Vietnam Textile and Garment Association reported that textile and garment export turnover in the first six months of 2026 is estimated at US$22.2 billion, an increase of 1.7% compared to the same period in 2025. Of this, fibers, fabrics, accessories, and non-woven fabrics maintained relatively strong growth (from 5.6% to 10.6%), while garments decreased slightly by 0.4% due to the slow recovery of purchasing power in major markets.
Regarding markets (data for the first five months), the United States continues to be the largest market, reaching US$6.81 billion (an increase of 1.3%, accounting for approximately 45%); EU is a bright spot with US$1.94 billion (an increase of 8.8%). Japan and South Korea saw declines of 6.2% and 8.9% respectively. The industry continued to maintain a trade surplus, estimated at nearly $10 billion in the first six months of the year.
Vietnam Textile and Garment Association noted that, alongside positive results, the industry is facing many challenges, including slow recovery of purchasing power in major markets; fierce price competition; and dependence on imported raw materials and components for 60-70% of costs. ESG (social, environmental, governance) compliance costs, increased traceability and trade policy risks…
“Vietnamese textile and garment industry no longer has much room for growth in scale. The road ahead requires us to shift towards improving productivity, added value, proactively securing raw materials, diversifying markets, and promoting digital transformation and green transformation. This is also the reason why the Association is repositioning its operating model according to the strategic pillars of the industry,” Mr. Vu Duc Giang - Chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Garment Association emphasized at the second meeting of the Executive Board of the 7th term (2025-2030) of the Vietnam Textile and Garment Association held on July 3rd.
With a 6-month export value of US$22.2 billion, textile and garment industry strives to maintain an average monthly turnover of over US$4 billion to aim for approximately US$48 billion for the whole year of 2026. The key solutions proposed by the Association include: Adapting to new purchasing methods of global brands; prioritizing the development of domestic raw materials and components; diversifying markets, customers, and products; proactively responding to legal risks; and promoting investment in technology, automation, and digital transformation.

Source: Vitic/ congthuong.vn