Vietnam Pharmaceutical Import Data 2025: Vietnam Pharmaceutical Importers Database & Pharma Industry Insights

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector is entering a decisive phase. Once a modest domestic market dependent on basic generics, the country is now one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing pharmaceutical economies. Rising healthcare demand, increasing incomes, and an aging population are driving both consumption and imports of medicines at scale. According to the latest Vietnam import data and Vietnam customs import data of Pharmaceuticals, the total value of Vietnam pharmaceutical imports reached $4.30 billion in 2025, a 2.4% decline from the previous year. 

Vietnam is the 32nd largest importer of pharmaceuticals in the world, according to global trade data. One of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets is Vietnam, highlighting both strong demand and continued reliance on foreign drug supply. This blog breaks down Vietnam’s pharmaceutical import data for 2025, explores importer dynamics, and delivers actionable insights for exporters, data providers, and pharma businesses.

Vietnam Pharmaceutical Market Overview (2025)

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical industry has grown rapidly over the past decade, transforming into a multi-billion-dollar market. The Ministry of Health's Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV) reports that between 2023 and 2028, the nation's pharmaceutical market grew at a steady annual rate of 6% to 8%. Vietnam is expected to become one of Asia's fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets, with the market value rising from roughly USD 2.7 billion in 2015 to roughly USD 8 billion by 2026.

• Market size reached USD 7–8 billion in 2025

• Expected to exceed USD 14.6 billion by 2034

• Historical growth rate: 10% annually (2016–2022)

This growth is fueled by several structural factors:

Key Growth Drivers

• Rapid urbanization and a rising middle class.

• Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular conditions).

• Government expansion of universal healthcare.

• Higher per capita healthcare spending.

Despite these positive trends, Vietnam remains highly dependent on imports for advanced medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

Vietnam Pharmaceutical Import Data 2025

Total Import Value

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical imports in 2025 reached:

• USD 4.3 billion

This represents:

• A slight decline of 2.4% vs 2024, after strong growth the previous year.

• Still significantly higher than USD 3.73 billion in 2023.

Monthly Import Trends

• June 2025 imports: USD 468.8 million (+27% MoM)

• December 2025 imports: USD 449 million (+58% MoM)

These fluctuations suggest:

• Strong seasonal demand

• Stockpiling behavior by importers

• Supply chain adjustments

Vietnam Pharmaceutical Imports by Country: Where Does Vietnam Import Pharmaceuticals?

Vietnam's pharmaceutical imports are sourced from various countries across the globe. The primary countries that Vietnam imports pharmaceuticals from include France, India, South Korea, Germany, and Switzerland. These nations are known for their high-quality pharmaceutical products and advanced technologies in the medical field. Vietnam's strategic partnerships with these countries play a significant role in catering to the healthcare needs of its population. The top 10 pharmaceutical supplier countries to Vietnam, as per Vietnam pharmaceutical imports by country and Vietnam shipment data for 2025, include: 

1. USA: $598.17 million (12.9%)

The United States of America stands out as one of the significant sources of pharmaceutical imports for Vietnam, as per the data on Vietnam imports from the USA by HS code. With a value of $598.17 million, accounting for 12.9% of Vietnam's pharmaceutical imports, the USA plays a vital role in supplying a wide range of medications to meet Vietnam's healthcare needs.

2. France: $592.40 million (12.8%)

France is another key player in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, supplying products worth $592.40 million, which represents 12.8% of the total pharmaceutical imports. French pharmaceutical companies are known for their high-quality products, making them popular choices among Vietnamese consumers.

3. Germany: $414.50 million (8.9%)

Germany also features prominently in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import landscape, with imports totaling $414.50 million, accounting for 8.9% of the total pharmaceutical imports. German pharmaceutical companies are renowned for their innovation and advanced technologies, making them preferred suppliers for Vietnam's healthcare sector.

4. India: $337.94 million (7.3%)

India has emerged as a significant player in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, providing products worth $337.94 million, representing 7.3% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Indian pharmaceutical companies are known for their cost-effective medications, making them a popular choice for Vietnam's healthcare system.

5. Italy: $307.04 million (6.6%)

Italy also contributes significantly to Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, with imports totaling $307.04 million, making up 6.6% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Italian pharmaceutical companies are recognized for their high-quality and innovative products, catering to various healthcare needs in Vietnam.

6. South Korea: $223.77 million (4.8%)

South Korea plays a crucial role in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, with imports amounting to $223.77 million, representing 4.8% of the total pharmaceutical imports, as per the data on Vietnam imports from South Korea under HS code 30. South Korean pharmaceutical companies are known for their cutting-edge research and development, offering a diverse range of products to meet Vietnam's healthcare demands.

7. Belgium: $203.65 million (4.4%)

Belgium is another important supplier of pharmaceuticals to Vietnam, with imports totaling $203.65 million, accounting for 4.4% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Belgian pharmaceutical companies are known for their high standards and quality assurance, ensuring the safety & efficacy of their products for Vietnamese consumers.

8. Ireland: $190.73 million (4.1%)

Ireland also holds a significant share in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, with imports amounting to $190.73 million, making up 4.1% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Irish pharmaceutical companies are recognized for their research-driven approach and commitment to innovation, providing a wide array of healthcare solutions to Vietnam.

9. Spain: $150.43 million (3.2%)

Spain is a notable player in Vietnam's pharmaceutical import market, with imports worth $150.43 million, representing 3.2% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Spanish pharmaceutical companies are known for their expertise in various therapeutic areas, offering specialized medications to address specific healthcare needs in Vietnam.

10. Austria: $138.82 million (3%)

Austria rounds up the list of top countries supplying pharmaceuticals to Vietnam, with imports totaling $138.82 million, accounting for 3% of the total pharmaceutical imports. Austrian pharmaceutical companies are known for their commitment to quality & patient safety, making them trusted partners in Vietnam's healthcare sector.

Key Insight

Vietnam prefers imports from countries with:

• Advanced R&D

• Strong regulatory systems

• High-quality branded drugs

This reflects a trust gap between imported and locally produced medicines, especially in premium segments.

Vietnam Pharmaceutical Importers Database: Top Pharmaceutical Buyers in Vietnam

The Vietnam Pharmaceutical Importers Database is a comprehensive resource that highlights the top pharmaceutical buyers in Vietnam. This database is a valuable tool for businesses seeking to explore opportunities in Vietnam's pharmaceutical industry. With detailed information on key importers, companies can make informed decisions and establish strategic partnerships in this growing market. Zuellig Pharma Vietnam is the largest pharmaceutical importer in Vietnam. The leading pharmaceutical importers in Vietnam, according to the Vietnam Pharmaceutical Buyers Database & importer records in 2025, include:

1. Zuellig Pharma Vietnam

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 500 million

• Top Import Types: Branded drugs, biologics, vaccines

• Top Import Sources: EU, USA, Singapore

2. DKSH Vietnam

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 400 million

• Top Import Types: Specialty drugs, OTC products, healthcare goods

• Top Import Sources: Switzerland, Germany, Thailand

3. Vimedimex

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 350 million

• Top Import Types: Generics, APIs, hospital drugs

• Top Import Sources: India, China, EU

4. Pharmacity JSC

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 300 million

• Top Import Types: OTC drugs, supplements, retail pharma

• Top Import Sources: EU, South Korea, Thailand

5. Saigon Pharmaceutical Company (Sapharco)

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 250 million

• Top Import Types: Hospital drugs, generics, vaccines

• Top Import Sources: EU, India

6. VinFa (Vingroup Pharma)

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 150 million

• Top Import Types: Specialty drugs, biologics

• Top Import Sources: USA, EU

7. Imexpharm Corporation

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 120 million

• Top Import Types: APIs, EU-GMP drugs

• Top Import Sources: EU, India

8. Pymepharco

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 110 million

• Top Import Types: APIs, generics, injectables

• Top Import Sources: EU, South Korea

9. DHG Pharmaceutical JSC

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 100 million

• Top Import Types: APIs, branded generics

• Top Import Sources: Japan, EU

10. Mekophar Chemical Pharmaceutical

• Approx. Import Value in 2025: USD 80 million

• Top Import Types: APIs, antibiotics, hospital drugs

• Top Import Sources: China, India

A Vietnam pharmaceutical importers database typically includes:

Core Data Fields

• Importer company name

• Import-export license status

• Product categories (APIs, vaccines, generics)

• Shipment records (HS codes, quantities, values)

• Supplier countries

Types of Pharmaceutical Importers in Vietnam

1. Large Pharmaceutical Distributors

These companies dominate import volumes and nationwide distribution.

• Supply hospitals and pharmacies

• Maintain cold-chain 

• Partner with multinational pharma companies

2. Hospital Procurement Units

Public and private hospitals import drugs via:

• Centralized tenders

• Government procurement systems

3. Multinational Pharma Companies

Global companies import branded drugs directly into Vietnam.

4. Specialized Importers

Focused on:

• Oncology drugs

• Vaccines

• Rare disease treatments

Market Structure

Vietnam has:

• 5,000+ pharmaceutical wholesalers

• 62,000+ retail pharmacies

This fragmented distribution system creates opportunities for exporters but also increases complexity.

Vietnam Pharmaceutical Import Data in The Last 10 Years

Vietnam’s Pharma Import Composition

Vietnam imports a wide range of pharmaceutical products:

Key Import Categories

1. Finished pharmaceutical products (FPPs)

2. Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)

3. Vaccines and biologics

4. Specialty and patented drugs

Domestic production mainly covers:

• Generic medicines

• Basic therapeutic categories

However, high-value drugs, biologics, and advanced therapies are largely imported.

Why Vietnam Relies on Pharmaceutical Imports

Despite growth in domestic manufacturing, Vietnam still depends heavily on imports.

Key Reasons

1. Limited High-Tech Manufacturing

• Domestic firms focus on generics

• Limited capability in biologics and innovative drugs

2. API Dependence

• Heavy reliance on imported APIs

• API market projected to grow at 7.4% CAGR

3. Quality Perception

Imported drugs are often perceived as:

• More effective

• Higher quality

4. Regulatory Barriers

Complex approval processes slow domestic innovation.

Regulatory Landscape (2025)

Vietnam has made major progress in pharmaceutical regulation.

Key Developments

• 40,000+ pharma-related documents processed in 2025.

• Faster drug approval timelines (114 days average).

• Improved compliance with international standards.

Impact on Imports

• Easier market entry for foreign suppliers

• Increased competition

• Faster commercialization of imported drugs

Domestic Production vs Imports

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical supply balance:

• Domestic production meets:

• 60% of demand by volume

• 46% by value

Interpretation

• Local companies produce high-volume, low-cost generics

• Imports dominate high-value segments

Government Strategy

Vietnam aims to:

• Achieve 80% domestic drug production in the long term

• Encourage local manufacturing upgrades (EU-GMP standards)

• Reduce import dependency

However, this transition will take time, ensuring continued import demand.

Opportunities for Exporters

Vietnam’s import-heavy pharma market presents strong opportunities.

1. High Demand Segments

• Oncology drugs

• Cardiovascular medicines

• Diabetes treatments

• Vaccines and biologics

2. Generic Drug Supply

• Growing demand for affordable generics

• Especially in public healthcare systems

3. API Exports

• Vietnam imports significant API volumes

• Strong opportunity for bulk drug manufacturers

Market Entry Strategies

Partner with Local Importers

• Navigate regulatory requirements

• Access distribution networks

Participate in Government Tenders

• Public hospitals are major buyers

Build Long-Term Distribution Agreements

• Essential for scaling operations

Challenges in Vietnam Pharmaceutical Imports

While the market is attractive, there are notable challenges:

1. Regulatory Complexity

• Strict documentation requirements

• Changing policies

2. Pricing Pressure

• Government controls on drug pricing

• Competitive tender systems

3. Distribution Fragmentation

• A large number of wholesalers

• Difficult market penetration

4. Competition

• Strong presence of:

• European pharma companies

• Indian generic manufacturers

Key Trends Shaping 2025–2030

Trend 1: Shift Toward Local Manufacturing

• Government incentives

• Joint ventures with global firms

Example:

• New vaccine production facilities under development

Trend 2: Growth of High-Value Drugs

• Rising demand for:

• Biologics

• Specialty medicines

Trend 3: Digitalization of the Pharma Supply Chain

• Improved tracking of imports

• Faster customs clearance

Trend 4: Expansion of Healthcare Infrastructure

• More hospitals and clinics

• Increased pharmaceutical consumption

Role of Import Data in Business Strategy

A Vietnam pharmaceutical import database is a powerful tool. Use cases include:

1. Lead Generation

Identify:

• Active importers

• High-volume buyers

2. Market Intelligence

Analyze:

• Competitor shipments

• Pricing trends

3. Supply Chain Mapping

Understand:

• Source countries

• Product demand patterns

4. Risk Management

Track:

• Import fluctuations

• Regulatory changes

Future Outlook

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector is set for sustained growth.

Key Forecasts

• Market expected to grow at 7% CAGR

• Continued reliance on imports in the medium term

• Gradual increase in domestic production

Import Outlook

• Imports likely to remain above USD 4 billion annually

• Growth driven by:

• Aging population

• Chronic disease burden

• Expanding healthcare access

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Vietnam’s pharmaceutical import landscape in 2025 reflects a market in transition. While domestic manufacturing is expanding, the country continues to depend heavily on imports, particularly for high-value and specialized medicines. With imports reaching approximately USD 4.3 billion, Vietnam remains a highly attractive destination for global pharmaceutical exporters. At the same time, evolving regulations, increasing local production, and shifting demand patterns are reshaping the competitive landscape.

For businesses, success in Vietnam hinges on:

• Leveraging detailed import data

• Partnering with reliable local importers

• Understanding regulatory frameworks

• Targeting high-growth therapeutic segments

In short, Vietnam is not just a growing pharma market. It is a strategic gateway into Southeast Asia’s healthcare future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much did Vietnam import in pharmaceuticals in 2025?

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical imports were valued at approximately USD 4.30 billion in 2025, reflecting a slight 2.4% decline from 2024. Despite this drop, Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets with strong long-term import demand.

2. Which countries are the top pharmaceutical suppliers to Vietnam?

The leading pharmaceutical supplier countries to Vietnam in 2025 were the USA, France, Germany, India, and Italy. These nations dominate due to advanced R&D capabilities, strong regulatory systems, and trusted high-quality pharmaceutical products.

3. Why does Vietnam still rely heavily on pharmaceutical imports?

Vietnam depends on imports because domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing mainly focuses on generics and basic medicines, while advanced drugs, biologics, vaccines, and APIs are largely sourced internationally. Limited high-tech production capacity and quality perception also drive import reliance.

4. Who are the top pharmaceutical importers in Vietnam?

Major pharmaceutical importers in Vietnam include Zuellig Pharma Vietnam, DKSH Vietnam, Vimedimex, Pharmacity JSC, and Sapharco. These companies play a key role in importing branded drugs, APIs, vaccines, and specialty medicines.

5. How can Vietnam pharmaceutical import data help exporters and pharma businesses?

Vietnam pharmaceutical import data helps businesses identify active importers, analyze supplier countries, track shipment volumes, monitor pricing trends, and discover market opportunities. It is especially useful for exporters targeting Vietnam’s growing demand for APIs, generics, biologics, and specialty medicines.

Note For Our Readers

We hope you found this blog on Vietnam’s pharmaceutical import data in 2025, key importer dynamics, and evolving pharma industry trends helpful in understanding how the country’s healthcare demand and import dependency are shaping the market. With rising demand for high-value drugs, increasing reliance on global supply chains, and ongoing regulatory shifts, staying informed with accurate, data-backed insights is essential for exporters, manufacturers, and healthcare stakeholders.

If you’re looking for deeper insights, customized Vietnam export-import data, or want to explore live Vietnam pharmaceutical import data by HS code or country, feel free to connect with VietnamExportdata. We provide comprehensive and up-to-date trade intelligence to support your business decisions.

For exclusive access, tailored data solutions, or a verified Vietnam pharmaceutical importers database with buyer details, contact us at info@tradeimex.in and move forward with clarity and confidence.