Vietnamese ceramics constitute a significant and enduring facet of the nation’s cultural heritage. With a history tracing back over six millennia, this craft has undergone a continuous evolution, reflecting the socio-economic and cultural transformations of the country.
Characterised by its diversity and ingenuity, Vietnamese ceramics encompass a wide range of techniques, styles, and functions. From the early utilitarian earthenware vessels of Neolithic times to the refined porcelain of subsequent dynasties, this artistic tradition has flourished due to abundant clay resources and a deeply ingrained aesthetic sensibility.
Most recently, ceramic tile manufacturing has become a key industry in Vietnam and ceramic tiles have become a key export. With this in mind, this article looks at Vietnam’s ceramics market, ceramics exports, and ceramics manufacturers.
Vietnam’s ceramics manufacturing in numbers
These figures underscore the importance of Vietnam’s ceramics manufacturing industry, which supports both domestic infrastructure needs and export demands. The sector’s steady growth, coupled with technological advancements and foreign investments, positions Vietnam as a competitive player in the global ceramics market.
Vietnam’s ceramics market
The Vietnam ceramic tiles market is experiencing substantial growth. Valued at an estimated US$3.13 billion in 2024, the industry is projected to expand steadily, reaching a market size of US$3.91 billion by 2029, according to data from Mordor Intelligence.
This represents a compound annual growth rate of 4.52 percent over the next five years. Several factors, including increasing urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for ceramic tiles in both residential and commercial construction, are driving this upward trajectory.
Revenue, key Vietnam ceramics firms, US$millions, quarterly
| Q4 2023 | Q1 2024 | Q2 2024 | |
| Total | 192.56 | 168.49 | 180.76 |
| Dong Nai Brick & Tile Corporation | 0.62 | 0.59 | 1.12 |
| Taicera Enterprise Company | 8.10 | 6.67 | 9.59 |
| Viglacera Corporation | 119.00 | 103.99 | 106.84 |
| Vicostone Joint Stock Company | 45.46 | 42.31 | 46.27 |
| Royal Production and Investment | 19.39 | 14.93 | 16.93 |
Revenue, key Vietnam ceramics firms, US$millions, yearly
| 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | |
| Total | 679.65 | 806.93 | 903.83 | 785.83 |
| Dong Nai Brick & Tile Corporation | 9.62 | 7.38 | 7.55 | 4.30 |
| Taicera Enterprise Company | 36.25 | 36.83 | 43.26 | 35.15 |
| Viglacera Corporation | 371.67 | 441.07 | 574.96 | 519.85 |
| Vicostone Joint Stock Company | 222.99 | 278.57 | 223.02 | 171.55 |
| Royal Production and Investment | 39.11 | 43.09 | 55.04 | 54.99 |
Vietnam ceramics exports
Vietnam’s ceramics exports have show considerably growth in recent years. Here is the latest ceramics export data.
Vietnam ceramics exports, November 2024, US$
| November | October | MoM | YTD | |
| Total | 63,160,818 | 63,225,949 | -0.1 | 601,261,505 |
| Other | 13,328,412 | 15,822,017 | -15.76% | 144,083,688 |
| USA | 18,874,543 | 17,195,976 | 9.76% | 157,787,936 |
| Japan | 7,699,296 | 6,777,674 | 13.60% | 80,806,131 |
| Taiwan | 5,581,890 | 5,455,616 | 2.31% | 65,886,967 |
| UK | 4,602,032 | 3,710,996 | 24.01% | 29,158,668 |
| Philippines | 2,504,917 | 1,974,012 | 26.89% | 26,296,618 |
| France | 2,463,608 | 3,114,510 | -20.90% | 16,227,283 |
| South Korea | 2,243,493 | 2,588,479 | -13.33% | 26,203,503 |
| Thailand | 2,218,706 | 2,671,570 | -16.95% | 30,893,529 |
| Germany | 2,107,092 | 2,656,470 | -20.68% | 13,748,711 |
| Indonesia | 1,536,829 | 1,258,629 | 22.10% | 10,168,471 |
Source: Vietnam Exports Tracker
Box 1: Ceramics chairman seeks support for struggling industry
In June 2024, Dinh Quang Huy, Chairman of the Vietnam Construction Ceramics Association, announced that Vietnam’s ceramic production capacity stands at a substantial 865 million square metres. This positions the country as the top ceramic tile producer in ASEAN and the world’s fourth largest manufacturer. However, Huy also noted a significant decline in production since the COVID-19 pandemic, with current output at only about 60 percent of capacity. To address these challenges, he called on the government to limit new projects and implement a certification process for imported ceramic tiles, according to Dau Tu Online.
Major Ceramics Companies in Vietnam
Vietnam’s ceramics industry is a thriving sector, with several prominent companies contributing significantly to its growth. These companies have successfully established a strong foothold in both domestic and international markets. Some of the major players in the Vietnamese ceramics market include:
Ceramic Tiles
VIGLACERA Corporation
A state-owned enterprise, VIGLACERA is one of the largest ceramic tile producers in Vietnam, offering a wide range of products for both domestic and international markets. The company has been instrumental in shaping the Vietnamese ceramic tile industry and continues to invest in research and development to stay at the forefront of innovation.
Prime Group
Known for its high-quality ceramic tiles, Prime Group has established a strong presence in the Vietnamese market and is expanding its export operations. With a focus on design and quality, Prime Group has garnered a reputation for producing stylish and durable ceramic tiles that cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Box 2: Ceramics firm lists on local bourse
Royal Manufacture and Investment is a significant player in Vietnam’s ceramic tile sector. Known for its production of granite and ceramic tiles, the company has established a strong market presence both domestically and internationally. Of note, the firm IPO’d on the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange in 2023 raising US$5.5 million.
Taicera Ceramic
A leading manufacturer of ceramic tiles and sanitary ware, Taicera has gained recognition for its innovative designs and advanced production technology. The company has successfully integrated cutting-edge technology into its manufacturing processes, resulting in high-quality products that meet international standards.
Bach Thanh Ceramic
With a focus on producing high-end ceramic tiles, Bach Thanh Ceramic caters to the premium segment of the market. Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, Bach Thanh Ceramic has established itself as a preferred choice for luxury residential and commercial projects.
Regional Centers of Vietnamese Ceramics
Vietnam boasts a rich tapestry of ceramic production, with distinct regional styles and traditions. These regional centres have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s ceramic heritage.
Northern Vietnam
Bat Trang
Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, Bat Trang has been a ceramic hub for centuries. Known for its fine porcelain and diverse product range, from daily household items to exquisite art pieces, Bat Trang remains a thriving centre of ceramic production and innovation.
Chu Dau
Renowned for its distinctive brown-glazed stoneware, Chu Dau ceramics have a unique aesthetic appeal. This region’s production flourished during the Trần and Lê dynasties, and its influence can still be seen in contemporary ceramic works.
Central Vietnam
Quảng Nam
This coastal province, particularly the ancient town of Hội An, was once a major trading port. While not a primary production centre, Quảng Nam played a crucial role in the distribution of Vietnamese ceramics to international markets.
Southern Vietnam
Saigon-Cholon
While not as historically prominent as the northern regions, the southern part of Vietnam has developed its own ceramic traditions. In recent decades, Saigon-Cholon has emerged as a centre for contemporary ceramic art, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics.
It’s important to note that while these regions have historically been focal points of ceramic production, the landscape of Vietnamese ceramics has evolved. Today, ceramic production is more widespread, with new centres emerging and traditional ones adapting to changing market demands.
What’s next?
Vietnamese ceramics constitute a significant and enduring facet of the nation’s cultural heritage. With a history tracing back over six millennia, this craft has undergone a continuous evolution, reflecting the socio-economic and cultural transformations of the country. This evolution has seen ceramic tiles rise as a key industry and export for Vietnam though the industry is facing some challenges.
With this in mind, to keep abreast of what’s happening in Vietnam’s ceramics industry, foreign ceramics professionals should make sure to subscribe to the-shiv.