Vietnam Textile Sector Faces Order Slowdown Despite Export Growth
Vietnam’s textile and garment industry is facing mounting challenges despite posting export growth in the first four months of 2026, with second-quarter orders projected to decline by 20–25 per cent, raising concerns over a potential slowdown in the months ahead.
According to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), the country’s textile and garment exports reached US$ 14.53 billion during the January–April period, marking a 4.3 per cent year-on-year increase.
The yarn and fibre segment recorded strong growth, with export revenue rising 20.1 per cent to US$ 2.62 billion, while garment exports grew modestly by 1.3 per cent to US$ 11.9 billion.
Vietnam also retained its leading position in the US textile import market with a 21.4 per cent market share, reflecting continued competitiveness despite global economic uncertainties.
However, industry leaders have warned that weakening global demand is beginning to weigh heavily on incoming business.
Nguyen Hung Quy, General Director of Vinatex Textile and Garment Southern Corporation, said new orders have slowed significantly, with some international buyers reducing or cancelling orders altogether.
He noted that second-quarter order volumes are expected to fall sharply compared with the same period last year, while delays in raw material imports from China are adding further pressure on production schedules.
Vinatex Chairman Le Tien Truong said the sector is currently facing a paradox, with positive export performance masking growing instability in consumer demand across key global markets.
Even orders secured through the third quarter remain uncertain, underscoring the challenge of managing market volatility alongside sustaining order books, he noted.
Looking ahead, Vinatex General Director Cao Huu Hieu said textile manufacturers must focus on maximising operational efficiency and productivity in the near term, while closely monitoring market shifts to respond swiftly to changing conditions.
Meanwhile, VITAS Chairman Vu Duc Giang stressed that achieving the industry’s US$ 50 billion export target for 2026 will require deeper restructuring across markets, product portfolios and technology adoption.
He added that diversifying export destinations and broadening customer bases must remain central to the sector’s long-term growth strategy.
