First-half exports to RoK cross over US$15.8bn on strong electronics demand

The growth shows a strong recovery in consumer demand and industrial production, reinforcing the RoK’s standing as a key trading partner.

Electronics and high-tech components spearheaded the surge. Shipments of phones and spare parts jumped 77.37% to over US$3.18 billion, accounting for 20.05% of total exports. The sharp rise follows multinational corporations expanding supply chains and ramping up production of next-generation devices in Vietnam.

Computers, electronic products, and components retained the top spot, generating more than US$4.55 billion, or 28.72% of total exports, up 10.56% year-on-year. Machinery, equipment, and tools also grew 3.65% to nearly US$1.55 billion.

In contrast, traditional industrial sectors faced headwinds from sluggish retail demand and intense price competition. Textiles and garments contracted 7.9% to US$1.23 billion, while wood and wooden products dropped 8.47% to US$339.28 million.

Shipments of primary commodities also retreated amid global price fluctuations and supply adjustments, with iron and steel plunging 50.72%, coffee down 37.99%, and pepper falling 37.48%.

Exports to the RoK are projected to maintain positive momentum through late 2026 and potentially hit a record high, buoyed by the year-end electronics consumption cycle.

While tech products and machinery will remain the primary growth drivers, textiles and agricultural goods are expected to post a mild recovery during peak holiday shopping.

However, exporters must meet strict technical standards and green consumption trends in the RoK to sustain long-term competitiveness.

Computers, phones, and machinery lead surge in Vietnam’s Q1 exports

VOV.VN - Vietnam’s exports hit nearly US$123 billion in Q1 2026, up 19.1% year on year, with its top three export categories generating nearly half of the total export turnover, the National Statistics Office reported.