By takumihamano 
Vietnam’s trade balance has shown promising results in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the country’s robust economic activities and strategic trade policies. This article delves into the key aspects of Vietnam’s trade balance, providing insights into the latest developments and their implications for the nation’s economy.
Vietnam’s Trade Balance Overview
Vietnam’s trade balance refers to the difference between the value of its exports and imports. A positive trade balance indicates that the country exports more than it imports, contributing to economic growth and stability. In recent years, Vietnam has made significant strides in enhancing its trade balance through various initiatives and policies.
Key Developments in Q1 2025
- Trade Surplus: Vietnam achieved a trade surplus of USD 3.16 billion in Q1 2025. This is a notable accomplishment, although it is lower compared to the USD 7.7 billion surplus in Q1 2024. The domestic sector experienced a trade deficit of USD 7.76 billion, while the foreign-invested sector recorded a surplus of USD 10.92 billion.
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Export Growth: Exports increased by 10.6% year-on-year, reaching USD 102.84 billion. The domestic sector contributed USD 29.02 billion (28.2% of total exports), while the foreign-invested sector (including crude oil) accounted for USD 73.82 billion (71.8%).
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Import Growth: Imports saw a significant rise of 17.0% year-on-year, totaling USD 99.68 billion. The domestic sector’s imports were USD 36.78 billion, and the foreign-invested sector’s imports amounted to USD 62.9 billion.
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March 2025 Performance: In March 2025, exports totaled USD 38.51 billion, a 14.5% increase year-on-year. Imports for the same month were USD 36.88 billion, marking a 19.0% increase year-on-year.
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Major Export and Import Items: In Q1 2025, 18 export items exceeded USD 1 billion each, accounting for 84.5% of total exports, with 5 items surpassing USD 5 billion (59.9%). Similarly, 17 import items exceeded USD 1 billion each, representing 77.2% of total imports, with 2 items exceeding USD 5 billion (44.4%).
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Top Trade Partners: The United States was Vietnam’s largest export market, with exports totaling USD 31.4 billion in Q1 2025, resulting in a trade surplus of USD 27.3 billion. China was the largest import market, with imports amounting to USD 38.1 billion, leading to a trade deficit of USD 24.9 billion.
Summary
Vietnam’s trade balance in Q1 2025 reflects a positive outlook, with substantial growth in both exports and imports. The trade surplus, although lower than the previous year, indicates the country’s continued ability to export more than it imports. The domestic and foreign-invested sectors have both contributed significantly to this growth, showcasing Vietnam’s dynamic and resilient economy. As the nation continues to enhance its trade policies and expand its market reach, the future of Vietnam’s trade balance looks promising, supporting overall economic development and stability.
For those concerned about Vietnam’s economic situation, these developments highlight the country’s strategic efforts to maintain a healthy trade balance and foster sustainable growth. The positive trade balance is a testament to Vietnam’s robust economic activities and its ability to navigate global trade challenges effectively.