Campina, a leading Dutch and European trademark with over 87 dairies worldwide and US$5 billion revenues a year, has made presence in Vietnam. The Vietnam Business Forum held an interview with Mr. HOLGER SCHYGULLA, General Director of Campina Joint Venture Company.
Could you brief us about Campina’s penetration steps into the Vietnamese market?
Campina is an international milk company headquartered in the Netherlands. Campina is the top milk trademark in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. It also has a strong foothold in the United Kingdom, Russia, Spain, Poland and other countries. Campina’s strategy is continuously expanding the market, willing to cooperate with other companies to develop strong joint ventures and making a global presence. Two years ago, we came to Vietnam to survey the market and seek partners, and we joined hands with Vinamilk, a potential partner with a large market share in Vietnam. We have actively cooperated with each other to build a joint venture and are now producing Campina-trademarked milk products in Vietnam.
So, the Campina trademark is definitely new in comparison with other Vinamilk’s products on the market?
That’s right. We introduce not only a new milk type but also a better one. Campina is a specialist in the milk industry. The company annually spends a lot on research and invention activities to improve the quality of milk products. In Vietnam, we produce milk not only for newborns but also children of all ages. The Campina trademark in Vietnam is the inherited trademark of Campina International.
In the past two years, what have your assessments been regarding the operation of the joint venture?
I am definitely pleased with the joint venture. Although we are from two completely different cultures, we know how to sit together to discuss and employ experience of the two sides. Campina has techniques and experience in the milk industry and Vinamilk has a big market share in Vietnam. The both sides know how to cooperate to bring in mutual benefits.
Do you think the Vietnamese trade will further develop after Vietnam joins the WTO?
Only time will answer this question. However, in my opinion, there are two advantages: the advanced science and technology will arrive in Vietnam and the competition pressure will boost up trade and investment. As for the milk market, we can now see its quick and potential development.
P.V