Success Stories

Building a Future in Southeast Asia: The Angst+Pfister Vietnam Expansion

Mehmet Kale, Creative Technology Manager

Dec 8, 2025

For Angst+Pfister, a leading innovation development partner for technical components and engineering solutions in elastomeric compounds, expanding to Vietnam was never just about opening a new factory. It was about anchoring the company’s presence in one of the most dynamic regions of the global economy. With strategic backing from Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE), the company transformed its initial ambitions into APVN Sealing – a high-tech manufacturing facility in Vietnam that now serves both regional and global markets.

A Shift in Strategy: From Partnership to Independent Entry

Driven by its long-term strategy to strengthen its footprint in Asia through a “local for local” approach, already evidenced by establishing a production company in China, Angst+Pfister turned its focus toward Vietnam as the next strategic pillar in the region.

The original plan was to enter Vietnam through a joint venture. A local partner had been identified, and preliminary discussions were underway. But as time passed, concerns around strategic alignment and long-term compatibility emerged. With growing confidence in the Vietnamese market, Angst+Pfister made a bold move: rather than walking away, they chose to go it alone.

“Vietnam stood out as a regional hub with access to fast-growing Southeast Asian economies, but also with reach into Europe and the US. We knew we had to stay – just with a different approach,” says Eray, Chief Production Officer at Angst+Pfister.

This pivot marked the beginning of a much more ambitious project – and S-GE was already there in the background. As Angst+Pfister explored how to establish a full presence, S-GE provided the first layers of strategic guidance: identifying potential production zones, connecting with legal advisors, and advising on cultural best practices. Together, they started mapping out a new blueprint for success.

We chose Vietnam for its strategic location, vibrant industry environment, and talented workforce. Our goal was to build a long-term, high-tech presence – not just chase short-term advantage.

Eray Ulugül

Chief Production Officer at Angst+Pfister

Operational in Less Than a Year – and Still Scaling

In early 2023, the company formally registered its Vietnamese entity. From that moment, things moved fast.

Within weeks, key roles were filled – including a local Head of Sales, Office Manager, and other critical team members. With support from S-GE’s local business hub and expert network, Angst+Pfister was able to source candidates, validate hiring decisions, and onboard efficiently.

“Until our team was physically in Vietnam, S-GE was our anchor on-site. That support was not just helpful – it was essential,” Eray shares.

The next step was to bring the facility to life. Precision machinery was shipped in from Europe. Supply chain workflows were adapted. Local infrastructure was reviewed and upgraded. By November 2023, production officially began at APVN Sealing, Angst+Pfister’s new state-of-the-art facility in Ho Chi Minh City – just months after the ink had dried on the incorporation papers.

“We implemented the same advanced technologies we use in Europe. It was never about doing things cheaper – it was about doing them smart and sustainably,” Eray explains.

Today, APVN Sealing, Angst+Pfister’s Ho Chi Minh City facility located in the Ho Nai Industrial Park in Dong Nai Province, manufactures high-precision sealing elements such as O-rings and technical gaskets. These components are used across a wide range of industries – from food & beverage and water systems to oil & gas and automotive.

And the story isn’t over. Angst+Pfister continues to scale operations, grow its team (now over 40 employees), and deepen its supplier ecosystem. The Vietnam facility has also rapidly secured key quality certifications, including ISO 9001:2015, GMP, and IATF 16949, along with ISO 14001:2015 and I-REC environmental certifications. Combined with its “local for local” manufacturing strategy across Asia, these achievements underscore Angst+Pfister’s commitment to responsible resource use and environmental stewardship.

Turning Strategy into Execution – With the Right Support

The early engagement of Angst+Pfister with S-GE was crucial in avoiding common pitfalls – especially for a greenfield project in a complex and fast-moving environment.

“S-GE supported us with location assessments, legal referrals, market studies, and recruiting key roles. They connected us with the right people at the right time – and helped us avoid critical mistakes,” says Eray.

The on-the-ground expertise of S-GE’s Trade Officers in Southeast Asia proved invaluable – their local insights, trusted networks, and deep understanding of regional business culture were instrumental in translating strategy into real-world success. Whether it was setting up the right business entity or understanding local tax implications, the collaboration helped Angst+Pfister execute with confidence and speed.

Challenges Along the Way – and What Others Can Learn

As with any international expansion, there were unexpected hurdles along the way. Angst+Pfister encountered currency exchange losses, complex regulatory timelines, and long work permit procedures. Even navigating local banking fees and payment systems required adaptation and hands-on guidance.

“These are the kinds of details you don’t find on a website. You need local knowledge to get it right. S-GE’s experience helped us move forward without costly delays,” says Eray.

These early lessons have sharpened the company’s approach to international growth. For other Swiss firms looking toward Southeast Asia, Eray offers clear advice:

“Have a long-term view. Don’t just go for cost – go for strategic presence, access to talent, and proximity to growth markets. And partner with people who know the ground.”

Vietnam has become more than a manufacturing base for Angst+Pfister – it’s the cornerstone of a regional strategy. By exploring new growth in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the company is positioning Swiss engineering at the heart of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.

“The world is becoming more regional. Being near your customers, innovating locally, and staying agile – that’s how you stay relevant. For us, Vietnam is the future,” says Eray.

And for those still hesitant to take the leap?

“Don’t do it alone. Having a partner like S-GE can turn uncertainty into opportunity.”