Vietnam-Slovenia trade rebounds in early 2026

Trade between Vietnam and Slovenia reached USD 231.25 million in the first five months of 2026, rising by 16.9% from the same period last year, according to Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Vietnamese exports increased by 11.9% to USD 179.28 million, while imports from Slovenia grew by 38.1% to USD 51.97 million. Vietnam recorded a trade surplus of USD 127.3 million.

Trade recovers after 2025 decline

The increase follows weaker trade in 2025, when bilateral turnover fell by 4.7% to USD 485.7 million.

Vietnam’s exports to Slovenia declined by 5.9% to USD 377.9 million, while imports remained relatively stable at USD 107.8 million.

Trade between the two countries had expanded rapidly before the slowdown, rising from USD 46.1 million in 2012 to USD 573 million in 2022.

Shipping disruption affects flows

Changes to maritime routes have affected recent trade. Following attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea from late 2023, Vietnamese exporters moved some shipments away from Slovenia’s Port of Koper. The port had served as an entry point for goods moving into Central and Eastern Europe.

Longer or alternative routes can increase transport costs and delivery times, creating additional challenges for agricultural and food products that require stable logistics.

Agricultural exports offer room for growth

Agriculture is among the sectors identified as having further trade potential because the two countries’ export structures are largely complementary rather than directly competitive.

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement is gradually reducing tariffs on trade between Vietnam and EU member states. The agreement provides for the elimination of duties on 99% of tariff lines covering Vietnamese exports to the EU within seven years of its entry into force in August 2020.

EU requirements remain demanding

Agricultural goods entering Slovenia must comply with common EU import rules.

Fresh fruit and vegetables must meet standards covering variety, colour, appearance, shape, shelf life and labelling. Exporters must also comply with limits on pesticide residues, chemicals and microorganisms.

Products require clear traceability throughout the supply chain, from cultivation and harvesting to processing and distribution. Depending on the product and buyer, certifications such as GlobalGAP, HACCP, BRC or ISO 22000 may also be required.

source and photo: moit.gov.vn