The second edition of the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) has once again proven to be a pivotal platform for the global textile industry. Held from 26 – 28 February 2025, the event recorded a 10% increase in attendance, attracting over 19,000 visitors from 70+ countries and regions. With 463 exhibitors from 24 countries, the fair showcased significant growth and introduced new zones and pavilions focused on textile innovation, sustainability, and global integration.
Strengthening Vietnam’s Global Position
VIATT 2025 was once again hosted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT). At the opening ceremony, Ms. Phan Thi Thang, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasized Vietnam’s textile sector’s robust growth, accounting for 12 – 16% of the country’s total exports. With 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) in place, the industry targets an export turnover of USD 48 billion by 2025, further solidifying Vietnam’s global supply chain role.
Expanding International Presence
Reflecting on the fair’s success, Ms. Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, highlighted the impact of the newly introduced European Zone and India Pavilion. VIATT’s growth in exhibitor and visitor numbers, as well as expanded fringe events, has strengthened its status as a premier business gateway for ASEAN’s textile market.
Innovation and Sustainability Take Center Stage
VIATT 2025 placed a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, responding to the industry’s increasing focus on eco-conscious practices and cutting-edge technologies. Key highlights included:
- Innovation and Digital Solutions Zone: A hub for next-generation textile technologies.
- Econogy Hub: A dedicated space showcasing sustainable materials and eco-friendly solutions.
Mr. Nguyen Tri Duc from Toyo Orimono, Japan, praised the Econogy Hub as an excellent networking platform, noting increased interest in recycled fibers and sustainable products. Meanwhile, the inaugural European Zone spotlighted premium textiles from France, Portugal, and the UK, with the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) promoting British craftsmanship and sustainable fabric mills.
Global Exhibitor and Buyer Engagement
Exhibitors from across the world shared their positive experiences at VIATT 2025:
- Mr. Bao Jia Cheng, Shaoxing Sunsmile Textile Co Ltd, China: “Southeast Asia is key for textile growth, and VIATT has been an essential gateway for expanding into the market.”
- Mr. Zhang Jian, Muye Home Fashion Vietnam Co Ltd, Vietnam: “Vietnam’s market environment and supply chain offer immense business potential.”
- Mr. Matthew Yates, Inkcups, USA: “Our sustainable, tagless printing solutions gained significant interest, making VIATT an ideal platform to explore new business opportunities.”
VIP buyers from leading global brands, including Adidas, Nike, Zara, IKEA, and American Eagle, engaged with exhibitors, facilitating business exchange and strengthening international trade relationships.
Insightful Seminars and Thought Leadership
VIATT 2025 featured 11 industry-focused seminars, covering topics such as market trends, sustainability, and technological innovation. Highlights included:
- Vietnam Investment Summit (VCICS): Strengthening business opportunities between Vietnam and China.
- Interior Design Roundtable: Addressing sustainable interiors and smart textiles.
- The Future of Sustainability in Vietnam’s Fashion Industry: Featuring insights from ECOSOI, Passi, and KHAAR.
Industry experts also shared their perspectives:
- Ms. Ngoc Thu Le, Redress, Hong Kong: “Educating consumers on sustainable fashion is key. VIATT provides an essential platform to communicate these values.”
- Prof. Calvin Wong, AiDLab, Hong Kong: “The industry is eager for AI innovations. The strong engagement at VIATT confirms the demand for technological advancements.”
Fashion and Design Highlights
Beyond business, VIATT 2025 featured dynamic fashion showcases, including runway presentations from Vietnamese designer Vu Viet Ha and French designer Manix Wong, alongside fashion parades by designers from Thailand and Taiwan. A macramé weaving workshop also provided an interactive, hands-on experience for attendees.
Looking Ahead: VIATT 2026
Building on this year’s success, VIATT 2026 is scheduled to take place from 26 – 28 February 2026. With increasing international participation and expanded offerings, the fair is set to further drive innovation and collaboration in the global textile industry.
For more information, visit [official website] or contact viatt@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.
Upcoming Textile Industry Events:
- Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics / Yarn Expo Shenzhen | 11 – 13 June 2025 | Shenzhen (Futian)
- Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition | 20 – 22 August 2025 | Shanghai
- Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition / Yarn Expo Autumn | 2 – 4 September 2025 | Shanghai
- Cinte Techtextil China | 3 – 5 September 2025 | Shanghai
Stay connected for more updates on the evolving textile industry!
