Vietnam is experiencing a remarkable surge in niche sports like billiards, ultra marathons, and baseball, a trend that's capturing attention and acclaim.
On this podcast episode of You Don’t Know Vietnam, we discuss the rising prominence of niche sports across the nation and the exciting opportunities they present for both athletes and brands with sports editor Luu Thien.
"Nowadays there is a niche sport that can offer opportunities for almost everyone," says Thien.
Niche sports are believed to offer untapped markets and less competition, providing fertile ground for both athletes and brands to flourish.
“There is maybe a tiny market, but it's less competitive and there is just lying out there waiting for you to grab it.”
“It only keeps rising and it's offering new opportunities not only for talent but also for the brand to become more immersed and excels in the international state and in terms of revenue as well,” adds Thien.
“With the rise of the rich people in Vietnam, they’ll find a new way to become more proactive. They don't go to the football court, they don't go to the basketball court… They choose a more classy or evening sport like golf.”
“They want to be different from the rest of the society. The uniqueness here is important,” Thien says.
The changing demographics and increasing purchasing power in Vietnam are indicating a rising demand for sports-related products and experiences. This economic shift opens up new avenues for brands to engage with consumers and capitalise on the growing interest in sports in general, and niche sports in particular.
The rise of income and increasing purchasing powers among Vietnamese fans presents a really great prospect for the future of the sports in the country.
Luu Thien
Sports editor
The growing involvement of mega-corporations in the sports industry also signals a potential influx of investments and sponsorships. This trend underscores the increasing recognition of sports as a lucrative investment opportunity and a means of enhancing brand visibility.
Niche sports, like a fertile land that few people have reclaimed, is indeed an unmissable opportunity for athletes, organisers, rights owners, sports brands, investors and sponsors.
