VIETNAM'S ECONOMY IN 2025: GDP GROWS 8.02%, TOTAL TRADE REACHES US$930 BILLION

Vietnam recorded notable economic results in 2025, with GDP growth reaching 8.02%, the economy expanding to US$514 billion, and total merchandise trade reaching US$930 billion. Together with foreign investment and the expansion of the digital economy, these indicators highlight the growing scale and international integration of Vietnam's market.

According to the infographic Vietnam – Key Numbers for Doing Business 2025, published by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, eight key indicators provide an overview of the country's economic performance and business environment in 2025.

VIETNAM'S GDP GROWS 8.02%, REACHING US$514 BILLION

GDP growth was one of the most notable highlights of Vietnam's economy in 2025.

According to the data presented in the infographic, Vietnam's GDP grew by 8.02%, among its strongest growth results during the 2011–2025 period.

Alongside this growth, the country's economic output reached approximately US$514 billion, while GDP per capita exceeded US$5,026.

These figures reflect the expansion of Vietnam's economy in both overall size and economic output per person.

For international businesses and investors, market size is an important factor when evaluating opportunities in manufacturing, trade, and services.

A POPULATION OF 102.3 MILLION SUPPORTS THE DOMESTIC MARKET

Vietnam's population reached approximately 102.3 million in 2025.

A population exceeding 100 million represents a significant domestic market, particularly for businesses operating in consumer goods, retail, education, services, and technology.

Beyond consumer demand, population size also creates a need for continued development in housing, transportation, urban infrastructure, and essential services.

However, market potential depends not only on population size but also on income levels, demographic structure, and the distribution of demand across different regions.

TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE REACHES US$930 BILLION

Another notable indicator is Vietnam's total merchandise trade, which reached US$930 billion in 2025.

The figures include:

• Exports: US$475.04 billion.
• Imports: US$455.01 billion.

Based on these results, Vietnam recorded a merchandise trade surplus of approximately US$20 billion.

The scale of trade demonstrates Vietnam's substantial participation in international goods markets.

It also provides businesses interested in Vietnam with useful information when evaluating opportunities in manufacturing, import-export activities, logistics, and supply chains.

REGISTERED FDI REACHES US$38.4 BILLION

Foreign direct investment (FDI) continued to play an important role in Vietnam's economic landscape.

According to the infographic, total registered FDI reached US$38.4 billion in 2025, while disbursed FDI amounted to US$27.62 billion.

These figures represent two different aspects of investment activity. Registered FDI reflects investment commitments, while disbursed FDI indicates capital actually implemented.

Monitoring both indicators provides a more complete picture of Vietnam's ability to attract foreign investment and implement foreign-funded projects.

17 FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS EXPAND MARKET ACCESS

In addition to trade and investment, Vietnam's network of free trade agreements is another notable advantage.

As of 2025, Vietnam had 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) in force, covering economies that represent more than 80% of global GDP.

Some of the major agreements highlighted in the infographic include EVFTA, CPTPP, and RCEP.

This FTA network provides a framework for trade cooperation between Vietnam and numerous international markets, creating opportunities for businesses to explore import-export activities and expand their supply chains.

However, the ability to benefit from preferential arrangements depends on the specific agreement, rules of origin, and compliance with relevant requirements.

DIGITAL ECONOMY REACHES US$39 BILLION, INTERNET PENETRATION HITS 78.8%

Digital transformation was another important aspect of Vietnam's economic performance in 2025.

According to the infographic, Vietnam's digital economy reached approximately US$39 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV), representing 20% year-on-year growth.

During the same period, Vietnam had approximately 79.8 million internet users, equivalent to 78.8% of its population.

These figures demonstrate the country's substantial online user base, creating favorable conditions for technology-driven business models.

For businesses, widespread internet access also highlights the growing importance of websites, digital platforms, e-commerce, and online customer acquisition channels in modern business operations.

WHAT DO THESE EIGHT INDICATORS REVEAL ABOUT VIETNAM'S BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT?

Taken together, the eight indicators provide a broader picture of Vietnam's economy.

GDP growth and population size demonstrate the country's market foundation. Trade volume and its FTA network reflect international connectivity, while FDI, digital economy growth, and internet penetration offer additional insights into investment activity and business trends.

For companies exploring opportunities in Vietnam, these figures provide a useful starting point for assessing market scale and development potential.

Nevertheless, investment decisions should also consider industry-specific conditions, location, operating costs, legal requirements, and actual customer demand.

With GDP growth of 8.02%, total merchandise trade of US$930 billion, and a digital economy valued at US$39 billion in 2025, Vietnam continues to demonstrate notable progress in economic development and international market integration.