On March 29, 2025, the Vietnam – Brazil Economic Forum was held at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi as part of the official visit of H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil. The forum was co-organized by Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Brazilian Embassy in Hanoi, with the presence and keynote speeches of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Lula da Silva, along with senior officials and more than 300 enterprises from both nations.
Representing the Vietnam Cotton and Spinning Association (VCOSA), Chairman Mr. Nguyen An Toan delivered a speech as a guest speaker at Session 2: Agricultural Cooperation. In his remarks, Mr. Toan emphasized Brazil’s growing importance as a strategic supplier of cotton to Vietnam’s spinning industry.
According to VCOSA, Vietnam relies almost entirely on imported raw cotton. In 2024, the country imported over 1.5 million tons of cotton, with Brazil supplying more than 504,000 tons (33.6%), surpassing the United States and Australia to become the largest source. Brazilian cotton is favored by Vietnamese mills due to its competitive pricing, consistent quality, and reliable supply.
However, Mr. Toan also highlighted some challenges. Certain spinning mills in Vietnam have reported high stickiness in cotton from Brazil’s Mato Grosso region, affecting production efficiency. Additionally, labeling requirements, the lack of recognition of e-certificates, and import duties applied to recycled cotton waste such as carded cotton waste continue to pose difficulties for local spinning firms.
To enhance bilateral trade and streamline supply chains, Mr. Toan proposed several recommendations:
- Improve traceability systems with more accessible and user-friendly platforms.
- Enhance collaboration with local logistics partners in Vietnam, especially regarding customs and labeling compliance.
- Provide more flexible delivery schedules and competitive freight options to boost Brazil’s competitiveness in the Vietnamese market.
Mr. Toan also introduced a key collaborative initiative between the two countries: the Brazil Cotton Outlook Seminar, organized every two years by VCOSA in partnership with ABRAPA, ANEA, and ApexBrasil. The event serves as a vital platform for Vietnamese spinners to explore the Brazilian cotton market and expand trade cooperation.
In conclusion, the Chairman of VCOSA reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting strong and sustainable ties between the cotton sectors of Vietnam and Brazil, while advancing transparency and resilience across the global cotton supply chain.
VCOSA – Photos from TTXVN
