Vietnam tariffs play a critical role in shaping global trade and sourcing decisions. Whether you’re an importer, brand owner, or international buyer looking to source from Vietnam, understanding the country’s tariff system is essential for calculating landed costs, staying compliant, and maintaining healthy profit margins.
In 2025, as Vietnam continues to expand its export capacity and strengthen its position in global manufacturing, tariff structures, both import and export, have evolved. This guide breaks down how Vietnam tariffs work, what rates apply to common product categories, and how buyers can reduce costs when sourcing from Vietnam.
If you’re considering Vietnam as your next sourcing destination, getting familiar with its tariff policies can help you make smarter, more cost-efficient decisions.
Quick Summary
- Vietnam tariffs impact the total cost of imported goods.
- Free Trade Agreements like EVFTA and CPTPP offer major tariff reductions.
- Accurate HS codes and proper documentation are key to avoiding extra costs.
- Sourcing through VALO connects you with compliant, tariff-smart suppliers.
- Vietnam offers lower tariff risks than China for many buyers in 2025.
What Are Tariffs and How Do They Work?
Tariffs are taxes imposed by a government on goods that are imported into or exported out of the country. In Vietnam’s case, most tariff concerns come into play when foreign companies are importing Vietnamese-made products into another country.
Here’s a breakdown of how tariffs function:
- Import tariffs (also known as customs duties) are paid by the importer when goods arrive in the destination country. These are based on:
- The product’s HS Code (Harmonized System classification).
- The country of origin (Vietnam).
- The value of the goods (declared or invoiced).
- Export duties are less common in Vietnam but may apply to specific raw materials or unprocessed goods, such as minerals or timber.
- Tariff rates can differ based on trade agreements. Countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Vietnam may enjoy reduced or zero tariffs.
Understanding how tariffs work helps buyers avoid unexpected costs, manage risk, and take full advantage of trade benefits.
Vietnam’s Tariff Structure in 2025
Vietnam operates a multi-tiered tariff system that reflects its integration into global trade through numerous FTAs. As of 2025, the country uses two primary tariff schedules:
1. MFN Tariff Rates (Most Favored Nation)
These are the standard rates Vietnam applies to members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) that do not have special trade agreements with Vietnam. MFN rates are typically moderate but still add to the total cost of imported goods in destination countries.
2. FTA Tariff Rates
Vietnam has signed multiple Free Trade Agreements, including:
- CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership)
- EVFTA (EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement)
- RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership)
- ASEAN FTAs (covering countries like Japan, China, Korea, Australia)
Under these agreements, many Vietnamese exports enjoy preferential or zero tariffs, depending on:
- Correct HS code classification
- Proper documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin)
- Compliance with rules of origin
2025 Update Highlights
- The EU-Vietnam FTA now offers zero tariffs on nearly 99% of goods after phased reductions.
- CPTPP partners like Canada, Australia, and Japan benefit from nearly full tariff elimination on Vietnamese goods.
- RCEP continues to ease trade barriers across Asia-Pacific, benefiting regional importers.
If you’re sourcing from Vietnam, leveraging FTAs can significantly reduce your landed costs, as long as the right paperwork and supplier compliance are in place.
Vietnam Tariffs on Common Export Categories
Vietnam’s export economy spans multiple industries, from furniture and textiles to electronics and machinery. Tariff rates vary depending on the product’s HS code, destination country, and applicable trade agreements.
Below are examples of typical export categories and how tariffs may apply:
Furniture and Home Goods
- Popular Vietnamese exports include wooden furniture, rattan chairs, and home décor.
- Under FTAs like EVFTA and CPTPP, tariffs are often reduced to 0–5%, or eliminated entirely for qualifying goods.
- For countries without an FTA, MFN tariffs may apply, ranging from 3–10% depending on material and finish.
Textiles and Garments
- A major sector for Vietnam, especially to the US, EU, and Japan.
- Without FTAs, US tariffs can range from 10–20% depending on the textile blend.
- With the right Certificate of Origin, buyers in the EU or Japan may qualify for zero-duty access.
Electronics and Components
- Vietnam’s electronics sector is booming, especially for semiconductors, phones, and accessories.
- Many components fall under low to zero tariff bands with ASEAN and RCEP countries.
- HS code accuracy is critical for cost predictability.
Machinery and Equipment
- Exported both as finished products and intermediate goods.
- Typically attracts 5–15% tariffs under MFN but drops significantly under CPTPP and RCEP schedules.
Understanding which HS code applies to your product is key, misclassification can lead to overpaying or delays at customs.
How Vietnam Tariffs Affect Global Buyers
Tariffs directly impact your landed cost, which includes the product price, shipping, insurance, and all duties and taxes. Even a 5–10% difference in tariffs can determine whether sourcing from Vietnam is cost-effective compared to other countries.
Here’s how tariffs shape buyer decisions:
Lower Tariffs = Higher Margins
- Countries with FTA access to Vietnam enjoy significantly lower import duties.
- Buyers can pass on the savings to customers or reinvest in supply chain improvements.
Sourcing Shift from China
- Many importers are turning to Vietnam to reduce tariff exposure from China–US trade tensions.
- For example, US tariffs on Chinese furniture can be as high as 25%, while Vietnam’s equivalent is often 5% or lower.
Compliance Risks
- Incorrect documentation or classification can lead to penalties or delays.
- It’s essential to work with manufacturers who understand international compliance requirements, a key service VALO facilitates.
How to Reduce Tariff Costs When Importing from Vietnam
While tariffs are often unavoidable, there are several ways savvy importers can reduce the overall cost burden:
Use Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
- Make sure your supplier can issue Certificates of Origin (CO, Form E, EUR.1) depending on the destination country.
- Confirm that goods meet the rules of origin under each agreement.
Get HS Codes Right
- Work with customs brokers or local trade consultants to ensure your product is correctly classified.
- Even minor misclassifications can result in higher tariffs or customs delays.
Work with Compliant Suppliers
- Suppliers that understand export documentation, labelling, and packaging standards reduce your risk.
- VALO helps connect you with manufacturers experienced in international trade compliance.
Tariff Engineering (Advanced)
- For high-volume importers, small product changes can shift HS codes into a lower tariff bracket.
- This is often used for electronics, apparel, and multi-material goods.
By combining these methods, you can optimize your total landed cost and gain a competitive advantage in your market.
Why Work With Vietnamese Manufacturers via VALO
Understanding Vietnam tariffs is one part of the sourcing puzzle, finding the right supplier is another. That’s where VALO Vietnam makes a difference.
We help international buyers:
- Connect with vetted Vietnamese manufacturers across industries.
- Identify tariff-friendly product categories.
- Navigate FTA opportunities and compliance issues with expert guidance.
By using VALO Vietnam, you’re not just saving on sourcing costs, you’re building a more efficient and scalable global supply chain.
Navigate Vietnam Tariffs with Confidence
Vietnam tariffs can influence every aspect of your import journey, from cost structure to supplier selection. With an understanding of how tariffs work, the benefits of FTAs, and accurate HS code classification, global buyers can unlock better margins and avoid compliance issues.
As Vietnam continues to solidify its role as a top global manufacturing hub, now is the time to source smarter. Whether you’re importing furniture, apparel, electronics, or machinery, working with trusted suppliers through VALO can help you minimize risks and maximize tariff advantages.
Ready to lower sourcing costs and simplify your trade process?
- Call us 24/7: +84 79 928 7929
- Email: alo@valovietnam.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Tariff
1. What are Vietnam tariffs?
Vietnam tariffs refer to taxes applied on goods exported from or imported into Vietnam. These include import duties, export duties (on select goods), and customs fees based on product category and destination.
2. How can I find the tariff rate for my product from Vietnam?
Tariff rates depend on the HS code of your product and the destination country. You can use customs lookup tools or consult with your freight forwarder, customs broker, or sourcing partner like VALO.
3. Are there Free Trade Agreements that reduce tariffs from Vietnam?
Yes. Vietnam has FTAs with the EU (EVFTA), Australia, Japan, Canada (CPTPP), ASEAN countries, and RCEP members. These agreements often reduce or eliminate tariffs for qualifying products.
4. Do I need a Certificate of Origin to benefit from lower tariffs?
Absolutely. To claim preferential tariff rates under FTAs, you must provide the correct Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form EUR.1, Form E). VALO can help ensure your supplier is equipped to handle this.
5. How does working with VALO help with Vietnam tariffs?
VALO connects you with FTA-compliant manufacturers in Vietnam and helps you navigate documentation, product classification, and trade regulations to avoid tariff surprises.
6. Are Vietnam’s tariffs lower than China’s?
Often, yes, especially for buyers from countries with FTAs with Vietnam. For example, US importers face significantly higher tariffs on Chinese furniture than on Vietnamese alternatives.