The Path Forward for Vietnam

"In mold manufacturing, even the smallest deviation can compromise product quality and performance. Precision is the lifeline of our industry. "

— Nguyen Thanh Phong, Owner of a Precision Mold Manufacturing Factory in Vietnam

Personal Background: From a Mechanical Enthusiast to a Mold Factory Owner

Nguyen Thanh Phong was born and raised in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Growing up, he spent much of his childhood following his father, a machinist, around the workshop. The rhythmic hum of machines and the delicate assembly of precision components fascinated him.

After completing his university studies, Phong did not take the conventional path of joining a large corporation. Instead, driven by his passion and vision, he returned to his hometown and established a small precision mold manufacturing factory specializing in molds for electronic components.

Although small in scale, Phong’s factory operates with modern CNC equipment and a skilled team of workers. The molds produced in his facility are primarily used for manufacturing smartphone casings, electronic connectors, and other precision plastic components for clients across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

"We may not be a large factory, " Phong proudly states, "but precision and quality are at the core of everything we do. "

Vietnam’s Mold Manufacturing Industry: Growth and Challenges

Phong has witnessed Vietnam’s mold manufacturing industry grow rapidly over the past few decades. "In the 1990s, Vietnamese manufacturers heavily relied on importing molds, which were expensive and often had long lead times. Back then, the idea of locally producing high-quality molds seemed almost impossible. "

With economic reforms and increasing foreign investment, Vietnam’s manufacturing sector has become a crucial part of the global supply chain. Industries such as electronics, automotive, and consumer appliances have driven significant demand for high-precision molds.

However, with growth came higher expectations. Clients now demand micro-level accuracy in their products. "For example, " Phong explains, "when we produce molds for electronic casings, even a deviation of a few microns can render the parts unusable. Precision is non-negotiable. "

Phong further highlights the challenges: "Although we’ve made progress, many manufacturers still face issues with tools wearing out too quickly, especially when working with high-hardness alloy materials. Without high-quality tools, it’s difficult to achieve the precision and consistency that our customers require. "

The Importance of Tools: Ensuring Precision

Phong understands that achieving such precision requires not only technical expertise but also reliable, high-quality tools. "Tools are a small part of the process, but they determine whether we can meet the demands of precision mold manufacturing. "

At an international mold exhibition, Phong had the opportunity to connect with Saikeiny. After testing their high-precision carbide end mills and coated taps, Phong’s factory saw a noticeable improvement in both accuracy and tool longevity. "The tools made a significant difference in how we handled complex mold structures, enabling us to meet our clients’ exacting standards. "

The Future of Vietnam’s Mold Industry: Opportunities and Challenges

Phong is optimistic about the future of mold manufacturing in Vietnam. With global supply chains shifting toward Southeast Asia, Vietnam has become a critical hub for manufacturing. The demand for high-quality, locally produced molds continues to rise.

"To remain competitive, we must focus on improving the precision and durability of our molds while optimizing our production processes. This requires ongoing investment in technology, equipment, and, most importantly, a team of skilled technicians who understand the importance of precision. "

Phong emphasizes that achieving technical independence is the next step for Vietnam’s mold industry. "We cannot rely solely on imported solutions. We need to develop our own capabilities and compete on a global scale. The future of Vietnam’s mold industry lies in innovation, precision, and building trust with clients worldwide. "