On the ground in Vietnam
What we’re seeing on the floor.
Practical, first-hand writing about sourcing and manufacturing in Vietnam: how the processes actually work, what the materials really cost, and the mistakes that catch buyers out. No fluff.
2026-06-29
Why Manufacturers Stop Replying to RFQs
Send an RFQ to ten factories and only two reply? It's rarely personal. Here's how manufacturers actually decide which enquiries to quote and how to write an RFQ that gets answered.
2025-12-02
Aluminium Extrusion in Vietnam: From Billets to Finished Products
A practical, first-hand guide to how aluminium extrusion actually works in Vietnamese plants, covering presses, dies, alloys, finishing, QC, and the tooling-ownership trap that catches foreign buyers out.
2025-10-16
What to Prepare to Work with Vietnam Manufacturers for Product Development: A Buyer's Guide
Vietnamese factories are OEM producers, not designers. They reward buyers who arrive prepared. Here's exactly what to get ready before you approach them: specs, samples, packaging, MOQs and a realistic target price.
2025-10-10
How to Find Reliable Factories in Vietnam: Challenges & Sourcing Tips
Vietnam has 100,000+ factories, and many of the best aren't online at all. A practical guide to why finding reliable manufacturers is tricky, and the tips that separate serious producers from traders.
2025-10-10
Sourcing Agent vs Going Direct to Factories: Which Is Best for Your Business?
Go direct to factories or work through a sourcing agent? On the surface direct sounds cheaper, but the right answer depends on your experience, your volumes and how much time you can spend managing suppliers.
2025-10-10
Why More Buyers Are Turning to Vietnam for Sourcing and Manufacturing
A few years ago Vietnam barely registered for most buyers. Today it's one of Asia's fastest-growing sourcing hubs, and not just as a 'China plus one' backup. The opportunities, the risks, and how to get started.
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