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Vietnam's economy grew by 7.83% in the first quarter of 2026, an increase from 7.07% the previous year. This boost was driven by strong consumer demand, inbound tourism, and robust manufacturing activity, despite global uncertainties. National Statistics Office (NSO) Director Nguyen Thi Huong announced these results at a press conference in Hanoi, noting that it strengthens Vietnam's position to meet its growth targets amid external risks like Middle East tensions.

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Expansion was notable across all major sectors. The services sector, buoyed by Lunar New Year spending and a surge in foreign visitors, grew 8.18%, contributing more than half of the total growth. The industry and construction sector rose 8.92%, with manufacturing leading at 9.73%. Meanwhile, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries saw a steady increase of 3.58%, with advances in aquaculture technology playing a significant role.

The economic structure for the quarter was dominated by services at 43.45%, followed by industry and construction at 37.15%, and agriculture at 10.89%. Vietnam also experienced a surge in trade, with exports rising 19.85% and imports climbing 24.27%, indicating heightened demand for raw materials as production cycles advanced.

Despite these positive trends, the NSO cautioned about potential challenges in the upcoming quarter. Rising oil prices and input costs related to Middle East tensions might impact supply chains and production. The government and businesses are advised to implement strategic measures to mitigate these external pressures.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 06 Apr 2026

My hat is off to any nation that can accomplish that level of economic growth in the current world economy. Thialand is looking a 2%, the US is looking at 2.2%, and that is before Trump started this completely ridiculous and very destructive war.