Handicraft exports are among the top 10 high-value sectors, experiencing stable growth and present in 163 countries and territories. They are gradually expanding their market share and establishing a foothold in demanding markets such as the EU, the US, Japan, and South Korea – demonstrating the industry’s increasingly improved adaptability and integration capabilities.
The situation of Vietnamese handicraft exports in recent years
According to reports from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the export value of handicrafts has consistently been among Vietnam’s top 10 largest export items in recent years, and this sector plays a significant role in the transformation of the rural economic structure. It also attracts many workers to participate in export production, helping to increase employment opportunities and alleviate poverty in rural areas. Furthermore, the export value of this product brings significant added value and is considered a key sector to focus on developing exports in the coming years.
Vietnam’s handicraft export value is estimated to reach US$4 billion in 2024. Vietnamese handicraft products are present in 163 countries and territories. The size of the Vietnamese handicraft market is predicted to grow at a rate of approximately 8.7% in the period 2024-2032.
Because handicraft production largely uses domestic raw materials and is almost entirely independent of imported materials, this product has high domestic potential. In addition, the workforce is able to quickly adopt new technologies and possesses skills, while having lower wages compared to other countries in the region, which is also an advantage for developing and enhancing the competitiveness of diversified handicraft production.
Countries Importing Vietnamese Handicrafts
Currently, Vietnamese handicraft products are exported to 163 countries and territories worldwide. From 2015-2019, the export value of Vietnamese handicrafts increased by an average of 9.5% per year, from US$1.6 billion to US$2.23 billion. The United States is the largest consumer market (accounting for 35% of annual export value), followed by Japan, the European Union (especially Germany, the UK, France, the Netherlands, etc.), Australia, and South Korea.
Exported handicrafts mainly consist of 5 groups: Handbags, wallets, suitcases, hats, umbrellas; Toys, sporting goods and related items; Ceramics; Rattan, bamboo, and rush products, carpets; and Fine wood crafts. In addition, many fashion items and gifts are exported locally to meet the shopping needs of foreign tourists visiting Vietnam (accounting for 15% of total spending – an average of 15 USD per tourist).
Vietnamese handicrafts are highly valued by international consumers for their sophistication, uniqueness, and strong traditional identity, aligning with global sustainable consumption trends. These products are made from materials such as bamboo, rattan, sedge, water hyacinth, natural wood, and recycled materials. With a skilled workforce, abundant raw materials, and long-standing export experience, Vietnam is considered by many countries as an important global hub for handicrafts.
To provide opportunities for foreign businesses and investors seeking business opportunities and reputable Vietnamese exporters, including those in the handicraft industry, the Vietnam International Sourcing 2026 (VIS) will be held from September 3-5, 2026, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), 799 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The fair will bring together over 600 Vietnamese manufacturers/exporters showcasing 12,000 export-eligible products in the following sectors: Food and Beverages; Household Goods; Lifestyle & Personal Care; and Export Supply Chain Exhibition. The organizers aim to facilitate and promote connections between foreign retail distribution channels, importers, and domestic manufacturing and exporting businesses. Participating entities include… Vietnamese industry associations, manufacturing and exporting businesses, international retail and distribution corporations (including Acon, Amazon, Central Retail, Carrefour, Coppel, Decathlon, MegaMarket, Walmart, etc.), foreign businesses supplying machinery, equipment, and raw materials for production in Vietnam, and supply chain service providers (including logistics, banking, and insurance companies)…
Interested businesses are invited to visit the event website at https://www.vietnamsourcingexpo.vn/en/
or contact the Vietnamese Trade Office in Singapore via the following contact information:
VIETNAMESE TRADE OFFICE – EMBASSY OF VIETNAM IN SINGAPORE
Address: 10 Leedon Park, S267887
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Mobile (Whatsapp/Viber): +65 89075885 (Ms. Quynh)
