The inaugural edition of the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) concluded on March 1, 2024, in Ho Chi Minh City. Organized by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE), VIATT successfully established itself as a key platform for the entire textile value chain in Asia.
Exceeding expectations with strong exhibitor and visitor participation
The 3-day event attracted a remarkable 17,262 visits from 55 countries, exceeding expectations. 409 exhibitors from 17 countries showcased the latest trends and innovations across apparel fabrics, yarns and fibers, garments, home textiles, technical textiles and nonwovens, textile processing, and printing technology.
Industry leaders share optimism for Vietnam's textile future
Phan Thi Thang, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Vietnam, emphasized VIATT's role in "creating favourable conditions for international businesses" and integrating Vietnam into global textile production chains. Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board, Messe Frankfurt GmbH, underscored Vietnam's potential as a "rising hotspot" and pledged to work closely with partners to strengthen the Vietnamese textile industry's global competitiveness.
A showcase of sustainability
The VIATT Fashion Show, themed "Sustainable Fashion, Around the World", mirrored Vietnam's growing focus on sustainable practices. Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi)and Thai Industrial Hemp Trade Association (TiHTA) showcased their sustainable collections, reflecting the global demand for eco-friendly textiles.
Positive exhibitors’ feedback
Exhibitors were impressed by the quality of visitors and the potential of the Vietnamese market. "VIATT has given us a good idea... I can see a lot of serious buyers... We will surely join the next edition", says M Usman Arshad, CMO, Kintex Group/Abdullah Textile, Pakistan. "We've seen a lot of the production volume migrating to Vietnam... We're very excited to support that growth., adds on the similar lines Joe Zhou, General Manager, Idole Trading Co Ltd, China. "Vietnam has a large textile industry... This show is a very good idea...", Paul Nguyen, Sales Director, Mainland Southeast Asia, Apparel Solutions, Avery Dennison, Hong Kong
Buyers find sourcing opportunities
Buyers were pleased with the diverse range of exhibitors from Southeast Asia, China, Europe, and beyond, "We are a 100%-for-export sourcing company... We have just arrived, but we have visited a few booths and are seeing what we like.", said Marco Corrado, Director of Sales, Textyle Asia PteLtd, Vietnam. Adding to this "We came to the first edition of VIATT to explore the wide range of suppliers...", sharing her opinion, Sara Pelizzoli, Marketing Manager, Hung Yen Knitting & Dyeing, Vietnam
Knowledge sharing drives industry growth
VIATT offered a platform for knowledge sharing through seminars on Design & Trends, Market Strategies, Textile & Nonwoven Technologies, and Sustainability. Industry leaders provided valuable insights to help attendees stay ahead in the competitive market.
Looking Ahead: VIATT 2025
With its successful debut, VIATT has positioned itself as a vital trade fair for the Vietnamese textile industry. The next edition is scheduled for February 26-28, 2025, and is expected to attract even greater participation. VIATT 2024 has undoubtedly laid the foundation for Vietnam's continued growth as a major player in the global textile market.
