Coal: Vietnam Exports Plunge 65.47% in May

Vietnam’s exports of coal reached just US$6.44 million in May 2025, according to figures released by Vietnam’s General Department of Customs. This marks a dramatic decrease of 65.47 percent compared to April, bringing the year-to-date (YTD) export value to US$53.51 million.

Key export markets face massive reductions or cessation:

The sharp decline in overall exports was primarily driven by substantial reductions or a complete halt in shipments to major destinations:

• Exports to the Philippines dropped by 100 percent in May, after being a significant market in April.
• Similarly, exports to Indonesia and Taiwan also saw a 100 percent decrease in May.
• Japan, previously a major market, experienced an 84.70 percent decline in exports.
• The Netherlands saw a near-total cessation of imports, with a 99.33 percent drop.
• The “Other” category of markets also significantly reduced, falling by 95.91 percent.

South Africa emerges as a new major buyer, India starts imports:

Amidst the widespread downturn, there were some notable shifts:

• South Africa appeared as a new significant export destination in May, with US$4.38 million in exports, accounting for 8.19 percent of the YTD total.
• India also began importing coal from Vietnam in May, with US$4.06 million in exports.
• Thailand saw a notable increase of 64.51 percent in its imports from Vietnam, though from a smaller base.
• South Korea maintained relatively stable imports.

The drastic fall in May’s coal exports underscores a significant shift in Vietnam’s coal trade landscape, with traditional markets largely curtailing their imports, while new buyers like South Africa and India emerge. This is consistent with Vietnam’s complex role as both a coal producer and a rapidly growing importer for its domestic energy needs.

See also: Vietnam’s Coal Industry 2025: Production, Imports & Future

Vietnam exports of coal, May 2025, US$ millions