Vietnam’s economy is poised for continued growth, bolstered by its increasing integration into the global market and a strategic focus on self-reliance, according to Professor Hoang Van Cuong, a member of the National Assembly and the Prime Minister’s Policy Advisory Council.
Cuong’s assessment, delivered in a recent interview with the Industry and Trade Newspaper, highlights the nation’s ability to navigate a volatile global economic landscape. He emphasized that Vietnam’s sustained economic performance is fundamentally rooted in its capacity for self-sufficiency, a characteristic that has allowed it to weather external shocks and maintain a relatively positive growth trajectory.
“The Vietnamese economy has maintained a relatively positive growth rate, based primarily on a fundamental pillar: its self-reliance,” Cuong stated. “The deepening of international economic integration has also become a key driver of economic and social development, strengthening Vietnam’s position on the international stage.”
Vietnam’s export sector has been a key contributor to this success, demonstrating resilience even amidst global fluctuations. According to data released by Vietnam Customs in early January, the country’s total import-export value reached $883.7 billion in 2025, including $451.2 billion in exports – surpassing the entire 2024 figure and exceeding the target needed to secure 8% GDP growth. This performance underscores Vietnam’s growing importance within global production and trade chains.
Cuong noted the strategic role of the government, particularly the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in fostering this integration. He credited the ministry’s proactive approach to market access, coupled with mechanisms to support Vietnamese businesses, for the country’s success in expanding its trade network. Vietnam now has a network of 17 free trade agreements, providing access to major international markets.
The expansion of trade relationships has not only opened new avenues for export growth but has also driven institutional reforms and improved the business environment. Meeting international commitments, Cuong explained, necessitates aligning Vietnam’s legal and political systems with international standards, enhancing transparency and predictability.
“The integration economic international has yielded impressive results of strategic importance to the Vietnamese economy,” Cuong said. “We have effectively leveraged the advantages and opportunities of the global market, proactively mitigating disruptions and adverse impacts from global fluctuations.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Cuong stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent economic management approach – prioritizing stability as a foundation for development. He pointed to Vietnam’s successful navigation of challenges in 2025, including adjustments to US trade policies, as evidence of the effectiveness of this strategy. Despite changes in US tariffs, Vietnam maintained positive import and export growth.
“In an uncertain environment, it is crucial to remain vigilant, flexible, and proactive in managing situations,” Cuong stated. “This helps mitigate adverse external impacts and capitalize on favorable opportunities.”
Vietnam concluded 2025 with 8.02% GDP growth and record trade turnover, according to a report released by the Vietnam Institute of Strategy and Policy for Industry and Trade (VIOIT) in January 2026. The report outlines the economic outlook for 2026, but does not offer specific forecasts.
