Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in Vietnam’s Stone Market: A Trusted Partner’s Insight
Inspired by Vietnam’s artistry and resources, Only Element is building a path where tradition meets innovation. This vision is guided by Dr. Jonas Zukas, CEO of Only Element—a professional sculptor and Ph.D. in Universal Design. His years of living and working across Asia fostered a profound understanding of the region’s people, cultures, and industries. This experience inspired the deliberate choice to make Vietnam the heart of our operations, driven by three key pillars:
Nature
Community
Work ethics
Sustainability Rooted in Geography and Communities
Vietnam - A Land of Opportunity
Vietnam’s diverse geology, characterized by karst formations, offers abundant stone resources, including marble, granite, and limestone [1]. This natural wealth is further enhanced by Vietnam's climate—marked by seasonal high rainfall and relatively stable temperatures—which supports sustainable stone processing. The natural availability of water enables efficient cutting and polishing techniques without excessive dependence on artificial sources. Combined with modern technologies, these methods minimize waste and chemical contamination, positioning Vietnam as a leading hub for sustainable stone production [2]. At the same time, we are fostering fair partnerships with local communities and investing in eco-friendly practices that create economic and social opportunities.
A Cultural Legacy of Stone Craftsmanship
Vietnam’s stone craftsmanship
Vietnam’s stone craftsmanship is rooted in centuries-old traditions, evident in the country’s iconic architecture and vibrant craft villages [3]. These villages, such as Ninh Van in Ninh Binh Province, are renowned for their artisan expertise. Artisans blend traditional methods with modern technology, preserving cultural pride while embracing innovation. Their dedication results in uniquely valuable products that resonate with clients seeking intricacy, artistry, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
The Land of Emerging Horizons
In a country where the sun rises quickly and sets just as fast, life moves at a brisk pace, fostering a culture of hustle. Vietnamese people exemplify this energy with their passion, adaptability, and unwavering determination to learn and grow. This industrious culture has spurred growth in technical fields, with over 40% of Vietnam’s 2024 university graduates specializing in STEM disciplines [4]. This emerging talent pool drives Vietnam’s growing tech sector and supports advanced industries such as precision manufacturing.
This foundation is supported by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which reduces tariffs and streamlines export. These advantages empower Only Element to deliver premium stone products to European clients with reliability, speed, and transparency [5].
Room for Growth
Vietnam’s strengths are undeniable, but its path to becoming a major global player is still unfolding. A greater emphasis on fostering a youth-driven economy and adopting sustainable economic strategies will amplify its influence. Moreover, prioritizing the preservation and investment in cultural identity—through architecture and traditional crafts heritage—will not only enhance national identity but also contribute to long-term sustainability. This dual focus on innovation and tradition is paving the way for Vietnam to become a more influential player on the global stage.
Expertise Unlocks Vietnam’s Potential
Success in Vietnam’s stone market requires more than vision—it demands expertise and hard work. At Only Element, we combine industry knowledge with community commitment, aligning operations with local dynamics to blend artistry and innovation. This is made possible by the dedication and trust of our Vietnamese partners and colleagues, whose support drives our success.
Only Element collaborates with trusted Vietnamese partners to deliver high-quality stone solutions to global markets
References
General Department of Geology and Minerals of Vietnam. (2021). Overview of Vietnam’s Geological Resources.
Nguyen, T. (2023). "Sustainable Mining Practices in Vietnam." Vietnam Mining Journal.
Tran, L. (2022). "The Legacy of Stone Craftsmanship in Vietnam." Vietnam Cultural Heritage Magazine.
Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training. (2024). Annual STEM Graduate Report.
European Commission. (2023). "EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement." Retrieved from European Commission Trade Portal.
World Bank Vietnam. (2023). Vietnam Development Update.
