The total export-import value of central Vietnam's Ha Tinh province in the first ten months of this year reached approximately $3.67 billion, marking a decrease of 26.24 per cent compared to the same period in 2024, with export turnover falling by 26.53 per cent, and import by 26.07 per cent.
Notably, the province's steel exports suffered from deep depression. Its steel export value in the 10-month period stood at more than $1.11 billion, accounting over 80% of the province's total export value, marking a year-on-year decrease of 33.5%.
The primary reason for the decline is the difficulties faced by Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation (FHS), a major player in the province's foreign trade. The global increase in trade protectionism, anti-dumping duties, and technical barriers on imported steel have led to a sharp decline in the export volume of steel and steel billets from Formosa. Consequently, the demand for importing raw materials has also diminished.
However, the central province's certain sectors have shown impressive growth such as textile and garment exports, which increased by 69.33 per cent, fiber and yarn exports by 101.57 per cent, compared to the same period of the previous year.
Additionally, exports of seafood and processed agricultural products, although small in scale, have remained stable, stimulating the export momentum of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Ha Tinh has set a target of achieving $2.5 billion in exports for 2025. Currently, the province has reached approximately 55.39 per cent of this goal, with potential for acceleration in the last two months of the year.
A crucial factor in this potential recovery is the effective utilization of 13 out of 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) that Vietnam has signed. Exports from these FTAs account for over 50 per cent of the province's total value. Ha Tinh's goods have reached more than 20 countries and territories, including major markets like Japan, India, China, and ASEAN countries. Vietnam's new-generation FTAs such as CPTPP, EVFTA, and RCEP are creating opportunities for the province to expand markets, reduce import taxes, and enhance the competitiveness of enterprises.
In addition to exploiting trade advantages, local authorities are also strengthening support measures for businesses. The People's Committee of Ha Tinh has issued Plan No. 341/KH-UBND to implement Directive 13/CT-TTg of the Prime Minister on enhancing the fight against smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeit goods.
Furthermore, Ha Tinh is developing logistics and export development policies for the 2026–2030 period, aiming to improve trade infrastructure, reduce transportation costs, and support trade promotion.
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