Vietnam reports 4.52% CPI increase and sets agricultural export targets

Vietnam's Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 4.52% during the first nine months of 2026, compared to a 3.27% increase during the same period in 2025. According to the General Statistics Office, September's CPI increased by 0.62% compared to the previous month, driven largely by rising domestic gasoline prices and tuition fee adjustments at various universities and private institutions.

Key inflationary pressures include the transportation group, which rose 3.97%, and the housing, electricity, water, and construction materials group, which increased by 6.59%. While basic goods supplies remain stable, fluctuations in global energy prices and input costs present ongoing challenges for economic management.

In the agricultural sector, Vietnam is aiming for an annual export value of $74.2 billion. To reach this goal, the industry must average nearly $6 billion in monthly exports during the fourth quarter. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is focusing on three main pillars: wood and wood products, seafood, and fruits and vegetables. However, the sector faces challenges including high dependency on the Chinese market for certain goods and stricter international regulations regarding deforestation, IUU fishing, and traceability.