Vietnam’s trade surplus with the United States has reached a historic high, marking a major milestone in the country’s rise as one of Asia’s most dynamic export-driven economies. Despite higher U.S. tariffs and global economic uncertainty, Vietnam has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adaptability, and industrial strength.
According to official data, Vietnam’s trade surplus with the U.S. hit $121.6 billion in the first 11 months of 2025, the highest level ever recorded. This was driven by a 22.5% year-on-year surge in exports to the U.S. in November, even in the face of new tariff pressures.
Resilience in the Face of Global Trade Pressures
What makes this achievement especially significant is that it comes at a time of rising global trade tensions. The United States imposed tariffs of up to 20% on certain Vietnamese goods in August 2025, yet Vietnamese exporters continued to expand their market share.
This performance highlights:
- Strong manufacturing fundamentals
- Competitive labour and production costs
- Rapid industrial upgrading
- A sophisticated export supply chain
Rather than slowing down, Vietnam adapted — shifting production strategies, improving quality standards, and strengthening compliance with international trade rules.
Export Sectors Powering the Record Surplus
Several key industries fueled this remarkable growth:
1. Electronics and Technology Components
Vietnam has become a major global hub for assembling smartphones, semiconductors, and computer hardware.
2. Textiles, Garments, and Footwear
Exports to the U.S. in apparel and footwear reached record volumes, benefiting from Vietnam’s skilled workforce and efficient production systems.
3. Furniture and Wood Products
Vietnam now ranks among the top furniture exporters to the U.S., with strong demand for home and office products.
4. Machinery and Industrial Equipment
Growing technical capacity has allowed Vietnam to export more value-added industrial products.
These sectors helped offset trade deficits with other markets, especially China.
Strategic Shift in Global Supply Chains
Vietnam’s record trade surplus reflects a broader global trend: multinational companies are diversifying supply chains away from over-concentration in China.
U.S. and global companies increasingly view Vietnam as:
- A stable production base
- A politically predictable partner
- A country with improving infrastructure
- A participant in multiple free trade agreements
This positioning has made Vietnam one of the biggest beneficiaries of global supply-chain realignment.
Strong Investment Flows Reinforce Export Growth
The export boom is supported by rising foreign direct investment (FDI). In the first 11 months of 2025, Vietnam attracted $23.6 billion in FDI, reflecting growing global confidence in the economy.
Major global brands continue to expand factories in Vietnam, creating jobs, boosting skills transfer, and expanding the country’s export capacity.
Trade Balance in Wider Context
While the U.S. surplus surged, Vietnam also recorded:
- A strong overall trade surplus of $20.53 billion in the first 11 months of 2025
- A rising trade deficit with China of $104.3 billion, reflecting dependence on imported raw materials and components
This shows Vietnam’s strategic position as a manufacturing bridge — importing raw materials from regional partners and exporting finished goods to major Western markets.
Implications for Vietnam’s Economy
The record surplus brings major national benefits:
- Stronger foreign exchange reserves
- Improved currency stability
- Job creation in manufacturing hubs
- Higher government revenues
- Growing middle-class purchasing power
It also strengthens Vietnam’s bargaining position in ongoing trade negotiations with Washington, as both sides work toward a more comprehensive bilateral trade framework.
A Model for Emerging Economies
Vietnam’s success offers a powerful model for other developing nations: focus on industrial policy, export competitiveness, workforce skills, and global market integration.
Rather than retreating from globalisation, Vietnam has embraced it — and is now harvesting the rewards.
Conclusion: A New Era of Vietnamese Export Power
Vietnam’s record trade surplus with the United States is more than a statistical achievement. It is a clear signal that Vietnam has entered a new league of global manufacturing and trade.
Despite tariffs, global instability, and competitive pressures, Vietnam has proven its resilience, discipline, and readiness to lead in the next phase of global economic growth.
The message is clear: Vietnam is no longer just a participant in global trade — it is a powerhouse.
References
- Reuters report on Vietnam–US trade surplus record Reuters
- Financial Times on regional supply chain shifts Financial Times
- VnExpress report on Vietnam’s overall trade surplus VnExpress Intl.
