The United States remains a key market for Vietnamese textiles and footwear, according to Mr. Do Ngoc Hung, Commercial Counselor of the Vietnam Trade Office in the US.

Recently, President Donald Trump expressed agreement with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s statement that the US does not necessarily need a booming textile industry. He noted that textile products like shirts and socks can be efficiently produced elsewhere, while the US focuses on manufacturing chips, computers, tanks, and ships.

"Thus, the US remains a promising market with significant opportunities for Vietnamese textile and footwear exports," Mr. Hung emphasized.

In the first three months of 2025, the top 10 textile exporters to the US were: China, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh, Mexico, Indonesia, Cambodia, Pakistan, Italy, and Turkey.

Similarly, for footwear exports, Vietnam ranked second among the top 10 exporters to the U.S., including  China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Italy, Cambodia, Mexico, Bangladesh, Germany, India, and Spain.

To capitalize on these opportunities and enhance exports, Mr. Hung urged the Ministry of Industry and Trade and relevant agencies to continue negotiations for a stable trade mechanism to ensure Vietnamese businesses—especially those in textiles and footwear—can remain proactive in production and export activities.

He also emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance, recommending mechanisms to guide businesses in meeting US standards on origin, sustainable production, and responsible manufacturing.

Local governments were encouraged to support enterprises in improving competitiveness and investing in sustainable practices, while industry associations should proactively collaborate with US trade organizations to update import regulations and advocate for policies facilitating market access.

Additionally, Mr. Hung called for enhanced trade promotion efforts, including research and organizing targeted trade activities, ensuring Vietnam’s continued presence in the US market through international fairs and specialized exhibitions.

Source: VnEconomy