Vietnam's Export-Import Turnover Hits Record High, Driving Economic Growth

Vietnam's total import-export turnover reached a record high of US$770.14 billion in the first eight months of 2026, marking a year-on-year increase of 28.7%. This economic surge was driven by a 22.4% rise in exports and a 35.3% increase in imports. Electronics, computers, and components topped the list of export items, with turnover exceeding US$101 billion. Seven key export items each recorded turnover exceeding US$10 billion, accounting for 70% of Vietnam's total export value. The domestic business landscape also showed robust activity. Approximately 138,100 new businesses were registered in the first eight months of 2026, with total registered capital reaching nearly VND 1.708 quadrillion (US$65.9 billion), up 7.7% in number and 36.2% in capital year-on-year. The average registered capital per newly established business also increased by 26.4%, indicating strong entrepreneurial drive. Foreign direct investment (FDI) continues to be a vital pillar of Vietnam's economy. Total registered FDI in the first eight months of 2026 reached US$40.63 billion, a significant year-on-year increase of 55.4%. Disbursed FDI was estimated at US$17.25 billion, up 12% year-on-year, marking the highest eight-month figure in the past five years. Manufacturing activity remained strong, with Vietnam's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rising to 53.3 points in August, staying above the 50-point threshold for the 14th consecutive month. This indicates sustained expansion in the manufacturing sector. The tourism sector also maintained its growth momentum, welcoming 15.9 million international visitors in the first eight months, a 14.4% year-on-year increase. This represents the highest number of international arrivals recorded in the first eight months of a year in recent times. These economic indicators highlight Vietnam's sustained growth trajectory, reflecting the effectiveness of its economic development strategies under its one-party system. The expansion in trade, particularly with its significant economic ties to China, further underscores Vietnam's growing importance in global supply chains.