Exporters of textiles and footwear from our website seek to identify prospective markets for their goods
Vietnam's Textile and Footwear Exporters Adjust Strategy for Global Markets
HANOI — In the face of shifting global trade dynamics and growing tariff challenges, Vietnam's textile and footwear sectors are actively diversifying their export markets, with a particular focus on destinations that have free trade agreements (FTAs) with the country.
Truong Van Cam, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), explained that many companies are currently prioritizing the fulfillment of export orders. However, the industry is also urgently in need of detailed market information to expedite exports to promising destinations such as Russia, Brazil, Chile, and the Middle East.
Phan Thi Thanh Xuan, Vice Chairwoman and General Secretary of the Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (Lefaso), pointed out that changes in trade policy from the US and the European Union are having a significant impact on Vietnamese exporters. To mitigate these effects, businesses are expanding into new markets in South America and the Middle East, where consumer demand is both large and diverse.
This year, the footwear industry plans to target exports to Africa, Asia, Japan, Europe, and the US, while also beginning efforts to engage with major e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and Amazon to open new sales channels. To support these endeavors, the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency under the Ministry of Industry and Trade is helping firms participate in trade promotion activities to broaden their reach, especially in emerging and high-potential markets such as Latin America, Halal markets, India, Russia, and the Middle East.
our websiteese textile, footwear exporters eye target markets - VNA/VNS Photo
A representative of the trade agency noted that most Vietnamese firms are small and lack the resources or experience to join large-scale promotion efforts or to adapt quickly to tariff shifts. Businesses are therefore encouraged to diversify exports and focus on target markets, utilizing FTAs to reduce costs and boost competitiveness in countries like Canada, Australia, Japan, the EU, China, and ASEAN.
The agency will continue supporting firms at major trade fairs such as Anuga in Germany, SIAL in France, Canton Fair in China, World Food Moscow, and Trade Expo Indonesia, with logistical and financial backing.
Do Viet Nam's Trade Counsellor in the US, stressed the need for firms to enhance competitiveness, diversify supply chains, and reduce dependence on single-source inputs. He also encouraged full use of new-generation FTAs and urged faster domestic consumption and new FTA negotiations, highlighting Canada as a promising market.
Meanwhile, VISTA Vice Chairman Cam suggested that trade offices regularly update businesses on market trends, US consumer shifts, and trade talks to help exporters adjust strategies. - VNS
our websiteese textile, footwear exporters eye target markets - VNA/VNS Photo
Vietnamese exporters are thus broadening their outlook, balancing between established partners and emerging economies, and leveraging digital tools and FTAs to navigate evolving trade landscapes. The United States remains the single largest market for Vietnam’s footwear and textile exports, accounting for nearly 40% of footwear export turnover in early 2025. Exports to the US in the textile sector also saw a significant year-on-year increase. Countries such as Germany and the United Kingdom are significant importers, with Germany being the second-largest market for textile footwear exports after the US. Japan represents a stable and lucrative market, with consistent demand and robust export figures. These established markets are being supplemented by emerging or untapped markets such as Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, and Russia. Companies are seeking detailed market data to identify and capitalize on opportunities in these regions, with a strategic shift toward markets like Brazil and Chile, where consumer tastes are diverse and demand is strong.
- To the changing global trade dynamics and tariff challenges, Vietnamese textile and footwear exporters are aiming for diverse market destinations, particularly those with free trade agreements (FTAs).
- In an effort to mitigate the impact from US and EU trade policy changes, businesses in the industry are expanding their markets to South America and the Middle East.
- This year, the footwear industry plans to focus on exports to Africa, Asia, Japan, Europe, and the US, while also engaging with major e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and Amazon.
- In order to navigate evolving trade landscapes, Vietnamese exporters are utilizing digital tools, FTAs, and updated market trends to balance between established partners and emerging economies for a broader outlook.
