Wooden products being packaged for export in Bình Dương Province. — VNS Photo Văn Châu

BÌNH DƯƠNG — Bình Dương Province's exports in the first eight months of the year were worth US$22.5 billion, an increase of 11.3 per cent year-on-year.

Some key items saw a substantial increase such as wood and product exports (21.8 per cent) and leather footwear (9.4 per cent).

The main markets were the US, EU, Canada, the Republic of Korea, Australia, and Japan.

Bình Dương's index of industrial production increased by 6.04 per cent in August, showing that the manufacturing industry is recovering and creating momentum for exports.

According to Phạm Văn Xô, chairman of the provincial Import-Export Association, the recovery in orders for the local production sector is a good sign for exports, but it still faces challenges like high logistics costs due to a shortage of containers.

He said enterprises need to diversify their customers and adjust their strategies in response to the volatility in international markets, particularly risks related to trade barriers.

Closer linkages among domestic firms and the development of a strong domestic supply chain would help reduce dependence on foreign supply and stabilise prices, he added.

To keep exports strong in the remaining months of the year, the provincial People’s Committee has directed relevant agencies to improve the business climate, remove hurdles faced by exporters and invest in logistics infrastructure.

It also called for simplifying customs procedures and facilitating production and business activities.

It encourages local firms to take part in international trade fairs and e-commerce, and helps small and medium-sized enterprises go digital and improve the quality of their products. — VNS