Vietnamese fruits at a supermarket in the United Kingdom. Trade between Việt Nam and the UK had surpassed the US$7 billion mark in the first 10 months of this year. -- VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY – October marked a pivotal moment for Green Life, a honey production co-operative in the northern province of Hòa Bình, as it successfully exported its first batch of products to the UK, a demanding market.

In an interview with Việt Nam News, Đinh Công Thuần, its director, shared his pride and delight at this achievement.

“The volume may be modest, but it represents an initial success, highlighting our ongoing efforts and product quality.

“The products have already reached consumers in the UK, and we are eagerly awaiting their feedback.”

The achievement was made possible by various factors, including support from local authorities and various government agencies and the proactive approach of the co-operative’s staff and himself in researching export market information, which played a decisive role.

He said that he and his team had been exploring export opportunities, including in the UK, for several years.

Aware of the high standards required by export markets, they diligently researched market standards, requirements, regulations, and, crucially, free trade agreements between Việt Nam and these markets through sources such as newspapers, websites and other media.

They also prioritised gathering information on key markets like the UK to study consumer preferences and demands, enabling them to tailour their products effectively.

“As a small co-operative, actively seeking information about export markets is essential.”

Since the UK–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) came into force in 2021, it had provided significant advantages to Vietnamese companies across various sectors, as demonstrated by export results.

Trade between Việt Nam and the UK had surpassed the US$7 billion mark in the first 10 months of this year.

To reach the $10 billion target soon, businesses had to complement Government efforts by proactively seeking export information and maximising the benefits of the UKVFTA.

With a growth rate of around 5 per cent, the target appeared achievable, particularly as Vietnamese companies actively leveraged the advantages of the UKVFTA.

Nguyễn Cảnh Cường, a former Vietnamese commercial counsellor to the UK, noted at a recent seminar: “Vietnamese entrepreneurs, especially younger ones, are increasingly proactive and adapt with digital platforms, making it easier and quicker to acquire information.

“They possess numerous skills on digital platforms, which facilitate easier and faster access to information.”

Experts pointed out that the UK, one of the world's largest economies with a population of over 67 million, places a high value on product quality, sustainability and unique characteristics.

British consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that meet quality standards and demonstrate a commitment to environmental protection.

Vietnamese rice sold in United Kingdom. Experts suggest companies to actively research UK market to leverage trade deal. -- VNA/VNS Photo

For successful exports to the UK, businesses must thoroughly gather information and adhere to regulations since a lack of information or failure to comply with import rules could result in goods being detained at the border or returned.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) advises companies to diligently seek information on the UK market, including its regulations and policies, and to understand the relevant commitments in the UKVFTA to capitalise on its benefits.

For example, the British Standards produced by British Standards Institution (BSI) - a national standards body of the United Kingdom - plays a vital role in ensuring that products meet the technical, legal and commercial requirements of the UK market.

Products certified by the BSI are highly regarded for their quality and safety, making them more appealing to British importers and consumers.

It also reduces the risk of rejection at the border due to non-compliance with technical or safety standards.

Besides, BSI standards are widely recognised, facilitating access not only to the UK market but also to markets across Europe.

Staying informed about regulations and market dynamics is therefore essential for Vietnamese companies aiming to export successfully to the UK.

MoIT further highlights that Vietnamese businesses exporting to or operating in the UK must carry out in-depth research to thoroughly understand market information.

Valuable and transparent sources of information include trade, business and tax data systems provided by the UK Government through websites like gov.uk and the ITC trade map - an online database on international trade statistics which offers an overview of the import-export landscape by sector and specific products based on Harmonised System (HS) codes.

To help Vietnamese businesses leverage free trade agreements, especially new-generation ones like the UKVFTA, MoIT has collaborated with relevant ministries and agencies to establish an electronic information portal for FTAs at fta.gov.vn.

This platform features an intelligent online search tool, enabling businesses and stakeholders to access details on FTA commitments, including under the UKVFTA.

The website focuses on key areas such as tariffs, rules of origin, services and investment, as well as other critical information like market conditions, import-export regulations and sustainable development.

Besides, businesses can also explore market data at platforms such as goglobal.moit.gov.vn and connectviet.moit.gov.vn.

MoIt said diversifying trade promotion activities and carefully evaluating potential partners are also crucial steps in achieving export success. – VNS