Vietnam footwear sector targets greener growth
Vietnam's footwear industry is increasing investment in sustainable production and domestic supply chains as it seeks to strengthen competitiveness in global markets.
According to industry figures, Vietnam's footwear exports reached US$11.95 billion (€10.2 billion) in the first half of 2026, becoming the largest footwear supplier to the US market for the first time. Exports to the US totalled US$4.55 billion (€3.9 billion), accounting for almost 39% of the sector's export value.
The Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (Lefaso) has called for greater development of domestic raw material supply chains to reduce reliance on imports and improve resilience against geopolitical and trade-related disruptions.
Lefaso also highlighted growing sustainability requirements in key markets, particularly the EU, driving investment in clean technologies, automation, digitalisation and environmentally friendly materials.
