A corner of on Hoa Sen-Phu My Steel Factory in the southern province of Ba Ria Vung Tau. — VNA/VNS Photo Hoang Hai

The first four months of 2020 saw astounding export growth of various commodity groups, including iron and steel, machinery and sports equipment, to Germany despite the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the General Department of Customs, iron and steel exports were up 27-fold in quantity and 29-fold in value compared to the same period of 2019, reaching US$2 million.

Even though the growth is significant, the value gained overall does not affect the total export turnover to the German market.

Other billion-dollar groups also witnessed impressive growth.

Machinery, equipment, tools and spare parts earned $199 million in value, up 50 per cent.

Toys, sports equipment and parts also recorded a 187 per cent growth with a turnover of $46.5 million.

Coffee is another bright spot in the picture, having gained 26.5 per cent in value and achieved $176 million in turnover. — VNS