HANOI: A decade after a painful restructuring that left much of its shipbuilding industry struggling to stay afloat, Vietnam is finding itself back in the global spotlight.
As shipping companies race to replace ageing fleets with greener vessels and manufacturers seek alternatives to traditional supply chains, a rare window of opportunity is opening for the country to rebuild its position in one of the world’s most strategic industries.
Vietnam climbed to fourth place globally in commercial shipbuilding capacity in 2024, rising three places from a decade earlier.
While its share of global output remains modest at about 1%, industry experts say the next five to seven years could determine whether the country emerges as a significant regional shipbuilding centre or remains a marginal player in a rapidly changing and evolving market.
“The current favourable cycle for the global shipbuilding industry could last until 2030-32,” said Vu Huu Chien, general director of Pha Rung Shipbuilding Co.
“The opportunity is open but will not remain open indefinitely.”
Global shipbuilding is entering a new growth phase driven by fleet renewal, decarbonisation requirements and the adoption of digital technologies.
Industry estimates show that orders placed between early 2024 and mid-2026 were equivalent to about 12% of the world’s commercial fleet with total contract value rising by around 20%.
Major shipyards in China, South Korea and Japan are reportedly booked through 2027 and 2028.
About 60% of new shipbuilding demand between 2024 and 2033 is expected to come from replacing ageing vessels and complying with environmental regulations, while demand is increasing for ships powered by alternative fuels and vessels supporting wind projects.
Industry observers say Vietnam’s ability to seize this moment will hinge on whether shipyards can scale up capacity, secure long‑term financing and deepen technical partnerships with global builders. — Viet Nam News/ANN
