With this in mind, this guide is for anyone looking to buy products from Vietnam and bring them into their own market — whether you’re an SME seeking new suppliers, a sourcing agent representing buyers, an e-commerce entrepreneur testing products, or a foreign investor exploring long-term trading operations.

It covers how to find and evaluate suppliers, choose the right sourcing model, handle customs and shipping, and comply with local and international regulations.

It also outlines options for setting up a trading company in Vietnam, working with local partners, managing risks, and leveraging free trade agreements.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand an existing supply chain, this guide offers clear, actionable insights tailored to Vietnam’s real-world export environment.

Stay up to date with changes in Vietnam’s import-export industries

Finding a local partner

Business matchmaking services are widely available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major commercial centres.

Many consultancies offer partner-sourcing assistance, helping foreign firms identify reputable trading companies, negotiate terms, and locate suitable products for their target markets.

For firms that want greater oversight of their supply chain within Vietnam, establishing a local presence — either through a representative office or a trading company — may be a more suitable long-term solution.

Using a local trading company

For businesses seeking a fast and low-risk way to export from Vietnam, partnering with a local trading company is often the most straightforward solution.

In this model, the Vietnamese trading company handles logistics from the farm gate or factory floor to one of the country’s many ports.

This allows foreign firms to bypass administrative hurdles and regulatory complexity.

However, it also limits visibility and control over the export process within Vietnam.

Working with sourcing agents or consultants

Sourcing agents or independent consultants offer a middle ground between full in-house control and outsourcing everything to a trading company.

These professionals can assist with supplier selection, product verification, quality control, and price negotiations.

Many work on a commission or flat-fee basis and often have experience across specific industries such as garments, furniture, or electronics.

While sourcing agents provide more flexibility and transparency than trading companies, they do require close oversight and due diligence.

Foreign firms should carefully vet consultants and ensure contracts clearly outline responsibilities, fees, and confidentiality terms.

Setting up your own trading company (WFOE or JV)

For firms planning to make Vietnam a long-term sourcing base, establishing a trading company may be the most strategic option.

Foreign investors can choose between a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) or a joint venture (JV) with a Vietnamese partner.

A WFOE offers full control but involves a more complex registration process and higher upfront costs, including the need to obtain an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC).

A joint venture, by contrast, can reduce time and costs at the outset, as the local partner handles the business registration.

However, JVs require careful management to address potential differences in culture, governance, and expectations.

This approach is best suited to companies with ongoing export volume or those that want to integrate deeper into the local supply chain.

Sourcing products in Vietnam

Vietnam produces a wide range of globally competitive goods — from textiles, footwear, and furniture to electronics, coffee, and processed foods.

However, successful sourcing begins with identifying the right product, the right supplier, and the right relationship model based on your market needs.

Where to find suppliers

There are several reliable ways to connect with Vietnamese suppliers:

Online platforms: Websites like Alibaba, Global Sources, VietnamExport, and Made-in-Vietnam.com feature Vietnamese manufacturers and trading companies across sectors.
Trade fairs: Events such as Vietnam Expo, Vietnam Furniture Fair (VIFA), and Vietnam Textile & Garment Industry Expo are excellent for meeting vetted suppliers in person.
Business directories and associations: Government-backed sources like Vietrade, AmCham Vietnam, and EuroCham maintain directories of exporters.
Local consultants and sourcing agents: These can offer hands-on help identifying and pre-screening potential partners.

Vetting suppliers: certifications, references, factory visits

Once you’ve identified potential suppliers, it’s critical to assess their reliability and capabilities. Key steps include:

Certifications: Look for relevant international or industry certifications such as ISO 9001 (quality), BSCI (social compliance), CE (EU market), or GOTS (organic textiles).
References and reputation: Ask for buyer references, export history, or third-party audit reports.
Factory visits: On-site visits — either in person or via a trusted agent — remain one of the most effective ways to confirm capacity, labour practices, and product quality. If visiting in person isn’t possible, consider hiring a third-party inspection firm to conduct a factory audit.

Negotiating pricing, MOQs, and timelines

Negotiations in Vietnam typically involve a mix of relationship-building and clear commercial terms. Be prepared to discuss:

Minimum order quantities (MOQs): Vietnamese suppliers often have lower MOQs than China, but expect variation based on product type and factory size.
Payment terms: Most suppliers prefer 50/50 or 30/70 payment terms (deposit/balance on shipment). Larger or repeat buyers may negotiate net terms
Lead times: Manufacturing timelines vary, but many suppliers expect 30–60 days depending on the complexity of the order and current capacity.
Price flexibility: Vietnamese suppliers may be open to modest price negotiations, particularly for repeat orders or long-term relationships — but excessive bargaining can backfire.

Clarity, consistency, and respect for local business culture go a long way in securing strong

Logistics and shipping options

Choosing the right logistics strategy is a key step in ensuring smooth and cost-effective exports from Vietnam.

Your decision will depend on the nature of your goods, delivery timelines, and destination market.

Vietnam’s growing logistics infrastructure and strategic location in Southeast Asia give exporters access to multiple modes of transport — by air, sea, and land.

Air freight: high-value and time-sensitive goods

Air freight is best suited for high-value, low-volume, or time-sensitive products such as electronics, medical equipment, and fashion items with seasonal demand.

Major international logistics providers — including DHL, FedEx, and UPS — operate out of Vietnam’s key international airports: Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City).

Air freight is the fastest method of shipping but also the most expensive, so it is typically used when speed outweighs cost considerations.

Sea freight: bulk or low-value shipments

Sea freight is the most economical option for large-volume shipments or bulk commodities, such as furniture, garments, machinery, and agricultural products.

Vietnam has over 30 commercial seaports, but the two largest export hubs are:

Hai Phong Port (northern Vietnam), serving manufacturing bases in Hanoi, Bac Ninh, and Hai Duon
Cai Mep–Thi Vai Port complex in Ba Ria–Vung Tau (southern Vietnam), which handles container traffic for the Ho Chi Minh City region

Sea freight is slower than air, typically taking 2–6 weeks depending on the destination, but offers substantial savings for exporters moving larger loads.

Land transport: for intra-Asia supply chains

For trade within ASEAN and neighbouring countries, land transport is a viable and often underused option.

Vietnam shares land borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia, and has multiple active border crossings that support both import and export activity.

This method is commonly used for cross-border supply chains, where goods flow across multiple production hubs in the region — for example, rubber sourced in Thailand, processed in Vietnam, and assembled in China.

Freight forwarders: what they do and when to use them

Freight forwarders act as intermediaries between exporters and transport providers.

They coordinate the full logistics chain — including transport booking, cargo consolidation, customs clearance, documentation, warehousing, and last-mile delivery.

Many international and Vietnamese freight forwarders also offer customs brokerage services, which can be particularly valuable for first-time exporters navigating Vietnam’s documentation and regulatory requirements.

Using a freight forwarder is highly recommended for businesses unfamiliar with Vietnam’s shipping procedures or managing multi-modal shipments.

They can streamline operations, reduce risk, and help you navigate both domestic and international logistics more effectively.

Packaging, labelling, and regulatory compliance

To ensure a smooth export process and avoid costly delays or rejections at the destination, exporters must pay close attention to how goods are packaged, labelled, and documented.

Vietnam’s domestic rules are relatively straightforward, but exporters must also meet the specific standards of the importing country, which can vary widely by sector.

Vietnam’s export labelling requirements

Vietnam does not impose extensive labelling requirements for goods leaving the country. However, the exported product must still comply with the Customs Law (2014) and relevant Ministry of Industry and Trade guidelines.

Key points include:

Labels must not misrepresent the origin or nature of the goods
Export documents must match product labelling (e.g. product codes, descriptions)
If the item is also sold domestically, it must comply with Vietnam’s Decree 43/2017/ND-CP on labelling

For most exporters, the greater concern is ensuring that labelling complies with the requirements of the destination market.

Meeting foreign standards (e.g. CE, FDA, RoHS)

Exporters must ensure that their goods meet technical and safety standards in the country of import. Examples include:

CE marking for goods entering the EU (electronics, toys, machinery)
FDA approval for food, supplements, cosmetics, and medical devices in the US
RoHS compliance for electronics limiting hazardous substances
GOTS or OEKO-TEX for textiles and apparel sold in environmentally conscious markets

Depending on the product and market, documentation such as test reports, declarations of conformity, or certification from accredited labs may be required.

Sustainable packaging and environmental compliance

Sustainability expectations are rising globally, and many importers now require:

Biodegradable or recyclable packaging
Minimal use of plastic
Clear environmental labelling

The EU’s Green Deal, for instance, imposes packaging rules that may affect Vietnamese exporters. Firms should check with buyers or freight forwarders about any packaging regulations and adjust accordingly.

Common pitfalls in documentation and shipment preparation

Even when products are compliant, paperwork errors can cause delays or rejections. Frequent issues include:

Inconsistent information across invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations
Missing certificates of origin, especially for shipments claiming FTA tariff reductions
Incorrect HS codes, leading to classification or duty issues
Poor packaging that results in damaged goods, triggering customs holds or insurance disputes

Using a freight forwarder or export consultant can help avoid many of these issues, particularly for newer exporters or those entering regulated markets.

Taxation and free trade agreements

Understanding export taxes and tariff structures is essential to accurately pricing goods and maximising competitiveness in overseas markets.

While Vietnam maintains a relatively exporter-friendly tax regime, firms must still consider the tax landscape in the destination country and explore how to benefit from Vietnam’s free trade agreements (FTAs).

Vietnam’s export tax regime

Vietnam does not apply export taxes on most goods, particularly manufactured items such as garments, furniture, or electronics.

However, select raw materials, minerals, and natural resources (e.g. certain types of timber, ores, or scrap metal) may be subject to export duties.

Exporters should verify applicable rates using the Vietnam Export Tariff Schedule, issued by the Ministry of Finance.

Even when no export tax applies, exporters must still comply with standard customs procedures and reporting requirements.

How destination country tariffs apply

While Vietnam may not tax your exports, the importing country might. Tariffs, VAT, and other import duties are typically charged by customs authorities in the destination country and vary depending on:

Product type and HS code
Country of origin
Applicable trade agreements or exemptions

Before shipping, exporters should confirm import tariff rates with local customs brokers or trade advisors in the destination market.

Leveraging Vietnam’s FTAs to reduce costs

Vietnam has signed over a dozen free trade agreements, including with key markets like:

European Union (EVFTA)
United Kingdom (UKVFTA)
South Korea (VKFTA)
Japan (VJEPA)
ASEAN partners (AFTA, RCEP, CPTPP)

These agreements reduce or eliminate tariffs for eligible goods — often significantly. For example, textile exports to the EU can be duty-free under EVFTA if they meet origin criteria.

Exporters should work closely with freight forwarders or compliance consultants to determine:

Whether their goods qualify for FTA benefits
What documentation is required
How to properly claim tariff preferences

Certificates of Origin and FTA documentation

To claim preferential tariff treatment, exporters must submit a Certificate of Origin (CO) with the shipment. The type of CO depends on the trade agreement being used. Common forms include:

Form EUR.1 (for EU markets)
Form CPTPP (self-certification allowed)
Form AJ (for ASEAN–Japan)
Form AK (for ASEAN–Korea)

COs are issued by authorised bodies in Vietnam, such as VCCI (Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry) or the Ministry of Industry and Trade, depending on the agreement. Accuracy is crucial — inconsistencies can result in denial of FTA benefits or customs delays.

Customs procedures and clearance

Exporting from Vietnam involves going through the country’s customs clearance process, which is generally straightforward but still requires attention to detail. Understanding the key steps — including declaration procedures, documentation, and how to avoid delays — is essential to keeping your shipments moving.

Electronic declaration (form HQ/2015/XK) and traffic light system

All exports must begin with the completion of an electronic customs declaration, using form HQ/2015/XK. This is submitted through Vietnam’s National Single Window customs portal.

Once submitted, the declaration is automatically assessed under Vietnam’s traffic light system:

Green: clearance approved; goods can be released
Yellow: additional documents required (e.g. certificate of origin, quality certificate)
Red: goods are subject to a physical inspection and full documentation review

Most routine exports receive green status, particularly for companies with clean compliance histories. However, inconsistencies in paperwork or unclear product descriptions can trigger yellow or red alerts.

Common customs delays and how to avoid them

Delays at customs can be costly. Common causes include:

Mismatched product descriptions between invoice and declaration
Missing or incorrect HS codes
Undeclared or improperly labelled goods
Incomplete or inconsistent supporting documents
Late submission of required paperwork

To reduce risk:

Double-check all documentation before submission
Ensure harmonised product codes and naming conventions
Work with experienced freight forwarders or customs brokers who understand Vietnam’s requirements

Priority customs treatment: benefits and eligibility

Vietnam offers priority customs treatment to exporters that meet certain criteria. Benefits include:

Reduced physical inspections
Faster processing times
Fewer documentary requirements
Dedicated customs channels

To be eligible, companies must:

Have a clean customs record over the previous 24 months
Maintain good accounting and record-keeping practices
Have substantial export volumes or operate in key industries

This program is detailed in the Law on Customs (2014) and further guided by relevant decrees. Companies can apply for priority status through the General Department of Vietnam Customs.

Required documentation checklist

Typical export documentation includes:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Electronic customs declaration (HQ/2015/XK)
Certificate of origin (if claiming FTA benefits)
Bill of lading or airway bill
Export license (if required for restricted goods)
Inspection certificates (if applicable)
Insurance documents (optional, but recommended)

Keeping these documents complete and consistent across all filings is key to avoiding unnecessary customs scrutiny.

Risk management

Exporting from Vietnam offers significant opportunity, but also requires a well-considered approach to risk.

From regulatory shifts to infrastructure bottlenecks, firms operating in Vietnam should build proactive strategies to reduce exposure and maintain continuity in their supply chains.

Political, legal, and customs risks

While Vietnam is broadly seen as stable and pro-business, foreign investors must still navigate a dynamic legal environment.

Sudden policy changes, such as revised customs procedures, updated tax rates, or changes to export restrictions, can create uncertainty, particularly for newer industries like digital services or green commodities.

Customs-related risks include misclassification, inconsistent enforcement, and occasional delays due to regulatory interpretation at the provincial level.

Maintaining a good compliance record and working with experienced customs brokers can help mitigate these issues.

Supply chain disruptions and infrastructure limitations

Vietnam’s logistics infrastructure is improving, but congestion at major ports, limited cold chain capacity, and rural road constraints remain challenges.

Weather-related disruptions, especially flooding during the rainy season, can affect overland routes and factory output.

In recent years, global factors such as COVID-19 lockdowns and container shortages have shown how exposed exporters can be to external shocks.

Diversifying transport routes and avoiding just-in-time scheduling can help build resilience.

Building flexibility into export plans

To manage uncertainty, firms should:

Maintain buffer inventory or stagger shipments
Build in flexible production timelines and contracts
Use multiple ports or logistics providers where possible
Plan around major Vietnamese public holidays and seasonal bottlenecks

Flexibility allows companies to adapt quickly when shipments are delayed or suppliers face unexpected interruptions.

Vetting partners and contracts carefully

Strong local partnerships are critical to managing operational risks. Before signing agreements with suppliers, agents, or joint venture partners, foreign firms should:

Conduct due diligence (financial health, compliance history, reputation)
Use written contracts with clear terms on payment, delivery, dispute resolution, and liability
Consider dual-language contracts, legally reviewed by local counsel
Include termination clauses and performance guarantees where appropriate

Working with vetted consultants, chambers of commerce, or legal advisors can reduce exposure to underperformance or misalignment.

FAQ

Do I need to set up a company in Vietnam to export goods?

No. You can work with local trading companies, sourcing agents, or export consultants. Setting up your own entity is optional and typically only necessary for firms planning long-term operations.

What are Vietnam’s top export products?

Major exports include garments, textiles, furniture, electronics, coffee, seafood, and increasingly, processed foods and high-tech components.

How do I find reliable suppliers?

Use trusted platforms like VietnamExport, attend trade fairs like Vietnam Expo, or engage business matchmaking services in major cities.

Do I need to pay tax on exports from Vietnam?

Most manufactured goods are not taxed when exported, but your destination country may apply tariffs. Using Vietnam’s FTAs and securing Certificates of Origin can reduce these costs.

How long does it take to ship goods from Vietnam?

Air freight can take 2–7 days; sea freight usually takes 2–6 weeks, depending on the destination and customs processes.

What’s next?

Successfully sourcing and exporting from Vietnam is not a one-time process — it requires staying informed and adapting to change.

As trade policies evolve, infrastructure improves, and new opportunities emerge, exporters who remain proactive will be best positioned to grow.

How to stay updated on regulatory changes and logistics

Vietnam’s export regulations can shift quickly, particularly in sectors tied to agriculture, energy, or digital goods. To stay informed:

Monitor updates from Vietnam’s General Department of Customs and the Ministry of Industry and Trade
Follow international trade alerts through Vietrade, EuroCham, and AmCham Vietnam
Subscribe to local consultancy newsletters or export advisory briefings (such as the-shiv)

When to scale from agent to owned operations

As your export volume grows, or if quality control and pricing stability become priorities, consider moving from a sourcing agent to your own legal entity. Key triggers include:

Consistent monthly shipments
Plans to supply multiple markets
Need for warehouse, QC, or packaging control
Interest in applying for priority customs treatment or tax incentives

Summary

All of that is to say, Vietnam has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic export hubs, offering a compelling mix of low production costs, growing trade agreements, and a maturing logistics ecosystem.

Whether you’re sourcing garments, electronics, furniture, or food products, the country offers real opportunities for SMEs, sourcing agents, and global brands alike.

This guide has outlined the key steps—from finding suppliers and setting up a trading company, to navigating customs and understanding tax and FTA benefits.

While there are risks to manage and regulations to follow, the potential rewards for getting it right are substantial.

To stay ahead of the curve with Vietnam trade trends, regulatory updates, and step-by-step guides, make sure to subscribe to the-shiv.

First published September 5, 2024. Last updated June 16, 2025.

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