Vietnam Records $3.03 Billion Trade Surplus in January Despite Slower Trade Activity

Mohammad Swaif Ullah

Vietnam posted a trade surplus of $3.03 billion in January 2025, even as overall trade activity showed signs of contraction, according to data from the General Statistics Office. The country’s total import-export turnover for the month stood at $63.15 billion, marking a 10.5 percent decline compared to December and a 3.5 percent drop year on year.

The foreign-invested sector played a crucial role in sustaining the trade balance, generating a surplus of $4.43 billion, while domestic enterprises recorded a trade deficit of $1.4 billion, as reported by a domestic news agency.

Export revenue for January amounted to $33.09 billion, reflecting a 4.3 percent year-on-year decline. Seven product categories surpassed the $1 billion mark in export value, collectively accounting for 67.9 percent of total exports. The manufacturing and processing sector remained dominant, contributing 89 percent of the country’s export earnings.

Imports for the month totaled $30.06 billion, registering a 2.6 percent decline from the previous year. Three import categories exceeded $1 billion in value, making up 49.3 percent of total imports. Capital goods and equipment dominated Vietnam’s import structure, accounting for 94 percent of the total, with consumer goods making up the remainder.

The United States retained its position as Vietnam’s largest export market, with shipments worth $9.8 billion in January. Meanwhile, China remained the country’s top source of imports, with goods valued at $11.6 billion.