Vietnam's auto industry recorded a total of 91,180 vehicles sold year-to-date, marking an increase of nearly 32% compared to the same period last year. This growth indicates a sustained rise in overall demand for automobiles among Vietnamese consumers. However, the sales figures for february, compiled from the Vietnam Association of Automobile Manufacturers (VAMA), import companies, VinFast, and Hyundai, showed a different trend. Import companies sold 19,278 vehicles, VinFast sold 9,903 vehicles, and Hyundai contributed 3,080 vehicles to the total.

The significant drop in auto sales during february is a common occurrence, primarily attributed to the tet new year holiday break. Historically, consumers tend to make their purchases at the end of the preceding year. This trend was evident in late 2025, when manufacturers and dealerships intensified promotional campaigns, leading to a natural decrease in demand in the subsequent months.

Furthermore, brands with a fiscal year concluding in 3/2026, particularly Japanese manufacturers, typically experience a slowdown in vehicle supply during the first quarter. This pause allows manufacturers and dealers to clear their remaining 2025 inventory, which consequently impacts their sales figures during this period.

Despite the overall market slowdown, VinFast emerged as the leading brand in february. The Vietnamese automaker achieved a notable milestone by having 5 products: VF 3, VF 5, VF 6, VF MPV 7, and Limo Green, rank among the 10 best-selling models in the market. This achievement is unprecedented for an auto brand in Vietnam.

Following VinFast in sales were Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, and Mitsubishi. Over the first two months of 2026, nearly all passenger car brands, with the exception of Peugeot, reported positive sales growth. VinFast's sales increased by 16%, while Hyundai experienced a substantial 47% rise.

Customers viewing the VF 3 model in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Thanh Nhan

The positive start to the year, despite the february dip, signals a potentially vibrant sales season for the domestic automotive industry in 2026. Anticipating renewed activity, many new car models are scheduled for launch from march onwards, complemented by ongoing incentive programs from manufacturers that were initiated even before the tet holiday.

Pham Trung