Textile, garment exports reach $27B in 7 months

In the first seven months of the year, Vietnam's textile and garment exports reached a remarkable $27.02 billion, marking a 2.7% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Apparel exports alone surged to $3.74 billion in July, an 8.9% month-over-month rise and a 2.1% year-over-year growth. The total apparel exports for the seven months amounted to $21.13 billion, registering a modest 0.70% increase from the corresponding period in 2025.

A notable highlight was the robust growth of upstream products and garment inputs. Fiber and yarn exports saw an impressive 11.34% year-on-year increase, contributing an estimated $2.730 billion. Textile and garment accessories also demonstrated strong performance, with exports growing by 11.18% to $929 million. Fabric exports totaled $1.763 billion, up 9.57%, while non-woven fabric exports reached $471 million, an 6.56% year-on-year surge.

Imports of textile and garment products in July declined to $2.231 billion, a 6% decrease from June but an 8.0% year-on-year increase. In the seven months, imports totaled $15.255 billion, up 3.27% year-on-year. Among the imports, fabric reached $8.936 billion, a 2.08% increase; textile and garment accessories totaled $2.605 billion, up 3.60%; and cotton imports amounted to $1.885 billion, a 1.02% rise.

Truong Van Cam, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), emphasized that major export markets are imposing stricter sustainability requirements, including carbon emission reductions and social responsibility. The significant growth in fiber, fabric, and accessory exports over the past seven months indicates that Vietnamese enterprises are becoming more proactive in the supply chain and reducing their reliance on imported raw materials.

To achieve the full-year target, VITAS advised enterprises to accelerate the green transition, invest in energy-efficient technologies, diversify into niche markets, and fully utilize incentives from upcoming free trade agreements.

To maintain growth through the remainder of 2026, economists recommended that companies stay informed about changes in international trade policies, particularly stringent European regulations related to the circular textile and garment economy. Implementing eco-friendly fashion items, utilizing recycled fibers, and adhering to environmental standards were deemed crucial for accessing premium market segments.

VITAS will continue advocating for the development of centralized textile and garment industrial parks with standardized wastewater treatment systems to attract investment, address bottlenecks in raw material supply, and support production.