Under the tariff reduction roadmap of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), Vietnamese goods exported to the Netherlands continue to enjoy stronger competitive advantages compared to similar products from other countries.
A Model of Dynamic Asia–Europe Relations
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According to the Vietnam Trade Office in the Netherlands, bilateral trade turnover between Vietnam and the Netherlands reached nearly USD 13.8 billion in 2024, up 26.3% year-on-year.
Vietnam’s exports to the Netherlands amounted to USD 13 billion (+26.9%), while imports from the Netherlands totaled USD 784 million (+17.6%).
“This is the highest trade growth recorded in the past five years, confirming the Netherlands’ position as Vietnam’s largest European trading partner,”
said Ms. Vo Thi Ngoc Diep, Commercial Counselor of Vietnam in the Netherlands.
With this momentum, bilateral trade in 2025 is expected to continue growing impressively.
Despite a slight decline in January 2025 — exports reached USD 1.04 billion, down 10.1% month-on-month and 0.8% year-on-year — experts consider it a temporary fluctuation amid a strong overall trade trajectory.
Key Export Items
Leading export categories in January 2025 included:
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Computers, electronics, and components: USD 273.6 million (-24.6% MoM, +20.9% YoY), accounting for 26.1% of total exports;
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Machinery, equipment, and parts: USD 177.7 million (-9.3% MoM, -16.2% YoY).
Several commodities saw notable year-on-year growth:
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Coffee: +99.5%,
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Vehicles and parts: +80.3%,
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Cameras and video equipment: +43.7%,
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Rubber: +38.8%.
According to the Vietnam Industry and Trade Information Center (VITIC), Vietnam–Netherlands relations represent a “dynamic and effective partnership” model between Asia and Europe.
Currently, the Netherlands is Vietnam’s largest European investor, trade partner, and second-largest export market in the EU. Conversely, Vietnam ranks among the top 20 suppliers of goods to the Netherlands.
EVFTA Opens New Horizons for Cooperation
Since the EVFTA took effect, the agreement has created major opportunities for businesses in both countries. The Netherlands, regarded as the gateway to the EU market, plays a pivotal role as Europe’s leading logistics and re-export hub — especially for fruits and vegetables.
“The EU is a highly dynamic market,” noted Ms. Vo Thi Ngoc Diep.
“Thanks to the EVFTA, Vietnamese goods not only gain easier access to the Netherlands but also enjoy advantages when entering the wider EU market.”
Agriculture remains one of the biggest beneficiaries of the EVFTA, with tremendous potential to expand exports to the Netherlands. Key Vietnamese agricultural exports — seafood, rice, fruits, and vegetables — have already benefited from preferential tariffs since the agreement took effect.
Between 2020 – 2022, exports of these products to the Netherlands posted strong growth, particularly in 2022:
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Coffee: +170%,
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Fruits and vegetables: +48%,
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Rice: +28%,
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Seafood: +18%,
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Pepper: +10%.
Stronger Position Through EVFTA Tariff Reductions
As the EVFTA’s tariff elimination schedule continues, Vietnamese goods will enjoy greater cost advantages over competitors from non-EU-FTA countries in Asia.
The Netherlands — home to Rotterdam Port, one of the world’s largest logistics gateways — serves as a strategic entry point for Vietnamese exports into the EU. From Rotterdam, Dutch and international traders distribute products across the continent, connecting industrial zones and ports throughout Europe.
Maintaining Standards and Market Presence
However, the Netherlands and the EU remain high-standard markets, with strict quality, safety, and sustainability requirements across all sectors — especially food and agricultural products.
“Vietnamese exporters must prioritize compliance with market regulations, particularly new green and clean production criteria adopted by EU member states to protect consumers and the environment,”
the Trade Office advised.
Packaging and labeling design that matches Dutch consumer preferences is also crucial.
In addition to meeting regulatory labeling requirements, products should include clear, user-friendly instructions, especially for new or unfamiliar products to Dutch buyers.