Co-organized on September 29-30 by the International Trade Centre’s SheTrades Initiative (ITC SheTrades), the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Vietnam, the project aims to help female entrepreneurs expand their export capacity and build a sustainable presence in the 500-million-consumer European market.
Participating businesses will receive specialized technical coaching and opportunities to establish verified storefronts on major global platforms like Alibaba.com.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Jens Kuitert, Second Secretary for Political Affairs at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Vietnam, highlighted that Phase 2 offers targeted support to promote women-led businesses in Europe.
He noted that with approximately 500 million consumers, the European market presents immense opportunities for Vietnamese exporters, while strengthening institutional and business connections facilitates practical policy development.
According to Ms. Kritee Sharma from the SheTrades Initiative under the Sustainable and Inclusive Trade Section at the ITC, e-commerce lowers barrier costs for small enterprises entering foreign markets. However, establishing an online presence is merely the initial step. Cross-border trade requires meeting strict regional regulations regarding product quality, packaging, labeling, environmental sustainability, and buyer-specific criteria.
During Phase 1, the initiative built digital capabilities for over 500 entrepreneurs. Through a partnership with Alibaba.com, 32 women-led enterprises created digital storefronts featuring more than 12,700 listed products.
Ms. Sharma emphasized that Phase 2 will intensify its focus on practical market entry for the EU. Beyond foundational e-commerce tools, the project will help businesses identify European market opportunities, evaluate operational readiness, adapt products to European standards, and prepare for direct buyer matchmaking.
Ms. Nguyen Bao Thoa, ITC SheTrades National Coordinator in Vietnam, outlined the three primary pillars of Phase 2: enhancing digital capacity, facilitating European market access, and developing a sustainable business ecosystem. Participating enterprises will undergo rigorous selection based on engagement metrics and co-financing commitments, receiving tailored coaching and B2B connection opportunities.
She noted that while Vietnam offers unique products rooted in cultural heritage and regional craftsmanship, entering European supply chains requires simultaneous investment in technology, compliance, branding, and market linkage. Assisting women-led enterprises not only expands export revenues but also drives job creation and fosters inclusive economic growth.
Google translate