Notably, the industry continues to assert its pivotal role in the economy, obtaining an estimated trade surplus of US$21 billion this year, that highlights its significant contribution to the national trade balance.

Domestic added value in the industry is anticipated to rise to 52%, reflecting significant strides in localising raw material sourcing.

The information was unveiled at a press briefing in Hanoi on November 25 to announce the coming seventh Congress of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) and its 2025 annual meeting.

At the press briefing, VITAS President Vu Duc Giang highlighted the proactive efforts of VITAS in promoting trade, noting the association’s involvement in 10 national programmes and 20 independent initiatives. These programmes have provided businesses with access to major international trade fairs, including the Magic Show in the United States, Première Vision in France, as well as exhibitions in Germany, Australia, Russia, and Canada. These efforts have helped sustain and expand Vietnam’s market share in the global textile and garment industry.

According to Giang, from 2020 to 2025, the industry faced numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, new environmental regulations, and rising protectionist measures, such as the US’s reciprocal tariffs. Despite these obstacles, Vietnam's textile and garment industry managed to maintain steady growth, remaining among the world’s top three exporters. This success was largely due to the flexibility of local businesses and the effective coordination by VITAS.

On the international cooperation front, VITAS has worked closely with organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, as well as major global industry associations. Together, these partners have organised nearly 300 seminars and training sessions focused on technology, design, dual transitions (digital and green), emissions reduction, and sustainable development.

As a policy advisor, VITAS has consistently provided recommendations to the National Assembly, Government, and relevant ministries. These recommendations have contributed to removing administrative barriers, streamlining import-export procedures, and improving tax and credit policies, helping create a more favourable business environment for the industry’s recovery.

Looking ahead to the 2025–2030 term, VITAS has set ambitious goals for sustainable growth in alignment with the circular economy model. By 2030, the association aims to achieve US$64.5 billion in export revenue, with an annual growth rate of 6.5% to 7%. VITAS also plans to expand the domestic market to US$8–US$9 billion, increase the rate of local raw material sourcing to over 60%, and build strong Vietnamese fashion brands to further enhance the industry’s global competitiveness.

The 7th VITAS Congress for 2025–2030 and the 2025 year-end review will be held in Hanoi on December 16 - 17. The event is expected to attract around 500 delegates, including government officials, international experts, business leaders, brands, and policymakers. The discussions will focus on strategies for developing Vietnam’s textile and garment industry in a volatile global environment and share solutions for sustainable, circular-economy growth.

23rd Vietnam int’l textile, garment expo opens in HCM City

The 23rd Vietnam International Textile and Garment Industry Exhibition (VTG 2025) opened on October 15 in Ho Chi Minh City.