Vietnam’s textile and garment exports were estimated at $10.57 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up 2.9% year-on-year, according to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS). A standout feature was the strong rebound in March, when export turnover reached $3.86 billion, surging 36% from February and rising 5.8% compared to the same month last year.
Garments continued to serve as the backbone of the sector, generating $8.18 billion in export revenue, up 2.2%. Other segments also posted steady growth, with fiber exports reaching $1.09 billion, up 5%; fabric exports totalling $719 million, up 3.9%; and nonwoven fabrics bringing in $199 million, up 4.2%. Notably, textile and garment accessories recorded a robust increase of 11.8% to $382 million.
VITAS Chairman Vu Duc Giang said Vietnamese textile and garment products were exported to 138 markets in 2025, with the United States remaining the largest. While exports in the first two months of 2026 saw a slight decline due to seasonal factors and pressures from global trade uncertainties, the sharp recovery in March underscored the resilience and adaptability of domestic firms.
To achieve the 2026 export target of $49 billion, VITAS recommended that businesses adopt a range of coordinated measures. In addition to diversifying export markets, companies are urged to invest in technology and artificial intelligence, while accelerating green transformation toward a circular economy—seen as a critical pathway for sustainable growth.
