, squid, and fish fillets, is exported to over 170 countries. The sector is bolstered by strict quality controls and sustainable fishing practices.
8. Wood & Wood Articles (HS Code 44) – $6.5 Billion
This includes plywood, particle boards, and finished wood items. Vietnam is increasingly replacing China in furniture sourcing due to favorable trade policies.
9. Coffee, Tea & Spices (HS Code 09) – $5.6 Billion
As the second-largest coffee exporter globally, Vietnam exports vast quantities of robusta beans, black tea, and black pepper.
10. Rubber & Rubber Articles (HS Code 40) – $4.3 Billion
Rubber exports have seen consistent demand from the automotive and healthcare industries.
Major Trade Partners for Vietnam in 2025
Vietnam’s trade relationships are diverse and increasingly strategic. Its top export partners include both global powerhouses and regional allies.
1. United States – $113.9 Billion
The U.S. is Vietnam’s largest export market, taking in nearly 28% of its total exports. Key products include electronics, textiles, and seafood.
2. China – $60.7 Billion
Despite competition, China remains a vital trade partner for agricultural products, machinery, and electronics.
3. South Korea – $28.2 Billion
With close investment ties and supply chain integration, South Korea imports textiles, electronics, and machinery from Vietnam.
4. Japan – $26.8 Billion
Japan remains a high-tech partner for Vietnam, importing everything from seafood to automotive parts.
5. EU Countries (Germany, Netherlands, UK, etc.)
The European Union collectively imports over $34 billion worth of Vietnamese goods. Products like textiles, furniture, and electronics are in high demand.
For detailed trade volumes and partner-specific data, Vietnam export data provides comprehensive shipment analytics and verified customs reports.
Top Exporters in Vietnam: Companies Leading the Trade
Vietnam’s export success would not be possible without its top corporate players. These companies not only boost Vietnam’s GDP but also create employment and attract FDI.
RankCompany2024–25 Export ValueProductsMarkets1Samsung Vietnam$65BPhones, TVs, chipsUS, EU, Asia2Intel Vietnam$12.9BSemiconductorsUS, EU3LG Display & Innotek$8.2BElectronic partsAsia, EU4NatSteelVina$8BSteelEast Asia, EU5Foxconn Vietnam$4.5BElectronicsUS, China6VinaCapital$2.1BSoftware, ITUS, Asia7VINATEX$800MTextilesUS, EU8Intimex Group$320MCoffeeEU, US9Vinamilk$180MDairyAsia, Africa
Key Trends in Vietnam Exports
1. Shift Towards High-Tech Manufacturing
Vietnam is no longer just a hub for low-cost textiles. Its electronics and machinery sectors are growing at double-digit rates.
2. Trade Surplus Driven by U.S. Demand
The U.S.–Vietnam trade surplus rose to $12.2 billion in May 2025, a 42% YoY increase, suggesting strong demand despite tariff uncertainties.
3. FDI Dominates Exports
72.1% of exports are generated by foreign-invested enterprises, underlining Vietnam’s appeal to multinational companies.
4. Risk of Tariffs
U.S. Section 232 and other proposed tariffs (up to 46%) may impact steel, aluminum, and other sectors. Exporters are advised to diversify and leverage FTAs like CPTPP, RCEP, and EVFTA.
Suggestions for Importers and Exporters
For Buyers (Importers):
- Secure long-term contracts for price-sensitive goods (coffee, steel).
- Watch for U.S. policy changes affecting Vietnamese goods.
- Maximize FTA benefits to reduce tariff exposure.
For Suppliers (Exporters):
- Diversify markets to reduce reliance on the U.S.
- Invest in traceability and quality assurance to meet EU standards.
- Strengthen documentation to counter origin fraud concerns.
Conclusion
Vietnam's robust export growth in 2025 reflects its maturity as a global trade powerhouse. From electronics and garments to seafood and coffee, the country's top Vietnam exports cater to a wide range of international markets. Trade relationships with the U.S., China, South Korea, and the EU continue to fuel growth, while corporate giants like Samsung, LG, and VinGroup anchor Vietnam’s export landscape.
As global trade dynamics evolve, staying informed through platforms like VietnamExportData becomes essential for businesses, buyers, and analysts. With real-time access to Vietnam customs data, businesses can track trends, identify opportunities, and remain agile in a fast-moving global market.
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