Footwear exports from Vietnam fall 14.4 percent in September 2025 amid sharp US slowdown

Vietnam exported footwear worth US$1.71 billion in September 2025, down 14.4 percent from August, according to Vietnam’s General Department of Customs.

Year-to-date footwear exports totalled US$17.79 billion.

The decline was led by a steep 27.2 percent fall in shipments to the United States, Vietnam’s largest market, which dropped to US$611.5 million.

China also saw a sharp 55.1 percent contraction to US$76.6 million, while Japan fell 23.2 percent and Mexico 13.6 percent.

In contrast, several European destinations recorded strong growth.

Exports to Belgium rose 53.6 percent, Germany 28.5 percent, and France 26 percent.

Smaller markets also surged, including Romania, Ukraine, and Czech Republic.

Vietnam’s footwear industry is one of the country’s largest export sectors, supported by a strong base of foreign investment, skilled labour, and established supply chains.

It produces a wide range of products, from athletic and casual shoes to leather and synthetic footwear, serving major global brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Puma.

The sector benefits from Vietnam’s competitive production costs and extensive trade agreements that grant access to key markets in the US, EU, and Asia.

In recent years, the industry has focused on upgrading production through automation, sustainable materials, and design innovation to meet rising consumer and environmental standards.

However, it remains sensitive to global demand shifts, input cost fluctuations, and trade policy changes, which can quickly affect export volumes and margins.

Of note, Vietnam’s footwear exports totalled US$1.99 billion in August 2025, a decline of 9 percent from July.

See also: How to Source & Import Products from Vietnam 2025: A Complete Guide

Vietnam exports of footwear in September 2025, US$millions