Vietnam Plywood Industry Maintains Top 5 Export Position Worldwide

Vietnam’s plywood industry continues to prove its resilience and global competitiveness by maintaining its rank among the Top 5 plywood exporters worldwide. Despite economic challenges, trade investigations, and stiff competition, Vietnam has adapted quickly — strengthening its manufacturing base and expanding its global market reach.

Export Growth from 2023 to 2025

2023

• Total plywood export value: ~USD 980 million
• Main buyers: USA, Korea, Japan
• Challenges: Global inflation and declining housing demand in major markets

2024

• Export value surged to ~USD 1.15–1.2 billion
• Recovery driven by: U.S. market rebound, improved global demand for furniture and packaging
• Vietnam expanded export presence to 77 countries

2025 (Forecast)

• Target export value: USD 1.3–1.4 billion
• Strategy: Focus on value-added products like film-faced plywood, LVL, and FSC-certified goods
• Risk mitigation: Compliance with international regulations on origin and sustainability

Top Global Plywood Exporters (Est. 2024)

1. China
2. Indonesia
3. Brazil
4. Russia
5. Vietnam

Vietnam holds firm at No. 5 and is expected to gain further ground with higher-quality exports and wider distribution.

Why Vietnam Remains Competitive

✅ Stable Raw Material Supply: Sourced from responsibly managed plantation forests

✅ Upgraded Manufacturing Capacity: More investment in automation, better product consistency

✅ Strategic Market Diversification: Focus beyond U.S. and Japan to include Middle East, India, and EU

✅ Adaptability: Quick response to policy shifts and new technical standards

Emerging Challenges

• Increasing demand for traceability and sustainability certifications (e.g., FSC, PEFC)
• Trade regulations, especially anti-circumvention investigations from the U.S.
• Rising global competition from countries offering low-cost alternatives

Conclusion

Vietnam’s plywood export industry is evolving from a price-driven supplier to a quality-focused global partner. With smart strategies and ongoing reforms, Vietnam is on track to sustain and potentially climb higher in the international plywood ranking by 2025.