The United Kingdom (UK) — a traditionally demanding market — has become increasingly familiar with products proudly labeled “Made in Vietnam.”
According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, bilateral trade between Vietnam and the UK reached over USD 7.7 billion in the first 11 months of 2024, up 18.1% year-on-year, with Vietnam enjoying a trade surplus of more than USD 6.1 billion (+21.4%).
Vietnam’s export value to the UK exceeded USD 6.9 billion, marking a strong 19.5% increase compared to the same period last year.
Vietnamese Products Gaining Ground in the UK Market
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Vietnamese agricultural and food products — such as seafood, noodles, dried pho, and fresh fruits — are now a common sight in British households.
Major UK supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Whole Foods Market have begun importing and distributing Vietnamese products, reflecting their quality, diversity, and growing appeal.
In addition, Vietnamese-owned supermarkets and Asian specialty stores play a crucial role in promoting Vietnamese goods to UK consumers.
On their shelves, shoppers can easily find:
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Rice, tea, and coffee
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Specialty confectionery and snacks
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Rice paper, spring roll wrappers, noodles, and dried pho
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Fresh herbs and tropical fruits
Quality, Diversity, and Competitive Pricing – Key Drivers of Success
The significant improvement in product quality is the primary factor behind Vietnam’s success in penetrating the UK market. Vietnamese businesses are increasingly focused on meeting international standards, improving packaging design, and ensuring diversity in product categories.
From fashion and handicrafts to agricultural and food products, Vietnamese goods offer a wide range of choices at competitive prices, making them highly attractive to UK consumers.
Furthermore, the implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) has helped reduce tariffs and trade barriers, boosting Vietnam’s export competitiveness.
Vietnamese Goods Strengthening Presence in the UK
According to Ms. Hoàng Lê Hằng, First Secretary and representative of the Vietnam Trade Office in the UK, the growing presence of Vietnamese goods on UK supermarket shelves is an encouraging sign.
It demonstrates that Vietnamese products are earning the trust of British consumers — particularly as the UK seeks to diversify its import sources following its departure from the European Union (Brexit).
Challenges Remain for Vietnamese Exporters
Despite remarkable progress, Vietnamese exports still face multiple challenges in the UK market:
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Intense competition from other exporting countries
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Strict technical barriers and customs procedures
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Brand recognition and market expansion
To sustain and strengthen their market position, Vietnamese exporters must continue to:
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Enhance product quality and consistency
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Develop strong, trusted brands
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Establish reliable distribution partnerships in the UK
UKVFTA and CPTPP: Double Leverage for Growth
Ms. Hoàng Lê Hằng emphasized that the UK–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) has provided a major boost for Vietnamese agriculture.
The agreement eliminates 94% of the 547 tariff lines on fruits, vegetables, and processed goods, giving Vietnamese products a distinct competitive edge over exports from countries without FTAs with the UK.
The dynamism of Vietnamese enterprises and the support of government agencies have further strengthened trade and export growth to the UK.
Looking ahead, she noted that bilateral trade between Vietnam and the UK has strong growth potential, driven by:
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The UKVFTA
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Vietnam’s robust economic expansion
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Rising demand for goods and services in both markets
Moreover, the UK’s official accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) opens new export opportunities for Vietnam — one of its most important trading partners in Asia.
Emerging Competition and Sustainability Requirements
However, Vietnam’s CPTPP advantage also comes with greater competition.
While the UK has pledged new market openings under CPTPP — such as tariff-rate quotas for fragrant rice, tuna, and honey — other member countries with high-quality agricultural exports will also seek to capture market share.
To maintain growth in agricultural exports to the UK, Vietnamese producers and exporters must:
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Research market demand and consumer trends, particularly in organic and sustainable products
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Ensure compliance with CPTPP standards on labor, environment, and intellectual property
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Strengthen supply chain management from production to distribution
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Align with the global green and fair trade trend
Conclusion
The UK market presents both significant opportunities and complex challenges for Vietnam’s agricultural exporters.
By embracing sustainability, enhancing quality, and leveraging FTAs like UKVFTA and CPTPP, Vietnamese businesses can consolidate their position and expand exports to one of the world’s most high-value and demanding markets.