FOOTWEAR AND SPORTSWEAR

Vietnam has emerged as a powerhouse in the global footwear and sportswear supply chain, consistently ranking among the top exporters worldwide. In 2023, the country secured its position as the world’s second-largest footwear exporter, recording an export value of approximately USD 20.24 billion. When including headwear, Vietnam’s combined exports reached USD 29.5 billion, with the United States, China, and Germany standing out as its largest destination markets. The U.S. alone accounted for over USD 8 billion in imports of Vietnamese footwear, reflecting strong consumer demand and long-standing trade relationships.

Vietnam’s competitive edge lies in its manufacturing versatility, cost efficiency, and adherence to high international quality standards. The industry produces a wide range of footwear, from synthetic leather shoes and fabric sneakers to advanced sports and safety footwear. In the U.S. market, synthetic leather shoes represented 32 percent of imports from Vietnam, athletic footwear accounted for 28.45 percent, and fabric shoes comprised 22.52 percent. This diversified product mix strengthens Vietnam’s resilience and adaptability to shifting market demands.

Sportswear manufacturing is another area where Vietnam has earned global recognition. Major international brands rely heavily on the country’s production capacity. Nike manufactures about half of its footwear and over a quarter of its apparel in Vietnam, while Adidas sources 39 percent of its footwear and 18 percent of its apparel from Vietnamese factories. This concentration of high-profile contracts highlights the country’s ability to deliver both scale and precision in manufacturing performance apparel and footwear.

Industry data from the first half of 2025 shows a robust recovery from previous market slowdowns, with Vietnam’s leather and footwear exports exceeding USD 14 billion in just six months—footwear alone accounted for USD 12 billion, a year-on-year increase of more than 10 percent. This growth underscores Vietnam’s importance as a reliable sourcing hub, even amid global economic uncertainties.

With a strategic geographic location in Southeast Asia, a skilled labor force, and proven capacity to serve high-volume global orders, Vietnam continues to be an indispensable partner for brands and importers seeking dependable, high-quality footwear and sportswear production.