Before the quote, make sure we’re talking about the same product.

For international buyers sourcing agricultural products from Vietnam, asking for a quotation is often one of the first steps. But a useful quotation starts earlier - with a clear understanding of the product itself. A product category can still contain very different options. Variety, grade, size, processing method and other specifications can all affect what the buyer is actually looking for. The more clearly these requirements are defined, the more focused the sourcing discussion can become. The same number does not always mean the same product ST25 Rice – 5% Broken and Fragrant DT8 Rice – 5% Broken: the same broken percentage, but different product options. Rice is a simple example. A buyer may request 5% broken rice , but that percentage alone does not define the complete product. Among the samples shown here are ST25 Rice – 5% Broken and Fragrant DT8 Rice – 5% Broken . Both share the same broken percentage, but they represent different rice varieties. For a buyer, that means the conversation needs to go beyond one number and clarify the exact product being considered. “Vietnamese Robusta” can also mean many things The same principle applies to green coffee. A request for “Vietnamese Robusta” may still need to be narrowed down by grade, screen size, processing method or other specifications. For example, one of the FoodEra samples shown here is identified as Vietnam Robusta Coffee G1 – S18 Wet Polished . A more specific coffee requirement: Vietnam Robusta Coffee G1 – S18 Wet Polished. This level of detail helps both sides understand which product is actually being discussed before moving further into quotation, packing or order requirements. Why samples matter in a B2B sourcing conversation A written specification remains important because it defines the buyer’s technical requirement. A sample plays a different role. It provides an additional physical reference when buyers and suppliers compare product options and discuss whether they are aligned on the same pro