Vietnam’s exports of leather and footwear to the UK have continued increasing amid falls in most other markets thanks to the advantages within the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA), according to General Secretary of the Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association Phan Thi Thanh Xuan.

Exports to most markets declined 20-30 per cent year-on-year in the first ten months but rose 11 per cent to the UK.

The UK is a key export market for Vietnam’s leather and footwear industry, Ms. Xuan said while addressing a workshop held recently on tapping cooperation and investment opportunities with US businesses within the UKVFTA.

When the UK was still part of the EU, Vietnam’s export of leather shoes to the country accounted for 25-30 per cent.

After the UK left the EU, Vietnam signed the UKVFTA, helping maintain leather and footwear exports, she said.