In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, Vietnam has emerged as one of the most dynamic trade-driven economies in Asia. Over the last decade, the country has transformed into a manufacturing and export powerhouse, supported by a strong import ecosystem that supplies raw materials, components, and machinery for industrial production. Understanding Vietnam import data is therefore essential for businesses seeking opportunities in Southeast Asia or looking to expand their global supply chains.
According to recent Vietnam trade data, the country’s total imports reached approximately $379 billion in 2024, reflecting a 7.2% increase from the previous year. This growth highlights the strong industrial demand and Vietnam’s expanding role as a global manufacturing hub. As per international statistics, Vietnam is now ranked among the top 20 importing nations worldwide.
Early indicators from 2025 show that the momentum continues. In the first five months of 2025, Vietnam imports totaled $175.56 billion, representing a robust 17.4% year-on-year increase. Notably, production materials accounted for nearly 94% of total imports, demonstrating the country’s reliance on intermediate goods to support its export-oriented industries.
This article explores the latest Vietnam import data for 2025, focusing on major import categories, top trade partners, leading import companies, and the emerging trends shaping the country’s trade landscape.
Overview of Vietnam’s Import Economy
Vietnam’s import structure reflects its position as a regional manufacturing hub. The country imports large volumes of electronics, machinery, chemicals, and raw materials, which are then assembled or processed into finished products for export. This model has made Vietnam one of the fastest-growing trade economies in Asia.
According to Vietnam import customs data, the majority of imports are industrial inputs rather than finished consumer goods. Production materials alone accounted for over 93% of total imports in 2024, highlighting the country’s deep integration into global supply chains.
The strong growth in Vietnam imports is driven by several key factors:
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Rapid industrialization and infrastructure development
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Rising foreign direct investment (FDI)
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Expansion of electronics and semiconductor manufacturing
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Increasing demand for energy and raw materials
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Growth in consumer markets
Top 10 Vietnam Imports by HS Code
Based on recent Vietnam import data, the country’s top imports are dominated by industrial goods and high-tech components. Below are the leading categories:
1. Electrical Machinery and Equipment (HS Code 85)
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Import value: $116.54 billion
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Share: 34.79%
Electrical machinery is the largest import category, including smartphones, integrated circuits, and electronic components. These imports are essential for Vietnam’s electronics manufacturing sector.
2. Nuclear Reactors and Machinery (HS Code 84)
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Import value: $29.10 billion
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Share: 8.69%
This category includes industrial machinery and equipment used in manufacturing, construction, and energy projects.
3. Plastics and Articles Thereof (HS Code 39)
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Import value: $16.48 billion
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Share: 4.92%
Plastic resins and related materials are widely used in packaging, automotive, and consumer goods production.
4. Mineral Fuels and Oils (HS Code 27)
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Import value: $16.03 billion
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Share: 4.79%
Energy imports remain crucial for supporting industrial operations and transportation.
5. Iron and Steel (HS Code 72)
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Import value: $12.21 billion
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Share: 3.65%
Iron and steel imports support infrastructure projects, real estate, and heavy industry.
6. Vehicles (HS Code 87)
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Import value: $7.22 billion
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Share: 2.16%
Vehicle imports cater to the growing transportation and automotive sector.
7. Optical, Medical, and Surgical Instruments (HS Code 90)
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Import value: $7.12 billion
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Share: 2.13%
Healthcare equipment imports are rising alongside improvements in medical infrastructure.
8. Knitted or Crocheted Fabrics (HS Code 60)
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Import value: $6.68 billion
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Share: 2%
These imports supply Vietnam’s massive textile and garment export industry.
9. Cereals (HS Code 10)
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Import value: $4.79 billion
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Share: 1.43%
Food imports help meet domestic consumption needs and stabilize supply.
10. Cotton (HS Code 52)
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Import value: $4.75 billion
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Share: 1.42%
Cotton imports are essential for textile manufacturing and garment exports.
Overall, electronics, machinery, plastics, fuels, and metals dominate the Vietnam imports structure, reflecting the country’s industrial priorities.
Vietnam Imports by Country: Top Trade Partners
The country’s import network is diverse, but a few key partners dominate the market. According to recent Vietnam imports by country statistics, the top trading partners in 2024–25 are:
1. China
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Import value: $144.3 billion
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Share: 37.9%
China is Vietnam’s largest import partner, supplying electronics, machinery, raw materials, and intermediate goods.
2. South Korea
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Import value: $79.7 billion
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Share: 20.9%
South Korea is a major supplier of semiconductors, electronics, and industrial machinery.
3. Japan
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Import value: $35.8 billion
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Share: 9.4%
Japan supplies automotive parts, electronics, and high-precision machinery.
4. Taiwan
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Import value: $32 billion
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Share: 8.4%
Taiwan is a major source of technology components and machinery.
5. United States
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Import value: $14.3 billion
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Share: 3.8%
The U.S. exports agricultural products, machinery, and technology to Vietnam.
6. Thailand
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Import value: $11.6 billion
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Share: 3.1%
Thailand supplies food products, chemicals, and machinery.
7. Malaysia
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Import value: $7.3 billion
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Share: 1.9%
Malaysia is an important supplier of electronics and chemicals.
8. Indonesia
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Import value: $5.8 billion
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Share: 1.5%
Indonesia mainly exports energy products and minerals to Vietnam.
9. India
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Import value: $5.7 billion
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Share: 1.5%
India supplies pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery.
10. Australia
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Import value: $4.5 billion
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Share: 1.2%
Australia exports agricultural products, minerals, and machinery.
These figures from Vietnam import customs data highlight the country’s reliance on Asian partners for industrial inputs, particularly China and South Korea.
Top Import Companies in Vietnam
Vietnam’s import sector is dominated by large multinational electronics and semiconductor companies. According to Vietnam shipment data, the leading importers in 2024 include:
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Intel Vietnam – $9.9 billion
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Hanyang Vina – $8.5 billion
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Samsung Thai Nguyen – $7.9 billion
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Samsung HCMC – $5 billion
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Compal Vietnam – $2.9 billion
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FuyU Tech – $2.1 billion
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Luxshare Van Trung – $1.7 billion
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Fukang Tech – $1.7 billion
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Hana Micron – $1.6 billion
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Wistron Vietnam – $1.6 billion
Most of these companies operate in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, importing integrated circuits, micro-assemblies, and ICT components. Their primary sources are China, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and the United States.
Historical Growth of Vietnam Imports
Vietnam’s import growth over the last decade has been remarkable. According to historical Vietnam import data, imports have more than doubled since 2014.
| Year | Import Value |
|---|---|
| 2014 | $147.83 billion |
| 2015 | $165.77 billion |
| 2016 | $174.97 billion |
| 2017 | $213.21 billion |
| 2018 | $236.86 billion |
| 2019 | $253.44 billion |
| 2020 | $261.30 billion |
| 2021 | $330.75 billion |
| 2022 | $358.78 billion |
| 2023 | $325.44 billion |
| 2024 | $379 billion |
This steady rise in Vietnam imports reflects strong industrial expansion, increasing FDI, and the country’s integration into global value chains.
Key Import Trends Shaping Vietnam (2024–25)
1. Surge in Electronics and Semiconductor Imports
Electronics imports continue to rise as multinational companies expand manufacturing operations in Vietnam.
2. Growth in Infrastructure and Industrial Imports
Machinery, steel, and construction materials are in high demand due to infrastructure projects and factory expansions.
3. Diversification of Supply Chains
Vietnam is gradually reducing its reliance on China by increasing imports from ASEAN countries, India, and Europe.
4. Rising Imports of Intermediate Goods
Most Vietnam imports consist of components used in export manufacturing, reinforcing the country’s role as a global assembly hub.
5. Expansion in Renewable Energy and EV Components
Imports of solar equipment, batteries, and auto parts are expected to grow as Vietnam adopts green policies.
Sector Outlook for 2025
Based on recent Vietnam trade data, several sectors are expected to drive import growth:
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High-tech manufacturing: Apple suppliers and semiconductor firms expanding operations
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Electric vehicles: Rising demand for batteries and auto components
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Renewable energy: Increased imports of solar panels and wind equipment
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Agriculture: Higher food imports due to climate-related production challenges
Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Vietnam
Recent tariff measures from the United States have created new challenges for Vietnamese exporters. In 2025, certain steel, aluminum, solar panels, and other goods faced higher tariffs. Some products were subject to tariffs as high as 46% under reciprocal trade measures.
These developments could indirectly influence Vietnam imports by country, as companies adjust supply chains to mitigate tariff impacts.
Key Highlights of Vietnam’s Import Market
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Total imports in 2024: $379 billion
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Growth rate: +7.2% year-on-year
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Production materials share: Over 93%
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Top sectors: Electronics, machinery, plastics, fuel, and metals
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Major partners: China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the U.S.
The strong performance of Vietnam import data reflects the country’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s import landscape continues to evolve alongside its rapid industrial growth. With total imports reaching $379 billion in 2024 and strong momentum into 2025, the country remains one of the most dynamic trade markets in Asia.
The dominance of electronics, machinery, and industrial materials in Vietnam imports underscores its role as a manufacturing and export powerhouse. At the same time, the diversification of Vietnam imports by country shows a strategic shift toward more resilient supply chains.
For businesses, investors, and exporters, analyzing Vietnam import data provides valuable insights into market demand, supply chain trends, and trade opportunities. As Vietnam continues to attract foreign investment and expand its industrial base, the country’s import market is expected to grow even further in the coming years.
Companies seeking reliable insights can leverage Vietnam import customs data, shipment-level intelligence, and detailed Vietnam trade data to identify new opportunities, connect with buyers, and make informed decisions in one of Asia’s fastest-growing trade economies.
