According to the assessment of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, the US-Iran conflict that took place in early 2026 has increased global geopolitical risks, directly affecting the energy market, international maritime transport and supply chains. These fluctuations may affect import and export activities, logistics as well as production costs of businesses in the city.
Tensions in the Middle East, especially in the context of the Hoarmuz Strait being closed, have disrupted the flow of goods through the Arabian Sea. The volume of ships passing through this area has decreased sharply, forcing many large shipping lines to temporarily suspend or reroute sea transport routes.
The adjustment of transport routes has prolonged the transportation time on the Ho Chi Minh City - Europe route by about 7-10 days. At the same time, sea transport costs have also increased significantly due to the arising of conflict surcharges and transport insurance premiums. According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, these factors increase international logistics costs, directly reducing profit margins and the competitiveness of import-export enterprises.
For the export market, the United States is currently Ho Chi Minh City's largest market. In 2025, export turnover to this market reached about 21.7 billion USD, accounting for 23.42% of the city's total export turnover.
In the context of increased logistics costs and the risk of supply chain disruptions, some industries with large export proportions are forecast to be affected. Including electronics - computers and components, textiles, footwear, wood and wood products, along with some agricultural - forestry - fishery products.
Faced with the above situation, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade said that it has been and is implementing a number of solutions within its functions to support businesses. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade strengthens administrative procedure reform, ensuring fast processing time for businesses.
At the same time, the Department promotes guidance for businesses to effectively exploit free trade agreements (FTAs) to optimize tariffs, reduce costs and improve competitiveness.
The Department also coordinates with the Ho Chi Minh City Logistics and Seaport Association to organize conferences to connect with manufacturing - export enterprises to find solutions to reduce logistics costs. Trade promotion activities are also oriented to expand to areas less affected by conflicts, such as ASEAN, China and Australia.
In addition, the Department of Industry and Trade will continue to closely monitor the developments of the situation to promptly advise the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on solutions to support businesses.
In general, geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East may increase logistics costs, supply chain risks and affect some key export industries of the City. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade will continue to closely monitor the developments of the situation to promptly advise on solutions to ensure stable production, import and export activities and support businesses in the area.
