Vietnam Packaging Exports Conquer High-Standard Markets

“Made in Vietnam” Packaging Goes Global. While the domestic market remains a solid foundation, Vietnam’s packaging exports—especially paper packaging—are rising strongly, gaining recognition in demanding markets such as the United States, Japan, and South Korea. These achievements mark an important step in positioning “Made in Vietnam” packaging on the global stage.

Vietnam’s packaging exports—especially paper packaging—are rising strongly, gaining recognition in demanding markets

1. Supply and Demand on the Rise

According to the Ministry of Finance, Vietnam’s industrial production index (IIP) for the first eight months of 2025 grew 8.5% year-on-year. The paper and paper products sector rose 9.5%, while rubber and plastic products jumped 17.5%. Total retail sales reached nearly VND 3.5 quadrillion, up 8.1%, signaling strong consumer demand—a key driver for packaging growth.

Both supply and demand in the packaging sector increased around 15% compared to the same period last year. From mid-2025 onward, the market has shown clear signs of recovery despite ongoing challenges from imported raw material costs and global competition.

2. Paper Packaging Leads Export Growth

Data from ITC Trade Map show that from January 2024 to June 2025, paper packaging exports (HS 4819) maintained high levels, ranging from USD 115–153 million per month, outperforming plastic packaging (HS 3923), which remained at USD 35–66 million per month.

In the first half of 2025 alone, total packaging exports increased 8.6%, with paper packaging up 9.8%. Paper packaging achieved a trade surplus of USD 405 million, while plastic packaging posted a trade deficit of USD 36.2 million—making paper packaging the key growth driver of the industry.

Data from ITC Trade Map show that from January 2024 to June 2025, paper packaging exports (HS 4819) maintained high levels, ranging from USD 115–153 million per month

3. Winning in Demanding Markets

The U.S., Japan, and South Korea remain Vietnam’s top three export destinations, accounting for the largest and most stable shares. Thanks to free trade agreements such as EVFTA, CPTPP, and VKFTA, import tariffs to these markets are nearly 0%, helping Vietnamese packaging compete effectively in high-quality markets like the EU, the U.S., and Japan.

Each of these markets enforces strict sustainability and safety standards:

• EU: The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and EUDR require recyclable design, minimum recycled content, and traceable sourcing.

• U.S.: The FDA oversees food-contact packaging, while many states implement EPR laws and PFAS bans.

• Japan & South Korea: Enforce mandatory recycling classification, clear labeling, and producer responsibility policies.

On the import side, China, South Korea, and Thailand remain Vietnam’s top suppliers, accounting for 85.4% of import value—China alone contributes 66%, indicating a notable reliance on this market.

4. Key Growth Drivers for Vietnam’s Packaging Industry

According to Vietnam Report, the sector’s current momentum is not only driven by rising production and consumption but also by long-term transformative trends such as:

• Global supply chain shifts

• The expansion of e-commerce

• Green and sustainable consumption

• Digital transformation in manufacturing

• Recovery of export markets

Among these, eco-friendly consumption has emerged as the leading growth driver. Nearly 80% of enterprises now prioritize sustainability and green packaging, compared to only 43% in 2024.

Vietnamese consumers are increasingly conscious of health and environmental impacts, driving demand for recyclable, reusable, or bio-based packaging. Major F&B, retail, and e-commerce companies are setting goals to reduce single-use plastics, replacing them with paper, mono-material films, or bioplastic alternatives. This shift fuels innovation in design, production standards, and green materials, giving early adopters a strong competitive edge in global markets.

Vietnam’s domestic demand remains solid, especially in processed food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals—the largest packaging-consuming industries.

5. Domestic vs. Export: Changing Growth Dynamics

Interestingly, market priorities have shifted. In 2024, 87.5% of enterprises identified domestic consumption recovery as the main growth driver; by 2025, that number dropped to 45%. Conversely, 40% now see export recovery as the key growth momentum, up from 32% the previous year.

Vietnam’s domestic demand remains solid, especially in processed food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals—the largest packaging-consuming industries. Meanwhile, exports continue to recover steadily, supported by FTA tariff advantages and global demand for sustainable packaging.

Outlook: Dual Momentum for Sustainable Growth

The synergy between domestic consumption and export recovery is strengthening Vietnam’s packaging sector. With its skilled workforce, technological improvements, and shift toward sustainability, Vietnam’s packaging industry is well-positioned for long-term global success.

As eco-friendly paper packaging continues to lead the way, Vietnamese packaging exporters are conquering the world’s most demanding markets—not only as manufacturers but as innovators driving sustainable value creation.

 

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Operating under the motto of “Pioneering Quality,” Hoang Vuong consistently aims for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions. We proudly hold the following certifications: FSC Certification, GMI Certification, G7 Certification, ISO 9001:2015

With over 15 years of experience in the paper packaging industry and a solid brand reputation, Hoang Vuong is a leading private paper packaging enterprise in Vietnam, partnering with numerous major brands locally and internationally. We accompany your company on the journey of innovation, seeking differentiation through continuous improvement. Your success is both an achievement and motivation for us to continue innovating and maintaining professionalism.

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