The popularity of handicraft products from Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, in Scandinavian markets has created an opportunity for domestic handicraft exporters to boost exports, said Scandinavian trade officials.

At a meeting on June 8 aimed at helping small-and medium-sized handicraft companies in Vietnam develop overseas markets, participants heard that although the Scandinavian market was not particularly large, it represented a significant level of purchasing power.

Norwegian economic experts suggested Vietnamese enterprises needed to shift focus from competing on the basis of cost to developing trademarks and distinctive products.

The meeting was a part of a two-year programme aimed at boosting trade between Vietnam and Scandanavian countries. The programme is being implemented by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the Federation of Norwegian Commercial and Service Enterprises, and the Swedish Chambers of Commerce in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

Under the programme, export industry leaders are to learn about enhancing operational competitiveness and have access to market research focused on Scandanavian consumers. Participating enterprises will also have opportunities to meet with large distributors to learn more about market trends in the region.

The trade ministry expects the Vietnamese handicrafts industry to post an average annual growth rate of at least 20 per cent over the next five years, with revenue topping US$1.5 billion in the same period. Major export markets for Vietnamese handicraft products include France, Japan, the US and various EU nations, it said.

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