The total import-export turnover of Vietnam reached $403.05 billion from the beginning of the year to October 15, a year-on-year increase of eight per cent, equivalent to an increase of $30.02 billion over the same period last year, General Department of Customs data shows.

The department said that in the first half of this month, total import and export value reached nearly $21 billion, down 12.8 per cent compared to the second half of last month.

Although Vietnam recorded a trade deficit in the first half of this month, the overall figure for the year up until October 15 was a trade surplus of $6.83 billion.

Total export value in the first half of this month reached $10.31 billion, down 18.9 per cent, $2.4 billion less than the last 15 days of September.

Exports in the first half of this month decreased in some major commodities including mobile phones and spare parts, computers and components, and textiles and garments.

Imports in the 15 days reached $10.68 billion, down 5.9 per cent or $674 million from the last 15 days of last month.

Compared to the second half of last month, imports decreased in some items such as computers, electronic products and components, telephones and components and crude oil.

From the beginning of the year to October 15, total export value reached $204.94 billion, up eight per cent, equivalent to an increase of $15.18 billion over the same period last year. Total import value hit $198.11 billion, up 8.1 per cent, $14.85 billion more than in the same period last year.

Experts said the country’s exports would continue to grow with traditional industries such as textiles, footwear and furniture as the main drivers.

Besides, they said, exports often increase in the last months of the year as this is the peak period for shopping for consumer goods during end-of-the-year holidays.

Looking at the past performance results, the goal of achieving turnover of $500 billion this year was entirely feasible, experts said.

VIET NAM NEWS/ASIA NEWS NETWORK