Cargo volumes handled through Vietnam’s seaports and inland waterway ports rose strongly in the first five months of 2026, driven by administrative reforms and efforts to streamline procedures for businesses.
According to the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration under the Ministry of Construction, total cargo throughput reached an estimated 546 million tons during the January–May period, up 15% compared with the same period in 2025.
Container traffic also recorded robust growth, with throughput exceeding 15 million TEUs, an increase of 14% year-on-year.
The agency attributed the positive performance to measures aimed at accelerating cargo clearance and improving operational efficiency across the country’s port network. Maritime and inland waterway authorities, together with port operators, have intensified efforts to simplify administrative procedures, making them faster, more transparent, and more business-friendly.
A range of processes related to vessel arrivals and departures, cargo declarations, and document verification have been reviewed and streamlined. Authorities have also expanded the use of digital technologies to reduce processing times and lower costs for shipping and logistics companies.
In addition, port authorities have worked closely with relevant agencies to address bottlenecks affecting customs clearance and cargo movement, ensuring smoother operations amid growing demand for transportation and international trade.
The reforms form part of Vietnam’s broader goal of creating a transparent, efficient, and internationally competitive business environment, while strengthening the competitiveness of its port and logistics sectors.
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