What Are The Best Vietnamese Gifts For International Friends?

Vietnamese people living abroad often crave the familiar flavors of home, while international friends visiting Vietnam seek Vietnamese gifts for international friends that showcase Vietnamese culture in an elegant and accessible way.

When selecting gifts to bring overseas when visiting friends, understanding customs regulations and cultural sensitivities is crucial to ensure your thoughtful presents don't become problematic. Knowing your audience and their cultural background to find the perfect Vietnamese gifts for international friends and appropriate gifting etiquette forms an essential combination. Let CHUS guide you through the most comprehensive recommendations!

Who Are You Gifting To?

It's important to clarify that when considering Vietnamese gifts for international friends, there are two distinct categories. One side includes Vietnamese friends living abroad, while the other involves gifts for international friends.

1. Gifts for Vietnamese Friends Living Overseas

Vietnamese people away from home typically treasure Vietnamese souvenirs that carry the rich flavors of their homeland. According to surveys from overseas Vietnamese communities, the most beloved Vietnamese gifts for international friends include:

Distinctive Food Items and Seasonings:

• High-quality fish sauce (in small, travel-friendly bottles)
• Vietnamese ground coffee
• Rice paper, shrimp crackers
• Fish cake, dried goods (carefully packaged)
• Coconut candy, moon cakes, and traditional pastries

Pía Pastry Homemade, Specialty Of Soc Trang, Soc Trang Pia Cake, Vegetarian Cake, Sweet Cake For Tea, Specialty Gift

98,000 ₫

Tapioca Coconut Melting Cookie, Specialty of Hue, Vietnamese Confectionery, Food Gift, Gift for Foreigners, Beautiful Design, Handcrafted Gift Box, Corporate Gift

150,000 ₫

Rolled Banana Candy, Specialty Of Ben Tre, Fresh Banana Flavor Candy, Banana Peanut Candy, Specialty Gift, Tea Candy

60,500 ₫

Traditional Coconut Candy, Specialty Of Ben Tre, Ben Tre Coconut Candy, Casual Snack, Served With Tea, Fragrant And Rich Coconut Candy

49,500 ₫

Cultural Memorabilia:

• Traditional ao dai
• Silk paintings, Dong Ho folk paintings
• Bat Trang ceramics
• Lacquerware items
• Handcrafted paper fans, conical hats

>>> Read more: Best Vietnamese Souvenirs to Pack for Your Study Abroad Journey

Vietnamese people abroad always cherish the rich flavors of home

2. Gifts for International Friends

When giving Vietnamese cultural gifts to overseas friends, introducing Vietnamese culture in a subtle and accessible way is paramount. The most highly rated Vietnamese gifts for international friends are products that showcase local cultural identity without being overly complex to use.

Accessible Cultural Gifts:

• Premium Vietnamese tea
  
• Vietnamese chocolate
• Compact handicrafts
• Traditional silver jewelry
• Photography books about Vietnam
  

International friends appreciate the flavor and elegance of Vietnamese products

What Vietnamese Gifts to Bring When Visiting Friends: Categorized by Theme

1. Vietnamese Cuisine for International Friends

Dried Goods and Seasonings

Dried specialties that can be preserved long-term and are easy to transport make safe choices. Fermented shrimp paste, dried shrimp, or various rice papers are highly valued by overseas Vietnamese. However, note each country's customs regulations regarding food items.

Grass-Fed Beef Jerky, Vietnamese Specialty, Beer Snack, Marinated Beef Jerky, Delicious Snack, Gift For Friends

268,000 ₫

Ca Mau Dried Squid (Big Size)

482,000 ₫

Dried Gourami, Ca Mau Dried Fish

146,000 ₫

Coffee and Tea

Vietnamese coffee with its distinctive flavor is always a popular choice for Vietnamese gifts for international friends. You can select premium ground coffee packages or traditional phin filter coffee sets with brewing equipment so friends can experience the complete cultural experience.

Four Seasons Gift Box, Premium Gifts For The Sophisticated, Pine Wood Gift Box With Oolong Tea, Black Tea, Jasmine Tea & Green Tea Buds, Partner Gift

1,927,040 ₫

Nghĩa Robusta, 100% Robusta Honey Chư Sê Coffee, Coconut Milk And Palmyra Fruit Taste, Vietnamese Drip Coffee, Rich Flavor, Vietnamese Gifts

250,000 ₫

Coffee Microfilter Phin Brewer, The Art of Coffee, Innovative Design, Metal Filter, Coffee Lovers, Gifts, Aesthetic

350,000 ₫

Vietnamese Lotus Tea, Organic Tea, Harvested By Hand, Organic Farming, Local Sources, Vietnamese Tea, Healthy Drinks, Gifts For Health, Corporate Gift

990,000 ₫

Vietnamese flavors always captivate international guests

2. Handicrafts as Vietnamese Souvenirs for Overseas Friends

Ceramic Products

Bat Trang ceramics with intricate patterns are not only beautiful but also practically valuable. Tea cup sets and small decorative vases make suitable Vietnamese handmade crafts choices.

Lacquerware Items

Vietnamese lacquerware is world-renowned for its sophisticated crafting techniques. Jewelry boxes, small tea trays, or lacquered chopsticks are Vietnamese artisan products that are both beautiful and practical.

Red Lacquer Buffalo Figurine, Corporate Gift

490,000 ₫

Lacquered Buffalo, Vietnamese Elements, Beautiful Feng Shui Decor, Interior Decoration, Feng Shui Gift, Corporate Gift

1,200,000 ₫

Unicorn Embroidered Lacquer Box, Premium Handmade Gift Box, Conveying Wishes Of Prosperity, A Meaningful Gift For Bosses Or Partners, Corporate Gift

500,000 ₫

Dragon Embroidered Lacquer Box, Premium Hand-Embroidered Gift Box, Symbolizing Prosperity And Fortune, A Gift For Loved Ones, Corporate Gift

500,000 ₫

>>> Read more: History of Vietnamese Lacquerware: 2000-Year Journey

Vietnamese heritage shines through each handcrafted masterpiece

3. Accessories as Vietnamese Gifts for International Friends

Premium Silk Scarves

A lightweight silk scarf with traditional patterns helps friends experience Vietnamese culture elegantly. Silk scarves are easy to carry in hand luggage and complement various fashion styles.

ANIMAL Twilly Silk Scarf, Chic Accent, Luxe Silk Fabric, Gift for Fashionable Ladies, Girlfriend's Delight, Stylish Present, Women's Accessory

610,000 ₫

HOPE 45cm Square Silk Scarf, Timeless Sophistication, Silk Opulence, Gift for Her, Girlfriend's Chic Accessory, Stylish Grace, Women's Fashion Piece

890,000 ₫

YOUTH 45cm Square Silk Scarf, Multi-purpose Scarf, Shawl, Gift for the Stylish Girl, Girlfriend's Youthful Accessory, Gift For Her

890,000 ₫

Medium Square Naturally Bundle Dyed Silk Scarf, Silk Satin Scarf, Hand-Dyed Silk Scarf, Bandana Scarf

400,000 ₫

Handcrafted Leather Wallets

Vietnamese leather wallets, handcrafted from genuine leather or high-quality synthetic materials, make Vietnamese specialty gifts that are both sophisticated and useful for both men and women. A compact wallet with minimalist design carrying distinctive Vietnamese cultural marks creates positive impressions and makes convenient Vietnamese gifts for international friends.

Fashion accessories carrying Vietnamese identity

Gift Suggestions for International Friends by Region

1. Vietnamese Gifts for European Friends

Europeans typically appreciate Vietnamese gifts for international friends that are refined, high-quality, and demonstrate superior aesthetics. Vietnamese coffee with phin filters offers a unique choice that showcases national identity while being easy for daily use. Bat Trang ceramics or handcrafted lacquerware will impress with their artistic nature and suitability for home display.

Europeans appreciate refined gifts

2. Vietnamese Gifts for Asian People

In East Asian culture, Vietnamese tea or coffee always makes popular Vietnamese cultural gifts because they're delicious and beneficial for health. Beautiful tea box designs and dignified presentation enhance gift value and align with Asia's communal tea-drinking spirit.

Asian friends always enjoy East Asian designs

3. Vietnamese Gifts for American Friends

According to Contiki travel website, Americans and Canadians prefer Vietnamese gifts for international friends with local authenticity: dried fruit leather, coconut candies, or small, practical souvenirs. Vietnamese chocolate products that are easy to carry and enjoy also receive very positive feedback as specialty items to bring overseas.

 American guests will be delighted with easy-to-eat Vietnamese specialties

4. Vietnamese Gifts for Australian Friends

Australians prioritize Vietnamese gifts for international friends that are sustainable, environmentally friendly, or nature-sourced. Lacquerware or bamboo items meeting aesthetic and natural criteria make excellent ideas.

Natural handicraft products for Australians

Hand-Woven Rattan Fan (Random Color), Embodies Folk Culture, Home Decor Accessory, Used For Creating Cool Breeze, Rustic And Simple Beauty

32,000 ₫

Customized Bamboo Gift Set (Bamboo Tumbler and Cup), Bamboo Cups, Eco Cups, Bamboo Utensils, Unique Gifts, Personalized Gifts, Corporate Gift

439,000 ₫

Bamboo Thermo Flask, Bamboo Flask, Eco-friendly Flask, Bamboo Utensils, Unique Gifts, Personalized Gifts

240,000 ₫

Bamboo Wood Cup, Various Sizes, Made from Natural Materials, Safe for Health, Eco-Friendly Product, Environmentally Friendly

50,000 ₫

5. What to Buy in Vietnam for African Friends

African people often love bold seasonings that are easy to apply and bring new flavors to local cuisine. You can also give herbal teas or dried fruit snacks, perfect for those passionate about distinctive flavors when choosing Vietnamese gifts for international friends.

Crunchy Vacuum Dried Dragon Fruit, Original Distinctive Flavor, Sugar-Free Dried Fruit, Dried Dragon Fruit, Healthy Snack, Snack Gift, Vietnamese Specialty

49,000 ₫

Vacuum-dried Cat Chu Mango (Original Flavor), Dried Mango, Dried Fruit, Healthy Snack, No Preservatives, Culinary Gift

85,000 ₫

Dried Orange, Dried Whole Peel Oranges, Sweet Cake Toppings, Sliced Fruit Preserves, Weight Loss Snack, Dietary Regime

30,000 ₫

Dried Pineapple With Chilli And Salt, Sweet And Sour Dried Fruit, Vitamin-Rich Snack, Soft Dried Pineapple, Snack With Friends

45,000 ₫

>>> Read more: 10+ Vietnamese Gifts To Bring Home For Family And Friends – Expat’s Guide

Important Considerations When Choosing and Carrying Gifts

1. Customs and Security Regulations

Food and Beverages

Each country has specific regulations about bringing food items. According to experience from Reddit travel communities, industrially packaged foods with clear labels typically pass customs more easily when serving as Vietnamese gifts for international friends.

Liquids and Gels

Fish sauce and chili sauce need to be packed in checked luggage and comply with volume regulations. Choose small bottles under 100ml if you want to carry them in hand luggage.

2. Cultural and Religious Considerations

Avoid Inappropriate Gifts

• Religious imagery items if uncertain about the recipient's beliefs
• Pork-containing foods in Islamic countries
• Alcoholic beverages in places with strict regulations

Colors and Numbers

Some cultures have special beliefs about colors and numbers. For example, white in some Asian countries is associated with funerals when choosing Vietnamese souvenirs for overseas friends.

3. Practicality and Transport Ease

Choose Vietnamese gifts for international friends that are compact and lightweight for easy carrying. Avoid easily breakable items, avoid gifts requiring special storage conditions, and prioritize products that maintain quality throughout long journeys.

Compact, easily preserved gifts make travel more pleasant

Conclusion

Choosing Vietnamese gifts for international friends isn't just simple shopping but a way to express affection and care. Take time to understand the recipient, local culture, and related regulations so your visit with Vietnamese gifts becomes truly meaningful and memorable.

And of course, regardless of who you're gifting to or where they're from, CHUS's Vietnamese Gifts category will certainly satisfy you!

FAQs

• What gifts should I bring from Vietnam when traveling abroad?
  Choose gifts that are easy to pack and represent Vietnamese culture, such as coffee, tea, handicrafts, specialty snacks, or silk paintings. Avoid fresh food or liquid sauces.
• Can I bring fish sauce through airport security?
  Fish sauce is not allowed in carry-on luggage due to its liquid form and strong smell. You must pack it securely in checked baggage.
• What Vietnamese dishes do Americans like?
  Americans often enjoy pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, coffee, chocolat, fruit or nut – flavorful, approachable, and globally known dishes.
• Do Asians like Vietnamese dried foods?
  Yes. Many Asians, especially from Chinese or Southeast Asian backgrounds, are familiar with savory dried foods like fish or squid, making them well-received.
• Should I bring dried fish abroad?
  You can, but always check the destination country’s customs rules. Some restrict strong-smelling or unpackaged dried foods.