Viet Nam is witnessing impressive export growth in Q1/2025, with a total export turnover reaching USD 93.06 billion – a 17% increase year-over-year. The FDI sector plays a key role, contributing USD 65.4 billion. Notably, exports to the European Union (EU) reached USD 11.4 billion, up 15.6%, reflecting a clear shift in market strategy among Vietnamese exporters.
 
1. U.S. Pressure – A Catalyst for Market Diversification
In early 2025, the United States announced a plan to review tariffs on several import categories from Vietnam, accompanied by a temporary suspension of implementation. While this decision offers short-term relief, the risk of new or higher tariffs still looms. This represents a significant risk for businesses heavily reliant on the U.S. market.

In recent years, Vietnam has significantly benefited from the global supply chain shift, particularly as U.S. importers seek to reduce dependence on China. However, this growth also comes with dependency risks: in 2024, over 30% of Vietnam’s total export turnover came from the U.S. Amid current uncertainties, businesses must pivot toward more stable and long-term potential markets – with Europe being an ideal choice.

2. The EU – A Stable and Promising Trade Partner
The EVFTA, in effect since 2020, has gradually opened access for Vietnamese goods to the European market. In 2024, exports from Vietnam to the EU reached USD 53 billion, a 12% increase year-over-year. Key export categories include textiles, footwear, electronics, agricultural products, and furniture – all benefiting from EVFTA tariff preferences.

Additionally, the EU market places strong emphasis on sustainability, product quality, and supply chain transparency – criteria that Vietnamese businesses are increasingly able to meet. The combination of clear trade regulations, preferential tariffs, and rising demand forms a solid foundation for long-term shipping routes.

3. Viet Nam – EU Logistics: Ready for Expansion
Viet Nam has made significant progress in logistics infrastructure to support long-haul shipments to Europe:

• Modern port infrastructure: Deep-sea ports like Cai Mep – Thi Vai can now accommodate mother vessels with direct routes to major EU ports such as Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Antwerp.
• Stable freight rates: Unlike the volatile Trans-Pacific route, Asia–EU shipping rates remained relatively stable throughout 2024, providing favorable conditions for long-term logistics planning.

More balanced container flow: Compared to the U.S. route, which often faces issues with empty container returns, the Vietnam–EU route sees more balanced two-way flows, reducing container repositioning costs and improving supply chain efficiency.
 4. Why EU Logistics Agents Should Prioritize Partnership with Vietnam Now
Expanding partnerships with Vietnam is not only a response to U.S. risks, but also a strategic move to build resilient and adaptive supply chains. Benefits for EU-based logistics agents include:

• A rapidly growing market: Demand for imports from Vietnam and Southeast Asia into the EU continues to rise – especially in textiles, agriculture, electronics, and FMCG sectors.
• Proactive and flexible Vietnamese exporters: Many are open to long-term contracts, streamlined operations, and prioritizing logistics partners with strong EU capabilities.
• Compliance advantage: The EVFTA requires high standards for traceability and technical compliance. EU-based logistics agents with compliance expertise are well-positioned as essential connectors in the operational chain.

With over 23 years of experience in international transportation, Vantage Logistics is a trusted partner for many import-export businesses on the Vietnam–EU route, prioritizing efficiency, transparency, and regulatory compliance. Our services include:

• FCL and LCL shipping directly to major EU ports
• Domestic transport and customs clearance in both Vietnam and the EU
• Flexible warehousing solutions for e-commerce and bulk cargo
• Supply chain tracking & management tools to boost proactivity and optimize planning

With a well-established network of EU agents, Vantage Logistics offers flexible door-to-door service, helping you serve your customers with the highest level of efficiency and professionalism.
While the U.S. remains a key market, it is clear that over-reliance on a single destination is riskier than ever. In contrast, the EU offers stability, clearly defined expectations, and sustainable growth opportunities for Vietnamese exports.

We believe EU logistics agents are in a prime position to lead the wave of trade and supply chain shifts from Vietnam. Vantage Logistics is ready to be your strategic partner – helping you connect effectively with Vietnam, the rising export hub of Southeast Asia.

Connect with us today. Vantage Logistics is ready to collaborate and deliver optimal logistics solutions for the Vietnam–EU trade lane..