Vietnam's Economy Booms: Record Growth, Trade Surplus, and $30B Infrastructure Plan
July 5, 2025
Exports soared by 18.0% to $116.93 billion, while imports also increased by 18.8% to $112.52 billion, resulting in a favorable trade surplus of $4.41 billion.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) has surged to $21.5 billion, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 32.6%, the highest level since 2009, reflecting strong investor confidence.
In the first half of 2025, total retail sales and consumer service revenue rose by 9.3%, alongside a 9.8% increase in social investment, indicating robust domestic consumption.
Vietnam's economy is on an impressive trajectory, with a GDP growth rate of 7.96% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025, up from 6.93% in the first quarter, largely fueled by robust export performance.
As the United States' third-largest trade partner, Vietnam's exports to the U.S. reached $70.91 billion in the first half of the year, showcasing its growing significance in global trade.
Despite immediate risks such as potential clampdowns on transshipment and a global demand slowdown, Vietnam maintains overall macroeconomic stability, with inflation held at 3.5%.
To further enhance its economic landscape, Vietnam has initiated a $30 billion infrastructure investment plan aimed at logistics and renewable energy, with significant projects like the Lach Huyen deep-sea port expected to open in 2026.
Industrial production saw a significant increase of 10.3% in the April-June quarter, while consumer inflation was reported at 3.57% in June, highlighting a healthy economic environment.
A recent trade deal with the U.S. has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese goods to 20%, while imposing a 40% tariff on transshipments, creating both opportunities and uncertainties for the market.
Analysts view the trade deal positively, believing it will encourage a shift towards higher value-added exports, such as semiconductors, and stimulate domestic economic growth.
The evolving tariff landscape may prompt Vietnam to enhance its industrial capabilities, focusing on upgrading to more sophisticated and higher value-added exports.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

The Times Of India • Jul 5, 2025
Vietnam economy: Soars to 7.52% growth in first half of 2025; exports boom despite Trump tariff deal
Investing.com • Jul 5, 2025
Vietnam Q2 GDP growth quickens on strong exports, US trade deal brightens outlook