Vietnam’s textile and footwear industry is undergoing significant changes, marked by a surge in the import of raw materials from the EU. This trend not only meets production demands but also aligns with export strategies, particularly in the context of increasingly stringent international standards.
The Rise in EU Raw Material Imports: Italy Leads, Austria and France Show Steady Growth
According to Vietnam Customs, in the first nine months of 2024, Vietnam imported textile and footwear materials from the EU worth $367 million, an increase of 16.1% compared to the same period in 2023. Key suppliers such as Italy, Germany, Austria, and France accounted for 95% of the total import value.
Italy remained the largest supplier, with imports reaching $274 million (74.6% of total imports), reflecting a 16.3% increase year-on-year. Italy’s dominance is driven by its high-quality offerings such as premium leather and technical fabrics. Other countries, including Austria and France, also recorded impressive growth rates of 34.5% and 22.7%, respectively. Notably, imports from the Netherlands surged by 82.3% in Q3 2024, indicating a diversification of supply sources within the EU.
| Market | Quarter 3/2024 (Thousand Dollars) | Compared to the second quarter of 2024 (%) | Compared to Q3 2023 (%) | In the first 9 months of 2024 (thousands of USD) | Compared to the first 9 months of 2024 (%) | Density in the first 9 months of 2024 (%) | Density in the first 9 months of 2023 (%) |
| Total | 134.644 | 1,71 | 18,5 | 367.09 | 16,1 | 100,0 | 100,0 |
| Italia | 99.948 | -4,0 | 16,3 | 273.989 | 20,1 | 74,6 | 72,1 |
| Germany | 15.634 | 10,7 | -1,5 | 45.63 | -0,2 | 12,4 | 14,5 |
| Austria | 7.302 | 34,5 | 132,4 | 18.849 | 45,9 | 5,1 | 4,1 |
| France | 4.646 | 22,7 | 13,7 | 12.176 | -18,0 | 3,3 | 4,7 |
| Netherlands | 3.33 | 82,3 | 176,3 | 7.278 | 104,8 | 2,0 | 1,1 |
| Belgium | 3.327 | 23,6 | 19,5 | 8.126 | -17,2 | 2,2 | 3,1 |
| Poland | 457 | 21,8 | -19,2 | 1.042 | -12,5 | 0,3 | 0,4 |
Source: Calculations based on data from the General Department of Customs.
Overall, the trend of imports from the EU is shifting positively, focusing on high-quality suppliers aligned with the strategy to enhance the export value of Vietnam’s textile and footwear industry.
Sustainability Trends and Supply Chain Optimization
As international markets increasingly prioritize environmentally friendly products, the trend of importing sustainable raw materials from the EU has become a key strategy. Materials such as recycled fabrics, eco-friendly leather, and internationally certified sustainable chemicals are highly sought after by Vietnamese businesses.
This shift not only helps meet the requirements of high-end markets but also enhances the “Made in Vietnam” brand. Products that are verified to use transparent and sustainable materials bolster international consumer trust, laying the foundation for long-term growth.
Moreover, diversifying supply sources from markets such as Austria and the Netherlands reduces dependency on traditional suppliers, increasing flexibility in supply chains—an essential advantage in today’s volatile global trade environment.
The Crucial Link Between EU Material Imports and Vietnam’s Exports
The rise in EU raw material imports is not just about meeting production needs but also about elevating export quality. According to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), Vietnam’s textile export turnover reached $32 billion in the first nine months of 2024. Export products today require not only exceptional quality but also adherence to stringent environmental and traceability standards.
EU-imported materials are a cornerstone for Vietnamese businesses to penetrate demanding markets like the EU and the US. Furthermore, thanks to the EVFTA, businesses can optimize production costs and fully utilize intra-regional origin rules, enhancing their competitiveness on the global stage.
Viet Nam International Sourcing Expo 2025: A Global Collaboration Hub
To help businesses optimize their supply chains and connect with international partners, Viet Nam International Sourcing Expo 2025 will take place in Ho Chi Minh City in September 2025. This event serves as a critical platform for Vietnamese enterprises to meet suppliers from the EU and around the world, explore the latest raw material trends, and build strategic partnerships.
Event Highlights:
- Direct connection with top EU suppliers.
- Explore sustainable production trends that meet international standards.
- Build long-term partnerships to enhance global competitiveness.
Event Details:
- Date: September 4-6, 2025
- Venue: Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), Ho Chi Minh City
- Register here: Vietnam International Sourcing Expo
Conclusion
EU raw material imports are becoming a key driver in improving the export quality of Vietnam’s textile and footwear industry, meeting international standards, and establishing a sustainable position in the global market.
Viet Nam International Sourcing Expo 2025 will remain a vital bridge for Vietnamese businesses to discover supply chain solutions, expand partnerships, and embrace modern production trends. This is the moment for Vietnam’s textile and footwear industry to break through and set the stage for growth in the new era.
Source: Vietnam-EU Trade Quarterly Report, Q3/2024
