CaliToday (24/12/2025): As 2025 draws to a close, Vietnam’s economy is delivering a masterclass in resilience. Driven by a high-octane export sector and a revitalized domestic retail market, the nation is set to finish the year with fiscal figures that outpace many of its regional peers.
The Export Powerhouse: Electronics and "Green Gold"
Vietnam continues to solidify its position as a global trade linchpin, maintaining a robust trade surplus. While traditional manufacturing remains steady, two specific sectors have emerged as the primary catalysts for this year’s success:
The Silicon Shield: The electronics sector, led by global giants and an increasingly sophisticated local supply chain, remains Vietnam’s largest high-value export. As global demand for AI-integrated hardware and consumer electronics rebounded in late 2025, Vietnamese factories have been operating at near-full capacity to meet the holiday rush.
The Agricultural Revolution: Perhaps the most compelling story of 2025 is the "Green Gold" rush. Durian has transitioned from a niche fruit to a multi-billion dollar export juggernaut, particularly following expanded trade protocols with China. Simultaneously, Vietnamese rice has hit record price points and volumes, as the country fills the gap in global food security needs with high-quality, fragrant varieties.
Retail Therapy: A Domestic Surge
While the world looks at Vietnam’s exports, the internal engine is equally vibrant. The domestic retail market is currently witnessing a massive spike in consumer spending, fueled by a perfect storm of government policy and seasonal demand.
The extension of the VAT reduction policy has been hailed as a masterstroke for the "pocketbook economy." By lowering the cost of essential goods and services, the government has effectively incentivized a cautious public to return to shopping malls and e-commerce platforms.
"The 2% VAT cut might seem small on paper, but at the checkout counter during the Tet preparation season, it’s a significant psychological and financial boost for consumers," says a Hanoi-based market analyst.
The Road Ahead
The synergy between "External Strength" (Exports) and "Internal Momentum" (Retail) has created a balanced growth model. As containers pile up at Hai Phong and Cat Lai ports and shopping carts overflow in Ho Chi Minh City, the mood is one of cautious optimism.
If these trends hold through the Lunar New Year, Vietnam will not only meet its 2025 targets but will enter 2026 with the strongest economic tailwinds in the ASEAN region.
- In the Electronics sector, the surging global demand for AI technology and hardware has driven a sustained, high-value trade surplus for Vietnam.
- In Agriculture, the record-breaking export performance of durian and rice has directly resulted in unprecedented income levels for the rural economy.
- In the Retail market, the combination of strategic VAT cuts and peak Tet holiday shopping has triggered a powerful surge in domestic liquidity and consumer spending.