The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) has hailed its recent trade mission to Vietnam a success.

Led by Fawn Evenson, AAFA Vice President Global Business and Services, the delegation included senior executives from DuPont Company, Sara Lee Corporation, Paramount and Russell Corporation.

The mission, which took place January 20 - 27, 2002, involved meetings with key government officials, factory visits and appointments, briefings by the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) and local government officials on trade and investment regulations. It also entailed visits to Export Processing Zones and factories in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The mission was conducted in co-operation with VITAS and the Vietnam Leather and Footwear Association (LEFASO).

"We saw so many facilities and came back with a much greater appreciation for the sourcing opportunities in Vietnam. It was a great learning experience for all of us," said Evenson.