Vietnam commercial drone market report size, share, growth drivers, trends, opportunities & forecast 2025–2030

Vietnam Commercial Drone Market Overview

• The Vietnam Commercial Drone Market is valued at USD 65 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by rapid advancements in drone technology, expanding applications in agriculture, logistics, construction, and public safety, as well as supportive government initiatives that encourage the adoption of drones for commercial purposes. The market has experienced a notable increase in demand for drones in precision agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and last-mile delivery, reflecting a broader trend toward automation and digital transformation in key sectors .
• Key cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi remain dominant in the commercial drone market due to their advanced infrastructure, high population density, and concentration of industries leveraging drone technology. These urban centers serve as hubs for logistics, agriculture, and media applications, and the presence of both innovative startups and established enterprises in these cities further strengthens their leadership in the market .
• The regulatory framework for drone operations in Vietnam is governed byCircular No. 19/2019/TT-BQP issued by the Ministry of National Defence in 2019. This regulation requires commercial drone operators to obtain operational permits, comply with designated airspace restrictions, and adhere to safety and technical standards. The framework aims to ensure the safe and responsible use of drones, fostering public trust and supporting the sustainable growth of the commercial drone sector .

Vietnam Commercial Drone Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into four main types of drones: Fixed-wing Drones, Rotary-wing Drones, Hybrid Drones, and Nano/Micro Drones. Each type addresses specific operational needs and payload capacities. Fixed-wing drones are preferred for long-range and large-area missions such as mapping and surveying. Rotary-wing drones are favored for their vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, making them suitable for inspection and delivery in confined urban spaces. Hybrid drones combine the endurance of fixed-wing with the flexibility of rotary-wing models, while nano/micro drones are increasingly utilized for specialized tasks in inspection and monitoring .

By End-User:The commercial drone market is segmented by end-users, including Agriculture, Construction & Infrastructure, Logistics & Delivery, Public Safety & Law Enforcement, Media and Entertainment, Energy & Utilities, Environmental Monitoring, and Others. Drones are widely used in agriculture for crop monitoring, spraying, and yield estimation; in construction for site surveying and progress tracking; in logistics for last-mile delivery; and in public safety for surveillance and emergency response. The adoption of drones in media, utilities, and environmental monitoring is also increasing as industries seek to enhance operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making .

Vietnam Commercial Drone Market Competitive Landscape

The Vietnam Commercial Drone Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as DJI Technology Co., Ltd., Parrot SA, Yuneec International, senseFly (an AgEagle company), Skydio, Inc., AeroVironment, Inc., Delair SAS, Flycam Pro JSC (Vietnam), RT Robotics (Vietnam), Nam Phuong Drone (Vietnam), Viet Uc Drone (Vietnam), Drone Pro JSC (Vietnam), EHang Holdings Limited, Autel Robotics Co., Ltd., and Aerialtronics DV B.V. contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space .

Vietnam Commercial Drone Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Demand for Aerial Surveillance:The demand for aerial surveillance in Vietnam is projected to reach 1,200 units in future, driven by security concerns and urbanization. The government allocated approximately $150 million for enhancing surveillance capabilities in urban areas. This investment is expected to boost the adoption of drones for monitoring public safety, traffic management, and disaster response, creating a robust market for commercial drones in the surveillance sector.
• Expansion of Agricultural Applications:Vietnam's agricultural sector, contributing approximately 14% to GDP, is increasingly adopting drone technology for precision farming. The use of drones in agriculture is expected to grow to 800 units in future, with an estimated market value of $50 million. Drones facilitate crop monitoring, pesticide spraying, and yield estimation, enhancing productivity and sustainability in a sector that employs over 36% of the workforce, thus driving market growth.
• Technological Advancements in Drone Capabilities:The rapid evolution of drone technology, including improved battery life and enhanced imaging systems, is a significant growth driver. The average flight time of commercial drones is expected to exceed 30 minutes in future, with payload capacities reaching 5 kg. These advancements enable more efficient operations across various sectors, including logistics and agriculture, thereby expanding the market's potential and attracting new investments.

Market Challenges

• Regulatory Hurdles and Compliance Issues:The regulatory landscape for commercial drones in Vietnam remains complex, with stringent licensing requirements. Only 300 operators are licensed, limiting market participation. Compliance with airspace management regulations and safety guidelines poses challenges for new entrants, hindering the growth of the commercial drone market. This regulatory environment necessitates significant investment in legal and operational frameworks.
• High Initial Investment Costs:The high upfront costs associated with commercial drones, averaging around $10,000 per unit, present a significant barrier to entry for many businesses. The total investment required for drone technology in Vietnam is estimated at $200 million. This financial burden can deter small and medium enterprises from adopting drone solutions, limiting market expansion and innovation in the sector.

Vietnam Commercial Drone Market Future Outlook

The future of the Vietnam commercial drone market appears promising, driven by technological advancements and increasing applications across various sectors. The integration of AI and machine learning in drone operations is expected to enhance efficiency and data analytics capabilities in future. Additionally, the rise of drone-as-a-service models will provide cost-effective solutions for businesses, facilitating broader adoption. As regulatory frameworks evolve, the market is likely to witness increased participation from diverse industries, fostering innovation and growth.

Market Opportunities

• Growth in Logistics and Delivery Services:The logistics sector in Vietnam is projected to grow by approximately 15% annually, creating significant opportunities for drone delivery services. The demand for drone logistics solutions is expected to reach $30 million in future, driven by the need for faster and more efficient delivery methods in urban areas, particularly in e-commerce.
• Integration with Smart City Initiatives:Vietnam's commitment to developing smart cities presents a unique opportunity for commercial drones. Investments in smart city projects are expected to exceed $1 billion in future, with drones playing a crucial role in urban planning, traffic management, and environmental monitoring, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of urban infrastructure.