At its second edition, the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) has once again proven a vital trade platform for the global textile value chain. Taking place from 26-28 February 2025, the show concluded with resounding success, after attracting over 19,000 visits, marking a more than 10% increase from the previous year.

Attendees hailed from over 70 countries and regions, surpassing the 55 represented in 2024. The fair also welcomed 463 exhibitors from 24 countries and regions, reflecting a nearly 13% growth compared to its inaugural edition. Several new zones and a dedicated pavilion highlighted Vietnam’s progress in textile innovation and sustainability while strengthening its integration with the global supply chain.

Serving as a crucial bridge between the local and global markets, VIATT was once again hosted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT). Ms Phan Thi Thang, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, commented at the opening ceremony: “Among all the current industrial export products of Vietnam, the textile and garment industry accounts for 12 – 16% of the country's total export turnover. With 17 new-generation free trade agreements (FTAs) now in effect, the country’s textile and garment industry aims to achieve an export turnover of USD 48 billion by 2025, reinforcing Vietnam's role in the global supply chain.”

Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, noted: “VIATT 2025 exceeded expectations, particularly with the introduction of the European Zone and India Pavilion. With significant international growth in exhibitor and visitor numbers, the fair has strengthened its position as a gateway to ASEAN’s dynamic textile market, providing valuable opportunities to form partnerships, upgrade supply chains, and access new markets.”

Aligned with industry trends, VIATT 2025 placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and cutting-edge technology. The newly introduced Innovation and Digital Solutions Zone and Econogy Hub became central showcases for advanced textile technologies and sustainable solutions, reinforcing the industry’s shift towards an eco-conscious future across the apparel, home, and technical sectors.

Mr Nguyen Tri Duc, Overseas Sales Department, Toyo Orimono, Japan, exhibiting in Econogy Hub, said: “The platform has been excellent for networking. We’ve seen a surge in interest for recycled fibres and eco-friendly products, especially from Japan and Europe. Compared to last year, the crowd is larger, more professional, and the booths are more visually appealing.”

The European Zone also made a strong impression, presenting top-tier French fashion, Portuguese home textiles, and sustainable British textiles. The UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) showcased premium British fabric mills, underscoring the growing significance of Vietnam in global trade.

Mr Daniel Connolly, Senior Executive, UKFT, stated: “Vietnam’s consumer class is expanding rapidly, with strong, sustainable manufacturing investments. With the UK’s free trade agreement with Vietnam now in place and its recent accession to CPTPP, British textiles are increasingly being manufactured into finished goods here. We are delighted to participate in VIATT, which presents exciting new opportunities for UK companies.”

Exhibitors noted strong visitor traffic and high-quality business leads. Mr Bao Jia Cheng, from Shaoxing Sunsmile Textile Co Ltd, China, commented: “Southeast Asia is key for the region’s economic evolution. Visitor flow has been promising, with interest from Vietnam, Thailand, India, and beyond.”

Buyers also reported a successful sourcing experience. Mr Eduardo Hernández Castillo, International Purchasing Manager, Avante Textil, Mexico, shared: “The fair has been a great place to discover innovative technologies, especially in melange yarns, as well as fashion parades that provided unique insights.”

VIATT 2025 also delivered a robust knowledge-sharing programme, featuring 11 seminars across themes such as Design & Trends, Market Information & Business Strategies, and Innovation & Sustainability. Key highlights included the Interior Design Roundtable on sustainable smart textiles and the inaugural VCICS – Vietnam Investment Summit, which explored new business opportunities between China and Vietnam.

As a fitting conclusion to the event, two fashion shows featuring Vietnamese designer Vu Viet Ha and French designer Manix Wong drew widespread attention, while garment display zones and interactive workshops further enriched the experience for fairgoers.

Looking ahead to VIATT 2026

The Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE). VIATT 2026 will take place from 26-28 February 2026.

VIATT website