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Importing from Vietnam, Procurement and sourcing

Vietnam has become a leading global hub for importing, procurement, and sourcing, offering a rich diversity of export products, competitive pricing, and strategic trade advantages.. Its robust industries include textiles, electronics, agriculture, furniture, and footwear, providing countless opportunities for international businesses.

This guide covers Vietnam’s key export sectors, prominent suppliers, logistics strategies, compliance requirements, and financial considerations. By exploring regional specialties such as Hanoi’s industrial goods or Ho Chi Minh City’s textiles, you can confidently navigate Vietnam's sourcing landscape. Moreover, the guide highlights practical steps to evaluate suppliers and manage risk effectively. Whether you’re venturing into new markets or expanding existing trade operations, this guide ensures you stay informed about global standards, sustainable practices, and ethical compliance in Vietnam's dynamic export ecosystem.

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Market Analysis

Vietnam’s export landscape is diverse and strategically organized. Key products include textiles, electronics, agricultural goods (coffee, rice, seafood), furniture, and footwear. The market offers diverse opportunities for businesses importing from Vietnam, with strategic regional hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Specialized Regions

  1. Hanoi: Manufacturing and industrial goods.
  2. Ho Chi Minh City: A hub for textiles, electronics, and footwear.
  3. Da Nang: Known for IT and logistics.
  4. Can Tho: Famous for agricultural products like rice and seafood.

Seasonal Fluctuations and Pricing

  1. Seasonal impacts: Agricultural goods like rice and coffee are heavily influenced by harvest periods (May–October).
  2. Price variations are notable across products. For example, basic T-shirts range from $1.50–$10, whereas standard furniture pieces typically cost $50–$300. Therefore, businesses can select options that align with their budget and quality requirements.

Top Exporters

Textiles sector - Importing from Vietnam

Vietnam’s textile industry is a cornerstone of its export economy. Leading companies like Vinatex dominate the market, providing products ranging from yarns to finished garments. In addition to other key players, Thanh Cong Textile Garment Investment Trading JSC offers comprehensive solutions, including knitting, dyeing, and garment manufacturing. Similarly, Saigon 3 Garment Joint Stock Company specializes in high-quality denim and casual wear for global brands. Meanwhile, Hoa Tho Textile-Garment Joint Stock Corporation focuses on diverse textile products for international markets, ensuring broad appeal. Together, these companies reinforce Vietnam’s position as a global textile powerhouse.

  1. Vinatex: Vietnam's largest textile and garment corporation, offering a wide range of products from yarns to finished garments.
  2. TNG Investment and Trading JSC: Specializes in manufacturing and exporting garments to markets like the USA, EU, and Japan.
  3. Thanh Cong Textile Garment Investment Trading JSC: Provides comprehensive textile solutions, including knitting, dyeing, and garment manufacturing.
  4. Saigon 3 Garment Joint Stock Company: Known for high-quality denim and casual wear, serving international brands.
  5. Hoa Tho Textile-Garment Joint Stock Corporation: Offers a variety of textile products and has a significant export presence.

Agriculture businesses - Importing from Vietnam

Agriculture is a critical export sector, showcasing Vietnam’s natural resources and farming expertise. Vinafood II leads in rice exports, supported by Intimex Group for coffee, pepper, and cashew nuts. Furthermore, Minh Phu Seafood Corporation is renowned for its shrimp exports, ranking among the largest globally. This underscores Vietnam’s strength in agricultural exports and seafood production. This achievement reflects Vietnam’s strength in agricultural exports. Companies like TH Group and Loc Troi Group complement the sector with dairy products and agricultural services, respectively, ensuring a diverse agricultural portfolio.

  1. Vinafood II: A leading exporter of rice and other agricultural products.
  2. Intimex Group: Specializes in exporting coffee, pepper, and cashew nuts.
  3. Minh Phu Seafood Corporation: One of the largest shrimp exporters globally.
  4. TH Group: Known for dairy products and fresh milk.
  5. Loc Troi Group: Provides agricultural services and exports rice and other crops.

Furniture manufacturing - Importing from Vietnam

Vietnam’s furniture industry has gained global recognition for its quality and sustainability. AA Corporation specializes in high-end furniture and interior fit-outs. Likewise, Duc Loi Wood Processing Co., Ltd. focuses on standard wooden furniture for export, catering to diverse client needs. As a result, it supports Vietnam’s growing reputation as a reliable furniture supplier. focuses on standard wooden furniture for export. Notably, Truong Thanh Furniture Corporation emphasizes sustainability in its indoor and outdoor furniture offerings. Additionally, Scansia Pacific Co., Ltd. provides premium wooden products for the European market, further enhancing Vietnam’s standing in sustainable furniture manufacturing. Moreover, its focus on high-quality production appeals to eco-conscious consumers. caters to the European market with its premium wooden products. These manufacturers highlight Vietnam’s growing influence in the furniture sector.

  1. AA Corporation: Specializes in high-end furniture and interior fit-outs.
  2. Duc Loi Wood Processing Co., Ltd.: Produces a variety of wooden furniture for export.
  3. Truong Thanh Furniture Corporation: Offers indoor and outdoor furniture, focusing on sustainability.
  4. Scansia Pacific Co., Ltd.: Manufactures wooden furniture, primarily for the European market.
  5. Hoa Phat Furniture: Part of Hoa Phat Group, producing office and home furniture.

Footwear industry - Importing from Vietnam

The footwear sector is one of Vietnam’s strongest export industries. Companies like Pou Chen Vietnam manufacture products for leading brands like Nike and Adidas. Similarly, Changshin Vietnam excels in producing athletic footwear for international markets. In addition, TBS Group and Saigon Shoes Joint Stock Company contribute with a range of footwear for global exports. Meanwhile, Biti’s represents a well-established Vietnamese brand, serving both domestic and international consumers with distinction.

  1. Pou Chen Vietnam: A major manufacturer for global brands like Nike and Adidas.
  2. Changshin Vietnam: Produces athletic footwear for international markets.
  3. TBS Group: Engages in footwear manufacturing and exports to various countries.
  4. Saigon Shoes Joint Stock Company: Offers a range of footwear products for export.
  5. Biti's: A well-known Vietnamese brand producing footwear for domestic and international markets.

Supplier Evaluation

  • Top suppliers:
    • Vinatex: Vietnam’s largest textile manufacturer.
    • Hoa Phat Group: Leading steel manufacturer.
    • Samsung Electronics Vietnam: Major electronics exporter.
  • Certifications: Many suppliers hold ISO, WRAP (for textiles), or BSCI certifications.
  • References: Request case studies or examples of exports to markets like the US or EU.
  • Production capacity:
    • Production capacity varies by supplier but is generally high. Consequently, Vietnam excels in large-scale production, making it an attractive sourcing destination for bulk buyers. Moreover, its infrastructure supports efficient mass production across multiple sectors.
  • Samples: Most suppliers provide samples for a fee (~$50–$100, depending on the product).

Logistics and Shipping

Shipping logistics for importing from Vietnam are efficient, with key ports like Hai Phong and Cat Lai enabling smooth trade

  • Key ports:
    • Hai Phong Port (North): Electronics and machinery.
    • Cat Lai Port (South): Textiles and consumer goods.
    • Da Nang Port (Central): Trade with ASEAN countries.
  • Lead times:
    • Sea freight: 3–6 weeks (depending on destination).
    • Air freight: 3–7 days.
  • Cost-effective:
    • Shipping is achievable through sea freight, which is more affordable but slower. Alternatively, for faster solutions, air freight offers shorter lead times despite being more expensive. Thus, businesses can choose a method that best fits their needs and timelines.
  • Freight forwarders:
    • DHL, Maersk, and Kuehne + Nagel are reliable options in Vietnam.
  • Shipping costs: Example for a 20-ft container:
    • To the US: ~$1,500–$2,500.
    • To the EU: ~$1,000–$1,800.

Compliance and Documentation- Importing from Vietnam

Compliance is a critical factor for businesses importing from Vietnam, ensuring accurate documentation and smooth customs clearance.

  • Export documents:
    • Certificate of Origin.
    • Commercial Invoice.
    • Packing List.
    • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill.
  • Taxes and tariffs:
    • Products like textiles benefit significantly from Vietnam’s free trade agreements (FTAs), such as the EVFTA (EU-Vietnam FTA) or CPTPP. Thus, businesses can enjoy reduced tariffs and enhanced market access.
  • Customs regulations:
    • Ensure HS codes are accurate to avoid delays.
  • Testing certifications:
    • Electronics: CE, FCC.
    • Textiles: Oeko-Tex.

Risk Management while Importing from Vietnam

  • Common challenges:
    • Language barriers: Use bilingual agents or translators.
    • Quality control: Hire a third-party inspection service like Intertek or SGS.
    • Shipping delays are common during peak seasons. To mitigate this, businesses should factor in 10–15% additional lead time. By planning ahead, such disruptions can be minimized.
  • Conflict resolution:
    • Contracts governed by Vietnam’s trade laws.
    • Disputes handled through arbitration centers like VIAC (Vietnam International Arbitration Center).
  • Inspection services: Costs ~$300–$500 per inspection.

Financial Considerations

  • Payment terms:
    • T/T (telegraphic transfer) is common for initial orders.
    • L/C (letter of credit) for large transactions.
  • Hidden costs:
    • Port handling fees (~$100–$300/container).
    • Customs clearance fees (~$50–$100/shipment).
  • Exchange rates:
    • Vietnamese Dong (VND) is relatively stable against the USD (~23,000 VND/USD).

Networking and Partnerships

  • Trade shows:
  • Sourcing agents:
    • Leverage local consultants for supplier vetting and negotiations.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

  • Environmental practices:
    • Many suppliers adhere to ISO 14001 (environmental management).
  • Ethical compliance:
    • Major exporters avoid child or forced labor to meet international standards.