Vietnamese lacquered chopsticks win hearts on global dining tables

Lacquered wooden chopsticks by Le Thanh Trien from Nam Ba Don commune have gained popularity at home and abroad.

An industry product that feels both new and familiar 

In Nam Ba Don commune, Quang Tri province, the Quang Thuy Wooden Chopsticks Production and Trade Cooperative has emerged as a leading model for developing rural industrial products that combine economic growth with cultural preservation.

According to Le Thanh Trien, Director of the cooperative, “As consumer markets become more demanding in terms of safety, aesthetics, and distinctiveness, Quang Thuy Wooden Chopsticks Cooperative in Quang Binh has made a remarkable mark through continuous innovation, integrating technology and Vietnamese craftsmanship into every pair of chopsticks. Quang Thuy chopsticks are not merely consumer goods, but a fusion of intellect, artistry, and responsibility for consumers’ health, ensuring absolute safety.”

Quang Thuy wooden chopsticks

Quang Thuy wooden chopsticks   

From the outset, the cooperative pursued a distinctive approach, not only producing chopsticks for daily meals but also elevating them into artistic and aesthetic products. Its designs vary in shape, size, and color—from round to square, short to long, and even intricately inlaid or adorned with faux tortoiseshell, abalone shell, or elegant metal joints. Each pair is meticulously crafted from rough shaping to surface finishing, reflecting the precision and creativity of Vietnamese artisans.

Quang Thuy chopsticks are made from locally grown natural woods such as jackfruit, rubber, and coconut. The materials are carefully dried and treated to prevent warping, termites, or toxic chemicals, ensuring the products are completely safe for users of all ages and suitable for all climates.

A major breakthrough that sets Quang Thuy apart lies in its application of modern technology—particularly the use of son ta, a traditional Vietnamese lacquer technique once reserved for high-end handicrafts.

“Quang Thuy Cooperative is the first in Vietnam to apply natural lacquer to everyday chopsticks. This was a bold but creative move, as son ta not only protects the product but also enhances its durability and aesthetic appeal,” Trien said.

Unlike industrial paints, son ta is a natural lacquer with high adhesion. When dried, it forms a strong, water-resistant coating that resists termites, acids, seawater, and high temperatures. These properties make Quang Thuy chopsticks absolutely safe for users, especially when in contact with hot food.

Moreover, lacquer surfaces are easy to polish, creating a glossy, rich finish that enhances the chopsticks’ elegance. Notably, son ta “matures with time”, its color deepens with use, giving the chopsticks a classic, warm tone beloved in discerning markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

Taking Vietnamese craftsmanship to the world 

Thanks to technological innovations, Quang Thuy wooden chopsticks have entered numerous domestic and international distribution channels, including hotels, supermarkets, and household goods distributors across Ben Thanh Market, Hoi An, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Quang Ninh, and Nha Trang, as well as major retail systems like Co.op Mart and Big C. The products are also exported to key markets such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Europe, where they are highly valued for their quality and distinctive design. This success has helped create stable jobs, improve incomes, and contribute to the socio-economic development of the local community.

Le Thanh Trien, Director of Quang Thuy Wooden Chopsticks Production and Trading Cooperative.

Le Thanh Trien, Director of Quang Thuy Wooden Chopsticks Production and Trading Cooperative.

Le Thanh Trien noted: “Participating in trade connection events between enterprises, rural industrial producers, and distributors has enabled us to promote and expand our sales network. These connection programs provide opportunities for rural enterprises to showcase outstanding industrial products, integrate into distribution chains, boost revenue, create jobs, and contribute to state budgets.”

He added that strong support from local authorities, especially the Department of Industry and Trade of Quang Tri province and the Center for Industrial Promotion and Trade Promotion, has given the cooperative both material and moral encouragement to expand the reach of its products.

 With the motto “Trust and Heart above all,” the Quang Thuy Wooden Chopsticks Production and Trade Cooperative strives to deliver high-quality products imbued with Vietnamese culinary culture. Across all regions of Vietnam, chopsticks remain a familiar symbol of togetherness at every family meal. With the mission of being “the soul of the Vietnamese dining table,” Quang Thuy chopsticks are more than just utensils—they embody the aspiration to elevate Vietnamese craftsmanship and secure a proud place for “Made in Vietnam” products at home and abroad. Choosing Quang Thuy chopsticks means choosing quality while preserving and promoting traditional local cultural values.

Thanh Long - Le An
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