Viet Nam's economy is projected to grow by 6.6 percent in 2025, according to the World Bank’s latest Viet Nam Economic Update report. The report notes that growth in the first half of 2025 reached 7.5 percent, driven primarily by strong export performance.
The economic outlook for the remainder of the year suggests a moderation as export growth returns to normal levels. The World Bank points out that Viet Nam’s reliance on exports makes it susceptible to changes in global demand and economic conditions among its major trading partners. Uncertainty in trade policy could also impact business and consumer confidence.
Looking ahead, the World Bank forecasts that growth will slow to 6.1 percent in 2026 before rebounding to 6.5 percent in 2027, helped by a recovery in global trade and Viet Nam’s continued role as a competitive manufacturing location.
To support sustained growth and reduce exposure to external risks, the report recommends increasing public investment, addressing financial-sector vulnerabilities, and advancing structural reforms.
“Viet Nam’s low public debt gives the country ample fiscal headroom—policymakers can use well-executed public investment to close infrastructure gaps and create jobs,” said World Bank Division Director for Viet Nam, Cambodia, and Lao PDR, Mariam J. Sherman. “At the same time, accelerating structural reforms to strengthen backbone services, advance green growth, build human capital, and diversify trade will help mitigate global risks and sustain long‑term growth.”
This edition of Taking Stock – Viet Nam Economic Update places special emphasis on developing high-tech talent. The report states that achieving high-income status by 2045 will require not only an increase in young STEM graduates but also more experts capable of leading research and bringing innovations to market.
The World Bank highlights that both public and private research and development (R&D) spending in Viet Nam remains below levels seen in more developed countries within the region. The report suggests there is room to increase PhD-level faculty positions at universities to expand the pool of advanced-degree graduates and researchers. Stronger collaboration between universities, industry, and government could help develop a workforce ready for technological challenges while encouraging technology transfer.
Taking Stock – Viet Nam Economic Update is published twice yearly by the World Bank with analysis on economic trends and policy recommendations for Viet Nam.