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Importing a standard container of goods into Vietnam requires:
Vietnam is predicted to be the fastestgrowing of the world’s emerging economies by 2025, with a potential growth rate of almost 10% per annum. The country has slowly been transforming itself into a more market-oriented economy. Reforms include partial privatisation of state-owned enterprises and modernisation of the trade regime. Vietnam joined the World Trade Organization in January 2007, which has promoted more competitive, export-driven industries.
2016 | 2017 | 2018-21 | |
---|---|---|---|
GDP | 6.2 | 6.5 | 6.2 |
Export of goods and services | 10.0 | 4.9 | 8.1 |
Import of goods and services | 11.1 | 5.3 | 9.2 |
Inflation | 2.7 | 4.9 | 5.0 |
Current account balance (% of GDP) | 4.7 | 4.1 | 2.4 |
Population (millions) | 92.6 | 93.6 | 96.0 |
Source: Source: IMF, World Economic Outlook Database, April 2017 |
Gross domestic product grew 4.9% in the first half of the year, according to preliminary data released by the General Statistics Office. Corporate difficulties, a banking system weighed down with bad debts and high interest rates were among the main factors contributing to the weak economic climate. GDP growth in 2013 is close to last year’s 5% as a result of subdued exports and persistently high real interest. But a pick-up is in prospect from 2014, as the past year’s strong rise in inward investment starts to boost exports to faster-recovering markets.
Vietnam’s exports grew by an estimated 20% in 2012. China is forecasted to overtake the US as Vietnam’s largest trading partner. Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia will also become fast growing export partners for Vietnam. Plans to expand the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement to zero tariffs on all goods by 2015 will also drive Vietnam’s trade with other economies in the region over the medium term. The US and Japan will remain key sources of demand for Vietnam and will remain among Vietnam’s top export markets.
De-minimis value (duty free allowance): 1,000,000 VND (approx £34GBP). VAT and Special Sales Tax may still apply. All gifts must have a full description of goods, including the quantity. Goods descriptions must be specific; if descriptions are ambiguous such as gift, present, sample, textile, garment, or parts, they will not be accepted. All publications which refer to the ‘south China sea’ are prohibited.
Strengths Strong interest in Western lifestyles Large young population Expanding middle class with strong purchasing power |
Weaknesses Slow structural reforms |
Opportunities Reduction in trade barriers following international commitments |
Threats Fiscal situation deteriorating Import slowdown |
Rank | 2012 |
---|---|
1 | India |
2 | Korea |
3 | Brazil |
4 | Hong Kong |
5 | China |
6 | Poland |
7 | Indonesia |
8 | Canada |
9 | Bangladesh |
10 | France |
Key sectors include education, healthcare, food & drink, technology, chemicals and lifestyle. Both the public and private sectors in Vietnam have a strong interest in UK business expertise and brand reputation.
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