Hardware Sourcing Guide for International Businesses

Why Choose Vietnam?

Vietnam is an attractive destination for foreign businesses due to:

• 15-30% lower production costs than China
• Young, abundant workforce
• Strategic location in the Asian supply chain
• Preferential taxes from EVFTA, CPTPP, RCEP
• Stable politics, investment-friendly policies

Step 1: Market Research

Using VinHardLink

• Search for suppliers by industry and region
• Compare ratings and certifications
• Send direct requests for quotation

Attending Exhibitions

• Vietnam Manufacturing Expo (Hanoi)
• METALEX Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City)
• Vietnam Industrial & Manufacturing Fair

Step 2: Supplier Assessment

Assessment Checklist:

• Valid business license
• ISO 9001 or equivalent certification
• Production capacity meeting requirements
• Export experience
• English communication ability
• References from existing customers

Step 3: Risk Management

• Quality Risk: Third-party inspection, sample requests
• Payment Risk: Use L/C or escrow for large orders
• Delivery Risk: Sign contracts with penalty clauses for delays
• IP Risk: Sign NDA before sharing technical drawings

Step 4: Legal Considerations

• Bilingual contracts (English-Vietnamese)
• Compliance with Vietnamese Commercial Law
• Disputes: VIAC or ICC arbitration

Step 5: Building Long-Term Relationships

Business in Vietnam is built on relationships. Investing time in building trust with suppliers will yield long-term benefits: better prices, prioritized deliveries, and improved support when issues arise.