Global buyers choose Vietnam for its competitive manufacturing costs, skilled workforce, and strong footwear production capacity. However, finding a reliable Vietnamese loafer supplier can still be challenging, especially for new importers.
This guide will help you understand the essentials of identifying trustworthy suppliers, where to find them, and how to follow a step-by-step process to import loafers from Vietnam successfully.
Overview of the global market of loafers
Nowadays, loafers have emerged as a go-to footwear choice that perfectly balances style with comfort. Their blend of comfort and elegance makes them suitable for both professional and casual settings, appealing to a wide range of consumers.
The market surge can be credited to broader trends in fashion and consumer behavior, with an increasing demand for footwear that is both comfortable and stylish. In addition, the growth of remote work and more relaxed office dress codes has further boosted loafers as a popular footwear choice.
In 2023, the global loafers market was valued at USD 33.4 billion. Analysts forecast a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 3.8% from 2024 to 2030.
According to a recent report, Vietnam is among the top three exporters of loafer shoes. The country offers significant potential for global investment in the loafer market due to its competitive manufacturing costs and abundant workforce, making it a top choice for businesses looking to import loafers from Vietnam.
Why Vietnam is a strong source for loafer production
This section will highlight the factors that make Vietnam an attractive destination for importing loafer shoes.
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Strong manufacturing base
Vietnam is home to a large and diverse footwear manufacturing sector. In the first half of 2025, Vietnam exported more than USD 12 billion worth of footwear. This statistic indicates that many B2B global businesses trust and choose Vietnam as a base for manufacturing shoes for global sales.
In addition, many manufacturers offer OEM and ODM services. This gives global buyers more options for design, customization, and volume.
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Competitive manufacturing cost
Cost plays a crucial role when businesses choose a manufacturing location. Vietnam remains an attractive destination because of its competitive labor cost. Labor expenses in Vietnam are currently less than 25 percent of the global median wage, placing the country among the most affordable labor markets in the Asia Pacific region.
Although average wages have increased in recent years, they still remain competitive compared to many other manufacturing nations. This gives buyers a strong balance between cost efficiency and quality output.
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Stable political environment
Vietnam maintains a stable government system with clear economic priorities. This stability encourages foreign investment and supports long-term manufacturing operations. As a result, the footwear sector continues to grow steadily and attract global brands looking for reliable production partners.
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Developing infrastructure
Ocean freight is one of the most cost-effective shipping methods for large, heavy, or bulk goods. Vietnam currently has 114 seaports and continues to expand major logistics hubs to support export growth. Key ports such as Cat Lai and Hai Phong handle millions of TEUs of container cargo each year, serving as vital gateways for global shipments.
Over the past decade, the government has made significant investments in ports, roads, and industrial zones. These upgrades help goods move faster and more reliably across the supply chain. Moreover, improved roads and upgraded ports also reduce travel time between factories and shipping centers. As a result, exporters can maintain efficient delivery schedules and minimize delays.
How to import loafers from Vietnam
Below are the key steps to successfully import loafers from Vietnam, from sourcing reliable suppliers to arranging shipping and ensuring product quality.
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Find loafer suppliers
To start your sourcing process, you first need to identify reliable Vietnamese manufacturers that can meet your product, quality, and price requirements. You can find suppliers through several channels, such as:
- Work directly with local manufacturers
- Search through online e-commerce platforms such as Alibaba, VinaSources, and others.
- Partner with sourcing agents in Vietnam
- Visit trade shows
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Conduct a supplier audit
After creating a shortlist of potential suppliers, the next step is to conduct a supplier audit.
Meeting suppliers is an opportunity to understand how they operate, assess their production capacity, and confirm whether their quality standards align with your business needs.
If possible, schedule on-site visits to evaluate their manufacturing facilities, machinery, workflows, and working conditions. This also helps you build trust and establish stronger communication with their management and production teams.
If you are sourcing online or cannot travel to Vietnam, you can hire a third-party inspection or auditing company to conduct the factory audit on your behalf.
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Request for quotations (RFQ)
Once you have chosen the right supplier, the next step is to send out a Request for Quotations (RFQs) for the loafers.
When sending an RFQ, be sure to include:
- Size range
- Inner lining type
- Insole/outsole material
- Packaging requirements (shoebox type, labels, hangtags, barcodes, or special inserts)
Sending a structured RFQ will help suppliers clearly understand your expectations and provide accurate quotations tailored to your requirements.
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Request samples
Requesting samples is a crucial step when importing loafers. This process allows you to assess the factory’s craftsmanship, material quality, and overall reliability before committing to a larger order.
When reviewing loafer samples, you should carefully examine the stitching, lining, and outsole quality, as well as overall comfort and fit. If necessary, request revised versions until all specifications are finalized.
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Negotiate and finalize agreements
At this stage, you need to prepare a formal contract that clearly outlines all expectations and review it carefully with your supplier.
The contract must include key details such as:
- Product specifications and quality requirements
- Payment schedule, methods, and due dates
- Production lead time and expected delivery dates
- Responsibilities of each party
- Penalties or corrective actions for delays, defects, or non-compliance
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Quality control
Before shipment, it is essential to conduct thorough quality control inspections to ensure that your loafers meet the required standards. This step helps prevent defects, quality issues, and non-compliance problems.
You can hire a professional QC team or work with third-party inspection agencies to monitor production and perform detailed quality tests. This helps ensure that your loafers remain consistent and meet your specifications throughout the entire manufacturing process.
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Handle customs clearance
When importing loafers from Vietnam, proper customs clearance is essential to ensure your shipment arrives on time and complies with regulations. You should prepare all required documents in advance, including:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- Certificate of origin
- Purchase contract
- Importer Security Filing (ISF)
To simplify the process, you can hire a customs broker. They will assist in preparing and submitting all necessary documents, ensuring full compliance with the regulations and standards of your destination country.
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Arrange shipping
Once your products are ready for export, you should plan shipping carefully to ensure timely and cost-efficient delivery. Choose a shipping method based on your budget, order size, and urgency.
- Air freight: Fast but more expensive, suitable for urgent or smaller shipments.
- Sea freight: Slower but economical for large orders, making it best suited for bulk shipments.
- Land transport: Offers a balance between cost and speed for regional deliveries.
Typical MOQ, lead time for importing loafers
The typical minimum order quantity (MOQ) for loafers varies by supplier. Many suppliers set their minimum order at 300 to 500 pairs for standard loafers, while more detailed or premium designs may require higher MOQs.
Lead time also differs based on production stages and order size: sample orders generally take 7 to 10 days, whereas mass production usually ranges from 25 to 40 days, depending on the design complexity, materials, and total quantity.
The criteria for choosing the best supplier of loafers
There are several criteria to consider when choosing the best supplier:
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Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
Minimum Order Quantity, or MOQ, is the smallest number of units a supplier is willing to produce in one order. Buyers cannot place orders below this threshold, so understanding MOQ is essential when planning production.
MOQ levels vary depending on the supplier, the product type, the volume, and the level of customization. For example, some factories set the minimum order for men’s leather loafers at 500 pairs, while children’s canvas loafers may require 1,000 pairs.
When the MOQ is too high, buyers must invest more money upfront, hold larger inventory, and accept greater financial risk. For this reason, choosing a supplier with an MOQ that matches your budget and sales goals is an important part of building a sustainable sourcing strategy.
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Compliance with quality standards
This is one of the most important criteria when choosing a supplier for importing loafers from Vietnam. The supplier must meet the required quality standards and compliance requirements accurately.
Below are some essential certifications you should request from suppliers to ensure product quality, meet industry expectations, and comply with export requirements:
- ISO 9001:2001 (Quality management systems): Ensures the factory follows standardized procedures to maintain consistent product quality.
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Confirms that materials used in loafers are tested for harmful chemicals and are safe for human use.
- ISO 14001 (environmental management systems): Shows that the manufacturer manages its environmental impact responsibly and follows sustainable production practices.
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This certification ensures that any organic textile materials used in the shoes come from certified organic sources and are processed in a way that meets strict environmental and social standards.
- SEDEX: Indicates the factory complies with ethical standards related to labor rights, worker safety, environmental management, and responsible business practices.
In addition, each destination country has its own regulations. For example, when importing goods into the U.S., your products may need to comply with CPSIA requirements, chemical restrictions, and other safety standards. Always check your country’s import regulations carefully and ensure your supplier can meet them.
Popular platforms for importing loafers from Vietnam
To simplify the process of importing loafers from Vietnam, using online sourcing platforms is one of the most effective ways to find reliable suppliers. These platforms give buyers quick access to verified manufacturers, product catalogs, and client reviews, which helps reduce sourcing risks and save time.
The following are some well-known and reliable platforms you can use:
- Alibaba: Alibaba has a large supplier database that covers shoes, clothing, accessories, electronics, and more. The platform offers product filters, trade assurance, and supplier verification tools that help you make deals with many reliable suppliers globally.
- VinaSources: VinaSources is a sourcing platform that focuses on verified manufacturers in Vietnam. It provides product catalogs, quality control support, and real factory verification to help buyers connect with reliable, export-ready suppliers. This makes it easier to source loafers directly from trusted Vietnamese factories.
- Global Sources: Global Sources is a well-known B2B platform used by retailers, wholesalers, and importers looking for high-quality suppliers. It features verified listings and curated categories, allowing buyers to connect with reputable fabric shoe manufacturers.
Best loafer manufacturers in Vietnam
Direct sourcing from manufacturers gives you greater visibility and control over the entire production process, from material selection to final quality checks.
Here are some well-known loafer manufacturers in Vietnam that you can consider:
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Thai Binh Group (TBS Group)
TBS Group is one of Vietnam’s largest shoe manufacturers, with over 25 years of experience producing an extensive line of footwear. The factory, with about 25,000 full-time staff, produces up to 21 million pairs of shoes annually. The company produces and supplies a wide range of shoes, including loafers, slippers, leather shoes, and more. TBS Group also offers wholesale services and custom-designed products based on specific styles, photos, or samples.
- Headquarters: 5A Xuyen A Highway, An Binh Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province
- Website: www.tbsgroup.vn
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Viet A Chau
Founded in 1992, Viet A Chau Investment Development Corporation, also known as VITACO.CORP manufactures a wide variety of shoes. The company is dedicated to providing and exporting footwear worldwide. As one of Vietnam’s most reputable suppliers, Viet A Chau maintains a leading position in the market today.
- Headquarters: 5A Xuyen A Highway, An Binh Ward, Di An City, Binh Duong Province
- Website: www.tbsgroup.vn
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Binh Tien Consumer Goods Manufacturing Limited Company (Biti’s)
Founded in 1982, Biti’s became one of Vietnam’s leading footwear providers in Asia. The company produces a wide range of shoes, from loafers and casual shoes to athletic and leather footwear, and exports to more than 40 countries worldwide, including the US, Japan, and European markets. With a nationwide retail and distribution network, Biti’s continues to strengthen its reputation as a trusted provider of quality footwear both domestically and internationally.
- Headquarters: 22 Ly Chieu Hoang Street, Ward 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Website: www.bitis.com.vn
Top sourcing companies in Vietnam
If you want someone to handle the entire sourcing process for you, hiring a sourcing agent is a good option. With a deep understanding of the local market and strong connections with thousands of suppliers across different sectors, they can help you find reliable manufacturers, negotiate better prices, manage production, and ensure smooth communication throughout the process.
Below are some top sourcing companies to consider:
| Company name | Services offered | Product categories | Address |
| Cosmo Sourcing |
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Lot C17, Hung Vuong Boulevard, Hoa Phu Ward, Thu Dau Mot City, Binh Duong Province |
| Seditex |
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Hoang Anh River View A01-03, 37 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, Quan 2, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam |
| Vietnam B2B Direct |
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2A / 20 Bach Dang Street, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
Each company provides a range of services designed for different industries and business needs. It’s important to evaluate them based on experience, reputation, pricing, and service quality to choose the best fit for your business.
Popular trade shows for sourcing loafers
Attending trade shows in Vietnam allows global importers to efficiently source loafer, inspect quality firsthand, and connect directly with suppliers. By meeting manufacturers in person, importers can discover new products, negotiate better terms, and ensure production standards.
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Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam
The Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam is a major event for international buyers seeking to source loafers and a wide range of consumer products from Vietnam and other Asian markets. Organized by Global Sources, one of the world’s leading B2B sourcing platforms, the fair serves as a bridge connecting global buyers with verified, export-ready manufacturers and suppliers.
Its upcoming event is scheduled for:
- Date: April 22-24, 2026
- Venue: Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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International Footwear & Leather Products Exhibition (IFLE)
A premier trade show in the ASEAN region, IFLE offers a valuable platform for Vietnamese footwear manufacturers and global businesses to network, showcase products, and explore new partnership opportunities.
Its upcoming event is scheduled for:
- Date: October 15-17, 2026
- Venue: Hanoi International Center for Exhibition, 91 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Ha Noi
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Vietnam EXPO
As Vietnam’s oldest and largest trade fair, Vietnam EXPO features specialized exhibition zones covering footwear, fashion, food and beverage, and various other sectors. It serves as a powerful platform for businesses aiming to boost their exports and expand into new global markets.
Its upcoming event is scheduled for:
- Date: April 8-11, 2026
- Venue: Vietnam Exposition Centre (VEC), Ha Noi, Vietnam
VinaSources – Your trusted sourcing partner in Vietnam
With more than 12 years of experience in cross-border e-commerce and supply chain management, VinaSources has become a trusted platform that helps global buyers from the United States, Europe, and Australia connect directly with verified Vietnamese suppliers.
On VinaSources, you can explore a wide selection of ready-to-export footwear products. By browsing the website and using simple filters, you can quickly find loafers in various materials and styles and connect with suppliers that match your business needs.
VinaSources also provides end-to-end sourcing support, including quality control services, logistics coordination, and export compliance guidance. This helps buyers streamline the entire import process and reduce sourcing risks.
If you are ready to import loafers from Vietnam, you can contact the VinaSources team at 1900.4356 or email [email protected] for personalized supplier recommendations.