Traditional markets like the United States and the European Union saw more humble export growth at 6.3 – 6.4 %.
The VITAS noted that traditional products grew by 13 – 17 % while newer ones, including swimming suits, raincoats and scarves, increased by 18 – 41 %.
New products and different ways to approach markets have resulted in higher and more stable growth, while helping the industry rely less on traditional partners, the VITAS said.
The association forecasted exports to increase by 10 % in the second quarter of the year based on the recovery of main markets such as the US, the EU and Japan as well as the stability of the global economy and politics.
The industry aims of a 10 % growth to reach 31-32 billion USD in export turnover in 2017.
To achieve the goal, businesses have been encouraged to invest in new equipment and enhance competitiveness with new technologies.
