Australian wool makes major gains in Vietnam

The Out of Vietnam project, launched in 2012 by Australia’s Woolmark Company, brought more than 50 manufacturers in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Lam Dong together, said Le Tien Truong, deputy chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (Vitas) and also vice president of the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (Vinatex).

“Vitas and Vinatex have pledged their full support for the project,” he told Australian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City John McAnulty who was joined by Australian Wool Innovation Limited’s CEO Stuart McCullough on the sidelines of the Woolmark fashion show last week.

Truong said AWI, which owns Woolmark, has been working with Vietnamese manufacturers to develop a supply chain in Vietnam and has expanded by introducing Merino wool to the local market.

“AWI has arranged the supply of suitable materials for product development and sent technical specialists to Vietnam to help in training and R&D. It has also introduced local manufacturers to international customers,” he added.

The project is aimed at promoting the Woolmark brand and introducing woolen knitwear products made in Vietnam out of Australian wool, said Woolmark’s general manager for product development and commercialisation Jimmy Jackson. He added that their Vietnamese partners have the necessary skills to meet his firm’s strict standards.

Australia is the world’s largest producer of wool, and arguably the world’s finest, said McAnulty. “We have been working with Woolmark over the past couple years on their nationwide project.Wool has always played an important role in our trade with the world. Continued development of Vietnam’s textile industry is important for Vietnam’s continued development,” he added.

The Australian government works with AWI as the company’s mission is to enhance the profitability, international competitiveness, and sustainability of Australia’s wool industry.