HÀ NỘI: Vietnam’s economy recorded strong growth of 7.83% in the first quarter of 2026, up from 7.07% a year earlier, according to the National Statistics Office. Officials said the expansion was supported by robust consumer demand, a surge in international tourism, and steady performance in the manufacturing sector despite ongoing global uncertainties.
Growth remained broad-based, led by the services sector, which rose 8.18% and contributed over half of total expansion. Retail trade, transport, and financial services all posted notable gains, fueled in part by Lunar New Year spending and increased foreign arrivals. Industry and construction also performed well, growing 8.92%, with manufacturing acting as the main driver, while agriculture maintained stable growth at 3.58%, supported by improved aquaculture output.
Foreign trade saw significant momentum, with exports rising 19.85% and imports increasing 24.27%, indicating stronger production demand. However, officials cautioned that external risks—particularly Middle East tensions affecting oil prices and supply chains—could pose challenges in the coming months, urging timely policy responses to sustain growth.
