Vietnam sets course for a global logistics breakthrough

Vietnam has taken a decisive step toward positioning itself as a major logistics hub in Asia and beyond. On October 9, 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh signed Decision approving the National Strategy for the Development of Vietnam’s Logistics Services for 2025–2035, with a vision to 2050.

The landmark strategy marks the first time the country has adopted a comprehensive, long-term framework to build a globally competitive logistics sector—one that supports international trade, drives digital transformation, and promotes green and sustainable growth.

Under the new plan, logistics is recognised not just as a supporting service, but as a key economic sector with high added value and strategic importance to Vietnam’s overall economic competitiveness.

Ambitious goals for a modern logistics economy

The strategy envisions logistics becoming a dynamic pillar of Vietnam’s economy by 2035. Between 2025 and 2035, the value added by the logistics sector is targeted to reach 5–7 percent of GDP, growing at an average 12–15 percent annually. By 2050, logistics services are expected to contribute 7–9 percent of GDP, maintaining growth of 10–12 percent per year.

The plan sets clear quantitative benchmarks:

• 70–80 per cent of enterprises will use outsourced logistics services by 2035, increasing to 90 per cent by 2050.
• Logistics costs are expected to decline from the current levels to 12–15 per cent of GDP by 2035, and 10–12 per cent by 2050.
• Vietnam aims to break into the top 40 countries in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) by 2035, and the top 30 by 2050.
• Digital transformation will play a central role: 80 percent of logistics firms are to adopt digital solutions by 2025, and 100 percent by 2050.
• Human capital development is another key focus, with 70 per cent of the workforce to be professionally trained by 2035, including 30 percent holding university degrees or higher.

By mid-century, Vietnam expects to operate at least 10 world-class logistics centres, establishing itself as a regional and international transshipment hub.

Eight strategic orientations for sustainable growth

To achieve these goals, the strategy defines eight major orientations supported by corresponding policy and implementation measures:

1. Strengthening the legal and institutional framework: The government will review and amend outdated regulations, and streamline administrative procedures, and attract both domestic and foreign investment.
2. Developing modern infrastructure:  Priority will be given to synchronised multimodal infrastructure including seaports, airports, smart warehouses, urban logistics, and agricultural distribution centres.
3. Enhancing regional and international connectivity:  Key economic zones in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hai Phong will be linked through North–South economic corridors and expanded ASEAN connections.
4. Expanding logistics markets and supply sources:  Vietnam aims to attract multinational corporations, establish free trade zones, and strengthen export and cross-border e-commerce logistics.
5. Boosting enterprise competitiveness: The government will support businesses in adopting 4PL and 5PL models, improving service quality, and integrating green and digital solutions.
6. Driving research, innovation, and green transformation:  New technologies such as automation, AI, and big data will be deployed to optimise logistics and improve transparency in customs and trade.
7. Developing skilled human resources: Comprehensive training programs, from vocational to postgraduate levels, will be rolled out in partnership with universities and international organizations.
8. Empowering associations and leading enterprises:  Strong industry associations and large domestic firms will be encouraged to build globally competitive supply chains and logistics networks.

Complementing these measures are broader initiatives such as disseminating legal knowledge on sustainable logistics, publishing the annual Vietnam Logistics Report, building a national logistics database, and organizing Vietnam Logistics Day and Logistics Week to promote awareness and cooperation.

A coordinated implementation framework

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) will lead implementation, guiding relevant ministries, local authorities, and industry associations. The Ministry of Finance will coordinate budget allocation and investment mobilisation, while provincial governments will tailor action plans based on local strengths and conditions.

Each year, by December 10, implementing agencies must submit progress reports to MOIT, which will compile national-level updates for submission to the Prime Minister. This systematic coordination aims to ensure accountability and consistency across all levels of government.

Building the foundations for a regional logistics hub

Vietnam’s ambition is rooted in its strategic geographic location, strong manufacturing base, and rapidly expanding trade links. The country sits at the crossroads of major regional supply chains connecting China, ASEAN, and the Pacific.

To leverage this advantage, the strategy calls for the construction of at least seven logistics centres in Ho Chi Minh City by 2025, and a well-connected logistics system across the Southeast region. These centres will integrate transport, warehousing, and digital operations, supporting multimodal connectivity between ports, industrial zones, and border trade routes.

Modern logistics infrastructure—integrating digital management systems, renewable energy use, and environmentally friendly transport—will be the backbone of Vietnam’s logistics competitiveness. The government is prioritising green logistics initiatives, promoting low-emission transport, and enhancing climate resilience in all infrastructure investments.

Catalyst for cross-border e-commerce

The global cross-border e-commerce market reached $791.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to sustain annual growth of over 30 per cent. For Vietnam, this rapidly expanding sector presents a golden opportunity to extend its global trade footprint—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

However, experts caution that logistics remains the decisive factor in converting e-commerce potential into tangible growth. Without modern, transparent, and cost-efficient logistics systems, Vietnamese products cannot reach global consumers fast enough to compete.

Digital platforms as gateways to global markets

On Amazon alone, Vietnamese sellers have listed around 17 million products over the past two years, with revenues growing over 50 percent. The trend highlights both Vietnam’s growing export capability and the importance of logistics in sustaining global competitiveness.

To meet this demand, logistics providers must embrace digital transformation—from warehouse automation and AI-driven inventory management to real-time cross-border tracking and customs clearance integration.

A strategic turning point

Experts have described the strategy as a “turning point” for Vietnam’s logistics industry and a powerful catalyst for broader economic growth. They note that reducing logistics costs will significantly enhance business competitiveness, paving the way for the country’s exports to exceed $1 trillion in the near future.

Efficient logistics accelerates the flow of goods, enhances productivity, and lowers operational costs—all essential for sustaining export growth and attracting foreign investment.

More broadly, the new strategy is designed to spur investment, generate employment, and drive digital transformation across production, trade, and distribution. It aligns closely with Vietnam’s long-term vision of achieving sustainable, innovation-led economic growth.

Toward a global supply hain hub

If implemented effectively, Vietnam’s logistics strategy could redefine the nation’s position within global supply chains. The combination of policy reform, infrastructure investment, enterprise digitalization, and green transition is expected to propel the logistics sector into a new era of competitiveness and value creation.

Experts agree that success will depend on close coordination between the State, businesses, investors, and local authorities. With clear targets, robust governance, and international collaboration, Vietnam is poised to emerge as a modern, competitive, and sustainable logistics powerhouse—a vital link in the global flow of goods, services, and digital trade.