According to data from the General Department of Vietnam Customs, the textile and garment industry was among the top four export sectors in the first two months of 2025, with an export value surpassing USD 5 billion.
1. Export Performance: Positive Growth in Early 2025
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In the first two months of 2025, Vietnam’s textile and garment exports reached USD 5.634 billion, an increase of 9.25% year-on-year.
This growth aligns with industry forecasts, as many domestic garment manufacturers have already secured orders through Q2 2025.
However, industry experts noted potential slowdown signals in Q3 2025, as global buyers are awaiting the U.S. tax policy adjustments that could impact overall economic activity and import demand.
2. Key Export Markets: The U.S. Leads, Followed by Japan and South Korea
The United States remained Vietnam’s largest textile export market, with turnover reaching USD 2.46 billion, accounting for 43.6% of total exports — up 12.41% compared with the same period in 2024.
Japan ranked second, importing USD 689.71 million worth of Vietnamese textiles, representing 12.24% of the total and showing a 9.44% year-on-year growth.
South Korea followed in third place, recording a 4.12% increase compared with the same period last year.
Several other markets also posted strong growth, including:
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Hong Kong: up 31.85%, reaching USD 40.7 million
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Indonesia: up 25.09%, reaching USD 73.46 million
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Cambodia: up 21.75%, reaching USD 150.68 million
Conversely, Canada and Russia recorded declines of 11.97% and 26.74%, with export values of USD 149.55 millionand USD 87.88 million, respectively.
3. Strategic Directions for Sustainable Export Growth
To sustain and expand export momentum amid global uncertainties, Vietnam’s textile enterprises are encouraged to adopt a multi-pronged approach:
a. Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains
Prioritize investment in domestic production of yarn, fabric, dyeing, and finishing materials to reduce dependency on imported inputs and enhance cost efficiency.
b. Diversifying Export Markets
Reduce reliance on traditional destinations such as the U.S. and EU by exploring new markets under next-generation free trade agreements (FTAs), including CPTPP and EVFTA, which offer significant tariff advantages.
c. Developing Skilled Human Resources
Invest in training and upskilling workers to meet modern production requirements, improve productivity, and ensure rapid adaptation to changing global trends.
d. Promoting Green and Sustainable Manufacturing
Accelerate the transition to green production models, incorporating:
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Renewable energy use
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Recycling of raw materials
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Eco-friendly technologies
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ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance standards
These practices are increasingly critical for maintaining access to premium markets with strict sustainability and traceability requirements.
Conclusion
The first two months of 2025 marked a strong start for Vietnam’s textile and garment exports, reflecting both the sector’s resilience and its evolving adaptability.
With continued focus on supply chain localization, market diversification, and sustainable production, Vietnam is well-positioned to strengthen its status as one of the world’s leading textile exporters.