AsemconnectVietnam - In the context of global trade increasingly emphasizing transparency and traceability, certificates of origin (C/O) are becoming a key factor in helping Vietnamese handicrafts penetrate higher-end markets.

More than just a tool to enjoy preferential tariffs, C/O is increasingly seen as a "passport" affirming the prestige, quality, and cultural value of Vietnamese products in the international market.
According to the data from the Vietnam Handicraft Village Association, the export value of handicrafts has been growing strongly in recent years, from US$2.23 billion in 2019 to nearly US$4 billion in 2024 and was estimated to reach US$4.5-4.7 billion in 2025. The key products such as rattan and bamboo weaving, ceramics, fine art wood products, lacquerware, and embroidery are present in many countries and territories. Notably, the proportion of exports to markets with high standards and origin requirements such as the EU, Japan, and the United States is increasing significantly.
In fact, in high-end markets, Certificates of Origin (C/O) not only serve customs clearance purposes but also act as a basis for partners to assess compliance with regulations on origin, environment, labor, and the sustainability of the supply chain. For products with strong handcrafted elements and cultural identity, clearly demonstrating "Made in Vietnam" helps businesses build trust with importers and consumers, thereby increasing the added value of the product.
According to representatives of the Vietnam Handicraft Village Association, the implementation of new generation free trade agreements such as EVFTA and CPTPP has opened up significant opportunities for handicraft exports. Despite possessing over 5,400 craft villages and a rich treasure trove of products with unique characteristics, and having received government support ranging from tax incentives and training to trade promotion, the results remain limited. Many small businesses are unable to meet the complex documentation requirements and rules of origin.
In this context, administrative procedure reform and the acceleration of the digitalization of the Certificate of Origin (C/O) issuance process are considered crucial. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the electronic C/O issuance system has been expanded recently, helping businesses shorten processing time, reduce costs, and increase transparency. Given the characteristics of small, diverse, and seasonal orders, this reform has created favorable conditions for many craft villages to confidently shift to official export channels.
In fact, many rattan and bamboo weaving and ceramics businesses in Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Binh Duong, and Dong Nai have gradually mastered the origin certification process, thereby signing long-term contracts with European and Japanese partners. Instead of fragmented exports and dependence on intermediaries, businesses are becoming more proactive in price negotiation, quality control, and brand building.
Experts believe that the greatest advantage of Vietnamese handicrafts lies in domestic raw materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and local cultural values. However, to transform this advantage into sustainable competitiveness, businesses need to invest more systematically in production management, standardize origin documentation, and gradually implement traceability of raw materials. When Certificates of Origin (C/O) are implemented transparently from the outset, risks during post-inspection will be reduced, and a solid foundation will be created for market expansion.
From a management perspective, further improving the legal framework and strengthening guidance and training on rules of origin for small businesses and craft villages are considered key solutions. When C/O is no longer a technical barrier but becomes a tool to support development, Vietnamese handicrafts may have more opportunities to enter high-end segments, increase export value, and affirm their position in the global supply chain.
CK
Source: VITIC/ moit.gov.vn