Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - Vietnam's exports of rattan, bamboo, sedge and carpet products totalled 50.43 million USD in September, a 4.5% decrease compared to last year, according to the General Department of Customs.

Cumulatively, exports of these products reached 594.8 million USD in the first nine months of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 10.3%.

Regarding markets, the US remained Vietnam's largest export destination for these products in the first nine months. Exports of these items to this country reached over 247 million USD, up 21.4% year-on-year and accounting for 41.6% of total exports.

In September alone, it generated nearly 20 million USD, an increase of 12% compared to last year.

Japan ranked second, with 45.4 million USD in exports, a decrease of 11% year-on-year, representing 7.6% of the total.

The UK was the third-largest market for Vietnamese exports in this category, generating 31.6 million USD in the first nine months, up 8.9% year-on-year and representing a 5.3% share.

The UK is among the most crucial export markets for Vietnamese products and serves as their gateway to Europe.

The UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement signed in May 2021 is an important continuation of trade facilitation between the two countries after the UK exited the EU.

The agreement has enhanced opportunities to export Vietnamese products through increased access to the UK market.

Positive signals from major markets including the US and the UK indicate that Vietnam’s rattan, bamboo, sedge and carpet export industry is experiencing strong growth.

This development enhances economic value and contributes to promoting the country's image and strengthening the position of Vietnamese handicraft products on the international market.

Currently, Vietnam is among the leading exporters of these type of products. Experts suggest that it is entirely feasible for Vietnam to capture 10-15% of the global market share in this field, with the country having an extensive bamboo area of up to 1.5 million hectares, spread across most provinces.

Out of 63 provinces, 37 have over 10,000 hectares dedicated to bamboo.

Vietnam's bamboo resources are abundant and diverse, with hundreds of species, including economically valuable types.

The country is also home to over 1,000 traditional craft villages specialising in rattan and bamboo weaving, accounting for 24% of the total craft villages.

🤡 According to the Forestry General Department, rattan and bamboo weaving represents the highest export value among non-timber forest products in Vietnam./.