Dong Gia Enterprise manufactures this glazed ceramic bowl, which is microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

Manufacturers are developing more models in various types of "green" inputs and repurposed materials to minimize impact on the environment.

The table and dinnerware industry in Vietnam is increasingly incorporating eco-friendly materials to differentiate its products from those mass-manufactured by other sourcing hubs.

The country’s abundant supply of natural inputs enables manufacturers to create handicrafts using various combinations of plant-based inputs. Bamboo plantations, for example, take up nearly 10 percent of total forest area. The nation also has 30 indigenous species of rattan, 10 of which are heavily used and available in nearly all provinces. Other components, including water hyacinth, sedge and rush, are likewise easily procured.

Aside from these sustainable materials, local suppliers are using recycled items to create unique designs. Repurposed paper, carton and eggshell are used as overlay on bowls, trays and plates. Coconut shells, in particular, are increasingly being utilized as bowls that can double as home decor. These models are preferred by customers in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia.

To encourage more companies to update their styles, the Sustainable Product Innovation Program was launched. It is a joint undertaking by the EU’s SWITCH-Asia Program and Vietnam Handicraft Exporters Association. The project provides training to domestic makers on designing, combining different materials, defining target markets and promoting through exhibitions in Europe.

Other local trade organizations, including the Vietnam Rural Industries Research and Development Institute, also regularly conduct vocational courses related to creating handicrafts made of bamboo and rattan.

Exports

The table and dinnerware industry is categorized under two groups, namely bamboo, rattan and seagrass, and ceramic and porcelain products.

Foreign revenue of bamboo, rattan and seagrass models climbed by about 8 percent to $230 million in 2013. The top five markets are the US, Japan, Germany, Australia and Russia.

Exports of ceramic and porcelain products surged by nearly 9 percent to $475 million. The major destinations for this category are Japan, Taiwan, the US, Thailand and Cambodia.

The YoY increase is influenced by a significant number of domestic makers that had recently started sending shipments abroad. Traditional markets are also keen to diversify their sourcing centers instead of relying solely on mainland China.

Statistics in recent years have shown that the Asia-Pacific region is becoming a major destination for the industry. Aside from Japan, Taiwan and South Korea, other emerging markets such as Cambodia, Malaysia and Australia are forecast to order more products from Vietnam.

Competitive advantages

There are several factors that propel the industry forward.

Vietnam is home to over 2,000 artisan villages manually creating various handicrafts, including basketware, embroidery, ceramics and porcelain, and wooden items. These skilled workers have learned techniques passed from one generation to the next to preserve the cultural influences that make their products unique.

Availability of natural materials is also a strength enjoyed by the sector. Bamboo, rattan, water hyacinth, sedge and other plant-based fibers are readily sourced from various provinces nationwide. Suppliers can easily stock their workshops with these inputs to prevent price fluctuations, particularly during the rainy season.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership, which is in the final round of negotiation, is expected tp open doors for more local exports to enter emerging destinations such as New Zealand and Singapore. The eventual removal of importation dues to large markets, including the US, Japan, Malaysia and Australia, will help SMEs to send more shipments to these countries.

This article is an excerpt from Vietnam Sourcing: Table & Dinnerware, published by the Hinrich Foundation. For the full report with complete Industry Overview and 19 suppliers, click here.

Product gallery

The following is a selection of furniture models made by Vietnam suppliers. For detailed industry and production information, and supplier outlook over the next 12 months, visit Vietnam Sourcing: Table & Dinnerware. For information on related industries in Vietnam and other emerging economies in Asia, go to www.developingcountrysourcing.com.

Anh Quoc Co. Ltd

Model: AQ11163
MOQ: 100 pieces
Delivery: 30 to 45 days
Price: $1 to $5
Description: Dinner plate; solid acacia wood; finished with food-safe oil or lacquer

LC Home Co. Ltd

Model: LC-08
MOQ: 2000 sets
Description: Dinner bowl set; ceramic; glazed and handpainted; 16x5.5 and 21x5.5cm

Lac Viet Handicraft Export Co. Ltd

Model: LV 6802G
MOQ: 500 sets
Delivery: 65 to 70 days
Description: Bowl set; three pieces; spun bamboo; in various finishes; stain- and odor-resistant; food-safe and meets FDA requirements; 21x8, 25.5x9 and 32x10cm

Dong Gia Enterprise

Model: TPSQ+BLCY
MOQ: 1,000 sets
Delivery: 60 to 90 days
Price: $19 to $25
Description: Tea set; ceramic; 11x11x9.5cm teapot and six 8x5cm cups; microwave- and dishwasher-safe; in blue, green and black;

LC Home Co. Ltd

Model: LC-01
MOQ: 1,000 sets
Description: Tea set; ceramic; glazed; 12x14cm teapot and six 6x5cm teacups

LC Home Co. Ltd

Model: LC-09
MOQ: 2,000 sets
Description: Ceramic cup; ceramic; glazed; handmade and handpainted; 8x9cm

Liability and Fine Art Toan Thang Co. Ltd

Model: TT001
MOQ: 200 pieces
Delivery: 45 to 60 days
Price: $2 to $3
Description: Spoon; bamboo; lacquered;

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This article and its contents are provided by the Hinrich Foundation, a partner of Global Sources in promoting trade across Asia. The products and the suppliers featured in this article are export assistance program beneficiaries of the Hinrich Foundation.