Trade momentum boosts economic growth in Central - Central Highlands region

Pillar of growth

According to data released by the industry and trade sector of the Central and Central Highlands region, the goods and services market remains stable in 2025, meeting the needs of production and consumption well.

The region’s total retail sales and revenue of goods in 2025 are estimated at VND 1.7 trillion, accounting for approximately 24% of the national total (estimated at VND 7.12 trillion), up 12.3% year-on-year.

There are 2,736 markets across the region, accounting for nearly 32% of the national total, along with 285 supermarkets, and 74 shopping centers. Numerous convenience stores and logistics warehouses operate efficiently.

In 2025, the region's total export value is likely to reach US$ 34.5 billion, whilst imports are projected at US$ 34.3 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of US$ 245 million, a bright spot in the national trade picture.

Key export product groups include electronics, textiles and garments, footwear, processed agricultural and aquatic products, wood and wood products.

Export markets continue to expand to the European Union, the United States, Northeast Asia, and ASEAN, greatly contributing to diversifying destinations and reducing reliance on a limited number of traditional markets.

Strengthening trade linkages

In 2026, the industry and trade sector of the Central and Central Highlands region aims for higher growth in retail sales and consumer service revenue than other economic regions, projected at 13.4%, equivalent to VND 1.93 trillion.

This growth is expected to be driven by the expansion of distribution networks, development of commercial infrastructure, and the acceleration of e-commerce.

The total import and export turnover of goods in the entire region is targeted to hit approximately USD 76.1 billion, of which exports are estimated at US$ 38.4 billion and imports at US$ 37.7 billion, helping maintain a trade surplus and making a positive contribution to the country's export performance.

To contribute to this overall goal, according to Ms. Le Thi Kim Phuong, Director of the Da Nang Department of Industry and Trade, the establishment of the Da Nang Free Trade Zone will be of significant importance to the region's development.

Once operating effectively, the Free Trade Zone is expected to reduce logistics costs across the region, enhance the competitiveness of goods, and attract greater flows of strategic investment to Central Vietnam.