Event Series of Empowering Vietnamese SMEs – The 1st Kickoff of Advanced Training & Coaching for Enterprises in Export Management

In a dynamic effort to bolster international business collaborations and provide a platform for Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to flourish, the HCMC Centre of International Integration Support (CIIS) co-organized with Agriculture & Lean Innovation Technology Co. Ltd. (InnoTechLean) in conjunction with SEPT Competence Center, convened a seminal seminar on March 15th, 2024, in Ho Chi Minh City. This event was strategically designed to enlighten and equip hundreds of Vietnamese SMEs with the necessary insights and strategies for penetrating the German market, a formidable arena renowned for its economic prowess.

The German Market: Opportunities and Insights

At the heart of the seminar were illuminating discussions centered around the German market, delivered by esteemed industry experts. Mr. Gunnar Kassberg, Vice Deputy of SEPT Competence Center, captivated the audience with a keynote address that provided comprehensive market insights into Germany. He elucidated on the current landscape and highlighted the potential avenues for Vietnamese enterprises to successfully navigate and establish themselves within this lucrative market. Moreover, Mr. Kassberg delved into the implications of the Due Diligence Act, shedding light on its significance for Vietnamese businesses eyeing expansion into Germany.

Strategic Approaches to Sustainability and Competitiveness

Ms. Phuong Nguyen, Director of InnoTechLean, contributed invaluable perspectives on sustainability standards and their role in enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses in the international arena. Her discourse, titled “Exploring advantages for enterprises who have Voluntary Sustainable Standards” elucidated the opportunities inherent in adhering to such standards, thereby enabling businesses to maintain their competitive edge amidst the complexities of international integration.

Real-Life Success Stories: Lessons from the Field

The seminar also featured compelling narratives from Vietnamese entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the challenges of entering the German market. Mr. Thanh Tran, Co-founder of Lagom Vietnam, and Ms. Thuy Trang, Founder of Green Kingdom, shared their firsthand experiences and insights gained from exploration trips organized by SEPT. Their stories served as inspirational anecdotes, offering invaluable lessons and practical advice to aspiring Vietnamese businesses.

Supporting SMEs in Internationalization Efforts

Recognizing the pivotal role of support programs in facilitating the internationalization journey of SMEs, Mr. Wojtek Muras provided a comprehensive overview of available initiatives tailored to young businesses and startups in the Vietnam-Germany relations landscape. Additionally, he outlined opportunities for participation in study trips and trade missions to Leipzig, coupled with advanced training sessions on export management, aimed at bolstering the capabilities of Vietnamese SMEs in the global market.

At the event, a delegation of German Startups coming for one week exploring Vietnamese market also had chances to broaden their networks with other participants who represented their businesses in Vietnam.

Facilitating Further Exploration: Consulting Opportunities

As a partner of SEPT in Vietnam for market exploration trips to Leipzig, Ms. Phuong Nguyen extended her support to entrepreneurs interested in delving deeper into the German market. She expressed willingness to address any queries and provide guidance to SMEs keen on participating in consulting trips to Germany, thereby facilitating further exploration and engagement with international markets.

Conclusion

The seminar served as a pivotal platform for fostering international business ties and empowering Vietnamese SMEs with the requisite knowledge and strategies to thrive in the German market. Through insightful discussions, practical insights, and real-life success stories, attendees were equipped with actionable advice and invaluable resources to embark on their internationalization journeys with confidence and determination. As Vietnam continues to position itself as a key player in the global economy, initiatives such as these play a crucial role in nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation, driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all stakeholders involved.