Import Canvas Shoes from Vietnam: Everything You Must Know

Vietnam ranks among the top three footwear producers and exporters in the world. Many leading international brands, including Nike, Adidas, and Puma, choose Vietnam as a key production base.

With its strong manufacturing capacity and credibility in global supply chains, Vietnam is a preferred destination for exporting footwear, especially canvas shoes, which are a popular fashion trend today.

This guide will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to import canvas shoes from Vietnam successfully.

Global market overview of canvas shoes

Canvas shoes are known for being lightweight, breathable, and easy to style for everyday wear. They are becoming a staple in the fashion industry as more consumers look for casual and comfortable footwear. Today, canvas shoes appeal to people of all ages, making them one of the most widely used footwear categories worldwide.

The canvas shoe market has grown strongly in recent years, supported by rising interest in sustainable fashion and eco-friendly materials. In 2023, the global canvas shoe market is valued at approximately USD 4.2 billion. The segment is expected to grow at a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate of 5.78 percent from 2024 to 2032. The major markets for canvas shoes include North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region.

Why import canvas shoes from Vietnam?

Vietnam is a highly attractive destination on the global industrial map for sourcing goods. Importing canvas shoes from Vietnam offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Cost efficiency

Vietnam has maintained relatively affordable labour costs, which is a key point to attract global buyers to import goods from Vietnam. Currently, labor costs in Vietnam are less than 25 per cent of the global median wage. This allows manufacturers to produce high-quality products without compromising quality. This means that global buyers can earn greater profit margins when importing canvas shoes from Vietnam.

2. A plentiful workforce

Vietnam has a plentiful young and skilled workforce. As of 2024, Vietnam’s labor force stands at 52.4 million people. Currently, Vietnam has about 1000 shoe manufacturers. This strong labor base allows the industry to maintain stable production even during peak seasons.

3. Government support

The Vietnamese government supports the growth of the footwear industry by joining bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. These agreements reduce trade barriers, make exporting easier for domestic businesses, and attract global manufacturers to invest in Vietnam.

For example, Vietnam has a free trade agreement (FTA) with the EU, which is called EVFTA. This agreement has simplified trade rules and eliminated most tariffs on goods that come from Vietnam.

Types of canvas shoes you can source from Vietnam

Vietnamese manufacturers produce a wide range of canvas shoes to meet different market needs. Buyers can source casual slip-ons, low-top or high-top designs, and even customizable options for branding or specific styles.

Below are some common types of canvas shoes you can source from Vietnam:

1. Sneakers

Canvas sneakers are a versatile choice for everyday wear. They combine lightweight comfort with a clean and casual look that fits many styles. The breathable canvas material keeps the feet cool.

With various colors and design options, they can work for school, commuting, travel, and leisure.

2. Loafers

Canvas loafers give a relaxed yet polished look that suits casual and semi-formal occasions. They are easy to slip on and offer soft comfort for long hours of wear. The canvas upper keeps the shoes light, and the flexible sole improves walking comfort. These shoes work well for office casual outfits, weekend activities, and summer fashion lines.

3. Boat shoes

Canvas boat shoes are designed for comfort and style in warm weather. They feature a low-profile shape with a soft canvas upper that allows the feet to breathe. These shoes can work well for coastal destinations, resort stores, and lifestyle.

4. Espadrilles

Canvas espadrilles bring a fresh look that is perfect for summer. They use a canvas upper paired with a woven sole that creates a natural and relaxed style. These shoes feel airy and comfortable, which makes them ideal for warm climates.

Where to find Vietnamese canvas shoe suppliers?

Global buyers have several options to connect with reputable manufacturers. You can explore verified B2B platforms, attend trade fairs, or work with local sourcing agents. These approaches can help you partner with trustworthy suppliers when importing canvas shoes from Vietnam.

1. Attend trade shows

Trade shows are an effective way to meet many suppliers in person in Vietnam. You can see and test their products directly, talk with representatives, and begin building business relationships.

• Shoes & Leather – Vietnam 2025 is the leading footwear event in the ASEAN region. It brings together manufacturers, brands, and sourcing agents. In 2024, the event welcomed about 15,000 professional visitors from more than twenty countries.
• Vietnam EXPO is one of the longest-standing trade promotion events in Vietnam, first held in 1991. In 2024, it was held in Ha Noi, with over 480 enterprises from 16 countries and territories presenting in 550 booths.
• VIFA EXPO (Vietnam International Furniture & Home Accessories Expo) is the largest furniture trade show in Vietnam. Although it focuses mainly on furniture, it is also a helpful hub for sourcing related categories such as textiles, packaging, and interior accessories that support footwear businesses. VIFA EXPO 2026 is scheduled to take place from 8-11 March at WTC EXPO (Binh Duong Ward) and SKY EXPO VIETNAM (Trung My Tay Ward) in Ho Chi Minh City.

You can join Vietnam sourcing communities on Facebook or LinkedIn, or follow Vietnam business news to stay updated on upcoming events. This helps you track new sourcing opportunities and receive event announcements in advance.

2. Online B2B platforms

Online B2B platforms are one of the most convenient ways for global buyers to find Vietnamese canvas shoe suppliers. These platforms allow you to browse a wide range of products, compare suppliers, and request quotations without visiting Vietnam in person.

Below is a comparison of some popular platforms:

#	Platform	Strengths	Weeknesses
1	Alibaba	Large supplier base Wide variety of product options	Risk of inconsistent quality
2	VinaSources	Connects buyers with a large number of vetted and export-ready Vietnamese suppliers Easy to request quotations	Some suppliers may require higher MOQ levels
3	Global Sources	Strong supplier verification system Reliable listing quality	Fewer footwear suppliers compared to other platforms

3. Direct factories

Sourcing directly from factories is an effective way to ensure product quality, negotiate competitive pricing, and build long-term relationships with manufacturers.

Here are some notable canvas shoe factories in Vietnam:

Viet A Chau Investment & Development Corporation (Viet A Chau)
Viet A Chau is a Vietnamese footwear manufacturer founded in 1992 and based in Ho Chi Minh City. The company specializes in producing footwear and synthetic leather products for global brands. With decades of experience in export manufacturing, Viet A Chau is recognized for stable quality, competitive pricing, and reliable production capacity.

• Address: 80A Huynh Van Banh St., Ward 15, Phu Nhuan Dist, Ho Chi Minh City
• Website: www.vietachau.vn
• Email: [email protected]

ThaiBinh Group (TBS Group)
TBS Group is one of Vietnam’s largest footwear manufacturers with more than 25 years of experience. It is one of the largest companies in Vietnam with over 25.000 full-time employees. Each year, TBS can manufacture and export more than 21 million pairs of shoes, which accounts for about 1-2% of Vietnam’s total footwear export volume.

• Address: 5A Xuyen A Highway, An Binh Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province
• Website: www.tbsgroup.vn
• Email: [email protected]

How to import canvas shoes from Vietnam?

Whether you’re a new buyer or an experienced importer, following a clear process will help you ensure quality, timely delivery, and competitive pricing. Follow this step-by-step guide to make importing canvas shoes from Vietnam easy:

1. Check the sample quality

Requesting a sample from the supplier is the first step after choosing a reliable canvas shoe partner. This step is crucial for verifying the quality, materials, workmanship, and overall design of the canvas shoes before placing a bulk order.

Once you receive the samples, examine them thoroughly. Check details such as stitching, sole flexibility, comfort, and durability, ensuring the product meets your standards and market requirements.

If you notice any issues or want adjustments, you should provide clear and detailed feedback to the manufacturer. Specify exactly what needs to be changed, such as color, material, stitching, sizing, or packaging.

Please note that samples are not always free. Some suppliers may charge a fee for producing them, so it’s important to clarify the sample cost and delivery time with the supplier beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.

2. Negotiate contract

Establishing a contract is a necessary and essential step when sourcing products from a supplier. You and your supplier should discuss all terms of the business relationship, such as pricing, delivery schedules, quality standards, and after-sales support.

The contract serves as a formal agreement that sets clear expectations, builds trust, and minimizes risks for both parties. Key areas typically covered during negotiation include:

• Pricing structures: Discuss unit costs, volume discounts, payment terms, and any additional fees such as packaging or sample charges.
• Delivery terms: Agree on lead times, shipping methods, and contingency plans for delays. This helps ensure timely delivery and smooth logistics.
• Quality standards: Define the expected level of product quality, including materials, workmanship, and durability. Specify how quality will be measured and verified, such as through pre-shipment inspections or third-party audits.
• Service levels: Clarify response times, support availability, and procedures for handling problems or complaints.

By covering these areas thoroughly, you can secure a reliable, transparent, and mutually beneficial sourcing agreement.

3. Handle import documents

To ensure that the import goes smoothly, you should prepare proper documentation.

Key documents typically include:

• Bill of lading: Issued by the shipping or logistics company, this document serves as proof of shipment and ownership of goods.
• Contract: The purchase agreement between the buyer and the supplier, outlining the terms of sale.
• Certificate of origin (C/O): Certifies the product’s country of origin. Required for customs clearance and may affect import duties and tariffs.
• Commercial invoice: Details the product description, unit price, total price, and payment terms.
• Packing list: Lists the contents of each package, including quantities, weight, and dimensions, making it easier for customs inspection and inventory verification.
• Import License or Permit (if applicable): Some countries require specific licenses or permits for importing footwear or certain materials.

You can work with a freight forwarder or customs broker to ensure all documentation meets your country’s import regulations.

4. Tax and tariffs

When importing canvas shoes from Vietnam, it’s important to factor in taxes and import duties, as they affect your total landed cost. Vietnam has signed multiple Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), such as the CPTPP and EVFTA, which allow eligible goods to benefit from reduced or even zero tariffs when exported to partner countries.

To benefit from these agreements, ensure your shoes are classified under the correct HS code (usually 6404) and obtain a Certificate of Origin (C/O) from your supplier. This proves the products are made in Vietnam and qualifies them for preferential rates.

Besides, be sure to check for any additional taxes, such as VAT or sales tax, in your destination country. Proper planning for taxes and tariffs can help you reduce import costs and avoid unexpected fees, making your sourcing process smoother and more profitable.

5. Manage shipping

It is crucial to choose a shipping method that balances cost, speed, and reliability. Select the most suitable option based on your order size, urgency, and destination to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

Comparison of main shipping options:

Shipping Method	Key features	Best for
Air Freight	Fast, reliable, and ideal for urgent shipments.	Small to medium orders that need to arrive quickly.
Sea Freight	Cost-effective for large shipments but slower than air. Suitable for bulk orders.	Large or heavy shipments where delivery time is flexible.
Land Transport	Affordable and flexible for short-distance routes.	Domestic shipments or nearby countries with moderate delivery timelines.

To ensure your shipping process runs smoothly and your products arrive safely, you should:

• Plan Ahead: Schedule your shipping to align with your production timeline and avoid delays.
• Define Responsibilities: Use clear Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP) to specify who handles costs, insurance, and risk during transit.
• Package Properly: Ensure products are securely packaged to prevent damage during shipping.
• Track Shipments: Stay updated on the shipment’s progress to prepare for timely delivery and customs clearance.

Typical MOQ, lead time for importing canvas shoes

The typical MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) for canvas shoes ranges from 200 to 1,000 pairs, while the lead time usually falls between 30 to 60 days. The exact MOQ and lead time may vary depending on the factory, season, material availability, and whether the shoes are customized.

Below is a table showing some typical MOQs and lead times for different types of canvas shoes:

#	Type of Canvas Shoes	Typical MOQ (Pairs)	Typical Lead Time (Days)
1	Basic low-top canvas	200	30 – 45
2	Canvas slip-ons	200	30 – 45
3	Canvas sandals	300	25 – 40

Why use VinaSources when importing canvas shoes?

If you’re looking for a reliable online sourcing platform, VinaSources is a trusted partner for connecting with verified footwear manufacturers in Vietnam. Unlike platforms that simply list suppliers, VinaSources provides end-to-end support throughout the sourcing process, including supplier matching, quality inspections, logistics coordination, and export compliance.

On VinaSources, you can explore a wide range of canvas footwear, from casual sneakers and slip-ons to loafers, boat shoes, and eco-friendly options. Every supplier on the platform is carefully vetted to ensure export readiness, consistent product quality, and compliance with international standards.

Interested in placing bulk canvas shoe orders? Fill out the quotation form to submit your sourcing request and receive supplier recommendations that match your requirements.