Vietnam and New Zealand Seek New Momentum for Trade Ties

After establishing diplomatic ties over half a century ago, Vietnam and New Zealand are entering a new phase of cooperation. The state visit to New Zealand by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and President To Lam is expected to provide fresh impetus for market opening, removal of trade barriers, and stronger economic links following the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in February 2025.

New Zealand has an open economy with strengths in agriculture, food, dairy, meat, fruit, and high-quality processed products. Vietnam has a market of over 100 million people, diverse production capacity, and an increasingly important role in regional supply chains.

The two countries have complementary economic structures and participate in free trade agreements (FTAs), providing a solid foundation for expanding trade. Bilateral economic and trade ties have maintained positive growth, with complementary product structures and limited direct competition.

According to the Vietnamese Department of Customs, two-way trade reached 1.5 billion USD in 2025, up 15.8% year-on-year. Vietnam's exports to New Zealand rose 3.4% to 711 million USD, while imports increased 29.8% to 784 million USD.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan said Vietnam regards New Zealand as an important partner in the Asia-Pacific region, adding that stable trade growth despite global economic uncertainties demonstrates significant untapped potential.