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Global Market · Micronesia
Vietnam – Palau Logistics
Palau market information for importers and exporters: seaports, airports, economic size, trade preferences and growth potential.
Key facts
- Capital
- Ngerulmud
- Region
- Micronesia
- Population
- 0.0 million
- Area
- 459 km²
- Nominal GDP (2023)
- US$0.3 billion
- GDP per capita
- 14,891 USD
- GDP ranking
- No. 186 worldwide
- 5-year GDP growth
- -1.8%/year
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Languages
- English, Palauan
- Distance to Ho Chi Minh City
- 3,072 km
Economic size
In 2023, Palau’s nominal GDP reached US$0.3 billion, ranking No. 186 in the world, with GDP per capita of around US$14,891. Over the past 5 years, GDP in US dollar terms grew by an average of -1.8% per year.
Growth potential
- GDP in US dollar terms has fallen by an average of 1.8% per year over 5 years; watch for currency and purchasing power risks.
- Close to Vietnam (about 3,072 km), with short transit times.
Trade agreements with Vietnam
Vietnam and Palau do not currently have a free trade agreement in force. Goods are subject to the importing country’s standard duty rates.
Shipping from Vietnam to Palau
Ocean
15–30 days
from Cat Lai / Cai Mep, depending on destination port and transshipment
Air
3–6 days
from SGN / HAN, including handling time
Distance
3,072 km
straight-line distance
Transit times are indicative estimates, not commitments. Contact us for actual vessel and flight schedules.
Major seaports
The World Port Index lists 1 ports in Palau. The table below shows the main cargo ports.
| Port | UN/LOCODE | Size | Channel depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malakal Harbor | — | Very small | 12 m |
Port guides: Palau
International airports
Palau has 1 large and medium-sized airports. The main airports for cargo are:
| Airport | IATA | City |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Tmetuchl International Airport | ROR | Babelthuap Island |
Services for the Vietnam – Palau lane
AIR FREIGHT
Air Freight
Weekly block space agreements and full charters for urgent, high-value cargo.
- Express
- Charter
- DG
- Pharma
ROAD & RAIL
Road & Rail Freight
Owned GPS-tracked fleet and Vietnam – China – Europe rail freight.
- FTL
- LTL
- Cross-border
- Rail
CONTRACT LOGISTICS
Warehousing & Distribution
International-standard distribution centers run on WMS and automated conveyor systems.
- Bonded
- Cold chain
- Fulfillment
CUSTOMS & TRADE
Customs & Trade Advisory
Licensed customs brokers and FTA specialists who optimize duty rates for FDI companies.
- VNACCS
- C/O
- EVFTA
- CPTPP
PROJECT CARGO
Project & Oversized Cargo
Route surveys, lashing plans and equipment transport for industrial and energy projects.
- OOG
- Heavy-lift
- Turnkey
Are you a logistics company in Palau?
Join Global Logistic Group’s agent network to handle shipments from Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
Frequently asked questions
How long does ocean freight from Vietnam to Palau take?
Estimated ocean transit time is 15–30 days, depending on the origin and destination ports, carrier and number of transshipments. Global Logistic Group provides exact sailing schedules with every quote.
What are the main seaports in Palau?
The main cargo ports in Palau include Malakal Harbor.
Which airports handle international air cargo in Palau?
International air cargo to Palau mainly arrives via Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR).
What trade agreements do Vietnam and Palau have?
There is currently no free trade agreement in force between Vietnam and Palau.
Other markets in Micronesia
Sources: World Bank (GDP for 2023, population), NGA World Port Index, OurAirports, mledoze/countries. Figures are for reference only.