On August 1, 2025, the Import-Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade) issued a warning to industry associations, logistics associations, and export-import enterprises about the risk of cargo ships being attacked in the Red Sea region.
According to international news agencies Reuters, AP, YnetNews, and Xinhua, on July 27, 2025, Yahya Saree, spokesperson for the Houthi Movement, announced the expansion of its campaign in the Red Sea. The group stated that it would attack any ship owned by companies linked to Israeli ports, regardless of nationality, flag, or destination.
The Vietnamese Embassy in Iran also warned that from now until the end of July 2025, attacks in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Suez Canal, and Gulf of Aden could escalate, seriously impacting Vietnam’s import-export supply chain. The risk is particularly high for the logistics sector, maritime transport, and exports to European, Middle Eastern, and African markets, potentially causing:
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Increases in insurance, transportation costs, and delivery times.
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Disruptions to production and business plans.
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Indirect impacts on some Vietnamese companies cooperating with international shipping lines if those lines become targets.
In light of this situation, the Import-Export Department recommends that businesses:
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Proactively review their supply chains and shipping schedules, especially if related to the Red Sea region and high-risk ports.
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Work closely with logistics partners, shipping lines, and maritime insurers to assess risks and develop timely response plans.
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Promptly report to relevant authorities if incidents occur that affect export-import activities.
The Import-Export Department advises businesses to remain vigilant and coordinate closely with all relevant parties to ensure cargo safety and maintain stable export operations.
