Import Cotton Bags from Vietnam: Guide for Global Buyers

The global demand for cotton bags is rapidly growing as consumers and businesses shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. With rising environmental awareness and new regulations promoting reusable packaging, cotton bags have become one of the most sought-after products in the global textile market.

This guide will walk you through each step of how to import cotton bags from Vietnam effectively, covering everything from finding verified suppliers and understanding certifications to managing shipping and customs efficiently.

Global cotton bags market

The global cotton bags market is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising awareness of health and eco-friendly lifestyles. As a result, cotton bags are now widely preferred over plastic bags. Organic cotton bags currently account for about 40% of the total market share.

In 2025, the cotton handbag market was valued at USD 6.97 billion and is projected to reach USD 14.22 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 8.24% from 2025 to 2034.

This upward trend indicates robust global demand, supported by key factors such as:

• Strengthened environmental regulations and government initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste.
• A growing shift among consumers and businesses toward reusable and biodegradable packaging solutions.

This growth trend creates valuable opportunities for importers in the expanding market to increase order volumes and reach new buyers.

Vietnam has become a leading hub for cotton bag exports, enabling importers to benefit from competitive prices, consistent quality, and better profit margins.

Why Source Cotton Bags from Vietnam

Vietnam is a preferred sourcing destination for global buyers because of the many advantages it offers, including competitive prices, skilled manufacturing, and reliable export performance.

Vietnam offers experienced factories and skilled labor, combined with advanced equipment and management systems that ensure consistent product quality and timely delivery. Moreover, Vietnamese manufacturers are increasingly adopting sustainable materials and smart production technologies to meet the growing market demand for environmentally responsible products.

1. Cost-competitiveness

Vietnam offers a significant cost advantage for cotton bag production. Labor costs are generally lower than in major manufacturing hubs such as China or India. Comparing Vietnam’s USD 2.99/hour labor cost versus China’s USD 6.50, Vietnam offers significantly more attractive rates.

Besides, the country also benefits from a stable supply of locally produced cotton and supporting materials, which helps reduce dependency on imports and keeps production expenses under control.

2. Quality and compliance

Most Vietnamese manufacturers follow strict international standards such as GOTS-certified cotton, ISO 9001, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100, ensuring that cotton bags are free from harmful substances and safe for consumer use. These certifications strengthen Vietnam’s reputation for producing high-quality, eco-friendly cotton bags that meet global expectations.

3. Young, skilled labor force

Vietnam has a large, young, and skilled workforce capable of handling high-volume and complex production orders. In the first half of 2025, the country recorded a workforce of around 53 million people, reflecting strong labor market growth and stability.

Many workers are trained in textile and garment production, giving them the expertise needed to produce high-quality cotton bags that meet international standards.

4. Favorable trade agreements

Vietnam enjoys strong advantages from its extensive network of free trade agreements, which make its exports more competitive and easier to access in major global markets. These agreements have reduced tariffs and simplified customs procedures for many Vietnamese products, including cotton bags.

At the same time, the US-China trade war has shifted global sourcing patterns. As the United States imposed higher tariffs on Chinese exports, many manufacturers and importers began relocating their production to Vietnam. This shift has further boosted Vietnam’s position as a low-cost manufacturing and export hub, offering buyers easier import conditions and tariff advantages when sourcing cotton bags and other textile products.

Types of Cotton Bags You Can Import

The cotton bags market is segmented by capacity, type, end use, and region. Here are some common types of cotton bags available in the market:

1. Beach Cotton Bags

Beach cotton bags are designed for both style and practicality, making them a favorite choice for seaside trips. These bags feature sturdy cotton rope handles that provide a comfortable grip, while their spacious design allows you to carry everything you need, from clothes and towels to sunglasses and sunscreen.

Made with durable cotton fabric, beach bags are tough enough to handle outdoor conditions yet light enough for easy travel. They often come in vibrant colors and trendy styles, combining fashion with functionality for any beach adventure.

2. Tote cotton bags

Tote cotton bags are among the most popular and versatile styles on the market. Their simple yet elegant design makes them ideal for everyday use, shopping, and promotional events. Most tote bags feature a soft, slouchy shape with two sturdy handles and an open top, though some come with longer straps for easy shoulder carrying.

Custom-printed cotton tote bags are especially attractive because they can be personalized with logos, patterns, or designs to match different consumer preferences.

3. Cotton backpacks

Cotton backpacks are practical and versatile, making them suitable for school, work, travel, or casual outings. They offer wide storage spaces that can easily fit items like laptops, books, or clothes. Designed for comfort, their adjustable shoulder straps allow users to carry them effortlessly, making cotton backpacks both functional and stylish for everyday use.

4. Shoulder bags

Unlike tote bags that have two handles, shoulder bags feature a single strap designed to rest comfortably on the shoulder. Most shoulder bags come with one large main compartment and several zippered pockets, offering ample space for organizing personal items while maintaining a stylish and functional appearance.

Which is the best place to find reliable cotton bag suppliers?

1. Sourcing agents

Working with a sourcing agent is one of the most effective ways to find reliable and pre-vetted cotton bag suppliers in Vietnam. These agents act as your local business representatives, helping you navigate the purchasing process, especially for bulk or customized orders. A professional sourcing company can handle supplier selection, quality control, price negotiation, and shipping coordination, saving you time and reducing risk.

• Cosmo Sourcing: A top sourcing agency that supports global businesses in finding quality products and connecting with reliable Vietnamese manufacturing partners.
• Seditex: With over 15 years of experience in the sourcing industry, Seditex provides end-to-end services such as product sourcing, cost-efficient manufacturing, and export management for international buyers seeking reliable suppliers in Vietnam.

2. Use B2B platforms

B2B platforms are excellent tools for finding and comparing reliable cotton bag suppliers. They feature detailed product descriptions, clear specifications, and photos, allowing you to easily assess product quality and design. Products are often organized into categories and subcategories, making navigation simple and efficient.

• Alibaba: One of the world’s largest B2B marketplaces that connects global buyers with manufacturers across various industries. It provides supplier verification, trade assurance, and transparent communication channels.
• VinaSources: A trusted Vietnam-based B2B platform that helps international buyers connect directly with verified cotton bag manufacturers. It offers supplier screening, export support, and logistics coordination to simplify sourcing from Vietnam.
• Global Sources: A B2B wholesale platform serving global buyers, known for its strict supplier verification system that includes on-site audits and background checks. It ensures that products meet international standards through rigorous certification and compliance procedures.

3. Direct manufacturers

Working directly with manufacturers allows you to communicate your requirements clearly, negotiate better prices, and monitor production quality more closely. Many Vietnamese factories have strong export experience and can handle both small and large-scale cotton bag orders.

• Vietnam Cotton Bag: Headquartered in Hanoi, this reputable factory specializes in producing cotton tote bags, shopping bags, and other eco-friendly designs. Known for consistent quality and customization options, it serves both domestic and international markets.
• CPC Vietnam: Established in 2005 and based in Ho Chi Minh City, CPC Vietnam is an export-ready bag manufacturer recognized for its durable and cost-effective cotton bags. The company offers full export support for global buyers, including product development, quality control, and logistics coordination.

Step-by-Step Process to Import Cotton Bags from Vietnam

1. Define your product

Start by clearly identifying the type of cotton bag you want to import. Determine details such as size, fabric type, color, weight capacity, and design. Decide whether you need customizable features like printed logos, embroidery, or specific packaging. The more detailed your product specifications are, the easier it will be for suppliers to provide accurate quotations and production timelines.

2. Find Verified Suppliers

Look for suppliers with a strong export background and solid reputation. Review their factory profiles, customer feedback, and certifications such as GOTS, ISO 9001, or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 to verify their credibility. It’s also important to ask about their production capacity, quality control process, and experience with international clients to make sure they can meet your requirements.

3. Sample evaluation

Once you shortlist potential suppliers, request detailed quotations that include pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, and payment terms. Always ask for physical cotton bag samples before confirming a bulk order to evaluate material quality and workmanship.

Check the hand feel of the fabric, stitch density, and print clarity on both light and dark materials. You can also request digital mockups or pre-production samples to review design accuracy and finishing details.
Taking time to inspect these factors will help you ensure that the final product meets your expectations before moving forward with mass production.

4. Quality control management

Once your order is confirmed, maintain regular communication with the manufacturer throughout the production process. Request progress updates and photos at key stages, such as fabric cutting, printing, and final stitching. This helps ensure that your specifications are being followed correctly.
Arrange on-site or third-party quality inspections before shipment to verify product consistency, stitching accuracy, and overall workmanship.

5. Custom clearance

Importing cotton bags from Vietnam is a straightforward process when all required documents are properly prepared. To ensure smooth customs clearance, you will need the following:

• Commercial Invoice: Details the product specifications, total value, delivery terms, and payment method.
• Packing List: Provides a breakdown of the items in each shipment and how they are packed.
• Bill of Lading: Serves as proof that the goods have been shipped and confirms the terms of the transport contract.
• Certificate of Origin (CO): Confirms that the goods are legally produced in Vietnam and helps you qualify for preferential tariffs under trade agreements.

6. Handle Shipping and Documentation

Efficient shipping and proper documentation are essential to ensure a smooth importing process and avoid unexpected delays or costs. Selecting the right shipping method depends on your order volume, delivery schedule, and budget.to find suppliers that match your business needs quickly

• Air Freight: Faster but more expensive, suitable for urgent or smaller shipments.
• Sea Freight: Cost-effective for large orders but slower, ideal for bulk shipments.
• Land Transport: Balances cost and speed for regional shipments, with prices varying based on distance and logistics providers.

International ocean freight transit alone can take 4-8 weeks, plus time for production and customs clearance. Clarify shipping responsibilities using official Incoterms (e.g., FOB, EXW, CIF, DDP).

Typical MOQ, Lead Time for cotton bags

MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) refers to the smallest number of units a cotton bag manufacturer will produce per order. The MOQ depends on the design complexity, printing method, and fabric type. A simple cotton tote bag often has an MOQ of 100 to 300 pieces, while custom-printed or premium designs may require 500 to 1,000 pieces per order.

Lead Time varies by production stage and order size:

• Sample Time: Usually takes 7 to 10 days for product sampling and approval.
• Mass Production: Typically ranges from 25 to 40 days after sample confirmation, depending on design and quantity.

Below is an example of typical MOQ and lead time for different types of cotton bags:

Type	Typical MOQ (pcs)	Sample Time	Production Lead Time
Cotton tote bag	100-300	7-10 days	25-35 days
Drawstring Cotton Bag	200-500	7-12 days	30-40 days
Beach Cotton Bag	200-400	10–14 days	30-45 days

Cotton bags certification requirement

Cotton bags must meet specific quality and compliance standards to be accepted in international markets. These certifications verify that the products are made responsibly, using safe materials and ethical manufacturing practices.

• Organic Certification: Standards such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Organic Content Standard (OCS) confirm that cotton is grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, promoting environmental sustainability.
• Fair Trade Certification: Ensures that cotton bags are produced under fair labor conditions, guaranteeing fair wages and safe working environments for workers.
• Quality Management Certification (ISO 9001): Demonstrates that manufacturing processes follow strict quality control measures to maintain consistency and reliability.
• REACH Compliance: Confirms that the materials used meet European safety and chemical regulations, ensuring that the bags are free from harmful substances.
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Verifies that the final products are tested and certified to be free from hazardous or allergenic chemicals.
• SA8000 Certification: Focuses on social accountability, ensuring ethical labor practices and workplace safety.

These certifications serve as proof that cotton bags are responsibly produced and safe for consumers. They also help importers distinguish genuinely sustainable products from misleading “greenwashing” claims.

What factors affect the cost of importing cotton bags from Vietnam

The cost of importing cotton bags from Vietnam depends on several factors that influence production, materials, and logistics. Prices generally range from USD 0.8 to 3.5 per piece, depending on order size and customization level.

1. Design complexity and its impact

The more detailed the design, the higher the production cost. Simple cotton bags with plain fabric and basic stitching are the most affordable option. However, intricate designs that include multiple compartments, custom pockets, reinforced stitching, or unique closures such as zippers or magnetic snaps require more labor and materials. These additional features can significantly increase production time and overall cost.

2. Material quality

The type and grade of material used have a direct impact on both production cost and product value. Higher-quality fabrics provide better durability, texture, and appearance, making them more appealing to eco-conscious consumers. For instance, a tote bag made from organic cotton usually costs more than one made from regular or blended cotton due to stricter farming and certification standards.

Material choice also affects printing results, stitching strength, and long-term usability, all of which influence the final market price. Below is an estimate of production costs based on material choice:

Material Type	Estimated Cost (USD/meter)	Description
Calio (traditional cotton)	2.0	Basic, affordable option for promotional or mass-market bags.
Recycled Cotton	1.5	Made from post-consumer cotton waste, offers sustainability at a moderate cost.
Organic Cotton	2.5	Grown without chemicals or pesticides, higher cost due to certification.

3. Labor costs

Labor costs play a major role in determining the overall price of cotton bags. Manufacturing in regions with lower labor rates, such as Vietnam and other parts of Southeast Asia, can significantly reduce production costs. However, importers should still consider factors like quality control, production efficiency, and communication, as these may vary between factories. While lower labor costs help achieve competitive pricing, maintaining consistent quality requires working with experienced and well-managed suppliers.

4. Order quantity

Order size directly affects the cost per unit. Larger orders benefit from economies of scale, as factories can purchase materials in bulk and optimize their production processes. For example, a 10,000-piece order will generally have a lower unit price than a 500-piece order, even with the same design and material. Bulk production also helps reduce setup costs for printing or embroidery, making large orders more cost-efficient for importers seeking better profit margins.

5. Import Fees and Taxes

Customs duties, tariffs, and taxes vary by destination and can significantly influence the total landed cost of cotton bags. Importers should also consider additional charges such as port handling fees, import documentation, and customs brokerage. Accurately calculating these costs in advance helps prevent delays and unexpected expenses once the goods arrive.

6. Packing and handling

Packaging choices also affect the final price. Bulk packaging is the most economical option for large orders, but may not be ideal for retail presentation. In contrast, customized or eco-friendly packaging, such as branded boxes, printed tissue paper, or biodegradable wrapping, enhances the product’s visual appeal and customer experience.

Why Choose VinaSources for Cotton Bag Sourcing

VinaSources is a Vietnam-focused B2B sourcing platform designed to help international buyers connect directly with verified textile manufacturers. VinaSources offers end-to-end sourcing support, including supplier matching, quality control, logistics coordination, and export compliance.

You can explore a wide selection of ready-to-export cotton bag suppliers offering products in various sizes and styles, including tote bags, messenger bags, backpacks, and sling bags. With easy navigation and product filtering by design, material, and function, VinaSources allows you to quickly find suppliers that match your business needs.

If you are planning to place bulk cotton bag orders, simply fill out the sourcing form on our website to receive personalized supplier recommendations and get full support from our sourcing team from start to finish.