Experts suggesting solutions to address challenges facing exporters

A report presented at the conference showed that despite continued uncertainties in the global economy and international trade, Hue City’s exports delivered encouraging results in the first half of 2026. Export turnover was estimated at USD 840.56 million, up nearly 20% year-on-year, while the city recorded a trade surplus of approximately USD 230 million. Key export products continued to maintain strong growth, while OCOP products, traditional craft products, and Hue’s signature specialties have been steadily strengthening their presence in international markets.

At the conference, representatives of businesses, industry associations, and experts discussed and assessed the key challenges facing the city’s exporters, including high logistics costs and increasingly stringent import market requirements on technical standards, product traceability, and green development. Furthermore, they also proposed a range of measures to enhance competitiveness, expand export markets, and maximize the benefits of free trade agreements (FTAs). Several delegates also called on the city to continue supporting exporters through trade promotion, digital transformation, market connectivity, and workforce development for export activities.

A representative of the Authority of E-Commerce and Digital Economy under the Ministry of Industry and Trade outlined emerging trends in global trade and highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing exporters in the current context. To strengthen their competitiveness, businesses were advised to adapt to evolving market regulations proactively, make better use of FTAs, diversify their export markets, and accelerate digital and green transformation in production and business operations.

A representative of Alibaba Group also shared solutions for developing cross-border e-commerce, enabling businesses to reach global customers directly through digital platforms. Building a strong digital brand, standardizing product information, leveraging technology in marketing, and optimizing logistics and payment systems can help expand market reach, increase product value, and improve export performance, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and locally distinctive products.

 Representatives of local businesses exchanging information on export activities

Addressing the conference, Vice Chairman of Hue City People’s Committee Ha Van Tuan said that to achieve the city’s 2026 export turnover target of USD 1.6 billion, departments and agencies must continue to closely monitor market developments, proactively advise on measures to help businesses overcome challenges, step up trade promotion efforts, expand export markets, and maximize the benefits of free trade agreements.

He also called on businesses to accelerate technological innovation, improve product quality and competitiveness, strengthen brand building, and meet the increasingly stringent requirements of import markets. At the same time, he encouraged businesses to make greater use of cross-border e-commerce platforms to bring more OCOP products, traditional craft products, and Hue’s signature specialties to international consumers. He urged departments and agencies to strengthen coordination and continue supporting businesses in achieving the city’s export growth target, thereby contributing to the city’s goal of achieving double-digit GRDP growth in 2026.

By Minh Van