Border gates bustling on the first day of the year
On the first day of 2026, flow of goods through northern border gates created a vibrant trading scene, signaling a year of great expectations for Vietnam's import and export activities.
From Mong Cai border gate (Quang Ninh), Tan Thanh (Lang Son) to Huu Nghi (Lao Cai), long lines of vehicles went through customs procedures, reflecting uninterrupted pace of trade and the determination to maintain growth momentum right from the start.
On January 1, 2026, the first import and export shipments were cleared through customs at Bac Luan II border gate, Mong Cai 1 ward, Quang Ninh province, marking a spirited start to border trade activities. To maximize convenience for businesses, authorities at Mong Cai International Border Gate continued to maintain normal working conditions during the New Year holiday, ensuring that cross-border supply chains were not disrupted.
Import and export activities through Bac Luan II Bridge were organized stably, with customs clearance process using a pre-scheduled appointment mechanism to improve efficiency and reduce congestion. On the morning of the first day of the year alone, 30 export trucks carrying over 540 tons of frozen goods were cleared, along with 12 import trucks carrying nearly 100 tonnes of electronic components, machinery and equipment.
Import and export turnover through this area reached 11.5 million USD. At the Km3+4 Hai Yen border crossing, nearly 100 trucks were processed, bringing total import and export turnover through Mong Cai International Border Gate on the first day of the year to approximately 20 million USD.
A bustling atmosphere was also observed at the Tan Thanh border gate (Lang Son). On January 1st, 2026, Tan Thanh Border Gate Customs ensured customs clearance for 80 export trucks, mainly agricultural products, with a value exceeding 1 million USD; and simultaneously processed customs procedures for 401 import trucks with a total value of 41 million USD.
Total value of goods cleared on that day reached over 42 million USD. According to leaders of Tan Thanh Border Gate Customs, the volume of import and export goods on January 2nd, 2026 is expected to continue to increase, reaching approximately 45 million USD, showing positive growth momentum right from the beginning of the year.
In Lao Cai, Vietnam-China trade activities also maintained a vibrant pace. On the first day of 2026, Lao Cai Border Gate Customs received 181 declarations, served nearly 400 import and export vehicles, with a total value exceeding 3 million USD and collected over 11 billion VND in revenue. Customs clearance at Kim Thanh International Road Border Gate No. II was bustling, with long lines of vehicles stretching from early morning. Inspection and supervision were implemented synchronously, shortening processing times and facilitating the export of agricultural products to the Chinese market, while ensuring quick clearance for imported machinery and equipment.
Figures on the first day of the year not only reflect dynamism of import and export activities but also demonstrate efforts of functional forces in reforming procedures, supporting businesses, and maintaining a smooth flow of trade.
From achievements of 2025 to export expectations of 2026
Vibrant atmosphere at border gates at the beginning of 2026 is based on impressive achievements of Vietnam's import and export in the past period. According to Import-Export Department – Ministry of Industry and Trade, for five consecutive years from 2021 to 2025, Vietnam's merchandise export turnover reached over 1,940 billion USD. In the two years of 2024-2025 alone, exports generated approximately US$878 billion, affirming pivotal role of exports in economic growth.
Export structure continues to see significant contributions from the electronics and technology sector. Computers, electronics, and components reached US$342.9 billion; telephones and components US$279.3 billion; and machinery, equipment and other spare parts US$237.8 billion. Alongside these are traditional sectors such as textiles and footwear, with export values of US$179.8 billion and US$108.8 billion respectively.
Notably, Vietnam's import and export activities have continuously achieved important milestones. From the milestone of US$100 billion in 2007 upon joining the WTO, import and export turnover increased to US$200 billion in 2011, US$300 billion in 2015, US$400 billion in 2017, US$500 billion in 2019, US$700 billion in 2022, and is projected to exceed US$900 billion by 2025. These results were achieved amidst global trade facing numerous challenges such as increasing protectionist trends, fierce competition, and the risk of supply chain disruptions.
In an interview with Industry and Trade Newspaper, Dr. Le Quoc Phuong, former Deputy Director of Vietnam Industry and Trade Information Center, Ministry of Industry and Trade, stated that the outlook for global trade in 2026 is predicted to remain fraught with risks. Both the IMF and the World Bank believe that global economic growth may slow down due to the impact of tight monetary policies, geopolitical conflicts, and weak consumer spending. However, in this context, Ministry of Industry and Trade still aims for export turnover in 2026 to increase by over 8% compared to 2025, with a trade surplus of approximately US$25 billion.
This target is considered challenging, given that exports in 2025 have already achieved high growth, overcoming numerous tariff and market barriers. To realize this growth expectation, the Ministry of Industry and Trade emphasizes restructuring the industry towards increased value, reducing dependence on raw material exports, and promoting industries with advanced technology and strong innovation capabilities. Simultaneously, effectively utilizing free trade agreements, diversifying markets, and enhancing trade defense capabilities remain crucial pillars.

Source: Vitic/ congthuong.vn