The third edition of VIATT confirmed the event’s steady evolution into a credible and increasingly international regional platform for textiles and apparel. Although visitor numbers were somewhat constrained this year due to a timing clash with Lunar New Year, the overall tone of the exhibition was positive, with exhibitors reporting constructive engagement and meaningful commercial conversations. The show continues to develop in scope and ambition, with clear signs that its importance within Southeast Asia’s textile calendar is growing.

This was the second year that UKFT has participated in VIATT. UKFT was joined by AVA CAD/CAM and Ulster Weavers, both of whom reported outcomes that exceeded expectations. Several UK companies were also represented by their Chinese agents at the show. The quality of visitors was generally good, and both companies made valuable new contacts. UKFT’s Discover British Textiles booklet was particularly well received, with more than 200 copies distributed, indicating strong interest in UK capabilities and heritage.

Discover British textiles in Vietnam

UK participation was well supported on the ground by DBT Vietnam with visits from Alexandra Smith, British Consul General, and Sam Wood, Asia Pacific Director for Exports. Trade advisers facilitated introductions, supported company meetings, and assisted with practical matters such as local printing of promotional materials. This level of engagement demonstrated meaningful in-market support and reinforced the UK’s commitment to developing trade relationships in Vietnam.

A notable feature of the 2026 edition was its increasingly international character. The show included a German pavilion organised by Gesamtmasche, a Turkish pavilion led by ITHIB, and a stronger French presence through Fédération de la Maille, de la Lingerie et du Balnéaire and Fédération Française du Prêt à Porter Féminin. There was also participation from the United States via the National Industrial Hemp Council, alongside an increased number of Italian businesses. This broader representation contributed to a more global atmosphere and signalled growing confidence in Vietnam as a sourcing and manufacturing hub. Despite understandable concerns among international visitors regarding the global economy and geopolitical uncertainty, most exhibitors reported satisfaction with the quality of their interactions and the connections made.

The timing of the show undoubtedly affected attendance. VIATT opened immediately after the Lunar New Year/ Tet holidays, coinciding with the first days back at work for many businesses. As a result, a number of key Chinese buyers did not travel, which had a visible impact on visitor density. Encouragingly, the 2027 edition is scheduled significantly further away from the Lunar New Year period, which should help restore stronger regional attendance.

Vietnam itself remains a dynamic but complex market. The country recorded economic growth of approximately 8.2% last year and is targeting 10% growth in 2026, underlining its ambition and momentum. Parts of the market are highly modern, outward-looking and commercially agile. However, other aspects remain cumbersome, with bureaucratic processes and administrative hurdles presenting challenges. International payment mechanisms can be difficult, and whilst progress has been made, Vietnam maintains a relatively protectionist approach in certain areas of trade policy. These structural factors form part of the commercial landscape in which international businesses must operate.

From a UK perspective, there was clear evidence of demand for British textiles. A number of cut-length tailors visited the stand specifically seeking British fabrics, reflecting the high reputation of UK cloth. Conversations frequently centred on how to improve efficiency, reduce costs and shorten lead times.

There was also notable engagement from Indian and Sri Lankan manufacturers and distributors, many of whom demonstrated strong interest in sourcing British fabrics. The proposed UK–India Free Trade Agreement was widely discussed and is clearly shaping forward planning within the region.

Overall, VIATT 2026 felt positive and constructive. While it is not yet in a position to rival its sister event Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics in terms of scale or global influence, the trajectory is encouraging. International participation is increasing, development work is clearly underway, and the show is consolidating its role as an emerging Southeast Asian platform.