Vietnam-China Trade Sees Active Import-Export, Strengthening Regional Economic Ties

Trade relations between Vietnam and China are showing increased activity, particularly in the southern province of Can Tho. Can Tho currently hosts 35 investment projects from China, with a registered capital of nearly $1.2 billion. During the first seven months of 2026, Can Tho's exports to China reached $77.5 million, while imports stood at $64.7 million. Key exports include rice, seafood, farm produce, processed agricultural products, and apparel. Imports primarily consist of agricultural chemicals, veterinary medicines, fertilizers, chemicals, fabrics, and other materials and inputs. Overall, bilateral economic, trade, and investment ties between Vietnam and China saw a total trade volume of $3.24 billion in the first seven months of 2026, marking a 12% increase year-on-year. This indicates Vietnam's strengthening economic connections with China. These strengthened economic ties are crucial for Vietnam as it solidifies its position as an economic hub within the ASEAN region and diversifies its supply chains. Regional economic cooperation frameworks, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, could provide a platform to promote Vietnam's investment environment and support Vietnamese businesses seeking investment opportunities in regions like Hong Kong. Vietnam aims to sustain economic growth and enhance its integration with the international community, with expanding trade with China being a part of this strategy. Meanwhile, Vietnamese exporters are reassessing their strategies in response to new U.S. tariff policies. Many are shifting from volume-driven growth towards higher-value orders, tighter cost control, increased productivity, and a more balanced allocation of markets to reduce reliance on a single destination.