Logistics market a more enticing arena for investors

Vietnam has moved decisively beyond the narrative of being a simple alternative manufacturing destination. Several factors make Vietnam’s logistics market particularly compelling to both domestic and foreign investors.

- By Kevin Burrell Managing director, Maersk Mekong

Firstly, economic fundamentals are exceptionally strong. Vietnam’s GDP expanded by 8.02 per cent in 2025, among its fastest rates since 2011, while foreign investment disbursements in manufacturing and processing reached $22.88 billion, accounting for over 82 per cent of all realised foreign direct investment. This depth of global manufacturing commitment creates sustained, long-term logistics demand that goes far beyond cyclical trade flows.

Secondly, Vietnam’s extensive free trade agreement network provides exporters with preferential market access to key trading partners, making it structurally attractive as an export manufacturing base. At the same time, the Vietnam-China economic relationship has become increasingly complementary. Bilateral trade reached a record $252 billion in 2025, reflecting not just commercial volumes but also a deepening cross-border manufacturing ecosystem.