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Binh Dinh Footwear JSC’s workers at work. Photo V.H |
The Binh Dinh Footwear Joint Stock Company flew the flag for Vietnam in the 7th Australian Footwear Exhibition, which opened in Sydney on February 13. Returning from Sydney, the company’s deputy director, Tran Van Khiem, had a talk with Binh Dinh Newspaper’s reporter about the issue.
Why did the company decide to participate in the exhibition?
The global economic regression has greatly impacted on the operation of domestic companies. Binh Dinh Footwear JSC has had to face difficulties in the past three months. Alongside the price increase of raw material, the company has suffered another big challenge since October 7, 2006 for the EU decided to impose the anti-dumping tax rate of 10% on Vietnam-made leather shoes.
Also, The European Commission decided to abolish the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) for Viet Nam’s leather shoes imported into the European Union market. Some our partners ordered products from other countries.
With such disadvantages, the company’s leaders decided to participate in the exhibition, with the aim of breaking into the markets in Australia and New Zealand.
This is the first time the company has participated in the exhibition. Which impression did the company leave?
It is the first step that costs. However, with the help of Binh Dinh Department of Industry and Trade and Commercial Counselor in Australia, our stall was quite impressive, displaying about 200 products which are suitable for the Australian’s taste.
The company’s products were selected to be introduced in Australia’s Footwear Magazine. At the exhibition, we also had talks with 15 potential partners.
How about the company’s prospect after joining Australia Shoe Fair 2009?
Australia and New Zealand are potential markets for shoemakers in Vietnam. They have great demands for footwear. Also, two countries were less affected by the global economic regression. There are many overseas Vietnamese living there.
However, this doesn’t mean that there are no difficulties. Unlike the EU’s customers, most Australian people require high quality products and self-contained delivering service.
We, therefore, asked the staff to closely contact with partners in Australia and build plans for the production and improvement on models.
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