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Column
June 05th, 2026

What is an anchor bolt? ｜Easy explanation in 3 minutes: “Anchor bolts” are indispensable for installing machine tools in factories and maintaining the structure of buildings. These parts, which firmly connect equipment and structures to concrete floors or foundations, are truly the “unsung heroes” of the manufacturing site. However, if appropriate selection or installation is not performed, there is a risk of serious accidents such as overturning during earthquakes or equipment detachment. In fact, data shows that a high percentage of construction defects related to structural hardware are found during inspections of new construction, making correct knowledge the cornerstone of safety management. In this article, we will explain everything from basic types of anchor bolts to the concept of strength calculation and installation points to note on-site, in content that can be read in 3 minutes for procurement and maintenance personnel in the manufacturing industry. Please use this for your company’s safety measures together with the procurement solutions provided by Ohta Vietnam. Anchor bolts are a general term for bolts that are embedded in a base material (mainly concrete) and use their tensile strength and shear strength to fix an object. Their fixing principles are mainly classified into the following three types. Friction fixation: A part of the anchor opens and fixes by the frictional force pressed against the hole wall (common in metal types). Adhesion fixation: Fixing the bolt and the hole wall together with the bonding force of resin (adhesive) (Chemical Anchor). Shape fixation: Embedded before concrete placement, fixed by the curved tip (L-shape/J-shape) hooking into the concrete (Foundation Bolt). Anchors handled at manufacturing sites are largely divided into “Cast-in-place anchors” and “Post-installed anchors”. This type is installed before pouring concrete. They are L-shaped or J-shaped, and have the highest structural strength and excellent reliability. They are used for foundations of large machinery and fixing pillars of buildings. At Ohta Vietnam, production and supply in custom sizes based on drawings are possible. This type is installed after drilling holes in existing concrete floors. They are frequently used for factory layout changes and fixing additional equipment. Metal Anchors (Mechanical Anchors) Feature: The tip opens by driving in or tightening the bolt, biting into the concrete to fix it. Merit: Installation is fast, and load can be applied immediately. Demerit: Because the expansion force puts stress on the concrete, it may cause cracks if used near edges. Usage: Fixing piping brackets, installing handrails, and other uses under medium load or ...

Column
May 22nd, 2026

What is a hexagon socket head bolt? Basic knowledge of standards, strength, and procurement in Vietnam: In manufacturing design, development sites, and procurement operations, the “Hexagon Socket Head Cap Screw” is one of the most frequently seen fastening parts. Also known as “Cap Bolts” or “Cap Screws,” these are not merely simple fasteners. Compared to conventional hex bolts, they allow for more space-saving designs and achieve extremely high tightening strength, making them indispensable in precision equipment fields such as machine tools, automotive parts, and automation lines. Especially in Vietnam’s manufacturing sites, stable procurement of bolts meeting quality standards similar to Japanese companies (JIS standards, etc.) directly impacts production line utilization rates and final product safety. This article briefly explains the basic definition, technical merits, strength class details, and efficient procurement methods in Vietnam for busy practitioners in 3 minutes. Together with the solutions provided by us, Ohta Vietnam, we hope this serves as an aid to your procurement strategy. Hexagon socket head cap screws are a general term for bolts with a hexagonal hole in a cylindrical head. In Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS), they are defined as “JIS B 1176” and conform to the international standard “ISO 4762”. The biggest feature is that they use a “Hexagon Key (Allen Key)” instead of a spanner or wrench for tightening. While general hex bolts (JIS B 1180) are turned by gripping the outside of the head, hexagon socket head cap screws transmit torque using the inside (hole) of the head. This eliminates the need to secure space around the bolt for turning tools, contributing significantly to the miniaturization and weight reduction of machinery. The greatest design advantage is the suitability for “counterboring” processing, where the head is embedded inside the part. The cylindrical head fits perfectly into the counterbored hole, keeping the part surface flat. This prevents the bolt head from protruding on moving machine parts, reducing labor accident risks such as workers’ clothing getting caught. It also makes the appearance smart, making it suitable for products requiring good design. Another major reason why hexagon socket head cap screws are chosen lies in their overwhelming “strength.” While many iron hex bolts generally in circulation are strength class “4.8”, standard hexagon socket head cap screws are manufactured with the extremely high strength class of “12.9”. This number “12.9” represents the following mechanical properties: 12: Indicates a tensile strength of 1,200 N/mm² (122 kgf/mm²). This means it can withstand a load of approximately 122 kg per square millimeter. 9: Indicates ...

Column
May 15th, 2026

What is a bolt? ｜Easy explanation in 3 minutes: In the manufacturing industry, the “bolt” is a critical component that, while basic, dictates product quality and safety. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 bolts and nuts are used per automobile, and the failure of just one can lead to serious accidents. However, ambiguous instructions like “Bring me an M6 bolt” are common on the factory floor, often leading to overlooked differences in property classes or surface treatments. Particularly in Vietnam, which has become a key point in supply chains in recent years, stably procuring Japanese-quality fasteners at appropriate prices is an urgent issue for many companies. In this article, we will explain everything from the basic definition of bolts and how to read often-overlooked property classes to optimal procurement strategies in Vietnam, summarizing the points procurement and technical staff need to know in 3 minutes. Including the hybrid “Trading Company x Manufacturer” solution provided by Ohta Vietnam, we deliver information to update your procurement operations. Generally, “Bolts” are included within the broad classification of “Screws,” but a clear distinction exists in JIS standards (Japanese Industrial Standards) and practical field work. The biggest difference is “whether or not it is used in combination with a nut.” Items that are tightened solely into a female thread (tapped hole) cut into the target object are called “Machine Screws.” On the other hand, items that pass through the target object and are fixed by tightening with a nut from the opposite side are defined as “Bolts.” However, since hexagon bolts are sometimes screwed into tapped holes, it is also common to distinguish them by shape (those with large heads like hexagons that are turned with a spanner or wrench). Bolts are mainly composed of the following three elements. Head: The part where the tool is applied, such as hexagonal or cylindrical shapes. Shank: The cylindrical part where no thread is cut (does not exist in fully threaded bolts). Thread: The part where spiral grooves are cut. The “designation” when ordering is expressed as “Thread Diameter (M) x Length (L).” For example, “M10×50” means the outer diameter of the thread is 10mm and the length under the head (length excluding the head) is 50mm. Misunderstanding this is the biggest cause of ordering errors, so caution is required. You may have seen markings like “4.8” or “10.9” on the head of a bolt. These are important indicators showing the bolt’s “Tensile Strength” and “Yield Point (Proof Stress).” ...

Column
May 08th, 2026

Characteristics and usage of Vietnamese screws to increase competitiveness in the manufacturing industry: In modern manufacturing, securing cost competitiveness and stabilizing the supply chain are the most critical challenges determining a company’s survival. The procurement strategy for “screws and fasteners,” which underpin product quality and reliability, is key to this success. This article is aimed at Japanese manufacturers who are focusing on Vietnam as a new procurement hub. It provides a detailed analysis from a specialized perspective on the competitive advantages of locally manufactured screws and fasteners in Vietnam, the current state of quality control, and the specific solutions offered by Ohta Vietnam. Readers will gain a precise understanding of the benefits and risks of procurement in Vietnam and obtain guidelines for establishing a practical procurement strategy that balances high-mix low-volume production, short lead times, and high quality. Vietnam has maintained one of the highest economic growth rates in the Asian region over the past few decades. The real GDP growth rate for 2024 is projected to be 6.0% to 6.5%, keeping it among the top growth economies in the ASEAN region. This growth is driven by the increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from foreign companies and the consequent rapid clustering of manufacturing industries. With the remarkable development of supporting industries such as smartphones, electronics, and automotive parts, the local demand for essential fasteners like screws, bolts, and nuts has dramatically increased in Vietnam. Due to shifts in the international landscape and the need to mitigate procurement dependency risk on a single country, many Japanese companies have adopted the “China+1” strategy. Vietnam, with its geographical proximity, stable political system, and relatively low-cost, abundant labor force, is the most promising candidate for this strategy. This trend has also affected suppliers of screws and fasteners, with increasing movement to shift manufacturing bases to Vietnam or establish local procurement networks. As a result, the production capacity and quality level of screws and fasteners within Vietnam are rapidly improving. The primary concern for Japanese manufacturers considering Vietnamese products is quality. However, major Vietnamese fastener manufacturers, which target global export markets, rigorously pursue certifications for the international quality management standard, ISO 9001, and the environmental management standard, ISO 14001. Regarding product standards, they are capable of manufacturing products that comply with the fundamental metrics of screw threads, such as ISO standards (e.g., ISO 68-1, ISO 261), and Japan’s JIS standards (Japanese Industrial Standards). Ohta Vietnam thoroughly applies the ISO 9001-based quality control system, cultivated by its Japanese ...

Column
May 01st, 2026

Strategies to Overcome Logistics Challenges in Vietnam’s Fasteners Industry: Achieving High Quality and Stable Supply: Vietnam is rapidly growing as a new global production hub for the manufacturing industry. However, beneath this development, many Japanese companies face a challenge at the core of their supply chains: the “stable procurement of screws and fastening components.” Specifically, the challenges unique to Vietnam’s long, narrow geography, such as the uneven distribution of logistics infrastructure, a low local content ratio, and the difficulty of quality control, can seriously impact production schedules. This article is intended for Japanese manufacturing executives, procurement managers, and technical personnel aiming to build a stable production system in Vietnam. It specifically analyzes these logistics and quality challenges. Furthermore, it details how Ohta Vietnam’s unique solutions—”support for small-lot, high-mix production,” “integration of in-house manufacturing and trading functions,” and “official distributorship for TRUSCO Nakayama (TRUSCO)“—overcome these issues and enable the supply of high-quality components just-in-time (JIT). Reading this article will provide your company with a clear path toward optimizing your procurement strategy and supply chain in Vietnam. While the growth of Vietnamese manufacturing is remarkable, several structural issues impede stable production. Among these, the “difficulty of local sourcing” and the “inefficiency of domestic logistics” are particularly serious for Japanese companies. The local content ratio in Vietnamese manufacturing remains at about 15.0%, particularly when sourcing from domestic companies. Considering that 55.9% of foreign direct investment is concentrated in manufacturing, this suggests that the domestic supply chain base is still fragile. Consequently, many precision components like screws and bolts must be imported from countries like China, creating multiple risks. Increased Risk from Import Dependence: Sourcing from abroad is directly susceptible to tariffs, international shipping costs, and exchange rate fluctuations, leading to cost increases and price instability. Prolongation of Lead Times: Longer transport distances increase the risk of delivery delays, making the realization of Just-in-Time (JIT) production difficult. Complication of Quality Control: The multiplicity of overseas suppliers requires significant effort to ensure quality traceability (trackability) for each manufacturing lot and verify compliance with international standards (ISO, JIS, etc.). Vietnam’s logistics costs stand at about 16.5-18% of its GDP, significantly higher than the global average (approx. 10-14%). The reasons behind these high costs include an extreme reliance on domestic logistics infrastructure, especially road transport, and the overall lack of infrastructure development. Over-Concentration on Road Transport: Approximately 77-80% of domestic freight volume relies on road transport, with limited shares for rail and inland waterways. This leads to excessive traffic on major highways ...

Column
April 24th, 2026

Lifeline of Vietnam’s Manufacturing Industry: Challenges in Sourcing Screws and Fasteners Faced by Foreign Enterprises and Ohta Vietnam’s Solution Strategy: Vietnam is experiencing rapid growth as the “world’s factory,” becoming a hub for advanced manufacturing industries such as electronics, automotive parts, and precision machinery. However, behind this growth, foreign-affiliated manufacturers, including Japanese companies, face complex challenges in procuring “fastening components such as screws, bolts, and nuts”, which determine product quality and production efficiency. Specifically, these challenges involve quality variations, difficulty in handling small-lot, multi-product orders, and the instability of the supply chain. Particularly with the miniaturization and higher performance of products, the conventional procurement model of “low cost and high volume” has reached its limit, and there is an increasing demand for “small-lot, multi-product” procurement combined with “high-precision quality assurance”. This article will delve into the latest trends in screw procurement facing Vietnam’s manufacturing industry and the specific strategies to resolve them. Furthermore, we will elaborate on how Ohta Vietnam, whose core business is in-house manufacturing of precision machined parts and wholesale of fastening components, can resolve manufacturers’ procurement challenges as a “one-stop solution” and contribute to enhancing our customers’ competitiveness. Many foreign-affiliated manufacturers are currently accelerating the shift of production to Vietnam as part of the China Plus One strategy, driven by fluctuations in labor costs and the need for geopolitical risk diversification. While this has broadened the local supplier base in Vietnam, the country still remains highly dependent on imports for basic components like screws and bolts. Data from the General Statistics Office of Vietnam indicates that while the manufacturing sector’s growth rate remains high, it relies heavily on imports from Japan, China, and South Korea for most raw materials and components, making it vulnerable to global logistics disruptions. This high import dependency makes it extremely difficult to procure “short lead time and small lot” orders when sudden specification or design changes occur. Furthermore, imported components are exposed to exchange rate risks, becoming a factor in cost fluctuations. For screws and fastening components used in products requiring high safety standards, such as precision equipment and automotive parts, strict adherence to international standards like JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is mandatory. However, some local suppliers in Vietnam lack a thorough understanding of these international standards or have not yet obtained quality management system certifications such as ISO9001. Especially for custom-made screws specified in drawings or components requiring specific materials (e.g., titanium, high-strength stainless steel), lax quality check systems can lead to variations in strength ...

Column
April 17th, 2026

Solving Procurement Challenges in Vietnam’s Manufacturing Industry: Ohta Vietnam’s Total Solution for Screws and Fastening Components: Vietnam’s manufacturing industry is currently undergoing an unprecedented period of transformation. While showing strong recovery, such as an 8.4% rise in the Industrial Production Index (IIP) for 2024 compared to the previous year, the procurement dilemma at the factory floor is worsening: “We cannot get the necessary parts, at the necessary time, with the necessary quality.” Specifically, the local procurement of high-quality screws and fastening components, which are indispensable for automated lines and precision equipment, is a headache for many Japanese companies. This article analyzes the supply chain challenges faced by the Vietnamese manufacturing industry based on quantitative data and explains the unique integrated procurement solution—”Manufacturing, Wholesale, and MRO” offered by Ohta Vietnam. Let’s explore the “best practices for procurement” together to achieve both cost reduction and stable quality. Vietnam continues to attract investment from around the world as a prime candidate for “China Plus One.” The realized Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for 2024 reached a record high of 25.35 billion USD, with approximately 78% concentrated in the processing and manufacturing sector. However, despite the rapid growth of the industry, the supporting industries remain under development. According to a JETRO survey, approximately 39.3% of Japanese companies in Vietnam plan to expand local procurement within the next 1-2 years, but the local procurement rate still has room for improvement. Particularly for “fastening components (bolts, nuts, screws)” that require high precision, the variation in quality among local suppliers and the insufficient ability to handle custom-made products become bottlenecks, leading to many cases where companies are forced to rely on imports from Japan. In recent years, accompanying the shortening of product cycles, the need for “High-Mix Low-Volume” procurement, not only for mass-produced parts but also for prototypes and maintenance parts, has surged. However, typical Vietnamese suppliers tend to favor mass production (mass production), often responding to small-lot orders with “refusal to quote” or “high minimum order quantities (MOQ).” This is a significant factor contributing to the exhaustion of factory procurement managers. In response to this dual challenge of “quality” and “small lots,” Ohta Vietnam presents a unique solution that fuses trading company functions and manufacturer functions. Ohta Vietnam’s greatest feature is that it is not merely a wholesaler. The company owns precision machining equipment in its own factory, allowing it to manufacture precision cut components made of metal and resin in-house. Manufacturer Function: Custom-made screws and precision parts based on drawings can be ...

Column
April 10th, 2026

Screw procurement strategy for Japanese companies collaborating with Vietnamese manufacturers: “Optimal solution” to improve local procurement rate and reduce quality risks: In recent years, the expansion of manufacturing bases in Vietnam has been accelerating as a leading destination for the China Plus One strategy. However, “local procurement of parts” constantly emerges as a management issue when collaborating with companies entering the market or local partners. In particular, the procurement of “screws and fastening parts,” which are the smallest units determining product safety and quality, is not merely a means of cost reduction but a strategic element that determines supply chain resilience. Many Japanese companies face variations in the quality management capabilities of local suppliers, a lack of ability to handle small-lot products, and risks of delivery delays. There are countless examples where a shortage or defect of just a single screw leads to a production line stoppage for the entire factory. In this article, while unraveling current data on the manufacturing industry in Vietnam, we will explain optimization strategies for “Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD)” that Japanese companies should pursue, from the perspectives of specific procurement methods and partner selection. We hope that the knowledge cultivated by us at Ohta Vietnam on the ground will be of assistance to your procurement strategy. For Japanese companies expanding into Vietnam, improving the local procurement rate is an urgent issue. According to a survey by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), although the local procurement rate of Japanese companies in Vietnam is on an upward trend year by year, it remains at a low level compared to Thailand and China. In particular, in addition to raw materials and electronic parts, the reality is that local suppliers who fully meet the quality standards (such as JIS standards) required by Japanese companies for high-precision “fastening parts” are limited. Vietnam’s supporting industries are in the process of growth, and while technological improvements can be seen in fields such as press processing and resin molding, challenges remain regarding quality stability in fastener (screw) manufacturing that involves “special processes” such as heat treatment and plating. As a result, many companies are forced to choose between depending on imports from Japan or neighboring countries, knowing costs will increase, or conducting local procurement while bearing quality risks. Even with domestic procurement in Vietnam where physical distance is close, delivery delays can occur depending on logistics infrastructure and supplier management capabilities. In particular, building a “local production for local consumption” supply chain, which is less susceptible to recent geopolitical risks and container ...

Column
April 03rd, 2026

Five keys to successful screw procurement in Vietnam: Optimization of quality, cost, delivery date and DX strategy: Vietnam is now garnering intense focus from the global manufacturing industry. Against a backdrop of stable economic growth, an abundant labor force, and a strategic location, it is transforming from just “the world’s factory” into a crucial production base for high-value-added products. As of July 2025, there are 433 industrial parks operating in the country, and their momentum is undeniable, with occupancy rates exceeding 90% in the southern region. Amid this boom, many Japanese manufacturing companies are expanding into Vietnam and proceeding to restructure their supply chains. However, behind this rapid development, procurement and purchasing departments are facing new challenges. Chief among them is the procurement of “screws (fasteners),” which form the foundation of all products. How can companies clear the trilemma of ensuring a stable supply to prevent production line stoppages, securing quality equivalent to Japanese standards, and optimizing costs—all in a foreign land? This article will provide a detailed explanation of the specific “Five Keys” to achieving successful screw procurement in Vietnam, based on the latest market data and on-the-ground practical knowledge. From the realities of quality control to the latest inventory management methods utilizing DX, here are the hints to accelerate your company’s business in Vietnam. The era of Vietnam being merely a low-cost production base is coming to an end. Government-led industrial upgrading policies and vigorous Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) are qualitatively changing Vietnam’s manufacturing industry. The strength of Vietnam’s economy is also reflected in concrete figures. In 2023, retail and service sales showed steady growth, increasing by 9.6% year-on-year. Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City (9.6% growth) and the capital Hanoi (10.4% growth) are driving this economic expansion. The manufacturing industry supports this growth. For example, the food processing industry alone is expected to grow by 7.4% year-on-year in 2024, with a market size projected to reach $79.3 billion, bustling with approximately 11,000 companies. The recipients of this active industrial activity are the industrial parks spreading across the country. As of 2025, 433 parks are operational. In the southern region, where many Japanese companies are concentrated, a high occupancy rate of over 90% is maintained. The occupancy rate in the north also exceeds 83%, and in some areas like Bac Ninh province, rental prices surged by 10% in 2024, indicating high demand. Investment in Vietnam is no longer solely for the purpose of low labor costs. Looking at items imported from Japan to Vietnam ...

Column
March 27th, 2026

Vietnam Manufacturing at a Crossroads: Emerging Trends in the Fastener Market Amid Rising Labor Costs and Increasing Quality Demands: Vietnam has established itself as the “world’s factory” and has become an indispensable production base for many Japanese manufacturers. This momentum has not waned in 2024, with the industrial production index showing steady growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) continuing to flow actively, mainly into the manufacturing sector. However, on the other hand, serious challenges are emerging on the ground. These are “soaring labor costs,” symbolized by the average 6% minimum wage hike from July 2024; a “low local procurement rate,” which remains low compared to other ASEAN countries; and “increasingly sophisticated quality demands” accompanying the shift to higher value-added products. In this article, based on the latest data, we will thoroughly analyze how Vietnam’s manufacturing industry, especially the “screw and fastener” market that forms its foundation, is changing amidst this complex business environment. This is must-read content for management and procurement personnel who are forced to rebuild their procurement strategies. After an adjustment phase in 2023, the Vietnamese economy is back on a strong growth trajectory in 2024. JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) forecasts real GDP growth of 7.1% in 2024, and GDP per capita is expected to reach $4,536 (an increase of $219 from the previous year) according to IMF estimates. It is precisely the manufacturing industry that is driving this growth. According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment, the amount of approved FDI in the first quarter of 2024 maintained strong performance, increasing by 13.4% year-on-year. What is particularly noteworthy is that this investment is concentrated in the “manufacturing and processing industry.” FDI Concentration in Manufacturing and Processing: In the first quarter of 2024, the manufacturing and processing industry accounted for 63.6% of total FDI, reaching an amount of $3.93 billion. Main Investing Countries: Singapore was the top investor, accounting for 41.3% of the total, and Japan also invested $520.2 million. Recovery of Production Index: According to Vietnam’s General Statistics Office (GSO), the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) from January to May 2024 increased by 6.8% year-on-year, confirming that production activities are vitalizing. In the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) Whitebook 2024, about 63% of respondent companies chose Vietnam as one of their top 10 FDI destinations, indicating a high level of international confidence. Despite this brilliant growth, manufacturing sites are facing serious structural challenges. Soaring Labor Costs: Vietnam’s National Wage Council has decided on a policy to raise the minimum wage by an average of ...