A Moderate-Sized but High-Standard and Stable Market

The Nordic region—comprising Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Iceland—features high per-capita income levels, transparent business environments, and stringent requirements related to product quality, environmental protection, and social responsibility. While population size is relatively modest, import demand remains stable and is strongly oriented toward high value-added products, aligning well with Viet Nam’s export restructuring strategy.

Trade data for the first half of 2025 indicate that imports into several Nordic countries continued to grow, reflecting resilient consumer demand. Notably, a number of key Vietnamese export categories recorded positive growth, including electronics and components, agricultural and processed food products, seafood, textiles and garments, and fashion accessories. These trends suggest that there remains considerable scope for Vietnamese goods to further penetrate Nordic markets, provided that enterprises effectively meet technical standards and evolving consumer expectations.

Green Consumption, Circular Economy and Supply-Chain Transparency

According to the Trade Office of Viet Nam in Sweden, concurrently covering Nordic markets, consumer behaviour in the region is undergoing rapid transformation, with increasing emphasis on sustainability, environmental protection, and transparency throughout the production chain. Nordic consumers place strong importance on manufacturing processes, carbon footprints, recyclability, and the broader social and environmental impacts of products.

The circular economy has become a core policy pillar across the Nordic region and the European Union more broadly, with the objective of making sustainable products the norm rather than the exception. Under established roadmaps, by 2030 all packaging placed on the market is expected to be reusable or recyclable, while waste generation must be minimised as far as possible.

In addition, demand for clean, organic and traceable food products continues to expand rapidly, driven by heightened awareness of health and quality of life. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay premium prices for products that meet food safety standards, avoid harmful chemicals, and comply with sustainable agricultural practices. This trend offers significant opportunities for Vietnamese producers that have invested in quality certification, traceability systems, and internationally recognised standards.

Trade Fairs and Exhibitions as Effective Market Entry Channels

Active participation in specialised trade fairs and exhibitions is widely regarded as an effective and direct approach for accessing Nordic markets. From now until the end of 2025, numerous major events will be organised in Norway and Sweden, covering sectors well aligned with Viet Nam’s export strengths, including design and interior furnishings, industrial manufacturing, construction, automotive technology, life sciences, and water and environmental technologies.

Beyond showcasing products and identifying potential partners, these events also provide platforms for enterprises to gain insights into emerging technologies, new materials, and evolving regulatory requirements. Such exposure enables Vietnamese businesses to better align product development strategies with market demand and enhance their competitiveness in the medium and long term.

Proactive Preparation for Deeper Market Integration

Alongside participation in trade promotion events, Vietnamese enterprises are encouraged to strengthen market research efforts and stay informed of evolving trade policies, technical regulations, and sustainability-related requirements at both EU and national levels within the Nordic region. Proactive engagement with official information channels, including the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Viet Nam’s overseas trade offices, will help enterprises mitigate risks, ensure compliance, and improve market access outcomes.

With thorough preparation, a clear market-oriented strategy, and effective utilisation of key trade promotion activities, Vietnamese goods are well positioned to expand their footprint and reinforce their presence in Nordic markets—markets that, while demanding, offer long-term stability and substantial potential for sustainable export growth.

Mai Trang