The United States currently stands as Vietnam’s largest export market, playing a pivotal role in boosting trade growth and domestic manufacturing development. With immense consumer demand, stable purchasing power, and a trend towards diversifying global supply chains, the U.S. offers numerous opportunities for Vietnamese businesses across sectors such as electronics, textiles, furniture, seafood, and agricultural products.
A thorough understanding of the leading import categories in the U.S. market will help enterprises identify promising products and develop effective, sustainable shipping strategies for the U.S.
1. Why is the U.S. a key export market for Vietnam??
The United States is now Vietnam’s largest export destination, with a turnover of approximately USD 96.8 billion in 2023, according to the General Department of Customs, and this upward trend is expected to continue into 2024, as reported by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The U.S. market exhibits a wide range of demand, spanning agriculture, forestry, seafood, textiles, furniture, electronics, and consumer goods. It is characterized by high purchasing power, strict quality standards, a focus on sustainability, and transparent supply chains. Moreover, the U.S. is a strategic destination for many companies.
In 2023, the textile and garment industry generated over USD 40 billion in export value (per VITAS), with the U.S. accounting for the largest share. The wood and wood products sector reached around USD 14.4 billion, with more than 50% exported to the U.S. Meanwhile, electronics and component exports continue to lead in value, growing by 15 – 18% thanks to the expansion of major technology corporations. Agricultural and seafood products also remain significant, with key exports including shrimp, pangasius fish, and cashew nuts.
2. Top 07 US Imports from Vietnam
2.1. Electronic Components
Electronics, machinery, and components are among Vietnam’s leading export sectors to the U.S. market. According to the General Department of Customs, in 2025, exports of “computers, electronic products, and components” to the U.S. reached over USD 42 billion, accounting for approximately 27.4% of Vietnam’s total exports to the U.S., with substantial growth compared to previous years.
With rapid export growth, businesses can further tap into the U.S. market by integrating more deeply into the component supply chain or engaging in OEM/ODM manufacturing for U.S. importers. This approach not only broadens production networks but also enhances competitiveness in the high-tech sector.
2.2. Textiles and Garments
Textiles and apparel remain among Vietnam’s key export items to the U.S. market. According to data from the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), in 2025, Vietnam’s total textile and garment exports are projected to reach approximately USD 46 billion, with the U.S. being the largest market. In 2024 alone, exports to the U.S. are estimated at about USD 16.7 billion, representing nearly 38% of the industry’s total.
American consumer demand for textiles and apparel is consistently high, driven by the large market size and a thriving retail sector featuring numerous international fashion brands. Additionally, the U.S. is a strategic partner in the global supply chain for many Vietnamese manufacturers, especially in OEM/ODM production for renowned brands.
With steady growth and a significant market share, fashion companies have opportunities to develop high-quality, diverse product lines aligned with sustainable and eco-friendly standards. When exporting textiles and garments to the U.S., companies must ensure proper labeling, such as “Made in Vietnam” and comply with regulations on fiber content and sizing.
2.3. Footwear
According to the latest data from the Vietnam Leather, Footwear, and Handbag Association (LEFASO), in 2025, Vietnam’s footwear exports, including related products, are expected to reach nearly USD 29 billion, with the U.S. being the largest market, accounting for over USD 11 billion in exports. Notably, in 2025, footwear exports to the U.S. alone will constitute approximately 36 – 37% of Vietnam’s total footwear exports.
Major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma have established manufacturing or subcontracting facilities in Vietnam due to competitive costs, skilled labor, and advantageous trade agreements that reduce tariffs. As a result, the U.S. has become a primary destination for many “Made in Vietnam” brands, particularly in sports and casual footwear segments.
2.4. Furniture
According to statistics from Vietnam Customs, cited by the International Trade Promotion Center (ITPC), in 2025, Vietnam’s total exports of wood and wood products reached around USD 17.2 billion, up nearly 6% from the previous year. The U.S. accounts for approximately 55% of this, roughly USD 9.46 billion.
Thanks to abundant raw materials and skilled labor, many furniture brands have set up manufacturing facilities in Vietnam. Additionally, the ongoing trade tensions and tariffs on Chinese imports have opened up opportunities for Vietnamese exports. Data from the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) shows that in the first eight months of 2025, the U.S. imported USD 6.1 billion worth of wood products from Vietnam, representing 45.3% of its total imports in this category.
With a large market share and stable growth, furniture manufacturers can leverage cost advantages and innovative designs to expand production. Popular products include sofas, living room tables, bedroom furniture, and decorative items, all of which command steady demand and export value.
2.5. Handicrafts
Handicrafts represent one of Vietnam’s strategic sectors, increasingly favored in the U.S. market due to evolving consumer trends. According to data from the Vietnam General Department of Customs, as of August 2025, exports of handicrafts made from rattan, bamboo, straw, and other artisanal items exceeded USD 574 million globally. A significant portion of these products, such as home decor, rattan furniture, ceramics, and decorative crafts are appreciated in the U.S. and other developed markets for their artistic value and craftsmanship.
American consumers are increasingly interested in products made from natural materials like rattan, straw, and bamboo, both for home decoration and gift-giving purposes. Therefore, handicrafts serve not only as aesthetic accessories but also reflect personal tastes, helping to boost Vietnam’s exports into this segment.
This category is especially suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises due to its flexible production processes and low technological requirements. It also aligns well with online retail channels such as Amazon, Etsy, and eBay, where consumers seek unique, handcrafted decor items.
2.6. Agricultural Products
The U.S. market has a strong appetite for natural foods, beverages, and spices, notably coffee and black pepper. These products are produced in Vietnam at competitive costs and with relatively high safety standards. The organic and diversity trends in consumer preferences further facilitate acceptance of Vietnamese products. According to Vietnam Customs, in the first half of 2025, the total export value of agricultural, forestry, and seafood products reached nearly USD 9.38 billion, with exports to the U.S. increasing by 18.9% year-on-year.
Vietnamese exporters can seize opportunities by adding value through processing, such as roasted coffee, ground pepper, or processed cashew nuts, rather than exporting raw materials. Organic products and those free from additives that meet consumer standards are also gaining popularity and enhancing brand value.
2.7. Plastics and Rubber
Although the U.S. market accounts for a small portion compared to major partners like China and the EU, Vietnam’s rubber exports to the U.S. in 2024 reached approximately 29,200 tons, valued at around USD 50.6 million. These figures reflect the diverse needs of the U.S. market, where plastic products are widely used both in daily life and in industrial manufacturing.
While the rubber market remains modest in the U.S., there are growth opportunities, particularly for processed rubber products and technical items such as hoses, belts, gaskets, and rubber parts for automotive and construction applications.
3. Key Considerations for Exporting to the U.S. Market
Depending on the product category, businesses must not only focus on shipping costs but also ensure correct handling of tariffs, HS codes, compliance standards, and transportation methods.
3.1. Import Tariffs and HS Codes
The U.S. utilizes the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), issued by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC), to classify goods. Unlike the international standard of six digits, the HS codes used in the U.S. consist of ten digits, allowing authorities to precisely determine the applicable tariffs for each product.
Importantly, misdeclaring HS codes can significantly impact the import process and business plans. If the declared code does not match the actual nature of the product, U.S. customs authorities have the right to recover the difference in tariffs, impose administrative penalties, and even hold the shipment for detailed inspection (Customs Hold). To mitigate this risk, companies can utilize the services of professional logistics providers, such as SpeeGo Logistics, to review documentation before shipment and handle any issues that may arise.
3.2. Certification and Inspection Documents
Every product category has mandatory standards that must be met before entering the U.S. market. Failure to provide the necessary documentation can result in goods being prohibited from entry, confiscated, or heavily fined. Therefore, businesses need to thoroughly research and prepare all required certificates and paperwork to avoid such issues.
For companies lacking experience or resources, outsourcing to external consulting firms can expedite the process and reduce errors. With over ten years of expertise in logistics, SpeeGo offers comprehensive services for customs declaration and documentation preparation across various industries. Our team is ready to support businesses throughout the production and shipping to the U.S., ensuring reliability and cost-efficiency.
