JP
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Recently, I attended a sports-related exhibition.
At first, I thought it might not be directly relevant to our business, but since fabric suppliers were also participating, I saw it as a chance to explore new opportunities.
Luckily, the venue was nearby, making it easy to visit.
The overwhelming impression was the dominance of Chinese companies — easily 99% of the booths.
Even when I stopped by some booths under the name of Vietnamese companies, most turned out to be Chinese headquarters or trading firms handling Chinese products.
Once again, I was reminded of China’s immense presence. Interestingly, some booths had no staff at all, or the staff only spoke Chinese, which felt unusual for an international trade show.
I did manage to have discussions with several fabric suppliers. Chinese fabrics still stand out with their variety, speed, and competitive pricing.
Even after adding import duties, they remain attractive.
MOQ (minimum order quantity) requirements have become smaller compared to the past, but for our main customers, they still feel a bit high.
Another point of difference was whether suppliers could handle sample yardage.
For us, the ability to provide sample dyeing is crucial, so this was an important observation.
From the exhibition, my biggest takeaway was this: “China remains incredibly strong.” Competing on price alone is nearly impossible.
For Vietnamese manufacturers like us, the key lies in how we differentiate — through quality, flexibility, and added value.
On a lighter note, next door there was a massive firefighting exhibition, with giant drones over two meters tall and specialized vehicles on display.
Firefighters were walking around everywhere, blending in with the visitors.
It almost felt like they had come to inspect the sports exhibition — such an amusing and unusual scene.
All in all, the exhibition gave me both valuable insights and unexpected moments of warmth — lessons and impressions I hope to carry forward into future business opportunities.
