In January, Vietnam’s wholesale, retail, and repairs of cars and motorbikes sector registered a total of US$72.43 million in new foreign direct investment (FDI) across 84 new projects, according to data from Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment. This represents an increase of US$32.6 million compared to December, which saw US$39.8 million in registered capital. However, the number of new projects was down from 102 in December.
The sector accounted for 1.67 percent of total FDI in January, up from 0.58 percent in December.
Vietnam’s wholesale, retail, and repair sector for cars and motorbikes has seen significant growth, driven by rising income levels, urbanisation, and a growing demand for personal transportation. Motorbikes are the dominant mode of transport in the country, and as the middle class expands, the demand for cars and motorbikes has grown steadily, supporting the sector’s expansion.
The wholesale and retail segment is highly competitive, with a wide variety of domestic and international brands offering cars and motorbikes at various price points. Major automotive brands like Toyota, Honda, and Ford, alongside popular motorbike manufacturers such as Yamaha and Honda, dominate the market. Local producers, such as VinFast, have also made significant strides in the sector, offering both internal combustion engine and electric vehicles.
The repair and maintenance aspect of the sector is also growing rapidly, with an increasing number of service centres and repair shops catering to the maintenance needs of an expanding vehicle fleet. As more vehicles hit the roads, demand for after-sales services, including repairs, parts, and accessories, has risen. The sector faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions, rising parts costs, and the need for skilled technicians. However, with the growing middle class and the increasing number of vehicles in Vietnam, the wholesale, retail, and repair sector for cars and motorbikes is expected to continue expanding, driven by both domestic demand and an increasing focus on sustainability and innovation in transportation.
See also: Automotive Industry in Vietnam