Export turnover grew 19% to nearly 123 billion USD. Import and export turnover of goods totaled 245 billion USD, up 23% year-on-year. Retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue were up nearly 11%. The supply of essential goods, particularly gasoline and energy, was stable amid global economic uncertainties, the Ministry said.
The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) increased 9% year-on-year, with the manufacturing sector playing a key role. The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) reached 51.2 points in March, marking its 9th consecutive month above 50 points, indicating continued expansion of manufacturing activity and strengthened business confidence in a volatile market.
Several export markets recorded impressive growth, such as Hong Kong (China), China, and the United States, signaling that businesses have seized market opportunities and made full use of free trade agreements. Bui Huy Son, Director of the Department of Planning, Finance and Enterprise Management of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, outlined solutions to enhance value added in industrial production and promote import-export activities in the second quarter of 2026.
"First, it is necessary to focus on ensuring energy security and maintaining a stable supply of raw materials and fuels for production and daily life. Second, we must accelerate the restructuring of industrial and supply chains to enhance the self-reliance of domestic industries, while continuing to increase localization rates in key sectors. Third, priority should be given to strengthening import-export activities and deepening international economic integration, while diversifying potential markets, particularly in the Middle East and Latin America. At the same time, it is crucial to restructure and optimize export markets together with improving the efficiency of import-export operations," said Mr. Son.
