Trade Mission to Vietnam

The 2025 OCIE SBDC Trade Mission to Vietnam is your chance to expand your business into one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets. Optional stay in Seoul, Korea: Extend your journey and explore Seoul’s dynamic business landscape.

Grow Your Business and
Gain Global Insights

Organized by the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) in partnership with Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics, the 2025 OCIE SBDC Trade Mission to Vietnam offers California-based companies a unique opportunity to expand their global trade horizons. By participating in this mission, your business can explore the dynamic market of rapidly growing economy of Vietnam. You may also elect to extend your journey and explore the dynamic business landscape of Seoul, South Korea. Join us on this exclusive journey and be one of 15 companies from the Golden State to benefit from this incredible opportunity.

Travel Dates:
March 21-30, 2025, with an optional stay in South Korea March 30-April 2, 2025.

This mission presents a remarkable opportunity for businesses involved in various industries, including EV and auto, office supplies and equipment, video gaming, software, sports and recreation, shipping and logistics, renewable energy, fashion and apparel, consumer household products, food, travel, textile, apparel, agricultural products, timber and wood products, and cotton.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Join our exclusive webinar where we will unveil the exciting prospects awaiting California-based companies in the 2025 trade mission. During the webinar, you will learn about the trade mission’s objectives, key dates and application process, selection criteria and notification, preparation and resources, in addition to itinerary overview. This is your opportunity to engage with our team and get answers to your specific questions about the trade mission.

Develop Your Business in Asia

By participating in the 2025 OCIE SBDC Trade Mission to Vietnam, your company will have access to numerous advantages and opportunities. It’s a chance to take your business to new heights in Asia’s dynamic and promising markets. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity to position your company for global success and experience the potential growth Southeast Asia has to offer.

VIETNAM: A RISING STAR IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Vietnam is emerging as a key player in the global market, offering a range of opportunities for California businesses:

Economic Growth: Vietnam’s robust economic growth and its status as a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) highlight its expanding global influence.
Diverse Industries: With strengths in travel, textiles, apparel, agriculture, timber, and cotton, Vietnam provides diverse business opportunities.
Strategic Location: Positioned in Southeast Asia, Vietnam serves as a gateway to neighboring markets, including China, Thailand, and Singapore.
Trade Agreements: Free trade agreements, such as the CPTPP and the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), lower trade barriers and tariffs for American businesses.
Growing Middle Class: Vietnam’s expanding middle class and increasing consumer spending power create a burgeoning market for high-quality goods.
Tourism Boom: As a popular travel destination, Vietnam offers numerous opportunities for businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Resource Availability: Abundant natural resources and a skilled labor force support industries like timber, wood products, and textiles.

SOUTH KOREA: YOUR GATEWAY TO GLOBAL PROSPERITY

South Korea is a strategic market for California businesses, providing numerous opportunities to explore its dynamic and innovative landscape:

Economic Powerhouse: South Korea ranks among the world’s largest economies, with robust growth and strong international trade relationships. As a G20 member, it represents a significant market for expansion-minded companies from California.
Technological Innovation: South Korea is a global leader in technology and innovation, excelling in sectors such as electronics, electric vehicles, automotive, software, and gaming. Businesses can leverage South Korea’s cutting-edge advancements to enhance their competitive edge.
Facilitated Trade: The Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) simplifies market entry by reducing trade barriers and tariffs, making it easier for American businesses to access South Korea’s market.
Strategic Positioning: Located in East Asia, South Korea serves as a strategic gateway to neighboring markets like China and Japan, offering expanded regional opportunities for California companies.
Affluent Consumer Market: South Korea’s consumers are known for their discerning tastes and preference for high-quality global brands. This presents significant opportunities for companies in fashion, consumer goods, and the food sector.
Sustainability Initiatives: South Korea is committed to promoting renewable energy and sustainability. This focus creates a fertile ground for environmentally conscious businesses and those in the renewable energy sector.
Advanced Logistics: South Korea’s sophisticated logistics and shipping infrastructure facilitate efficient distribution and supply chain management, benefiting companies involved in shipping, logistics, and related industries.

Apply today and plan to embark on an exciting international trade journey that can shape the future of your business.

Please note: The application will remain open until Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Only fifteen (15) participants will be accepted. Selected applicants will be notified of their selection status no later than Friday, November 15, 2024, at noon.

Benefits for Participating Companies

Companies selected to participate in the 2025 OCIE SBDC Trade Mission to Vietnam and South Korea will receive a range of valuable resources and support to ensure they are well-prepared for this international venture.

Prior to the mission, your business will benefit from:

CUSTOMIZED MARKET RESEARCH

Our SBDC Global Trade team will provide you with tailored market research specific to your business, offering insights and data to help you make informed decisions and strategize effectively for your entry into the Vietnamese and South Korean markets.

ONE-ON-ONE EXPORT COUNSELING

You’ll have access to personalized export counseling from the SBDC Global Trade Team. Our experts will work with you to address your specific needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the export process.

GLOBAL TRADE MARKET PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM

We offer access to the Global Trade Market Preparedness Program, designed to get you ready for the trade mission. This program will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate international markets successfully.

MEETINGS WITH EXPERTS

You’ll have the opportunity to engage in meetings with federal, state, and local resources and experts from the Department of Commerce, SBA Office of International Trade, and Ex-Im Bank. These interactions will provide you with crucial insights and guidance for your international expansion.

With these resources and support, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your participation in the trade mission and ensure a successful entry into the Vietnamese and South Korean markets. This comprehensive assistance is designed to help you thrive and achieve your global business goals.

Note: All pre-trade mission consulting, training and resources will be provided at no cost to the business owners selected to participate.

Itinerary and Application Process

JOURNEY TO SUCCESS: 2025 TRADE MISSION ITINERARY

March 21 — Embark on an Adventure to Saigon
- Depart from LAX and begin our journey to vibrant Saigon, Vietnam!

March 22 — Travel Day

- Cross the international dateline and prepare for an incredible experience ahead.

March 23 — Welcome to Saigon!

- Arrive in Saigon, Vietnam.
- Enjoy a welcome Sunday dinner and gear up for a week full of opportunities.

March 24 — Engage in Saigon

- Visit the U.S. Embassy.
- Network with influential business organizations.

March 25 — Explore Saigon’s Manufacturing

- Exclusive tour of a top manufacturing facility
- High-impact meetings with leading companies
- Strategic matchmaking sessions

March 26 — Journey to Hanoi

- Engage in high-level matchmaking with business leaders.

March 27 — Discover Hanoi’s Business Landscape

- Tour another premier manufacturing facility.
- Attend in-depth meetings with industry-leading companies.
- Engage in a special matchmaking event at Foreign Trade University.

March 28 — Hanoi Business and Leisure

- Meet with industry sector leaders and innovative companies.
- Travel to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay.

March 29 — Unwind in Ha Long Bay

- Spend the day exploring the stunning Ha Long Bay.

March 30 — Travel to Seoul, South Korea

- Return from Ha Long Bay and fly to the dynamic city of Seoul, South Korea.

March 31 — Immerse in Seoul’s Innovation Hub

- Meet with high-ranking government officials.
- Engage with forward-thinking business organizations.

April 1 — Experience the DMZ and Innovation in Incheon

- Tour the historic DMZ Network with leading companies.
- Visit the cutting-edge Incheon Innovation Center.

April 2 — Seoul’s Final Business Connections and Return Home
- Attend final business meetings with industry leaders and innovative. companies.
- Travel back to the U.S. with newfound connections and opportunities.

Applicants will be able to select their travel destination and commit to one of the following:

Vietnam only from March 21 to March 30, 2025. The approximate estimated cost will be $6500.
Vietnam and South Korea from March 21 to April 2, 2025. The approximate estimated cost will be $7500.

Estimated cost will cover airfare (economy class), hotel/lodging (4+ star hotels), transportation to all meetings, as well as participation in all matchmaking events, all business meetings, and all government official meetings.

Note: Selected companies will receive additional travel information to assist with their preparations for this exciting trade mission. All expenses for each business for the 2025 OCIE SBDC Trade Mission to Vitenam will be covered by the business.

APPLICATION PERIOD AND PROCESS

The application portal opens on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 9 a.m. and will remain open until Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Companies selected for participation will be notified via email no later than Friday, November 15, 2024, at noon. Please note that selected applicants will be responsible for covering the associated financial costs.

This is your chance to embark on an exciting international trade journey and elevate your business to new heights in two of Asia’s dynamic markets. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us on this remarkable venture and position your company for global success.

To learn more or for questions, contact Manal Richa, director, OCIE SBDC Global Trade Center, at Manal.Richa@ociesbdc.org or call 949-379-7221.