Vietnam has emerged as one of the fastest-growing export economies in the world, with the United States as its single largest export destination. Over the past decade, the trade relationship between Vietnam and the U.S. has strengthened dramatically, creating new opportunities while also facing complex challenges.

As of 2025, Vietnam exports to the US have reached record highs, driven by sectors like electronics, textiles, footwear, furniture, and seafood. Yet, issues such as tariffs, stricter sustainability standards, and regulatory hurdles are reshaping the trade landscape.

According to official trade data, the total value of US imports from Vietnam hit an all-time high of $136.5 billion in 2024, marking a 19% increase over the previous year. This rapid growth has made Vietnam one of the top 10 trading partners of the United States.

In this article, we will analyze what does Vietnam export to the US, explore the key trends, and examine both opportunities and challenges shaping this crucial trade relationship.

Vietnam–US Trade: A Decade of Growth

Over the past 10 years, Vietnam exports to the U.S. have grown exponentially:

This upward trajectory shows how Vietnam imports and exports have evolved to make the country a global trade hub. From just under $30 billion in 2014 to nearly $137 billion in 2024, the transformation has been remarkable.

In 2025, Vietnam exports to US are projected to reach $125–130 billion, keeping the U.S. as Vietnam’s largest trading partner.

Top 10 Products: What Does Vietnam Export to the US?

The question what does Vietnam export to the US can be answered by looking at the country’s top export categories. Based on 2024-25 data, the top 10 products include:

1. Electrical Machinery & Equipment (HS Code 85) – $23.2 billion
   Electronics lead the list, with items like electrical appliances, telecommunications equipment, and components accounting for nearly 20% of total exports.

2. Machinery & Mechanical Appliances (HS Code 84) – $22.05 billion
   Industrial and agricultural machinery make up nearly 18% of Vietnam’s exports to the U.S.

3. Knitted Apparel & Clothing (HS Code 61) – $8.25 billion
   Vietnam’s textile sector remains a powerhouse, exporting t-shirts, sweaters, and knitwear products globally.

4. Non-Knitted Apparel & Clothing (HS Code 62) – $7.90 billion
   Shirts, trousers, and dresses continue to be in demand in the U.S. market.

5. Wood & Wooden Products (HS Code 44) – $9.06 billion
   Furniture, plywood, and wooden handicrafts are major contributors to Vietnam’s export earnings.

6. Footwear (HS Code 64) – $8.28 billion
   Vietnam is one of the world’s leading footwear exporters, supplying sports and casual shoes to major U.S. brands.

7. Vehicles (HS Code 87) – $3.08 billion
   Includes motor vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles exported to the U.S. market.

8. Plastics & Plastic Articles (HS Code 39) – $2.45 billion
   Packaging materials, plastic bags, and containers make up this growing segment.

9. Fish & Seafood (HS Code 03) – $1.83 billion
   Shrimp, fish fillets, and frozen seafood dominate this category.

10. Leather Goods & Travel Bags (HS Code 42) – $1.80 billion
    Handbags, travel luggage, and leather accessories remain in demand in the U.S.

This diverse product mix shows that US imports from Vietnam span manufacturing, agriculture, and consumer goods sectors, making Vietnam a key supplier for American markets.

Key Drivers Behind Vietnam Exports to the US

Several factors explain why Vietnam exports to US have grown so rapidly:

• Supply Chain Diversification: Multinational companies are shifting production from China to Vietnam for cost savings and risk reduction.

• Competitive Labor Costs: Lower wages compared to other manufacturing hubs make Vietnam attractive for production.

• Free Trade Agreements: Strategic trade deals between Vietnam and global partners have boosted exports.

• High U.S. Demand: Electronics, furniture, apparel, and seafood are consistently in demand in the American market.

These drivers ensure that Vietnam exports will continue to play a central role in U.S. trade policies.

Challenges Facing Vietnam Exports

Despite growth, exporters face multiple challenges:

1. Tariff Barriers: In 2025, new U.S. tariffs on certain goods have increased costs for Vietnamese exporters.

2. Sustainability Standards: American buyers demand eco-friendly production, especially for textiles, wood, and seafood.

3. Regulatory Hurdles: U.S. laws on seafood imports require strict environmental compliance.

4. Global Competition: Countries like Bangladesh and India are competing aggressively in garments and footwear markets.

5. Overreliance on Imported Inputs: Many Vietnam imports and exports rely on raw materials from other countries, especially China.

To maintain competitiveness, Vietnam must modernize its industries and meet higher ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards.

Future Outlook: Vietnam Exports to US in 2025

The outlook for Vietnam exports to US remains positive, with projected exports of $125–130 billion for 2025. Leading sectors include:

• Electronics & Components: Continued FDI investment from companies like Samsung and Intel will drive exports.

• Textiles & Apparel: Targeting $25 billion in exports with sustainable practices.

• Wood Products & Furniture: Expected to cross $10 billion due to U.S. housing demand.

• Agricultural & Seafood Exports: Could surpass $7 billion if regulatory issues are addressed.

The goal is to reach $140 billion in US imports from Vietnam by the end of 2025, provided tariffs and regulatory challenges are managed effectively.

Strategic Recommendations

To strengthen Vietnam exports further, the following steps are essential:

1. Move Up the Value Chain: Focus on branding, design, and high-value manufacturing rather than just low-cost production.

2. Ensure ESG Compliance: Invest in green technologies, sustainable sourcing, and international certifications.

3. Diversify Markets: Reduce overdependence on the U.S. by expanding exports to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

4. Develop Domestic Supply Chains: Lower reliance on imported raw materials for greater resilience.

5. Engage in Trade Diplomacy: Proactively work with U.S. regulators to resolve disputes and gain better market access.

Conclusion

The story of what does Vietnam export to the US in 2025 is one of both opportunities and challenges. Electronics, machinery, apparel, furniture, footwear, and seafood dominate the trade relationship, making the U.S. Vietnam’s most important export destination.

Yet, tariffs, sustainability standards, and regulatory barriers demand that Vietnam upgrades its production, diversifies its markets, and invests in innovation. If these steps are taken, the goal of reaching $140 billion in US imports from Vietnam in 2025 is well within reach, securing long-term growth for Vietnam imports and exports.