Electronics Lead Vietnam’s Trade Growth With China as Top Supplier: Electronics Trade Hit New Records

In 2025, Vietnam’s trade landscape is witnessing a major transformation. The electronics sector, particularly computers, electronic components, and other high-tech hardware, has emerged not just as a key player but as the engine powering record-breaking trade growth. Underpinning this surge is a deepening supply-chain relationship with China, which now stands as Vietnam’s largest electronics supplier.

According to the Vietnam import data and Vietnam customs import data of electronics, the total value of Vietnam electronics imports reached $136.04 billion in 2024, a 21% increase from the previous year. According to Vietnam export data and Vietnam customs export data of electronics, the total value of Vietnam electronics exports reached $143.33 billion in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year. The total value of Vietnam electronics trade reached a record high $279.37 billion in 2024-25, as per the Vietnam customs data. 

Vietnam is the 8th largest electronics exporter & the 6th largest electronics importer in the world, according to global trade data. This story isn’t just about numbers: it reflects a broader strategic shift in global supply chains, industrial policy, and foreign investment. To understand how Vietnam arrived here, and where it might go, we need to dig into the data, the drivers, and the risks.

Vietnam’s Macro Trade Boom, Fueled by Electronics

According to the latest customs data of Vietnam, electronics, particularly computers, electronic products, and components, have become a dominant force in Vietnam’s trade. In August 2025, imports in this category reached an astounding US$14.13 billion, taking the total for the first eight months to nearly US$96 billion, a 38.2% year-on-year surge. These imports now account for almost one-third of Vietnam’s total import value. Crucially, China remains the single largest supplier of electronics to Vietnam, exporting US$33.5 billion worth of electronic goods to Vietnam in that period, up 47.5% from the previous year. 

On the export side, Vietnam exported US$10.2 billion in electronics in August alone, with first-eight-month exports totaling nearly US$67 billion, marking a 43.1% annual increase and making up around 22% of Vietnam’s total exports. Overall, Vietnam’s trade turnover hit US$83.1 billion in August, and reached almost US$598 billion in the first eight months of the year, with electronics (including phones) accounting for roughly a third of that massive total.

Trade Momentum and Scale

• In the first seven months of 2025, Vietnam’s total merchandise trade (imports + exports) hit approximately US$514.7 billion, growing around 16.3% year-on-year. This shows strong trade momentum.

• For the same period, exports were about US$262.44 billion (up 14.8%) and imports rose even faster, leading to a trade surplus of roughly US$10.18 billion.

• Within this broader trade boom, electronics, especially the sub-categories of computers, electronic products, and components, dominate both import and export flows.

Electronics in Imports

• Vietnam imported nearly US$96 billion worth of computers, electronic products, and components in the first eight months of 2025. That’s a massive 38.2% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

• Electronics now account for almost one-third of Vietnam’s total import value. This signals how deeply electronics have become embedded in the country’s import structure.

• China is the single-largest supplier for this category, about US$33.5 billion of these electronics imports came from China, marking a nearly 47.5% increase compared to a year earlier.

• Other major sources: South Korea (US$24.1 billion), Taiwan (US$15 billion, with the sharpest growth rate among them), and Japan (US$5.4 billion).

Electronics in Exports

• On the export side, computers, electronic products, and components pulled in about US$10.2 billion in August 2025 alone.

• Over the first eight months, exports of that group totaled almost US$67 billion, a 43.1% year-on-year increase, making up 22% of all Vietnamese exports.

• These electronics exports are not just local consumption: a significant portion is manufactured for export, meaning Vietnam is assembling or producing goods for global markets.

Long-Term Import Trends (2024 Context)

• In 2024, Vietnam's imports of computers, electronics, and components crossed the US$100 billion mark, hitting a historic high.

• The share coming from China in that year was about 32%, or roughly US$31.5 billion over the first 11 months, with full-year estimates pointing to US$33–34 billion.

• The rapid rise is not limited to China. Imports from Taiwan grew strongly, as did those from South Korea.

Upstream Import Drivers: Electronic Components & Chips

• In May 2025, one of the fastest-growing import categories in Vietnam was electronic components, integrated circuits, microprocessors/controllers, and other high-value parts.

• The number of importers from Vietnam dealing with Chinese suppliers in these components is large, reflecting a very deep interconnection in the supply chain.

• Such imports are not just raw or low-value; many are advanced inputs for high-tech manufacturing, indicating that Vietnam’s electronics production depends heavily on imported upstream parts.

Vietnam Electronics Imports by Country: Where Does Vietnam Import Electronics From?

Vietnam's electronics imports come from various countries worldwide. As one of the leading electronics importers in Southeast Asia, Vietnam sources electronics products from top exporting countries like China, South Korea, Japan, and the United States. With a rapidly growing electronics industry and a strong focus on technological advancements, Vietnam relies on these key countries for a wide range of electronic goods, including computers, mobile phones, and consumer electronics. The top 10 countries from which Vietnam imports electronics, as per the Vietnam electronics imports by country and Vietnam import statistics for 2024-25, include: 

1. China: $58.62 billion (43.1%)

China stands out as the leading source of electronics imports for Vietnam, accounting for a significant portion of the total imports, as per the customs data on Vietnam electronics imports from China by HS code. With a robust manufacturing sector and a wide range of electronic products, China has established itself as a major supplier to Vietnam's electronics market.

2. South Korea: $34.92 billion (25.7%)

South Korea is another key player in Vietnam's electronics import market. With advanced technologies and innovative electronic products, South Korea has a strong presence in Vietnam's electronics industry.

3. Taiwan: $14.17 billion (10.4%)

Taiwan is renowned for its expertise in electronics manufacturing, making it a valuable source of imports for Vietnam. With a focus on quality and innovation, Taiwan has become a trusted partner for Vietnamese electronics companies.

4. Japan: $7.95 billion (5.9%)

Japan is known for its high-tech electronics and cutting-edge technologies, making it a significant contributor to Vietnam's electronics imports. With a reputation for quality and reliability, Japanese electronics are highly sought after in the Vietnamese market.

5. USA: $4.54 billion (3.3%)

The USA is also a key player in Vietnam's electronics import market, with a diverse range of electronic products and technologies. With a focus on innovation and quality, American electronics companies are prominent suppliers to Vietnam's electronics industry.

6. Ireland: $3.18 billion (2.3%)

Ireland may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of electronics imports, but it plays a crucial role in Vietnam's electronics market. With a focus on technology and innovation, Irish electronic companies contribute significantly to Vietnam's electronics imports.

7. Malaysia: $2.35 billion (1.7%)

Malaysia is another important source of electronics imports for Vietnam, with a focus on manufacturing and supply chain solutions. With a growing electronics industry, Malaysia is a key partner for Vietnam's electronics sector.

8. Israel: $2.27 billion (1.7%)

Israel is a rising star in the global electronics market, with a focus on cutting-edge technologies and innovative products. As a source of electronics imports for Vietnam, Israel brings a unique perspective to the Vietnamese market.

9. Philippines: $1.85 billion (1.4%)

The Philippines is a key player in Vietnam's electronics import market, with a focus on manufacturing and supply chain solutions. With a diverse range of electronic products, the Philippines plays an important role in Vietnam's electronics industry.

10. Thailand: $1.75 billion (1.3%)

Thailand rounds out the top 10 countries from which Vietnam imports electronics, with a focus on innovation and quality. As a key player in the electronics market, Thailand contributes significantly to Vietnam's electronics imports.

Vietnam Electronics Exports by Country: Where Does Vietnam Export Electronics?

Vietnam's electronics industry has seen significant growth in recent years, positioning the country as a key player in global electronics exports. When it comes to Vietnam's electronics exports by country, the main destinations include the United States, Japan, South Korea, and China. These countries are major importers of electronics goods from Vietnam, making it a crucial player in the global supply chain. The top 10 export destinations for Vietnam's electronics exports by country, as per the Vietnam shipment data for 2024-25, include:

1. USA: $41.65 billion (29.1%)

The United States is the largest market for Vietnam's electronics exports, accounting for nearly 30% of total exports, as per the data on Vietnam electronics exports to the USA. With a strong demand for consumer electronics and technological devices, the US market presents a lucrative opportunity for Vietnamese manufacturers.

2. China: $30.13 billion (21%)

China, Vietnam's neighboring country, is another key destination for Vietnam's electronics exports. With proximity and well-established trade relations, Vietnam benefits from easy access to the Chinese market, which accounts for 21% of total electronics exports.

3. South Korea: $9.53 billion (6.6%)

South Korea is a major player in the global electronics industry, and Vietnam has been able to tap into this market effectively. With strong demand for high-tech electronics, South Korea represents a significant portion of Vietnam's electronics exports.

4. Hong Kong: $6.58 billion (4.6%)

As a global financial hub, Hong Kong serves as a strategic gateway for Vietnam's electronics exports to reach international markets. With a well-developed trade network and business-friendly environment, Hong Kong plays a vital role in the distribution of Vietnamese electronics products.

5. Japan: $6.34 billion (4.4%)

Japan, known for its cutting-edge technology and high-quality electronics, is a key market for Vietnam's electronics exports. With a strong demand for consumer electronics and components, Japan offers substantial opportunities for Vietnamese manufacturers.

6. Netherlands: $4.62 billion (3.2%)

The Netherlands serves as a major entry point into the European market for Vietnam's electronics exports. With well-connected transportation networks and access to European consumers, the Netherlands plays a crucial role in expanding Vietnam's presence in the region.

7. India: $3.98 billion (2.8%)

India, with its rapidly growing economy and burgeoning demand for electronics, has emerged as an important market for Vietnam's electronics exports. With a focus on consumer electronics and IT products, India offers diverse opportunities for Vietnamese manufacturers.

8. United Arab Emirates: $3.82 billion (2.7%)

The United Arab Emirates, as a key trading hub in the Middle East, presents a valuable market for Vietnam's electronics exports. With a strong demand for electronics and technological innovations, the UAE provides a gateway to reach customers in the region.

9. United Kingdom: $2.62 billion (1.8%)

The United Kingdom, with its robust consumer market and technological advancements, offers potential for Vietnam's electronics exports. With a focus on high-value electronics and innovative products, the UK serves as an important destination for Vietnamese manufacturers.

10. Thailand: $2.40 billion (1.7%)

Thailand, Vietnam's neighboring country, is a key market for electronics exports due to its proximity and trade relations. With a growing demand for electronics and electrical components, Thailand provides opportunities for Vietnamese manufacturers to expand their presence in the region.

Why China Is Vietnam’s Top Electronics Supplier, and Why It Matters

China’s Role as the Backbone of Vietnam’s Electronics Inputs

• China has developed one of the world’s most mature electronics ecosystems. Its scale, efficiency, and broad product range make it a natural supplier of core components to Vietnam’s growing electronics assembly base.

• Proximity matters as China’s geographic closeness to Vietnam reduces shipping costs and lead times, critical advantages for high-volume, time-sensitive electronics manufacturing.

• For many Vietnamese electronics firms, especially those operating in assembly or contract manufacturing, sourcing input materials from China is cost-competitive and operationally efficient.

Global Supply-Chain Realignment Benefits Vietnam, but with Strings

• Many multinational companies are pursuing a “China + One” strategy to diversify their manufacturing footprint. Vietnam has been a big winner in this reshuffling, attracting increased FDI into electronics.

• However, while Vietnam’s role is growing, it remains heavily dependent on China for upstream components, limiting how much of the value chain Vietnam captures domestically.

• This dependence creates strategic risks, as geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, or supply-chain shocks in China could disproportionately affect Vietnam’s electronics sector.

Vietnam Electronics Trade in the Last 10 Years: Yearly Vietnam Electronics Trade Data

Vietnam’s Top Traded Electronics Products: Vietnam Electronics Trade by HS Code

Vietnam's top traded electronics products encompass a diverse range of items that significantly contribute to the country's import and export market. From smartphones and televisions to computer components and electronic circuits, Vietnam has emerged as a key player in the global electronics trade arena. Smartphones are Vietnam’s top traded electronics, as per the Vietnam smartphone exports data. Vietnam’s major electronics imports & exports classified under HS code 85 are mentioned below: 

Top Electronics Imports of Vietnam

• Electronic integrated circuits (HS code 8542): $62.91 billion

• Flat panel display modules (HS code 8524): $16.49 billion

• Telephone sets and smartphones (HS code 8517): $11.13 billion

• Printed circuits (HS code 8534): $5.56 billion

• Semiconductor devices (HS code 8541): $5.05 billion

Top Electronics Exports of Vietnam

• Telephone sets and smartphones (HS code 8517): $57.80 billion

• Flat panel display modules (HS code 8524): $19.30 billion

• Electronic integrated circuits (HS code 8542): $13.24 billion

• Insulated wires and cables (HS code 8544): $7.31 billion

• Transmission apparatus for radio or television (HS code 8525): $6.75 billion

Foreign Investment Supercharger: Lite-On’s Big Bet

Vietnam’s electronics surge is not happening in isolation. Foreign firms are aggressively investing to scale up local capacity, and a high-profile example is Lite-On Technology Corp. from Taiwan.

• In 2025, Lite-On announced a major expansion in Vietnam, planning a US$690 million plant in the Quang Ninh Province (Amata City Ha Long). The facility spans 30 hectares and includes two factories plus an office building.

• The plant’s production scope is broad, with computer components, optical devices, communication equipment, EV (electric vehicle) chargers, and more.

• According to company plans, once fully operational (by 2030), it could produce 124 million units per year. The initial phase, slated for November 2025, aims for 64 million units a year.

• But even before that, in 2025, Lite-On revealed plans to inject an additional US$200 million into its Vietnamese operations (specifically in Hai Phong), pushing its total Vietnam investment to well over US$1 billion.

• The Hai Phong facility specializes in printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, Wi-Fi modules, peripherals, and related electronic modules, all of which serve both domestic manufacturing and export markets.

This scale of investment is a strong signal: global electronics companies are not merely using Vietnam as a low-cost assembly base; they see it as a strategic, long-term manufacturing hub.

Strategic Implications, Risks & Opportunities for Vietnam

Key Risks

1. Over-reliance on China

• Heavy dependence on Chinese inputs puts Vietnam’s electronics sector at risk. Supply chain disruptions, rising costs, or policy shifts in China could directly hit Vietnamese manufacturers.

• From a geopolitical standpoint, any escalation in China–Vietnam trade tensions could have cascading effects.

2. Limited Value Capture

• Much of Vietnam’s electronics trade is in assembly and mid-tier manufacturing. Without stronger capabilities in design, R&D, and upstream production (e.g., chip design, advanced semiconductor packaging), Vietnam may struggle to move up the value chain.

• Domestic firms may find it hard to compete with foreign-invested multinationals in higher-value segments without major investments in skill development and innovation.

3. Trade Policy Vulnerability

• As a major exporter of electronics, Vietnam is exposed to global market dynamics, including protections, tariffs, and regulatory shifts.

• For instance, if key export markets impose stricter rules on content origin or raise duties on goods with significant foreign components, Vietnamese firms could face pressure.

4. Sustainability and Labor Concerns

• Scaling up electronics production means more demand for skilled labor, quality assurance, and environmental compliance. Without strong regulation and corporate governance, rapid industrial expansion might lead to negative social or environmental externalities.

Opportunities & Strategic Levers

1. Industrial Upgrading

• Vietnam can push to build more upstream capacity: investing in semiconductor testing, packaging, or even limited chip fabrication. This would reduce dependence on external suppliers and increase domestic value addition.

• Encouraging R&D, design labs, and local innovation hubs is critical. Foreign investors could partner with Vietnamese firms or universities to transfer know-how.

2. Diversification of Suppliers

• While China is dominant now, Vietnam could strategically diversify its component sourcing over time. Encouraging supply from Taiwan, South Korea, or even emerging low-cost regions could reduce risk.

• Promoting local SMEs in electronics parts could help, especially through incentives, joint ventures, and public-private partnerships.

3. Trade Diplomacy and Policy Adjustments

• Given its role in global supply chains, Vietnam would benefit from strengthening trade relationships with major markets (such as the U.S., EU, and ASEAN) and hedging against geopolitical risk.

• Industrial policy can be tuned to encourage both FDI and local content: tax breaks, training grants, infrastructure support, and streamlined regulations could accelerate domestic capacity building.

4. Human Capital Development

• Scaling a high-tech electronics ecosystem requires technical talent: engineers, quality control specialists, production managers, and R&D experts.

• Vocational training, STEM education, and partnerships with global firms can help build a workforce capable of supporting both assembly and more advanced manufacturing.

5. Sustainability & Green Electronics

• Vietnam has an opportunity to position itself as a sustainable electronics manufacturing hub: promoting energy-efficient factories, green supply chains, and circular economy practices.

• This could attract ESG-conscious investors, reduce environmental risks, and align with global trends toward greener production.

Broader Economic Significance: What This Means for Vietnam

• Trade Resilience: Electronics’ rising share in trade gives Vietnam a more resilient and diversified export profile. Rather than relying on low-value goods, the country is building strength in a high-growth, high-skill sector.

• FDI Magnet: Big investments like Lite-On’s are not outliers; they reflect growing confidence among global electronics firms in Vietnam’s role as a long-term manufacturing partner.

• Strategic Positioning: In the global “China + One” supply-chain shift, Vietnam is emerging as one of the most competitive “One” options. But success will depend on how well it can reduce upstream reliance on China.

• Economic Upgrading: The shift toward electronics supports broader industrial upgrading, but to realize full potential, Vietnam must move beyond assembly to gain more value from design, innovation, and higher-margin production.

• Geopolitical Balancing: With China as a dominant supplier, Vietnam must navigate a delicate balance: leveraging China’s scale and efficiency, but also preparing for scenarios where supply-chain risk or global politics demand diversification.

Looking Ahead: Vietnam Electronics Trade in 2026–2030 (Forecast + Strategic Scenarios)

Here’s a look at how things might evolve over the next 5 years, plus some strategic scenarios for Vietnam:

Baseline Forecast (2026–2030)

• Steady growth in trade volume: Assuming current growth momentum persists, electronics (computers + components) could make up 35–40% of Vietnam’s total import value by 2030.

• Export capacity expansion: With ongoing FDI, exports of electronics might grow at 10–15% annually, especially as more high-value manufactured goods come online.

• Improved upstream capacity: If Vietnam invests in test & packaging, it could significantly reduce its dependency on imported components, especially for mid-tier semiconductors or modules.

• Diversification of export markets: The U.S., EU, and ASEAN countries will likely remain key buyers, but Vietnam might also strengthen trade ties with emerging markets in South Asia and Africa.

Strategic Scenarios

1. Upstream Breakthrough Scenario

• Vietnam makes concerted investments in semiconductor testing, assembly, and R&D.

• Local companies begin producing more advanced modules. Over time, Vietnam captures more value in the electronics value chain, reducing dependency on China for certain high-end components.

2. Supply-Chain Diversification Scenario

• In response to geopolitical risks, Vietnam diversifies its suppliers, sourcing more from Taiwan, Korea, and even closer-to-shore partners.

• Simultaneously, Vietnam nurtures its local electronics parts sector, with SMEs producing PCBs, housing, connectors, and other modules.

3. Green Electronics Hub Scenario

• Vietnam leverages sustainability credentials to become a preferred hub for eco-conscious electronics manufacturing.

• Factories adopt green energy, circular production methods, and recycling; this attracts ESG investors and enhances Vietnam’s reputation in global tech supply chains.

4. Trade Disruption Scenario

• If geopolitical tensions escalate, supply-chain shocks from China could hit Vietnam’s electronics production.

• To mitigate, Vietnam could accelerate local production of critical components and increase stockpiles, but short-term risks remain.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

In conclusion, Vietnam’s trade story in 2025 is increasingly defined by electronics. Computers, components, and other high-tech goods are no longer niche exports; they are central to the country’s economic trajectory. Imports of electronics have surged to tens of billions of dollars, driven largely by China, while exports of assembled and finished tech goods are scaling rapidly. China’s role as Vietnam’s top electronics supplier is both a strength and a strategic vulnerability. The deep integration supports rapid industrial growth today, but over-dependence could limit Vietnam’s long-term resilience and value capture.

At the same time, foreign giants like Lite-On from Taiwan are placing record-size bets on Vietnam, investing hundreds of millions more to scale up manufacturing. These investments signify confidence in Vietnam’s role as a global electronics hub. Looking ahead, Vietnam faces a choice: continue as a highly efficient assembly base reliant on external inputs, or leverage its trade and investment momentum to climb up the electronics value chain. The direction it takes will shape not only its economic future but its place in the global tech ecosystem.

We hope you liked our data-driven and interactive blog report on the booming Vietnam electronics trade in 2025. For more information on the latest Vietnam trade data, or to search live Vietnam electronics import-export data by country, visit VietnamExportdata. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in for customized trade reports, market insights, and a verified database of the top electronics importers & electronics exporters in Vietnam, as per your business needs.