Vietnam has established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most important production bases for ceramic and porcelain tiles. While historically driven by domestic construction demand, the industry has evolved significantly over the past 10–15 years, with a growing focus on export markets and improved production capabilities.
Today, Vietnamese tiles are widely used in:
- residential developments
- commercial real estate
- hospitality projects (hotels, resorts)
- public infrastructure
This growth has been supported by several structural advantages. Vietnam benefits from access to key raw materials such as clay and feldspar, a well-developed industrial base, and competitive labor costs. At the same time, increasing foreign investment and technology transfer have allowed manufacturers to upgrade production lines and improve product quality.
However, the tile industry in Vietnam is not homogeneous. It is composed of a mix of:
- large industrial groups with high capacity
- mid-sized factories focused on domestic and regional markets
- smaller producers with limited export experience
👉 For buyers, this creates both opportunity and complexity.
While Vietnam offers strong potential for sourcing tiles, success depends on understanding:
- differences between product categories
- variation in supplier capabilities
- the importance of quality control and finishing
Types of Tiles Manufactured in Vietnam
Vietnam’s tile industry covers a wide range of products. Each category has its own manufacturing process, cost structure, and level of maturity.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are the most widely produced type of tile in Vietnam and represent a large portion of domestic consumption.
They are typically used for:
- residential flooring
- wall cladding
- budget and mid-range construction projects
Ceramic tiles are made from clay-based materials and fired at lower temperatures compared to porcelain tiles. This results in a lighter and more affordable product.
However, ceramic tiles are generally:
- less dense
- more porous
- less resistant to wear
This makes them more suitable for indoor and low-traffic applications.
From a sourcing perspective, ceramic tiles are:
- widely available
- cost-competitive
- relatively standardized
But quality can vary depending on the factory and finishing process.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles represent the higher-end segment of the market and are increasingly in demand both domestically and internationally.
They are produced using higher pressure and higher firing temperatures, resulting in:
- higher density
- lower water absorption
- greater durability
Porcelain tiles are commonly used in:
- commercial spaces
- high-end residential projects
- hospitality environments
Vietnam has developed strong capabilities in this segment, particularly for export markets. Many factories are equipped with modern production lines capable of producing consistent and high-quality porcelain tiles.
However, not all suppliers offer the same level of performance.
Differences may appear in:
- dimensional accuracy
- surface finishing
- color consistency
Glazed, Polished & Digital Printed Tiles
Modern tile production increasingly focuses on aesthetics and surface technology.
Vietnamese manufacturers offer a wide range of finishes, including:
- glazed surfaces
- polished tiles
- digitally printed designs
Digital printing technology allows tiles to replicate:
- natural stone
- wood textures
- concrete finishes
This has significantly increased the value positioning of Vietnamese tiles.
However, finishing quality is one of the most variable aspects across suppliers. Lower-cost manufacturers may struggle with:
- color consistency
- print precision
- surface durability
Large Format Tiles
Large-format tiles are one of the fastest-growing segments in the global tile market.
They are widely used in:
- modern architecture
- luxury residential projects
- commercial environments
Vietnam has started to develop capacity in this segment, but it remains less mature compared to China.
Challenges include:
- technical requirements for production
- handling and breakage risk
- logistics complexity
Not all factories are capable of producing large-format tiles consistently.
Outdoor & Technical Tiles
Vietnam also produces tiles designed for outdoor and heavy-duty applications.
These include:
- anti-slip tiles
- textured surfaces
- high-resistance products
They are commonly used in:
- public spaces
- landscaping
- industrial environments
This segment is more technical and requires careful supplier selection.
Tile Manufacturing Clusters in Vietnam
Tile production is concentrated in key industrial regions.
Southern Vietnam (Dong Nai, Binh Duong, Long An)
This region hosts several large-scale tile manufacturers and benefits from:
- proximity to export ports
- strong industrial infrastructure
- access to skilled labor
It is one of the main hubs for export-oriented production.
Northern Vietnam (Bac Ninh, Hai Duong, Hung Yen)
The North is home to:
- large domestic players
- strong distribution networks
- growing export capacity
Its proximity to China also facilitates access to raw materials and machinery.
Central Vietnam
Less developed but emerging:
- smaller factories
- niche production
Cost Structure of Tile Manufacturing in Vietnam
Understanding tile pricing in Vietnam requires going beyond surface-level comparisons. While quotations are often expressed in price per square meter, this number is the result of a complex combination of raw materials, energy consumption, manufacturing processes, finishing techniques, and logistics.
What makes tile manufacturing unique compared to other industries is the weight of energy and mineral inputs, as well as the importance of surface treatment. These elements not only influence cost, but also define the final quality and positioning of the product.
Raw Materials (40% – 60%)
Raw materials represent the foundation of tile production and account for a significant portion of total cost. Vietnam benefits from relatively good access to key minerals such as clay, feldspar, and silica, which gives the country a structural advantage compared to industries relying heavily on imports.
However, not all raw materials are equal. The quality of clay and mineral composition can vary depending on the source, directly affecting:
- tile density
- mechanical strength
- firing behavior
Higher-end manufacturers often select and blend materials more carefully, sometimes combining local and imported inputs to achieve better performance.
Energy & Kiln Firin (15% – 30%)
Energy is one of the most critical—and often underestimated—cost drivers in tile manufacturing.
Tiles are fired in kilns at extremely high temperatures, typically above 1000°C. This process is essential to achieve the final strength, density, and durability of the product. However, it is also highly energy-intensive.
The cost of energy affects:
- firing consistency
- production speed
- final product quality
Factories equipped with modern kilns tend to achieve better energy efficiency and more stable results. Older facilities, on the other hand, may face higher energy consumption and less consistent output.
Manufacturing & Pressing (10% – 20%)
The manufacturing stage includes shaping, pressing, and preparing tiles before firing. While this part of the process may appear straightforward, it plays a critical role in determining dimensional accuracy and consistency.
Tiles are formed under high pressure to ensure:
- uniform thickness
- structural stability
- resistance to cracking
Higher-end manufacturers invest in advanced pressing technology, allowing for tighter tolerances and better consistency across batches. Lower-cost factories may have more variation, which can lead to issues during installation.
Glazing, Surface Treatment & Design (10% – 25%)
This is where tiles gain their visual identity—and where a significant portion of value is created.
Surface treatment includes glazing, polishing, and increasingly, digital printing. These processes determine:
- color consistency
- texture realism
- resistance to wear and stains
Modern digital printing technology allows tiles to replicate natural materials such as marble, wood, or concrete with high precision. However, achieving this level of quality requires both advanced equipment and strict process control.
Lower-cost tiles may appear similar at first glance but can differ in:
- print sharpness
- color variation between batches
- durability of the surface layer
Logistics & Packaging (5% – 20%)
Tiles are heavy, fragile, and space-consuming, making logistics a key component of the overall cost structure.
Unlike lightweight products, transportation cost is heavily influenced by:
- weight per container
- packaging density
- breakage risk
Packaging must be designed to:
- protect tiles during transport
- optimize container loading
- minimize damage
In many cases, logistics costs can represent a significant portion of the total landed cost, especially for export markets.
Vietnam vs China: Cost vs Structure
When comparing Vietnam to China, the difference lies less in labor cost and more in supply chain structure.
China benefits from a highly integrated ecosystem where raw materials, production, and finishing are closely connected. This allows for greater efficiency and often lower base pricing.
Vietnam, while competitive, operates with a more fragmented structure. Certain inputs or processes may require additional steps, which can slightly increase cost.
Top 10 Tile Manufacturers in Vietnam
1. Viglacera
Viglacera is one of Vietnam’s largest and most established tile manufacturers, with extensive production capacity and a strong domestic and export presence. The company produces a wide range of ceramic and porcelain tiles, covering both standard and higher-end segments.
Its strength lies in industrial scale and consistency, making it suitable for large projects where reliability is critical. Viglacera operates multiple factories and benefits from vertical integration across its supply chain.
2. Dong Tam
Dong Tam is a well-known domestic brand offering ceramic and porcelain tiles. It focuses on mid-range products and has a strong distribution network within Vietnam.
The company provides a balance between cost and quality, making it suitable for residential and commercial projects.
3. Taicera
Taicera is a Taiwan-invested manufacturer with strong export capabilities. It produces ceramic and porcelain tiles with improved design and finishing compared to many local competitors.
4. Prime Group
Prime Group is one of the largest tile producers in Vietnam, offering a wide range of products and significant production capacity.
5. Đồng Tâm Long An Factory
Known for consistency and strong domestic positioning.
6. Catalan Vietnam
Specialized in modern tile designs and export markets.
7. Mikado
Focuses on affordable tile solutions for large-scale projects.
8. Bạch Mã Ceramic
Mid-range manufacturer with growing export capabilities.
9. Hoan My
Domestic-focused tile producer with competitive pricing.
10. TTC Tiles
Emerging player with growing capacity.
Disclaimer: The Vietnamese tile market includes a mix of manufacturers and trading companies. Capabilities vary significantly, and not all suppliers offer consistent quality or export experience.
Q&A: Sourcing Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles from Vietnam
Are Vietnamese tiles good quality compared to international standards?
Vietnamese tiles can absolutely meet international quality standards, but the level of quality varies significantly depending on the manufacturer.
Large industrial groups and export-oriented factories are capable of producing tiles that comply with European and US standards, particularly in the porcelain segment. These suppliers typically operate modern production lines, apply stricter process control, and maintain more consistent quality across batches.
However, the market also includes a wide range of mid-tier and domestic-focused manufacturers, where quality can be less consistent. Differences may appear in dimensional accuracy, surface finishing, or color stability between production runs.
What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles in Vietnam?
The distinction between ceramic and porcelain tiles is fundamental and directly impacts both performance and pricing.
Ceramic tiles are typically lighter, more porous, and produced at lower firing temperatures. They are suitable for indoor applications and projects where cost is a priority.
Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are denser and more durable due to higher pressure and firing temperatures during production. They offer better resistance to moisture, wear, and heavy traffic, making them more suitable for commercial spaces and higher-end residential projects.
In Vietnam, both categories are widely available, but porcelain production tends to be more technically demanding and concentrated among better-equipped factories.
Is Vietnam cheaper than China for tile sourcing?
Vietnam is not systematically cheaper than China when it comes to tiles.
China benefits from a highly integrated supply chain, with easy access to raw materials, advanced automation, and large-scale production. This often allows Chinese manufacturers to achieve lower base pricing, particularly for high-volume and standardized products.
Vietnam, while competitive, operates with a slightly less integrated ecosystem. This can result in pricing that is comparable—or in some cases slightly higher—depending on the product and supplier.
That said, Vietnam offers strategic advantages beyond price, including supply chain diversification, flexibility, and favorable trade conditions in certain markets.
What is the typical MOQ for tiles in Vietnam?
MOQ for tiles is primarily driven by production batches and logistics rather than strict factory limitations.
Factories usually organize production around specific runs defined by tile size, color, and finish. Producing small quantities outside of these runs is possible but less efficient, leading to higher costs.
At the same time, tiles are shipped in palletized formats and optimized for container loads. This means that pricing improves significantly when orders align with full container capacity.
- production efficiency
- container optimization
Smaller orders are feasible, but they require careful planning to remain cost-effective.
Can I mix different tile designs in one shipment?
Yes, but it requires coordination.
Most projects involve multiple tile designs, formats, and finishes. Combining these into a single shipment is a common strategy to optimize logistics and reduce freight costs.
However, each SKU may come from:
- a different production batch
- a different supplier
- a different production timeline
- alignment of production schedules
- compatible packaging formats
- careful planning of quantities
Without proper coordination, this approach can lead to delays or incomplete shipments.
How do I ensure color consistency across batches?
Color consistency is one of the most critical—and challenging—aspects of tile sourcing.
Tiles are produced in batches, and slight variations in raw materials, firing conditions, or glazing can lead to differences in color tone. These differences may not be visible when tiles are viewed individually, but can become obvious once installed across large surfaces.
To manage this, buyers should:
- order sufficient quantities from the same batch
- request batch identification and labeling
- validate samples before production
What are the most common quality issues in Vietnamese tiles?
The most common issues are not always structural defects, but variations that affect installation and final appearance.
These may include:
- slight dimensional variations affecting alignment
- surface inconsistencies (glazing, polishing)
- color differences between batches
- packaging damage during transport
While many of these issues can be controlled, they require proper quality management throughout production and shipment.
What is the typical lead time for tile production in Vietnam?
Lead times depend on the type of tile and level of customization.
Standard catalog tiles can often be produced relatively quickly, especially when raw materials and production schedules are readily available. More complex products, such as specific designs or large-format tiles, may require longer production cycles.
In project scenarios, lead time is also influenced by:
- order volume
- number of SKUs
- coordination between suppliers
Do I need quality control when sourcing tiles from Vietnam?
Yes—and often more than expected.
Tiles are installed in visible environments, which means that even minor defects or inconsistencies can have a significant impact. Unlike hidden components, flooring and wall tiles are directly exposed to end users.
Quality control should therefore focus not only on defect detection, but also on:
- dimensional accuracy
- batch consistency
- packaging integrity
Is it better to work with one supplier or multiple suppliers?
For tile sourcing, working with multiple specialized suppliers is often the better approach.
Different factories excel in different categories—some may be stronger in porcelain, others in design, and others in cost efficiency. Relying on a single supplier may simplify coordination but often limits flexibility and product optimization.
However, working with multiple suppliers introduces complexity in terms of:
- coordination
- logistics
- quality consistency
What should I prioritize: price, quality, or logistics?
This is not a trade-off, but a balance.
Focusing only on price often leads to hidden costs later, particularly in the form of quality issues or project delays. At the same time, over-specifying quality without considering logistics can result in unnecessary cost increases.
- price competitiveness
- consistent quality
- efficient logistics
These three elements are interconnected and should be managed together rather than independently.
Is Vietnam suitable for large-scale construction projects?
Yes, Vietnam is well-positioned to support large-scale tile sourcing, particularly for projects that require a mix of standard and mid-to-high-end products.
The country has sufficient production capacity, especially among large industrial groups, and continues to expand its capabilities. However, large projects require careful planning, especially when multiple suppliers and product categories are involved.