In May 2025, Vietnam’s export-import turnover surged significantly, with exports increasing by 14% compared to the same period last year. The country’s trade surplus for the month is estimated at an impressive $4.67 billion, marking a notable achievement despite ongoing challenges in global trade and supply chain disruptions. This strong export performance is seen as a positive sign for Vietnam’s economy and its resilience in the face of external pressures.
Ministry of Industry and Trade’s Efforts to Boost Exports
The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) has played a pivotal role in maintaining this growth. The ministry has been actively providing businesses with up-to-date market information, ensuring they are able to adjust their production plans and identify potential new orders. By focusing on market diversification and strengthening trade relations with global partners, MOIT has helped Vietnamese exporters navigate changing market conditions.
The ministry has also been instrumental in reviewing and proposing amendments to regulations that aim to simplify administrative procedures for export-import activities. These efforts, including the expansion of online public services, are designed to make trade processes more efficient and reduce the burden on businesses. Furthermore, the MOIT has been proactive in building new policies, including formulating timely responses and strategies to support businesses in adapting to international market changes.
Expanding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Market Access
In addition to focusing on simplifying procedures, the Ministry is committed to expanding the country’s trade network. MOIT continues to promote the benefits of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for Vietnamese businesses, enabling them to maximize export opportunities. The government is also accelerating negotiations for new FTAs and upgrading existing agreements to enhance market access and deepen economic ties with key partners worldwide.
Vietnamese businesses have been encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities presented by these FTAs, particularly by utilizing the rules of origin to gain preferential treatment in foreign markets. The MOIT has conducted several training programs focused on educating businesses about these rules, ensuring they can fully capitalize on international commitments and agreements.
Enhancing Legal Frameworks for Trade and Export-Import Operations
As part of ongoing efforts to improve the business environment, the Ministry is revising the legal framework for issuing Certificates of Origin (C/O). This adjustment is aimed at streamlining the certification process and ensuring that it aligns with international standards, making it easier for businesses to comply with global trade regulations. These updates are expected to further facilitate export-import operations and strengthen Vietnam’s position in global markets.
Prime Minister’s Call for Support of Agricultural Exports
A key focus of the Vietnamese government has been promoting the export of agricultural products, which play a crucial role in the country’s economy. On May 31, 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh signed Official Dispatch No. 79/CD-TTg, urging ministries, local governments, and relevant sectors to take immediate and effective action to support the production, processing, consumption, and export of agricultural products.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade is at the forefront of this initiative, organizing trade promotion activities and connecting businesses with international buyers through various trade fairs and events. These activities will be particularly important for promoting seasonal agricultural products such as durian, lychee, longan, and rambutan, ensuring that these products reach global markets in a timely and efficient manner.
Vietnam Lychees Make Their Debut in France
One notable development in Vietnam’s agricultural exports is the successful debut of Vietnamese lychees in the French market. On June 2, 2025, the first batch of fresh lychees from Vietnam arrived in France, marking a significant milestone for the country’s agricultural export sector. This marks a breakthrough for Vietnam in gaining access to more demanding European markets, and is expected to open up further opportunities for other agricultural exports, such as tropical fruits, to thrive in high-value markets.
This achievement is a direct result of the efforts made by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Vietnamese exporters, who have worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of products and expand access to international markets. As Vietnam continues to strengthen its export strategies and policies, the future of the agricultural export industry looks promising.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Vietnam’s Export Sector
Vietnam’s export sector has proven its resilience in May 2025, with impressive growth figures and a continued positive outlook for the rest of the year. With the government and the Ministry of Industry and Trade actively supporting the industry through improved trade policies, market diversification, and agricultural export promotion, Vietnam is well-positioned to further increase its export performance in the coming months.
The government’s focus on expanding FTAs, enhancing legal frameworks, and pushing for better market access will provide new opportunities for Vietnamese businesses, helping them remain competitive in the global marketplace. The continued success of agricultural exports, especially with products like lychee, durian, and rambutan, will be critical in maintaining Vietnam’s positive trade balance.
Keywords: Vietnam exports, trade surplus, export growth, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Free Trade Agreements, agricultural exports, lychee exports, trade promotion, Vietnam agriculture, durian, lychee, rambutan, Vietnam trade policies.
Source: Công Thương
