Industry: Vietnam ferrous waste & scrap imports decline by 14.88 percent in May

Vietnam’s imports of ferrous waste and scrap reached US$170.28 million in May 2025, according to figures released by Vietnam’s General Department of Customs. This represents a significant decrease of 14.88 percent compared to April, bringing the year-to-date (YTD) import value to US$812.53 million.

Japan remains the leading supplier despite a decline:

Japan continued to be the primary source for ferrous waste and scrap imports, with a May value of US$101.87 million. This signifies a decrease of 12.64 percent from April but still accounts for a substantial 59.07 percent of the total year-to-date imports.

USA shows growth while other major suppliers decline:

Imports from the USA increased by 19.14 percent to US$18.04 million in May. Conversely, imports from Australia decreased by 26.86 percent to US$12.74 million, and Hong Kong saw a decline of 32.84 percent to US$6.79 million.

Significant month-on-month changes across other markets:

Several countries exhibited significant month-on-month growth in May:

• Chile recorded a substantial increase of 104.34 percent.
• Singapore imports surged by 68.76 percent.
• Cambodia saw a rise of 23.59 percent.
• Bangladesh emerged as a new supplier with imports in May after none in April.

Conversely, some markets faced notable declines:

• Philippines imports plummeted by 81.10 percent.
• The “Other” category saw a significant decrease of 40.09 percent.
• Mexico imports fell by 46.14 percent.
• New Zealand recorded no imports in May after having imports in April.

The overall decline in May’s ferrous waste and scrap imports suggests a softening demand or shifts in global supply, with Japan maintaining its dominant position despite the overall downturn.

See also: Manufacturing in Vietnam 2025: Growth, Options & Other Key Considerations

Vietnam imports of ferrous waste and scrap, May 2025, US$ millions