Comparative Pricing: Wire Harness Production Costs in China vs Vietnam
As supply chains shift post-pandemic, manufacturers are closely evaluating cost-effective regions for wire harness production. China and Vietnam remain dominant players, but their pricing models and operational conditions differ significantly. This article provides a detailed comparison.
Labor and Overhead
Китай: Average factory labor cost ranges from $4.5¨C$6.5/hour in developed regions like Guangdong, higher in major coastal cities. Automation levels are high.
Vietnam: Average labor is $2.5¨C$3.5/hour. Lower overhead, but less automation.
Material Sourcing
Китай: Extensive local supply chain ecosystem for copper, ПВХ, XLPE, разъемы.
Vietnam: Often imports copper and components from China, which can raise material costs slightly.
Factory CapEx & Ongoing Costs
Китай: Higher startup costs, especially in Shenzhen/Shanghai; land and compliance fees.
Vietnam: Lower facility and tax costs, though infrastructure can be less reliable.
Export Taxation & Tariffs
Китай: Subject to U.S. Section 301 tariffs (up to 25% on some harness types).
Vietnam: No additional U.S. tariffs under current trade terms.
Workforce Skills and Lead Times
Китай: Skilled in automotive/military-grade harness production; shorter lead times due to experience and logistics.
Vietnam: Catching up rapidly; lead times longer but improving.
Conclusion
Vietnam offers lower labor costs and favorable export terms, but China remains superior in supply chain maturity, production volume capacity, and technology. A hybrid sourcing model may yield the best balance.