Vietnam is a great destination for sourcing products, especially if you want to diversify your supply chain from China. The country also has a strong manufacturing sector that can produce a wide range of products, such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and agricultural products.
But how do you find reliable manufacturers in Vietnam for your products? Different from China, where you can easily find suppliers online on platforms like Alibaba or Global Sources, Vietnam’s manufacturers are less visible online and may have different requirements and standards. In this comprehensive article, we will provide tips and tricks to help you find reliable manufacturers in Vietnam for your products.
What is a Manufacturer?
Manufacturers are businesses and companies that apply production materials, labor, and workforce to create products to meet market demands. These goods are then distributed and sold to wholesalers, retailers, consumers, or other manufacturers who want to develop related products.
A typical manufacturer usually focuses on a specific production line for a particular product. This leads to retailers often working with multiple different manufacturers when distributing goods.
To meet the high demands of domestic and international consumers, manufacturers invest in expanding production scale with more factories, modern production lines, and well-trained workers.
Differentiating manufacturers and suppliers
People often confuse the terms “manufacturer” and “supplier” because these two terms are often used in similar contexts and play an important role in the product supply chain. So how can we differentiate them, let’s check those key main points:
- The main task of a manufacturer is to process/raw materials into finished products in large quantities.
- The customers of manufacturers are B2B businesses or suppliers who want to distribute products to the market.
- Manufacturers often have large inventories for a specific product with large orders, while suppliers have a more enormous inventory and a wider range of products with fewer purchases.
How to Find Manufacturers in Vietnam
There are several ways to find manufacturers in Vietnam, depending on your product category, industry, and budget. Here are some of the most common methods.
1. Vietnam Manufacturers online directory
Online directories list manufacturers by product category, industry, or location. You can use online directories to search for manufacturers in Vietnam based on your criteria. Find some of the most popular online directories for finding manufacturers in Vietnam below.
Alibaba
Alibaba.com is the largest online marketplace for finding suppliers in China, but it also has a section for Vietnamese suppliers. You can filter by country and product category to find potential manufacturers in Vietnam. However, not all Vietnamese suppliers are listed on Alibaba.com, and some may have higher minimum order quantities or lower quality standards than you expect.
Vietnam Export
Vietnamexport.com provides information and services for Vietnamese exporters and foreign importers. This site promotes trade and investment between Vietnam and other countries, especially in agriculture, seafood, handicrafts, textiles, and electronics.
Since they connect buyers with verified and reliable suppliers, who have been screened and evaluated by their team, International buyers can find sourcing opportunities with Vietnamese suppliers easier. They also offer trading services such as market research, trade consulting, logistics, and customs clearance to help buyers with their import process.
To source products from Vietnam, visit Vietnamexport’s website and register as a buyer. Contact the website’s customer service for more information and assistance.
VietFactory
VietFactory is a website that focuses on finding manufacturers in Vietnam. It has a large and verified database of Vietnamese manufacturers in various industries, such as furniture, clothing, electronics, and more. You can browse by product category or use the search function to find suitable manufacturers. You can also create a request for suppliers (RFS) post with your product details and requirements and let the manufacturers contact you directly. With VietFactory, you can find the main benefits:
- Access a directory of over 50,000 Vietnamese manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and service providers with detailed profiles and contact information.
- Search for suitable suppliers by category, location, business type, language, and export experience, and filter the results by various criteria.
- Contact suppliers directly through the website, or request quotations, samples, or visits from the suppliers of their choice.
Vietnam Manufacturers
Vietnam Manufacturers is a website owned by YES ASIA, a company specialising in advertising for the industrial sector in Vietnam. They have a comprehensive Vietnam Manufacturing database, enabling them to publish many “Vietnam Manufacturers Directories” since 2009. The contents include Vietnam manufacturers’ database and detailed information by city. You can contact them to buy their Vietnam Manufacturers Directory for only 600,000 VND (around 26 USD).
The site also serves as a trading marketplace for manufacturers and international buyers. There are various industries that buyers can search for, such as Furniture and Furnishing, Food and Beverage, Electronics, Household products, Garments, Gifts & Souvenirs, etc. However, some industries may have limited information, and you may need help finding the manufacturers for your industry on their websites. But this site is a good start to look for some basic information, as they also provide the latest Tradeshows & Exhibitions in Vietnam, where you can visit the manufacturers in person and find your sourcing opportunities.
Vietnam Credit
VietnamCredit, also known as Vietnam Credit Group, is a reputable business information provider in Vietnam. With a history dating back to 1996, the group was formed by financial experts who collected and analyzed data on business entities in Vietnam. Over the years, VietnamCredit has become a leader in the industry, offering refined and reliable data and business information services.
Their website offers comprehensive business information and credit rating services in Vietnam. It serves as a valuable resource for international buyers who are looking to find and evaluate reliable manufacturers and suppliers in Vietnam in many ways:
- Wide Range of Products and Services: The website offers a variety of products and services, including company reports, industry reports, due diligence reports, sales and marketing solutions, and collection support services. Buyers have access to valuable insights and tools to support their sourcing activities.
- Extensive Database: VietnamCredit has the largest and most accurate database in Vietnam, with information on over 1.2 million businesses operating in various sectors and industries. This vast database provides buyers many options when searching for reliable manufacturers and suppliers.
- Trustworthy Insights: The data collected and verified by VietnamCredit’s experienced experts and partners ensures the reliability and accuracy of the insights and analysis provided. Buyers can make informed decisions based on trustworthy information.
- Risk Reduction and Credit Control: VietnamCredit’s services help buyers reduce business risks and control credit quality when engaging in international trade with Vietnamese suppliers. This enhances the confidence and security of business transactions.
2. Trade Association in Vietnam
Trade associations serve as valuable resources for industry-specific information, offering insights into market trends, regulations, and opportunities. They also provide extensive networks, connecting buyers with potential manufacturers and suppliers. Buyers can access services and support through trade associations, including trade promotion, market research, consulting, and dispute resolution. By leveraging the expertise and resources of trade associations, international buyers can navigate the Vietnamese market more effectively and establish reliable partnerships with manufacturers.
Handicraft and Wood Industry Association (HAWA)
Handicraft and Wood Industry Association (HAWA) is an organization that represents and supports the interests and needs of the handicraft, wood and furniture industry in Vietnam. HAWA was established in 1991 and has nearly 600 members operating in various fields, such as production, trade, and service. The association acts as a bridge between its members, the state management agencies, and other domestic and foreign partners.
HAWA organizes and participates in various activities and projects to promote the development and growth of the furniture industry, such as trade fairs, exhibitions, competitions, social responsibility programs, certification systems, and online platforms. International buyers can benefit much from HAWA’s projects, such as Vietnam International Wood and Handicraft Fair (VIFA EXPO), Vietnam Furniture Matching Week, Online exhibition platform – HopeFairs and Wood certification and traceability system.
Binh Duong Furniture Association (BIFA)
Binh Duong Furniture Association (BIFA) is an organization that represents and supports the interests and needs of the wood and furniture industry in Binh Duong province, Vietnam. BIFA was established in 2009 as a non-governmental and voluntary association. They have more than 200 members, who are local enterprises operating in various fields related to wood and furniture. International buyers can find manufacturers through BIFA by searching BIFA’s directory of members by category, location, and business type or by joining BIFA membership and getting support from the local team.
Viet Nam Timber and Forest Product Association (VIFORES)
Viet Nam Timber and Forest Product Association (VIFORES) is an organization that represents and supports the businesses involved in timber processing, forestry, timber harvesting, and timber product import-export in Vietnam. VIFORES was established in 2000 as a non-governmental and voluntary association. VIFORES has over 1,000 member companies operating in various sectors and regions of Vietnam. International buyers can benefit from VIFORES by checking their official magazine: Vietnam Timber Magazine (Tap Chi Go Viet), which is issued monthly in printed and electronic versions. The magazine provides valuable information for businesses, managers, and experts in Vietnam’s timber industry and the global market. They can also search for VIFORES’s directory of members to find suitable local manufacturers.
Vietnam Plastic Association (VPA)
The Vietnam Plastic Association (VPA) is an organization that represents the plastic industry in Vietnam. They have a wide network of members, including manufacturers, suppliers, and professionals in the industry. International buyers can benefit from connecting with VPA in several ways, such as gaining valuable market insights and industry trends to make informed decisions. VPA also facilitates networking opportunities, connecting international buyers with reliable manufacturers and suppliers in Vietnam’s plastic industry. By partnering with VPA, international buyers can access a pool of trusted and quality-conscious manufacturers, ensuring a smooth and successful sourcing experience in Vietnam’s plastic sector.
Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS)
Viet Nam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) is an organization that represents and supports the textile and garment industry in Vietnam. VITAS was established in 1999 as a non-governmental and voluntary association. They have more than 1,000 member companies operating in various textile and garment production and trade fields. You can leverage VITAS’s resources to find textile manufacturers in Vietnam, such as:
- Vietnam Textile Magazine is issued quarterly in printed and electronic versions. The magazine provides valuable information for businesses, managers, and experts in Vietnam’s textile and garment industry and the global market.
- Attending VITAS’s events and trade fairs, both online and offline, to connect with industry experts and manufacturers.
- Searching VITAS’s directory. As a VITAS member, you can buy their Manufacturer Print Book, which gives you more details and options for finding your perfect textile manufacturer in Vietnam.
Viet Nam Leather and Footwear Association (LEFASO)
Viet Nam Leather, Footwear and Hanbag Association (LEFASO) is an organization that represents and supports the leather, footwear and handbag industry in Vietnam. LEFASO was established in 1990 as a non-governmental and voluntary association. LEFASO has over 500 member companies, operating in various fields related to leather, footwear and handbag production and trade.
Vietnam Food Associations
Vietnam has many food associations that focus on specific industries, such as rice, coffee and cocoa, seafood, tea, cashew, pepper, fruit and vegetables, etc. These associations can provide valuable industry insights, local news updates, and networking events for buyers and manufacturers. International buyers can increase their chances of finding reliable manufacturers from accredited associations by learning from and joining these associations. Here is a list of the Food Associations in Vietnam.
- Vietnam Food Association
- Viet Nam Coffee and Cocoa Association
- Viet Nam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers
- Viet Nam Tea Association
- Vietnam Fruit & Vegetable Association
- Vietnam Cashew Association
- Viet Nam Pepper Association
3. Tradeshows / TradeFairs
Tradeshows provide invaluable opportunities for buyers to find manufacturers. By attending a tradefair or tradeshow, buyers can benefit from face-to-face interaction, which means they can meet and connect directly with potential manufacturers. Another great advantage is that they can evaluate products in a realistic way by seeing, touching, and testing the products from different manufacturers in one location. The hands-on experience allows them to select the most suitable partner for their business. In addition, international buyers can also stay updated with market insights, trends, and innovations.
Here is a list of popular tradeshows in Vietnam sorted by industries.
Furniture Tradeshows
Vietnam International Furniture Fair (VIFA EXPO)
Vietnam International Woodworking Industry Fair (VietnamWood)
Printing and Packaging
Seafood
Textile and Garment
Vietnam Int’l Textile and Apparel Industry Exhibition
4. Find a professional sourcing company in Vietnam
A sourcing company will help you find and work with manufacturers in Vietnam. They act as your local partner who can handle all the aspects of your sourcing project, so you can save your time and focus on your product quality. Finding a sourcing agent can help you to:
- Finding qualified manufacturers who can meet your specifications, quality, and price expectations.
- Negotiating with manufacturers and securing the best deals.
- Arranging samples and prototypes for your approval
- Conducting quality inspections and testing to ensure compliance and safety
- Handling logistics and shipping to deliver your products on time and on budget
In short, working with a sourcing company can save you time, money, and hassle so you do not have to worry about the challenges when sourcing from Vietnam. However, not all sourcing companies are created equal. You need to choose a professional sourcing company to work with, and here are some tips for choosing the right partner:
- Experience and expertise in your product category and industry
- A network of verified and trusted manufacturers in Vietnam
- A transparent and competitive pricing structure
- A clear and effective communication process
- A commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing practices
One of the best sourcing companies in Vietnam that meet all these criteria is Aladdin Sourcing. We are a professional sourcing agent that helps you find the best manufacturers in Vietnam for your products. With many years of experience in sourcing products from Vietnam, our team of experts will handle every aspect of your sourcing project, from product development to delivery. Aladdin Sourcing specializes in sourcing products such as Furniture, Metal Can, Candle, Paper Box, Paper Stationery and Plastic Packaging. We have access to many verified manufacturers in Vietnam who can offer high-quality products at competitive prices. Contact us today for your sourcing needs!