Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag

Designing an end-to-end supply chain for sourcing, production and distribution of a high end ladies leather handbag. Considerations for raw material source, manufacturing location and third party logistics partner.

Running Head: Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 1
Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 2
Executive summary
In the following pages an end-to-end supply chain for the sourcing, production and
distribution of a high end ladies leather handbag has been designed. Careful considerations had
to be given to each step of the process to choose an option that is optimal and efficient. The
choice for the source of raw materials had to be made between Singapore, Vietnam and USA.
After careful consideration Singapore was selected due to its stable government and currency
regime, good sustainability framework and free trade agreement with EU. For the location of the
manufacturing warehouse the choice was between France, Italy and USA. Again France was
selected due to a stable government and currency, availability of skilled professionals, brand
value associated with the ‘Made in France’ tag, etc. For the time-being the raw material source
including its delivery to the import port in France. The supplier of the raw materials would be
required to handle all the documentation and formalities related to its delivery till the import
port. From there the material would be shifted through a third party logistics partner to the
warehouse location. Again the finished goods would be distributed to different locations by the
logistics partner.

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 3
Introduction
Supply chain refers to a system of people, organizations, processes, information and
activities that are involved in the transfer of raw materials to finished goods from suppliers to
customers. Three significant decisions in designing the supply chain would thus involve location
of the source of raw materials, manufacturing locations and the selection of third party logistics
partner who will facilitate transportation of raw materials and finished goods. There are several
factors that need to be considered while selecting the source of raw material. For instance, the
cost of production, political stability, economy of the country, cost of labor, fair labor practices
and sustainability measures. Similarly, the same host of factors needs to be considered while
making a choice for the manufacturing location. It is also important to consider the fluctuations
in exchange rate and customs duty if the production, manufacturing and selling locations are
located in different countries. The third party logistics provider also deserves important
consideration for the fact that it serves as the link between raw material source, manufacturer and
customer. The third party logistics partner would play an important role if the company wants to
reduce overheads associated with internal expenses and personnel along with bringing in
efficiency in distribution and management of inventory. Thus, it is important for the company to
build strategic relationship with the third party logistics provider as well.
In manufacturing the leather bag, the main raw materials would be leather, cotton and
nickel. Whereas, the bag would be made of leather, cotton would be used to make lining and
nickel would be used for making zipper and buckles. In the following pages two specific
locations in the Pacific Rim are given consideration as a possible manufacturing location. For
the source of all the three items that is leather, nickel and cotton the places that are given
consideration are Vietnam and Singapore. The choice of the locations is based on several
considerations like cost of labor, trade barriers, volume production etc. The advantage of these
two countries as the source of raw material lies in the fact that these have free trade agreements
with the EU. Similarly, Italy and France are considered as possible choice for manufacturing
location due to their expertise in the manufacturing of leather bags and other goods out of
leather.
Sourcing Solutions
The primary materials that would be required for the manufacturing of premium ladies
handbag would be leather, nickel and cotton. Leather is the main material in making the bag.
Cotton would be used for making the lining and Nickel for making the buckle and zipper.
Leather
The leather bag would be made out of tanned bovine leather. For the source of the leather
two countries namely Singapore and Vietnam is considered. As of 2017, Singapore is 9th largest
leather exporter in the world with exports of $74 million which accounts for 3.6% of the world
export. Similarly, Vietnam exports $9.6 million worth of leather (World’s richest countries,
2017). Another reason for choosing these two nations is the fact that both countries have signed

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 4
free trade agreements with European Union in 2018 thus giving the advantage of duty free
imports of tanned leather from these countries to EU. These two countries are compared on a
host of parameters below to select one as the source of raw materials.
Cotton
Vietnam is a major exporter of cotton and exported about $2.6 billion in 2017 thus having
a share of 4.9% of the total cotton export market (Workman, 2019). North America exports
14.7% of total cotton exported and is number 2 among the cotton exporters in the world.
Singapore is found to export $33.4 million cotton or 0.1% of the total export of cotton in the
world.
Nickel
The United States exported $241.7 million worth of Nickel in 2017 thus commanding a
market share of 11.3% (Workman, 2018). Singapore exported $382.3 million worth of Nickel in
2017 (World’s richest countries, 2017a). Although size of mineral exports is going up in
Vietnam with 2 million tons exported in July 2018, the government has decided to stop
exploration till 2035. Instead the government has allocated $92 million for exploration of nickel
with an aim to generate 103,000 tons of Nickel ore between 2025 and 2035 (O'Flynn, 2018).
The three possible sourcing locations that is Vietnam, Singapore and US are
comparatively analyzed in the following paragraphs.
Cost
Vietnam
The wage levels in Vietnam vary considerably on the basis of sector or area. However,
the median wage in Vietnam has increased considerably over the past years (Das, 2018).
Figure 1 Trend of median salary in Vietnam (Trading economics, 2019)

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 5
Singapore
Figure 2 Trend of Median gross monthly income amongst Singapore workforce (Channel news asia, 2018)
The median wage rate in Singapore has continued to grow over the last 5 years. The
employment rate was 80.3% for the age group of 25-64 which means that Singapore is in 8th
position amongst OECD countries in terms of employment rate. As compared to the previous 5
years of 2008 to 2013, the median income grew by 3.5% per year in the period 2013 to 2018.
The salaries of low wage workers grew by 4.2% (Channel news Asia, 2018). This positive shift
has taken place due to several measures like progressive wage model, wage credit scheme and
special employment credit.
United States
The median income in US is on the rise and it rose by 3.2% from $57,230 in 2015 to
reach $ 59,039 in 2017. At the same time poverty rate also declined by 1% to reach 12.7%
(Loudenback, 2017).
Profit
Vietnam
Vietnam is fairly open and allows profit to be remitted abroad. However, it is required by
the law that profits should be remitted only once in a year starting from March (Dezan shira and
associates, 2016). Additionally, as per the law dividend cannot be paid in a year in which the
company has not earned profit.
Singapore
A single tier tax system is followed in Singapore. Thus, if corporate tax has been paid by
company on profits, there are no further taxes on dividend. If the newly incorporated company
qualifies for tax exemption then the tax rate is 5.67% on first profits of S$ 300,000 (Dezan shira
and associates, 2019).

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Operational constraints
Vietnam
There is a need to have a second wave of reforms to continue on growth. There are
challenges in the form of high amount of red tape, lack of business transparency and high levels
of NPA for the banking sector. The government is having huge debt and the ratio of public debt
to GDP is approaching the ceiling of 65% set by the government (Central intelligence agency,
2019a).
Singapore
Singapore has free from corruption. The country follows as open market economy and
per capita GDP is found to higher than most developed countries (Central intelligence agency,
2019a). Unemployment is also quiet low. The country is however trying to increase productivity
and reduce dependence on foreign labor. Other challenges are slowing growth of labor force and
aging population.
United States
Some long term issues that plagues the American economy are wage stagnation for
families with low income, Rising pension and medical cost for the aging population, deficit in
current account and budget, shortage of energy.
Political
Vietnam
Vietnam is a communist state and there is a single party in the country. The country has a
communist regime where the major power is held by the communist party (BBC, 2016). The
party has a strong hold on the media. As such media outlets and journalists can be sanctioned for
broadcasting sensitive topics or criticizing the government (BBC, 2016). The country is however
politically stable.
Singapore
Singapore is a democratic country where elections have been held at regular intervals.
But, since it gained independence in 1965, only one party that is People's Action Party (PAP) has
won every single election. In none of these years, the opposition had a share of more than 10% of
the seats (Kwang, 2017). During these years Singapore as a country has experienced phenomenal
growth in several spheres and many believe the underlying reason to be political stability.

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United States
The government in United States is a constitutional federal republic. The country follows
a two party system the Democrats and the Republic and these two together have been in power
since 1852. It is argued that the country is both democratic and republic and has been termed as
representative democracy (Volokh, 2015).
Economic
Vietnam
Vietnam has undergone an economic transition since 1986. From being a primarily
agrarian economy, the country has now become a market based economy. There has been a
substantial increase in income. In 2017 the country has a GDP growth of 6.8% (Central
intelligence agency, 2019). The country has a stable currency, gets good FDI inflows and has a
strong manufacturing base. Till 2018, Vietnam has signed 17 free trade agreements out of which
10 have become effective (Vietnamnet, 2018). Most importantly, the country has free trade
agreement with EU. Amongst the ASEAN countries, Vietnam has become the second most
important trading partner for EU (European commission, 2018).
Figure 3 Trade of Goods between EU and Vietnam (European commission, 2018)
Singapore
Singapore has a nominal GDP of EUR 300 billion and is 41st largest economy in the
world (Altradius, 2018). Singapore has done 20 free trade agreements over the period of past 22
years. Singapore follows an open economy and its growth is based on global trade (Jeyaretnam,
2018). The country has low export and import barriers to trade (Liang, 2015). For EU, Singapore
has been the largest trading partner in ASEAN (MTI, 2019). The EU and Singapore also signed
EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA) (Jeyaretnam, 2018). The pact would come into
force in 2019. When it comes into force, 84% of exported goods in 1st year and 90% in 3rd year
would be exempted from paying customs duty as they enter EU (MTI, 2019).

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Figure 4 Trade of goods and services between EU and Singapore (MTI, 2019)
Figure 5 Trade in goods between EU and Singapore (European commission. 2018a)
United States
The United States economy is most technologically powerful in the world and per capita
GDP is $59,500. After being the largest economy for more than a century in terms of GDP
measured at PPP the country is now second behind China (Central intelligence agency, 2019b).
During 2016, goods trade between US and EU was $686 billion. A total of $270 billion goods
were exported to EU and $416 billion goods were imported from EU (Office of the United States
Trade Representative, 2017).
Labor
Vietnam
Figure 6 Population pyramid of Vietnam (Central intelligence agency, 2019)

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 9
The population of Vietnam is 92 million. The life expectancy for an average man is 73
years, and for an average woman is 81 years (BBC, 2016). Additionally as seen from the above
figure most of the population is within the age group of 54 years and median age is 30.9 years.
The literacy rate is quiet high at 94.5% and unemployment rate is 7.2% (Central intelligence
agency, 2019). Thus, availability of labor wouldn’t be an issue in Vietnam.
Singapore
The total population of Singapore is 5,995,991. Due to advancements in medical
practices in the country, the infant mortality rate is quiet low. The life expectancy for an average
male is 82.8 years and for an average female is 88.3 years (Central intelligence agency, 2019a).
The literacy rate is quiet high at 97% and unemployment rate is 9.1%. Most of the labor forces is
engaged in industry and service sectors with only 0.7% involved in agriculture (Central
intelligence agency, 2019a). The population pyramid is given below and the median age is 39.4
years.
Figure 7 Population pyramid of Singapore (Central intelligence agency, 2019a)
United States
As per estimates of 2018, total population was 329,256,465. The median age is 38.2 years
and the population growth rate is 0.8%. Infant mortality rate is 5.7 per 1000 and life expectancy
is 80.1 years (Central intelligence agency, 2019b).
Figure 8 Population pyramid of United States of America (Central intelligence agency, 2019b)

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Environmental
Vietnam
Before starting a business in Vietnam there are number of licenses required including
clearance from Land Use Right Registration office which is under Department of Nature
resources and environment of Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally the businesses are required to pay
an environment tax of VND 40,000 per ton (World Bank group, 2019). The primary authority
looking after environmental matters is Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (Ernst &
Young, 2013).
Singapore
Singapore government is bring in a revision to Energy Conservation Act through which
energy in the industrial sector is regulated so as to reach the targets set by the Climate Action
Plan of 2016 (Koh, 2017). It is required that international standards should be used for the
measurement and reporting of the amount of green house gas being emitted. Additionally the
new industrial facilities along with the already existing ones are required to review the rate of
energy efficiency as per the new regulations.
United States
In US a survey found that 16% of the total companies have adequate climate policy in
place. The agency dealing with sustainability practices in United States is Environmental
Protection Agency or EPA. In the 2018 budget there has been a cut of 31% for EPA. Under
Trump administration, the USA has withdrawn from Paris accord of climate change and has
increased the use of fossil fuel for continuation of growth (Thomas, 2012).
Sustainability considerations
Vietnam
The stock exchange in Vietnam has introduced sustainability reporting in the annual
reports by the companies operating in Vietnam (Ngoc, 2013). Although, there are companies that
still flout sustainability practices, things are changing in the country.
Singapore
A consumer survey has revealed that Singapore consumers are highly conscious about
environment sustainability. About 56% of the consumers want that the companies should ensure
that their supply chain should not cause harm to environment.

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Figure 9 Result of survey findings (Koh, 2018)
United States
Since, Trump has become the president of the United States; the sustainability in terms of
environmental impact has taken a backseat. However, according to a recent survey, 75% of
customers consider Corporate Sustainability Report before making a purchase (McCormic,
2016).
Manufacturing locations
Europe accounts for a third of the world exports of leather. In Europe France and Italy are
the main producers and account for half of the total produce. In terms of exports Italy has a
market share of 12% which ranks it in second position behind China which has a market share of
36%. France on the other hand has a market share of 4% and commands the 4th position in world
in terms of leather export (Conseil National Du Cuir, 2018). In certain areas like leather goods
France holds the third position in terms of global exports. There is a strong demand of leather
handbags made in France and 10% of the leather goods sold across the world are made in France.
Below is a comparison between France and Italy as the manufacturing location for leather
handbag.
Operational constraints
Italy
There is lack of basic infrastructure in the country. In many parts broadband is unreliable.
Additionally since 2000, productivity per unit of labor has fallen (Sanderson, 2011). There is an
environment of political instability and huge amount of debt. The companies do not get good
support from the government of the country. There is great amount of bureaucracy, strong labor
union, endemic tax evasion and high rates of organized crime. As per rankings of ease of doing
business, Italy ranks in 80th place (Sanderson, 2011).
France
Major challenges are related to supporting business and giving assistance to new
entrepreneurs. It is also important to maintain the excellence and reputation associated with the
industry and thus train and teach unique skills to leather professionals. The industry employed
over 70,000 people in 2015. It is also important to maintain value of the goods manufactured as
counterfeits can eat a significant portion of value (Conseil National Du Cuir, 2018).

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Political
Italy
The government in Italy is a parliamentary republic. Elections in the country are held
every 5 years.
France
The type of government in France is semi-presidential republic. In terms of electoral
process, political participation and civil liberties, etc. France ranks high amongst democratic
countries. However, as compared to other democracies where legislature is the supreme decision
making authority, it is weakest amongst other European nations in France. In France President
holds sweeping powers (Baptist, 2014).
Economic
Italy
Although, Italy’s economy is third largest in Euro zone, it is characterized by high
amount of public debt and other parameters that create structural impediments to growth. The
northern part of the country is industrial and developed whereas the southern part is agrarian and
underdeveloped.
France
The real GDP of diversified France economy grew by 1.9% in 2017. Since assuming
presidency Emmanuel MACRON has taken several steps to increase competitiveness and boost
economic growth in the country. The budget deficit of the country has been brought down and is
currently at 2.8% of GDP. Macron has introduced cuts in public spending and taxes to increase
purchasing power and private spending. The government is planning to lower corporate tax rate
from 33.3% to 25% in 2022.
Labor
Italy
The country has a total population of 62,246,674 which is growing at the rate of 0.16%.
Median age is 45.8 years which means the population is aging. However, an exceptional degree
of passion, fierce competitiveness and raw creativity are demonstrated by entrepreneurs in the
country. It is the business acumen and creativity of Italian entrepreneurs that helps in building
the premium imagery of “Made in Italy” (Sanderson, 2011).

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France
The population of the country is 67,364,357 and is growing at 0.37%. The median age is
found to be 41.5 years which signifies an aging population (Central intelligence agency, 2019c).
The infant mortality rate stands at 3.2 per 1000 births. Man hours are an important factor in
leather goods which is crafty profession. Cost of labor is seen to be on the rise.
Environmental
Leather is renewable and valuable. There is lesser use of energy chemical and water in
the production process these days as compared to the past. Residues in the production process are
reused and recycled.
Sustainability considerations
Italy
There have been number of negative reviews of leather industry and leather products
across the world. Industries operating in the country should thus look throughout the supply
chain keeping in mind the sustainability consideration.
France
While increasing the production rate, it is also required to ensure that goods are produced
in a sustainable and responsible fashion. It is also required to improve the production quality and
be careful to the image risk brought by the animal protection association. French tanning
industry is however regarded as one of the safest in the world.
3Party Logistics providers
Since the source of raw material is sourced from a country in Pacific Rim namely
Singapore and the manufacturing would take place in France, it is required to employ the
services of a good logistics partner who can help in transportation of raw materials between
Singapore and France and then finished goods from Singapore to USA and other countries where
retail outlets are located. Since a large amount of goods have to be transferred, it is better to use
sea transportation in this regards. There are several activities that are performed by the courier
partner in regards to transportation of the goods. These are packing, crating, handling and
transportation.
Packing
Before the cargo is dispatched, it is very important to ensure that it is securely packed.
Cargo that has not been packed and secured properly in a cargo transportation unit might
experience movement during acceleration (UNECE, 2013). Moving cargo may lead to accident
and cause damage to the cargo inside or to other packages. Moreover, if the packaged item is
heavy, then it can break through the boundaries of Cargo transportation unit (CTU) due to inertia

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 14
during heavy acceleration thus causing damages to property, person or environment. It is also
important to ensure that over packing is avoided in all possibilities.
Carting, Handling and Transportation
For ensuring the safe and secure transportation from the originator to the destination, it is
necessary that those involved in the movement of CTU comply fully with the information flow.
The packer is required identify the packages that are packed into CTU and include the same in
proper documentation. The mass of the cargo that is packed inside the CTU needs to be declared
as well along with hazards if any. For instance, the materials that are being transported over here
from raw material source to manufacturing location are leather, cotton cloths and Nickel. These
materials are highly inflammable in nature and this information should be declared at the onset.
It is necessary to ensure that there should be proper documentation of the information in
internationally accepted terminology. The relationship between the different functions is
illustrated below-
Figure 10 Relationship between the functions (UNECE, 2013)
The principal contract is signed between the carrier and the shipper. These two parties are
responsible for handling the other parties of the contract such as hauler and terminal. Typically
the contract with the carrier is to deliver it till the port of import from where the consignee
arranges for the CTU to be taken to the respective destination. There are two options for us. If we
own the facilities at Singapore, then we have to sign up for an end to end transportation wherein
the carrier picks up the CTU from our facilities at Singapore and delivers it to our factory at
France. Otherwise, we can source the raw materials from a third party who would deliver it to
the port of import and we would arrange the carrier to deliver it from the port of import to our
factory. As this is a new business segment, we should go with the second option and arrange for
a supplier to deliver the raw materials to port of import. From the port of import we would
arrange a courier for delivering the CTU to our factory premises.

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 15
Figure 11 Typical terms of the contract (UNECE, 2013)
Figure 12 Possible route to be taken by the ship to deliver the raw material from Singapore to France
The factory for ladies leather bag would be located near Mulhouse. The location of the factory
would be in a village near Mulhouse and about 100 local craftsmen would be hired and trained in
house for the job. The area is in the east of France and there are factories of other luxury brands
as well in the region. The place is located at a distance of 676 km from Le Havre or the import
port.
Figure 13 Distance of the tentative factory location from port

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We would be using the 20ft container. The container has a net internal volume of 33.1m3 and can
hold a net weight of 28,200 kg. Considering all the accessorial charges, the transportation of such
a container from Le Havre to Mulhouse would take around $400.
Calculations
There are number of assumptions made to make the calculations. For instance it has been
assumed that wages per individual in France workhouse would be $2600. The assumption has
been made based on the average wages in France. As, mentioned above it has been assumed that
100 people would be employed at the warehouse. Thus, the total salary comes out to be
$260,000. It has also been assumed that the cumulative salary for the managers and other top
level workers would amount to $15000. It is assumed 1 kg of raw materials can be used for
making 3 bags. Thus, the demand of 2,000,000 bags would be met by 666667 kg of raw
materials. If a 20ft container can transport 28,200 kg of raw materials, a total of 24 containers
would be used to transfer the lot. To transport each container from port to warehouse it takes
$400. Thus, the cost of transporting 24 containers would be $9,600. Similarly to transport
383,333 kg of bags to US in 1st year it would cost $17345 in first year if it is assumed that it
takes $1276 to transfer one container from EU to US. As mentioned above the raw materials
would be carried in 20 feet containers each of which is capable of carrying 28200 kg.
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Total Demand (in
kg) 666667 1016667 366667
No. of containers 24 36 13
Demand
Region Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
NE United States 300,000 450,000 150,000
SE United States 200,000 350,000 175,000
NW United States 300,000 450,000 150,000
SW United States 350,000 500,000 150,000
France 350,000 500,000 150,000
Germany 300,000 450,000 150,000
UK 200,000 350,000 175,000
Total demand (in units) 2,000,000 3,050,000 1,100,000
Selling price $200
Revenue $400,000,000 $610,000,000 $220,000,000
wages (2600*100) 260000 260000 260000
Salary 15000 15000 15000
Factory overhead 10000 10000 10000

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 17
Raw Materials (including transportation
from Singapore to France) 30000 30000 30000
Transportation of raw materials in France 9456 14421 5201
Transportation to retail locations in US 17345 26395 9427
Miscellaneous 40000 40000 40000
Total cost 381801.4184 395815.6028 369627.6596
Profit/Loss $399,618,199 $609,604,184 $219,630,372
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Total Us demand 383,333 583,333 208,333
No. of containers 13.59338 20.685579 7.387707
Transportation
cost 17345 26395 9427
Conclusion
The design of the supply chain has been done in the above pages to complete the entire
steps from procurement of raw materials to production of finished goods. The product that is
supposed to be made and sold is ladies leather handbag. The raw material is sourced from
Singapore after carefully considering Singapore, Vietnam and USA. Similarly, the production
facility is located at a village near the town of Mulhouse in France. A third party logistics
provider is selected after careful consideration to transfer finished goods from the import port La
Havre to Mulhouse and finished goods from La Havre to France.
Recommendations
The source of materials has to be from USA or either of the two nations of Pacific Rim.
Amongst the three nations, the source of raw material that is selected is Singapore. There are
number of reasons behind the choice of Singapore including low cost of labor, stable
government, democratic elections, sustainable sourcing and free trade agreement with EU. For
the manufacturing location two European countries are considered along with USA. In this
regards, France is chosen as the manufacturing location. France offers several unique features
making it an ideal location. Some of these are a stable economy, lesser bureaucracy, stable and
progressive government, availability of world renowned skilled labor etc. It is recommended to
forge a long term strategic relationship with the third party logistics provider. This would ensure
that the raw materials and finished goods get delivered on time and at the least cost.

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 18
References
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In this article, the author is of the opinion that although the direction of US trade policy
has seemed like a curse for international trade, it can be a boon for EU and its trading partners.
This has ensured that the trading partners along with EU are trying to speed up the negotiations
so to lead to the successful finalization of free trade agreements. The author also describes some
of the key characteristics and gains associated with some of the ongoing free trade agreements.
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https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-27310566
The author of the article is of the opinion that the democracy in France is flawed.
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legislature, makes it flawed and weak.
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Central intelligence agency. (2019). World fact book: Vietnam. Retrieved March 16, 2019, from
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vm.html#imageModal3800
The CIA gives an exhaustive guide on Vietnam. Through facts on several parameters related to
the country, the page describes the country in detail. The parameters on which key figures are
provided are geography, economy, government, etc.
Central intelligence agency. (2019a). World fact book: Singapore. Retrieved March 16, 2019,
from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/resources/the-world-factbook/geos/sn.html
The CIA gives an exhaustive guide on Singapore. Through facts on several parameters
related to the country, the page describes the country in detail. The parameters on which key
figures are provided are geography, economy, government, etc.
Central intelligence agency. (2019b). World fact book: United States. Retrieved March 16, 2019,
from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/resources/the-world-factbook/geos/us.html

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 19
The CIA gives an exhaustive guide on United States. Through facts on several parameters
related to the country, the page describes the country in detail. The parameters on which key
figures are provided are geography, economy, government, etc.
Central intelligence agency. (2019c). World fact book: France. Retrieved March 16, 2019, from
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/resources/the-world-factbook/geos/fr.html
The CIA gives an exhaustive guide on France. Through facts on several parameters
related to the country, the page describes the country in detail. The parameters on which key
figures are provided are geography, economy, government, etc.
Channel news Asia. (2018). Incomes in Singapore up, with median salary rising above S$4,400:
MOM report. Retrieved from https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/average-
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According to the statistics released by Comprehensive Labour Force Survey there has
been an increase in the median salary over the last year in Singapore. Although the employment
rate is .1 decimal lower than the last year, the general employment environment is positive in the
country.
Conseil National Du Cuir. (2018). Global trade in the leather sector in 2016: the key figures.
Retrieved from https://conseilnationalducuir.org/en/press/releases/2018-01-24
In this newsletter, the top players in the leather industry are described with their
respective market share. The key features of top players along with factors that restrict their
growth are also described.
Das, K. (2018). Vietnam’s average wages on the rise. Retrieved from https://www.vietnam-
briefing.com/news/vietnams-average-wages-rise.html/
Citing the economic development report released by the government, the author states
that the average salary in Vietnam has increased over the years. The author states that although
the salary in private sector has increased the most, the employees in government enterprises
receive the highest salaries.
Dezan shira and associates. (2016). Remitting profits from Vietnam. Retrieved from
http://www.asiabriefing.com/store/book/remitting-profits-from-vietnam-5825.html
In this article, the author states the different rules and regulations associated with the
remittance of profits from Vietnam.
Dezan shira and associates. (2019). An introduction to doing business in Singapore. Retrieved
from http://www.asiabriefing.com/store/book/an-introduction-to-doing-business-in-
singapore-2019-7995.html

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 20
In this article various factors that the businessmen should consider before starting a
business venture in Singapore are described. The booklet describes different government rules
and regulations that should be specifically considered.
Ernst & Young. (2013). Doing business in Vietnam. Retrieved from
https://www.ey.com/publication/vwluassets/doing_business_in_vietnam/%24file/
doing_business_in_vietnam_16000319.pdf
In this article various factors that the businessmen should consider before starting a
business venture in Vietnam are described. The booklet describes different government rules and
regulations that should be specifically considered.
European commission. (2018). Vietnam. Retrieved from
http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/countries-and-regions/countries/vietnam/
The paper by the European Commission considers the trade scenario between Vietnam
and EU. The amount of goods and exported, imported and the trade balance is the matter of
focus. The position of the Vietnam within ASEAN and the importance of trade between EU and
Vietnam are also considered.
European commission. (2018a). Singapore. Retrieved from
http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/countries-and-regions/countries/singapore/
The paper by the European Commission considers the trade scenario between Singapore
and EU. The amount of goods and exported, imported and the trade balance is the matter of
focus. The position of the Singapore within ASEAN and the importance of trade between EU
and Vietnam are also considered.
Jeyaretnam, P. (2018). Worldwide: Impact of the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Retrieved from
http://www.mondaq.com/x/748344/international+trade+investment/Impact+Of+The+EU
Singapore+Free+Trade+Agreement
In this article the author talks about the free trade agreement between EU and Singapore.
After talking about the trade scenario between the two countries, the benefits that can be accrued
from the free trade agreement are pointed out.
Koh, H. (2017). Singapore toughens regulations to meet environment goals. Retrieved from
https://www.eco-business.com/news/singapore-toughens-regulations-to-meet-
environment-goals/

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 21
In this article the author points that stagnancy in recycling rate and modest improvements
in energy efficiency has led to the government introduce new and tougher norms for environment
regulations.
Koh, H. (2018). Half of Singaporeans want sustainable brands. Retrieved from https://www.eco-
business.com/news/half-of-singaporeans-want-sustainable-brands/
In this article, the author quotes the findings of a recent survey to state that more than half
of the consumers believe that the companies have a major responsibility in ensuring that their
supply chains are sustainable. However, most of the business owners did not feel the same.
Kwang, H. F. (2017). The politics of dominance: Don't take it to the limit. Retrieved from
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/the-politics-of-dominance-dont-take-it-to-the-
limit
In this article the author argues that although Singapore is a democratic country, only one
party has been winning the elections since independence. The author argues that although the
system has done well for Singapore till date, there is necessity of change to ensure checks and
balances.
Liang, C. Z. (2015). Why sign free trade pacts. Retrieved from
https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/why-sign-free-trade-pacts
In this article, the author argues about the benefit of free trade agreements. Taking the
example of Singapore, the author argues about the numerous benefits that Singapore has received
out of its numerous free trade agreements.
Loudenback, T. (2017). Middle-class Americans made more money last year than ever before.
Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.in/Middle-class-Americans-made-more-
money-last-year-than-ever-before/articleshow/60486489.cms
The author points out to the gradual increase in wages in America. As a sign of positive
economic development for the country, the author points to the health increase in the earnings of
the middle class.
McCormic, J. (2016). Do Americans Really Care About Sustainability? Retrieved from
https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnmccormick/2016/11/16/do-americans-really-care-
about-sustainability/#2b6f7c1645ae
At the annual sustainability symposium, experts argued regarding how deep was the
concern of the American consumers regarding sustainability and if companies gained any special
advantages by following sustainable practices. The researchers found a strong correlation
between the two and stated that most of the consumers do consider the CSR report before
making a purchase.

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 22
MTI. (2019). European Union Singapore trade and investment agreements. Retrieved from
https://www.mti.gov.sg/-/media/MTI/Microsites/EUSFTA/SG-EU-Trade-and-
Investment-7.pdf
In this report on the recent free trade agreement between Singapore and EU, the author
describes the salient features of the act. The report also puts forward the benefit that each party
will achieve out of the agreement.
Ngoc, N. (2013). Vietnamese enterprises should focus on sustainable development. Retrieved
from https://www.vir.com.vn/vietnamese-enterprises-should-focus-on-sustainable-
development-21619.html
In this paper it is argued that although the Vietnamese companies tend to ignore the
importance of sustainability, they should not ignore it. The report lauds the effort of the stock
exchange in making sustainable reporting compulsory.
Office of the United States Trade Representative. (2017). European Union. Retrieved March 16,
2019, from https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/europe-middle-east/europe/european-union
The report highlights the trade scenario between US and EU. In this regard the report
talks about the amount of goods and services that are exported by the US to EU and the amount
that is imported from EU. Then the trade balance is also focused upon.
O'Flynn, D. (2018). Vietnam government wants to ban raw minerals export. Retrieved from
https://born2invest.com/articles/vietnam-government-wants-ban-raw-minerals-export/
The article points to the fact that government of Vietnam is focused on banning the
export of raw materials like Nickel and Gold to curb environmental pollution. At the same time
the government wants to increase in spending and explore these minerals in the country.
Sanderson, R. (2011). The real value of being ‘Made in Italy’. Retrieved from
https://www.ft.com/content/ab98f3b4-2417-11e0-a89a-00144feab49a
In this article the authors argue that there were few people who had dismissed the Italian
leather industry long ago. However, the survival of the industry and its continuous growth defies
common sense and points to the importance and value proposition of the ‘made in Italy’ tag.
Thomas, G.P. (2012). USA: Environmental Issues, Policies and Clean Technology. Retrieved
from https://www.azocleantech.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=259
In this article the author points out the environmental challenges being faced by the US
at present. The author talks about the change in the government’s stance on environment since
the beginning of Trump era.

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 23
Trading economics. (2019). Vietnam minimum wages. Retrieved from
https://tradingeconomics.com/vietnam/minimum-wages
The website stores value of different economic factors of Vietnam. In this case the
minimum wage of Vietnam is accessed through this page. The trend of the parameter over the
years is also analyzed.
UNECE. (2013). Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTUs). Retrieved from
http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/wp24/temp/CTUCode-Draft-Annexes-
2013v1.pdf
The article points to the various factors, rules and regulations that needs to be considered
in the transportation of cargo transportation units.
Vietnamnet. (2018). Vietnam is big winner of free trade deals. Retrieved from
https://english.vietnamnet.vn/fms/business/199435/vietnam-is-big-winner-of-free-trade-
deals.html
In this article, the numerous free trade agreements that Vietnam has undertaken over the
years are mentioned to underline the benefits that such agreements can bring to the economy.
Volokh, E. (2015). Is the United States of America a republic or a democracy? Retrieved from
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/volokh-conspiracy/wp/2015/05/13/is-the-united-
states-of-america-a-republic-or-a-democracy/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.78f859c7dda6
In this article the author presents his arguments to the question of whether USA is a
republic or a democracy. The author cites his own set of examples to point that the country has a
form of democracy that is referred to as representative democracy.
Workman, D. (2019). Cotton exports by country. Retrieved March 16, 2019, from
http://www.worldstopexports.com/cotton-exports-by-country/
In this page the top ten cotton exporters are illustrated. Along with it top cotton exporters
by country is also presented.
Workman, D., 2018. Top Nickel exporters by country. Retrieved March 16, 2019, from
http://www.worldstopexports.com/top-nickel-exporters-by-country/
In this page the top ten Nickel exporters are illustrated. Along with it top cotton exporters
by country is also presented.
World Bank group. (2019). Doing business 2019- Vietnam. Retrieved from
http://www.doingbusiness.org/content/dam/doingBusiness/country/v/vietnam/VNM.pdf

Proposal for end-to-end supply chain for a high end ladies leather handbag 24
In this report by the World Bank , various important factors of doing business in
Vietnam is presented. Along with it the report also presents a ranking of the country in terms of
doing business.
World’s richest countries. (2017). Top leather exporters 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.worldsrichestcountries.com/top-leather-handbags-exporters.html
In this page the top ten Leather exporters are illustrated. Along with it top cotton
exporters by country is also presented.
World’s richest countries. (2017a). Top Nickel exporters 2017. Retrieved March 16, 2019, from
http://www.worldsrichestcountries.com/top-nickel-exporters.html
In this page the top ten Nickel exporters are illustrated. Along with it top cotton exporters
by country is also presented.