25 Years of Transformation: Impressive Figures in Vietnam’s Bamboo and Rattan Industry
Vietnam, alongside China, Indonesia, and the Philippines, is one of the world’s top four exporters of bamboo, rattan, sedge, and mats, with its products present in over 130 countries. This has been a long and persistent journey, bringing traditional handicrafts imbued with Vietnamese cultural and artisanal values to the global market.
Main Highlights
Major Export Markets for Vietnam’s Bamboo, Rattan, Sedge, and Mat Products
Export Potential of Vietnam’s Bamboo and Rattan Industry
1999–2007: The Foundation Years
In 1999, Vietnam's bamboo and rattan product exports were valued at only around USD 48 million, with an output of 6,500 tons. Prices were low, and international market access was limited due to the lack of trade agreements and support mechanisms.
From 2000 to 2003, government support and vocational training programs for rural workers helped improve product quality, enabling access to larger international markets. Even with only 5,000 tons of raw materials used in 2000, export revenue rose by 37%, reaching USD 66 million. The sector sustained an average annual growth of 15%, reaching USD 99.7 million by 2003.
A breakthrough occurred from 2004 to 2007 as Vietnam joined the WTO, removing trade barriers and opening up opportunities in the EU, US, and Canadian markets. The sector grew 30% annually on average, peaking at 40% growth in 2004. Export turnover surged from USD 140 million in 2004 to USD 219 million in 2007.
2011–2017: Challenges and Adjustments
From 2011 to 2017, the industry faced a downturn after its rapid growth. Around 1,000 companies shut down within five years. While export turnover continued to grow, it was uneven and modest. For instance, 2013 saw a 16% increase over 2012, but exports stagnated around USD 236 million in 2015–2016, before slightly rising to USD 247 million in 2017.
2018–Present: Period of Strong Growth
2018: Stable Recovery
After restructuring, companies that remained in the market were those capable of producing high-quality goods that met the strict standards of the US and European markets. In 2018, export turnover reached USD 316 million — the first time it surpassed USD 300 million — laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
2019–2020: Pandemic-Driven Surge
The COVID-19 pandemic surprisingly boosted global demand for natural, handmade decor products for home offices. Exports soared:
2019: +40% to USD 443 million
2020: +75% to USD 556 million
2021: A Historic Milestone
Exports hit a record USD 809 million in 2021, up 45% from 2020. This was driven by increased demand in the US and EU, particularly from eco-friendly tourism, hotel, and restaurant projects. Mats alone accounted for 52% of total export revenue, with key markets including the US, UK, Germany, and the Netherlands.
2022–2023: Natural Slowdown
After the surge, the market entered a natural decline. Exports fell 8% in 2022 to USD 748 million and dropped another 19% in 2023 to USD 658 million.
2024: Signs of Recovery
In the first nine months of 2024, exports reached nearly USD 600 million, a 10% increase year-on-year, indicating a positive recovery trend and potential for long-term sustainable growth.
Export Potential for Vietnam’s Bamboo and Rattan Sector
Vietnam currently ranks second globally in bamboo, rattan, sedge, and mat exports, known for superior quality and aesthetics compared to competitors like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Yet, it only holds 3.37% of global market share. China dominates with 67%, thanks to subsidies and large-scale production.
Vietnam, however, has a clear opportunity to capture 10–15% of global market share, supported by:
Free Trade Agreements like CPTPP and EVFTA, reducing export tariffs to 0%
Government support for traditional craft villages
Development of carbon credits and sustainability policies to lower production costs