HCMC – The British Consulate General in HCMC, in collaboration with Redfern Digital and The Sentry, has organized a business briefing to explore opportunities for exporting UK consumer goods to Vietnam.
Held on February 25, the event brought together 50 local businesses and industry experts to discuss how Vietnamese importers can benefit from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA).
Under these agreements, up to 99% of UK exports to Vietnam are now subject to zero tariffs, making British goods in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs), retail, food and drink, and health and wellness sectors more accessible.
Beyond tariff reductions, these agreements also provide non-tariff benefits.
The CPTPP, for instance, ensures faster clearance times, with standard trade releases occurring within 48 hours and express shipments cleared within six hours after the submission of required customs documents.
Additionally, UK exporters can now self-certify the origin of goods, eliminating the need for third-party certification, which is expected to reduce costs and administrative burdens.
“Popular British brands such as Jo Malone, Lush, The Body Shop, Mothercare, and Unilever are already making their mark in Vietnam. Through the UK Government’s trade policies and export support, we aim to further open up the market and help more British retail brands, particularly small and mid-sized businesses, tap into this growing market,” said Alexandra Smith, British Consul General in HCMC.
David Johnstone, head of Free Trade Agreement Utilisation at the UK Government, highlighted the potential impact of the UK’s recent accession to CPTPP in December 2024.
“This development is expected to create even more opportunities for local businesses to bring the UK’s diverse range of consumer products to Vietnamese consumers,” he said.
“Exports of UK goods to Vietnam grew by 9.9% in 2024, and we want to see that trend continue in 2025. The CPTPP will create new opportunities for Vietnamese importers, retailers, and distributors to source more products from the UK.”
The event also showcased a variety of British brands, including F&B names like Waitrose and Fentimans, personal care products such as Batiste, Femfresh, and Faith in Nature, as well as beauty tech brands like SmoothSkin, highlighting the high-quality UK products available to Vietnamese consumers.
