China-Made Electric Tricycles Gain Foothold in Southeast Asia's Green Logistics Blue Ocean as Vietnam's Imports Surge in 2025

Against the backdrop of global energy transition and logistics upgrading in Southeast Asia, Vietnam's imports of electric tricycles (HS Code: 87091190) from China have been on a steady upward trend in 2025, with both import volume and value climbing steadily. As the core supplier, China has accurately met Vietnam's demand for green travel and short-distance transportation by virtue of its product and supply chain advantages, seizing the growth potential of the Southeast Asian market.

Latest data shows that in July 2025, Vietnam imported 27 units of this type of vehicle from China, with a total value of $89,546. Among them, Guangdong exported 5 units worth $47,200; Guangxi exported 16 units valued at $34,315 via border petty trade; and Shanghai and Anhui also recorded minor export volumes. Based on industry trend projections, the full-year import volume in 2025 is expected to exceed 300 units, with the value surpassing $1 million, indicating a clear growth momentum.

The trade is mainly conducted through general trade and border petty trade. Key customs clearance ports include Pingxiang and Dongxing in Guangxi, while major export bases are Shanghai, Guangdong and Jiangsu in China. Chinese products account for approximately 19% of Vietnam's total imports of this category. From April 2024 to March 2025, the related freight volume witnessed a year-on-year increase of 71%, laying a solid foundation for the full-year growth.

There is a precise supply-demand matching between trading entities. Chinese exporters are mainly high-quality manufacturers from Jiangsu, Guangdong and Zhejiang provinces, while Vietnamese importers are concentrated in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, mostly engaged in trading and logistics businesses. The purchased electric tricycles are mainly used for logistics distribution and short-distance transportation, and some passenger-oriented models are suitable for commuting in scenic spots and communities.

The import boom is driven by multiple factors. On the policy front, Vietnam encourages the development of new energy transportation and offers favorable import tariffs on such vehicles. Meanwhile, China imposes no special export restrictions, boosting enterprises' enthusiasm. Economically, Vietnam's rapid economic development has spurred demand for short-distance transportation. Electric tricycles have emerged as the preferred choice due to their low cost, environmental friendliness and flexibility.

In the market competition, Chinese products outperform those from India, Thailand and other countries, thanks to their advantages in price, quality and supply chain stability. Coupled with the policy dividends of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Chinese enterprises can apply for preferential certificates of origin to reduce costs, further enhancing their price competitiveness.

Looking ahead, the full-year import volume and value of electric tricycles in 2025 are expected to grow by 20%-30% year-on-year, with the proportion of border petty trade set to rise. However, the development of Vietnam's local industry may give rise to technical barriers. Chinese enterprises need to make early R&D layout and promote the upgrading of products towards intelligence and lightweight.

Vietnam's green transportation transformation has brought opportunities for China's export of electric vehicles. Policies such as Hanoi's ban on fuel-powered motorcycles in 2026 will expand the market size. If Chinese enterprises can deepen their understanding of localized demand and improve after-sales services, they can consolidate their advantages in the Vietnamese market, radiate their influence across Southeast Asia, and demonstrate the strength of 'China Smart Manufacturing'.