TRADE DEFICIT WIDENS IN EARLY FEBRUARY AS IMPORTS SURGE

Ships transport containers at Dong Nai Port - PHOTO: VNA

HCMC – Vietnam posted a trade deficit of about US$948 million in the first half of February 2026, as imports rose faster than exports, according to preliminary data from the Department of Vietnam Customs.

Total trade between February 1 and 15 reached US$41.67 billion. Exports stood at US$20.36 billion, while imports totaled US$21.31 billion.

Exports increased 12.79% compared with the first half of January. Growth was driven by manufactured goods, including phones and components, machinery, and computers and electronics. Textile and garment exports picked up more than 32% to US$1.8 billion.

Imports rose sharply, led by energy products. Petroleum imports climbed 90.6% to US$519.74 million, while liquefied gas skyrocketed 121% to US$145.69 million.

Imports of computers, electronics, and components edged up 1.81% to US$8.1 billion, reflecting higher demand for production inputs.

Foreign-invested companies accounted for nearly 78% of export value, highlighting continued reliance on imported components.

From the start of the year to February 15, total trade reached US$130.18 billion, up nearly 37% from a year earlier. The trade balance showed a deficit of about US$2.9 billion over the period, following strong import growth in January.

Source: The Saigon Times