As carbon pricing becomes an increasingly important feature of global trade, developing a carbon market has become a strategic priority for economies seeking to remain competitive while meeting climate commitments.

In Vietnam, the Law on Environmental Protection 2020 identifies carbon market development as a key pillar of the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and net-zero ambitions. Since then, the government has steadily built the legal framework needed to establish and operate a domestic market.

The legal framework began with Decree No. 06/2022/ND-CP on greenhouse gas emissions mitigation and ozone layer protection, which introduced provisions on carbon market development and corporate greenhouse gas inventories. It was later updated by Decree No. 119/2025/ND-CP.

Legal foundation

In early 2025, the Prime Minister approved the Scheme for the Establishment and Development of Vietnam’s Carbon Market. This was followed by Decree No. 29/2026/ND-CP, issued on January 19, 2026, establishing the legal basis for a market-based trading system for emission allowances and carbon credits. 

In April 2026, the government further strengthened the framework with Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP on the international transfer of greenhouse gas emissions reductions and carbon credits.

Experts describe the Decree establishing the domestic carbon exchange as the final “missing piece” in Vietnam’s carbon market framework. Together with policies on emission allowance allocation and international carbon credit trading, it connects the domestic market with global carbon markets.

The government has also laid the groundwork for trading. Decision No. 263/QD-TTg approved the pilot greenhouse gas emissions cap for 2025-2026, followed by Decision No. 699/QD-BNNMT issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) on the pilot allocation of emission allowances.

The measures create the initial supply of tradable assets while helping regulated businesses become familiar with emission allowance management, trading, and compliance. Experts say allocating emission allowances to 110 facilities during the 2025-2026 pilot phase marks a major milestone, transforming emission rights into a tradable asset and paving the way for the first transactions on Vietnam’s domestic carbon exchange.

Ahead of the exchange’s launch, the Department of Climate Change at the MAE signed cooperative agreements with relevant stakeholders to help ensure a stable, secure, transparent, and efficient market.

Mr. Nguyen Tuan Quang, Acting Deputy Director of the Department of Climate Change, said the agreements demonstrate not only the organizational and technical readiness needed to launch the exchange but also Vietnam’s commitment to using market-based instruments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote green growth, and advance sustainable development.

Launching the exchange

Another milestone came on June 29, when Vietnam’s domestic carbon exchange officially began operations. According to the Hanoi Stock Exchange, the launch reflects the commitment of the government, the Ministry of Finance, the MAE, and other relevant agencies to promote green growth and sustainable development.

The launch is more than a technical milestone; it aligns environmental responsibility with business interests while supporting the country’s sustainable development. The carbon market gives businesses a mechanism to optimize the cost of cutting emissions through trading emission allowances and carbon credits. Rather than viewing emissions reductions solely as a compliance obligation, companies now have a market-based tool to manage costs and invest in cleaner technologies.

Ms. Vu Thi Chan Phuong, Chairwoman of the State Securities Commission, said that as climate change becomes an increasingly pressing global challenge, developing a green and circular economy while promoting sustainable growth has become an inexorable trend. She said the launch of the domestic carbon exchange is particularly significant because it not only creates a transparent marketplace for trading emission allowances and carbon credits, but also helps establish market-based carbon pricing. 

Mr. Nguyen Tien Hai, Technical Manager at the Energy and Environment Consultancy JSC, described the domestic carbon exchange as a major step forward for Vietnam, saying it would help the government achieve its net-zero target while enabling businesses to meet their compliance obligations at the lowest possible cost. The exchange also provides a marketplace where the first 110 companies receiving pilot emission allowances can trade with one another.

Under current regulations, two types of assets can be traded on the exchange: emission allowances and carbon credits. Though no carbon credits have been certified and approved for trading as yet, experts expect eligible carbon credit projects to emerge in the near future, beginning with projects transitioning from the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to the Paris Agreement’s Article 6.4 mechanism.

Vietnam is moving beyond its domestic carbon market to connect with international carbon markets. Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP marks the country’s shift from building a domestic carbon market to connecting with international markets, while providing Vietnam’s first dedicated legal framework for implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

By incorporating the latest international guidance under Article 6, the Decree provides a unified legal basis for Vietnam to participate in cross-border carbon trading and other international cooperation mechanisms. As the global carbon market continues to expand, demand for international carbon credit trading is rising among both governments and businesses seeking to meet climate commitments.

Experts view Decree No. 112 as a milestone in Vietnam’s carbon market development, opening the door to green investment, advanced technologies, and deeper international climate cooperation while supporting the country’s low-carbon transition and net-zero ambitions.

New channel for green finance

Carbon markets have become a global phenomenon. More than 80 countries and territories now operate such a market, with the global market exceeding $100 billion. Its value is expected to continue growing as more economies adopt carbon pricing and expand international carbon trading.

According to the World Bank, the number of countries and territories implementing compliance carbon pricing instruments has risen from 58 to 87 over the past decade. In 2025, these mechanisms generated approximately $107 billion in revenue, up 2 per cent year-on-year and underscoring their growing role in the transition to low-emissions economies.

Mr. Truong Tu Long, Climate and Sustainability Lawyer and Legal and Policy Expert at GREEN IN Vietnam (GreenCIC), said the pilot launch of the carbon exchange marks an important milestone, making Vietnam one of a relatively small number of countries to establish a mandatory carbon market.

Meanwhile, Ms. Nguyen Kieu Trang, Senior Project Manager in Vietnam at FCC Partners Asia, said the exchange is more than a marketplace for emission allowances and carbon credits. By putting a market price on greenhouse gas emissions, it creates financial incentives for businesses to invest in clean technologies and adopt low-carbon business models.

International experience demonstrates the effectiveness of carbon markets. Major economies, including the EU, China, and South Korea, have made them a cornerstone of their climate policies. “For Vietnam, the carbon exchange will not only help mobilize private capital for its green transition, but also create a meaningful carbon price signal,” Ms. Trang said. 

Beyond helping businesses meet emissions reduction obligations, the exchange is expected to become a key piece of economic infrastructure for the green transition, directing capital toward projects that deliver measurable emissions reductions. As the market matures, it could play a pivotal role in mobilizing investment for climate action and supporting Vietnam’s net-zero ambitions.

Research by GreenCIC estimates that the domestic carbon market could help businesses save between $400 million and $800 million in compliance costs, freeing up capital for emissions reduction technologies. Participation in international carbon markets could also enable Vietnam to attract between $500 million and $2 billion in climate finance and green investment.

Mr. Nguyen Dinh Tho, Deputy Director of the Institute of Strategy and Policy for Agriculture and Environment, said carbon markets are more than an environmental policy tool, they are a new economic platform that will encourage businesses to modernize technologies, improve resource efficiency, and integrate more deeply into low-emissions supply chains. 

-NHI ANH 

]]>The international carbon market will see significant changes under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement that call for detailed and thorough preparations.Sat, 08 Aug 2026 05:10:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/more-rigorous-approach-to-international-carbon-market.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/more-rigorous-approach-to-international-carbon-market.htmGreen EconomyThe international carbon market will see significant changes under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement that call for detailed and thorough preparations.

Vietnam has significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across key sectors, including energy, industry, agriculture and forestry, and waste management. This would provide a strong foundation for tapping into green finance through the international carbon market under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. 

However, a wide gap remains between emission reduction potential and commercially-tradable carbon projects. To maximize carbon revenues, access advanced technologies, and meet global standards, businesses must first ensure strict compliance with domestic regulations and the crediting requirements established under Article 6.

The international carbon market under Article 6 has now entered a new phase compared to the era of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Emission reductions must not only be examined under measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) methods, but also be aligned with a country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), transparently tracked through registry systems, approved by the government for international transfer, and accompanied by corresponding adjustments. These new standards require a more rigorous approach to emissions accounting and additionality while preventing the double counting of emissions reductions between countries and ensuring projects support the long-term objectives of the Paris Agreement.

Government Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP on the international transfer of greenhouse gas emission reductions and carbon credits has established an important legal foundation for Vietnam’s integration into international carbon markets. By clearly prioritizing the achievement of national NDC targets, safeguarding national interests, and categorizing projects into two groups subject to different transfer limits, the Decree demonstrates Vietnam’s cautious and selective approach to carbon market participation.

The issuance of Decree No. 112, together with the launch of Vietnam’s domestic carbon exchange on June 29, 2026, signals the country’s transition from policy design to practical implementation. This marks another step in the government’s long-term commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Project potential and readiness

Decree No. 112 identifies two categories of projects eligible for international carbon transfers. These project types differ significantly in terms of opportunities, implementation barriers, and challenges. Based on their readiness to generate tradable carbon credits, they can be grouped as follows.

Projects transitioning from the CDM to the Article 6.4 mechanism are considered the most market-ready. Having established operational histories, technical documentation, and monitoring data, these projects are best positioned for early international transfers once buyers emerge and host-country approval is granted, provided they complete re-registration with the relevant UN body.

To date, 23 CDM projects have applied for transition to Article 6.4, including 15 renewable energy projects successfully supported by the Vietnam Energy and Environment Consultancy JSC (VNEEC).

In the medium term, energy efficiency, green transportation, and similar projects offer substantial potential but face significant challenges in demonstrating additionality. Energy efficiency and technology upgrading projects deliver dual benefits by reducing emissions while lowering operating costs. However, these direct financial gains make it more difficult to prove that carbon finance is essential for project implementation. Opportunities therefore exist primarily for projects that exceed prevailing market practices or regulatory requirements.

Waste management, sustainable cooling, community-based initiatives, and agricultural projects face their own challenges, including maintaining reliable operational data, demonstrating additionality, clarifying ownership of emissions reductions, and managing higher MRV costs when projects are implemented on a fragmented basis.

Over the longer term, advanced decarbonization technologies such as offshore wind, carbon capture and storage (CCS/CCUS), and green hydrogen demonstrate strong additionality because of their high capital requirements and limited commercial viability without carbon finance. However, lengthy development timelines and complex infrastructure requirements mean these projects are unlikely to generate tradable credits before 2030.

Forestry and nature-based solutions offer substantial carbon sequestration potential while delivering biodiversity and livelihood benefits. However, they also require robust risk management covering land tenure, permanence, and reversal risks. For these projects, the scale of emissions reductions alone is insufficient; strong governance and high-quality data will ultimately determine both the value and market attractiveness of the credits.

Five key risks

Though Decree No. 112 has established the legal framework, a considerable gap remains before projects can generate internationally-tradable carbon credits. The primary bottleneck is the ability to develop projects that are sufficiently mature from technical, legal, and financial perspectives.

The experience of CDM projects transitioning to Article 6.4 illustrates this challenge. Of Vietnam’s 175 registered CDM programs and projects, only 44 are eligible for such conversion, while just 23 have formally submitted transition applications.

Readiness is even lower among newly-proposed Article 6 projects, many of which remain at the conceptual stage, with estimated credit volumes based on preliminary assumptions rather than approved methodologies.

Carbon credits are not an automatic reward for every green investment. Rather, they are valuable assets that require rigorous preparation and management throughout a project’s lifecycle. Current constraints can be grouped into five major categories.

First, additionality risk. Projects may fail eligibility tests if they are already financially viable on their own, rely on widely adopted technologies, or fulfill mandatory regulatory requirements. Carbon project feasibility should therefore be assessed before investment decisions are made, particularly since many developers still lack the capacity to select appropriate methodologies, quantify emissions reductions, and evaluate carbon-related financial returns.

Second, data and MRV risk. Data quality remains a major weakness for many businesses. Without consistent, continuous, and reliable data collection from the outset, projects will struggle to demonstrate verified emissions reductions. Many companies also confuse corporate greenhouse gas inventories with the project-level MRV systems required for carbon credit generation. Errors or interruptions in operational data throughout the project lifecycle can significantly reduce the volume of credits ultimately issued.

Third, operational, production, and financial risk. Many project developers overestimate future carbon revenues while underestimating the costs of registration, validation, periodic MRV, credit issuance, and ongoing risk management. Experience from international projects implemented by the Investment and Trade Consultancy Co., Ltd. (INTRACO) shows that actual credit volumes are often affected by equipment performance, user behavior, feedstock quality, operating capacity, and data continuity. Companies should therefore avoid building financial projections based on peak carbon prices or committing to delivery volumes beyond realistic operating capacity.

Fourth, ownership and benefit-sharing risk. Projects involving multiple stakeholders, including landowners, farmers, technology providers, operators, and investors, must clearly define ownership of emission reductions and benefit-sharing arrangements from the outset. Failure to do so could create obstacles when raising finance, registering carbon credits, or negotiating with buyers.

Fifth, international transfer and regulatory risk. Under Decree No. 112, carbon credits or emission reductions become Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) only after receiving government approval for international transfer and undergoing corresponding adjustments. Depending on the project category, international transfers may be capped at either 90 per cent or 50 per cent, with the remaining portion retained to support Vietnam’s NDC commitments. Businesses must therefore account for the maximum transferable volume when evaluating the financial viability of carbon credit projects.

Article 6 credits from Vietnam are attracting growing interest from international buyers, though purchasing decisions have become increasingly cautious. As a result, many Vietnamese projects with strong emission reduction potential still struggle to secure financing or sign carbon credit purchase agreements.

Closing this gap requires more than simply matching buyers with sellers. It requires a comprehensive financial and service ecosystem, including banks, climate investment funds, and development partners that share risks, co-finance project preparation, and provide concessional funding during the early stages. It also requires project developers, consultants, and brokers to connect project owners with the market, standardize documentation, and negotiate commercial agreements, while the domestic carbon exchange can enhance liquidity and improve price discovery. However, these mechanisms will be effective only if Vietnam can establish a stable pipeline of mature, high-quality projects capable of supplying the market.

Article 6 projects are not a shortcut to selling carbon credits at higher prices. Rather, they represent a new framework that places greater responsibility on businesses for data quality, project operations, legal compliance, and fulfillment of commercial commitments. Projects must also complete multiple stages before credits can be issued and transferred internationally.

Roadmap to ITMO success

ITMOs are market-based commodities whose value is determined by supply and demand. To convert emissions reduction potential into successful ITMO transactions, businesses should adopt a structured implementation roadmap.

First, define clear objectives and prioritize project portfolios. Companies should determine whether their primary goal is to reduce emissions to achieve internal net-zero targets, generate offset credits for emissions trading systems (ETS), or develop projects for the international carbon market. Carbon credit sales should not be viewed as standalone transactions but as part of a broader carbon strategy that balances internal climate commitments with commercial opportunities. Based on these objectives, businesses should identify projects offering the strongest combination of scale, additionality, manageable MRV costs, and acceptable legal risks.

Second, strengthen internal governance and data management. Carbon credit projects require close coordination across multiple business functions. Measurement and verification data must be fully aligned with operational records, energy invoices, and financial statements from the first day of project implementation through the entire crediting period.

Third, establish robust partnership and legal frameworks. For projects involving multiple stakeholders, contracts should clearly define carbon credit ownership, revenue-sharing arrangements, and responsibilities if actual credit issuance falls below expectations or international transfer approvals are delayed.

Fourth, take a strategic approach to buyers. Companies should prioritize buyers that offer risk-sharing mechanisms rather than simply the highest bid prices. Purchase agreements should incorporate realistic delivery schedules, adequate safety margins, and provisions to address legal uncertainties or delays in credit issuance.

Fifth, view international cooperation as more than a source of project financing. Effective project preparation requires sustained technical collaboration and institutional support. Experience from the Southeast Asia Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines demonstrates that policy alignment and meaningful private sector participation cannot be achieved through isolated projects alone. The value of international cooperation should therefore be measured not only by the capital mobilized but also by stronger institutions, greater market confidence, and the ability of businesses to independently develop, implement, and commercialize carbon projects over the long term.

Opportunities in the international carbon market are expanding, while Vietnam has now opened the policy door. Whether projects can pass through that door, however, will depend on the quality of their preparation and the strength of their execution. Article 6 cannot transform projects with weak data, unreliable operating performance, or unclear ownership into high-quality carbon credits. International buyers are not simply purchasing a theoretical ton of avoided carbon dioxide emissions; they are investing in the credibility of an entire project - from its technology, data, and operations to its ability to issue and deliver credits as promised.

Businesses should therefore treat carbon credit projects as long-term investments and incorporate carbon considerations from the earliest stages of project development. Carbon credits should be managed as strategic assets, while commercialization should be viewed as a long-term commitment that spans the entire project lifecycle and requires strict compliance with quality, data, operational, and trading requirements.

Beyond corporate preparedness, Vietnam’s carbon market should prioritize projects with the highest level of readiness so that internationally-transferable credits can be issued as early as possible. These include CDM projects transitioning to the Article 6.4 mechanism, as well as mature bilateral carbon projects.

Pilot implementation of these projects will allow both regulators and businesses to test in practice the approval procedures and corresponding adjustment requirements established under Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP. This will serve as an important proving ground for refining the regulatory framework, strengthening implementation capacity, and building confidence among international market participants. 

(*) Dang Hong Hanh is from Vietnam Energy and Environment Consultancy JSC (VNEEC); Nguyen Hong Loan from Green Climate Innovation Company (GreenCIC); Hoang Anh Dung from Investment and Trade Consultancy Co. (INTRACO); and John Robert Cotton from Southeast Asian Energy Transition Partnership, United Nations Office for Project Services (ETP/UNOPS).

-Dang Hong Hanh, Nguyen Hong Loan, Hoang Anh Dung and John Robert Cotton

]]>Issued in April, Decree No. 112 makes possible the international exchange of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon credits. Sat, 08 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/enabling-market-entry-for-carbon-credits.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/enabling-market-entry-for-carbon-credits.htmGreen EconomyIssued in April, Decree No. 112 makes possible the international exchange of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon credits.

The Vietnamese Government issued Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP on April 1, 2026, regarding the international transfer of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions and carbon credits. The Decree implements Article 139 of the Law on Environmental Protection, gives effect to provisions under the Paris Agreement, and establishes a legal framework for managing international carbon credit transactions.

Decree No. 112 marks a significant step in completing Vietnam’s carbon market framework by opening the way for international exchanges of GHG emission reductions and carbon credits. The new rules are expected to help mobilize international finance, technology, and expertise to support the country’s transition to a low-emissions economy. At the same time, the Decree makes clear that international trading is not intended solely to maximize the commercial value of carbon credits, and must also safeguard national interests and prioritize the achievement of Vietnam’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

Prioritizing Vietnam’s climate targets

The Decree governs the international transfer of GHG emission reductions and carbon credits under three main frameworks.

The first is cooperation under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement. Vietnam may enter into bilateral or multilateral agreements with other Paris Agreement parties or international organizations to establish frameworks for transferring GHG emission reductions and carbon credits. Article 6.2 agreements set out the principles of cooperation, project registration procedures, recognition of emission reductions and carbon credit issuance, applicable crediting standards or methodologies, and procedures for approving international transfers.

The second framework is the Article 6.4 mechanism of the Paris Agreement. This centralized international carbon crediting and offset mechanism operates under the supervision of the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and succeeds the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Project registration, methodology approval, credit issuance, and credit management are carried out in accordance with the international rules and guidance governing Article 6.4.

The third framework covers carbon credits generated under independent carbon standards administered by international organizations. Projects may be registered and issued credits under the procedures established by the relevant standard-setting organizations. However, any Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) involving corresponding adjustments must still satisfy Vietnam’s legal requirements and receive approval from the country’s competent authorities.

By incorporating all three frameworks, the Decree enables Vietnam to participate flexibly in different forms of international carbon market cooperation while ensuring consistent oversight and alignment with national emission reduction objectives.

A central principle of the Decree is that international transfers must not undermine Vietnam’s NDC or other emission reduction commitments under international agreements. International transactions must comply with the Paris Agreement, promote technology transfer, strengthen business competitiveness, safeguard national interests, and contribute to sustainable local development.

All transfers between Vietnam and international partners must be recorded and disclosed through the National Registry System. This system tracks the origin, status, and intended use of carbon credits, helping prevent double counting while enhancing transparency.

For transfers involving corresponding adjustments, Vietnam must make the necessary adjustments to its national GHG inventory. Emission reductions transferred internationally can no longer be counted toward Vietnam’s NDC but instead contribute to the NDC or other mitigation targets of the receiving party. As a result, approvals for international transfers must balance the benefits of attracting international investment with the need to preserve Vietnam’s ability to meet its own climate commitments.

Transfer limits

The Decree classifies emission reduction activities eligible to become ITMOs with corresponding adjustments into two categories.

The first category includes priority activities, primarily projects involving new or advanced technologies or requiring substantial investment. These projects may transfer up to 90 per cent of emission reductions or carbon credits generated during a crediting period.

The second category covers activities encouraged for international transfer. Projects in this category may transfer up to 50 per cent of their emission reductions or carbon credits with corresponding adjustments.

Where international transfers do not require corresponding adjustments, all programs and projects may transfer up to 90 per cent of their emission reductions or carbon credits. Any remaining credits may be used in Vietnam’s domestic carbon market.

The differentiated transfer limits reflect Vietnam’s cautious policy approach. Projects deploying advanced, capital-intensive technologies that require international support are allowed greater flexibility to transfer credits abroad, while a larger share of credits from activities that directly contribute to Vietnam’s NDC is retained for domestic use.

Project management

For projects developed under Article 6.2, the Decree establishes a management process covering project concept registration, project approval, measurement and verification of emission reductions, issuance or recognition of credits, and authorization for international transfer.

Organizations seeking to develop projects must first submit a project concept to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), which assesses whether the proposal aligns with the list of eligible mitigation activities for international transfer, as well as relevant national, sectoral, and local development strategies and plans.

Once the project concept is approved, the developer submits a formal registration application, including a project design document and validation report prepared under the carbon standard specified in the Article 6.2 agreement. After registration, project participants are responsible for measuring and reporting emission reductions in accordance with the applicable standard. The results must then be independently verified by an entity accredited under either the relevant carbon standard or the Article 6.2 agreement.

Following issuance or recognition of emission reductions or carbon credits and their registration in the National Registry System, the project representative may apply to the MAE for approval to transfer the credits internationally.

For Article 6.4 projects, registration, amendments, credit issuance, and project administration follow the rules and guidance established under the Paris Agreement and the Article 6.4 Supervisory Body.

The MAE reviews each project to ensure consistency with Vietnam’s NDC and national emission reduction objectives. Once the Article 6.4 Supervisory Body approves project registration, the project representative must submit regular implementation reports to the Ministry.

Though carbon credits are issued under the Article 6.4 mechanism, any internationally-transferred credits requiring corresponding adjustments must still receive approval from the MAE. This approach links international governance procedures with Vietnam’s domestic regulatory framework, particularly regarding the impact of credit transfers on the country’s ability to meet its NDC.

For projects using independent carbon standards, the Decree does not automatically recognize every standard or crediting methodology available on the international market. Eligible standards must have transparent governance systems and international recognition, while crediting methodologies must clearly demonstrate additionality, sustainability, measurability, verifiability, and the absence of double counting.

Project registration and carbon credit issuance are carried out under the procedures of the relevant independent carbon standard organization. Project representatives must regularly report implementation progress to both the relevant line ministry and the MAE.

For ITMOs requiring corresponding adjustments, the Ministry will consider only projects using crediting methodologies included on Vietnam’s approved list.

Under the Decree, project developers must prepare complete legal documentation, establish clear ownership of emission reductions, select appropriate crediting methodologies, implement robust measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) systems, and define benefit-sharing arrangements among project participants and local communities.

The MAE serves as the lead authority overseeing international carbon credit transactions. Acting on behalf of the government, it issues transfer approvals, carries out corresponding adjustments and operates the National Registry System. Relevant line ministries provide technical and sector-specific assessments.

Decree No. 112 establishes the legal foundation for Vietnam’s participation in international carbon markets while attracting additional resources for green transition and low-emissions technology development. The new framework reinforces a core principle: international carbon credit trading must be underpinned by high-quality emission reductions, support Vietnam’s NDC, ensure transparency, and deliver long-term national benefits. 

(*) Mr. Nguyen Thanh Cong is a Deputy Head of the Carbon Market Division at the Department of Climate Change under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

-Nguyen Thanh Cong (*)

]]>The project has an installed capacity of 14 MW, generating approximately 45 million kWh of electricity annually.Sat, 08 Aug 2026 00:10:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/ha-tinh-approves-19mln-hydropower-project.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/ha-tinh-approves-19mln-hydropower-project.htmGreen EconomyThe project has an installed capacity of 14 MW, generating approximately 45 million kWh of electricity annually.

The Management Board of Ha Tinh Economic Zone of central Ha Tinh province has approved an investment policy and selected an investor for the Huong Son 3 Hydropower Plant project, thus further expanding the central province's renewable energy portfolio.

The project will be developed by Huong Son Green Energy JSC with a total investment of nearly VND500 billion (approximately $19 million).

Designed with an installed capacity of 14 MW, the hydropower plant is expected to generate approximately 45 million kWh of electricity annually.

The project is expected to diversify Ha Tinh's power generation mix while making more effective use of the province's hydropower resources, supporting Vietnam's broader transition toward cleaner energy sources.

Earlier, on June 9, 2026, the Ha Tinh People's Committee had approved the investment policy for the Vung Ang III LNG Power Plant in Hoanh Son Ward, with a total investment of VND51.43 trillion ($1.95 billion) and an installed capacity of 1,500 MW.

Under the revised National Power Development Plan VIII (2021–2030, with a vision to 2050), Ha Tinh has been designated to develop 41 power generation projects with a combined planned capacity of more than 8,350 MW, reinforcing its role as one of Vietnam's key energy production hubs.

-Nguyễn Thuấn

]]>With an appropriate regulatory foundation now in place, Vietnam can move forward on meeting its net-zero commitments and accessing growth opportunities. Fri, 07 Aug 2026 03:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/moving-forward-on-net-zero-commitments.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/moving-forward-on-net-zero-commitments.htmGreen EconomyWith an appropriate regulatory foundation now in place, Vietnam can move forward on meeting its net-zero commitments and accessing growth opportunities.

Carbon markets are rapidly evolving from policy instruments into new arenas for international cooperation and economic competition. For Vietnam, early, proactive, and well-informed participation will be critical not only in delivering on its emission reduction commitments but also in unlocking new growth opportunities as the country transitions toward a green economy.

In pursuit of its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, the Vietnamese Government has accelerated the development of a comprehensive legal framework for greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation, the domestic carbon market, and its integration with international carbon trading systems.

The regulatory foundation is now largely in place. It includes Decree No. 06/2022/ND-CP on GHG mitigation and ozone layer protection, as amended by Decree No. 119/2025/ND-CP, and most recently Decree No. 112/2026/ND-CP, issued on April 1, 2026, governing the international exchange of GHG emission reduction outcomes and carbon credits.

The latest decree establishes the legal basis for transferring and exchanging emission reduction outcomes between Vietnam and international partners through mechanisms operating both within and outside the framework of the Paris Agreement. It is expected to support Vietnam’s climate targets while helping attract investment and low emissions technologies.

At the same time, growing interest from Vietnamese businesses, particularly in export manufacturing, energy, and agriculture and forestry, has driven increasing demand for guidance on developing carbon credit projects and accessing international carbon markets. Several local governments have also begun exploring ways to leverage emission reduction opportunities to support green economic development, highlighting the need for greater awareness, technical capacity, and stronger market connectivity.

Building capacity

As the State authority responsible for climate change policy and carbon market development, the Department of Climate Change recognizes that effective implementation of the new regulatory framework will depend on strengthening the capacity of both government agencies and the private sector.

Enhancing understanding of domestic regulations, international market requirements, and technical standards has become increasingly important as Vietnamese organizations prepare to participate in global carbon markets. Equally important is expanding cooperation with international partners, financial institutions, and market participants to create new opportunities for carbon credit transactions and climate investment.

Preparing adequate institutional arrangements, technical expertise, and financial resources will also be essential in ensuring that Vietnam’s participation in international carbon markets is transparent, credible, and effective.

Three priorities

Against this backdrop, a July 23 forum entitled “Promoting Cooperation on Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes Towards the Implementation of National and Corporate Emission Reduction Commitments” focused on three key priorities.

The first was updating participants on Vietnam’s latest legal framework governing the international exchange of GHG emission reduction outcomes and carbon credits. The discussions aimed to help businesses better understand the regulatory environment, including their rights, obligations, and the conditions for participating in international carbon markets.

The second priority examined emerging opportunities, market trends, and evolving requirements through insights from international organizations, financial institutions, and development partners. These discussions highlighted increasingly stringent global expectations surrounding carbon credit quality, data transparency, and technical compliance.

The third focused on assessing and strengthening the readiness of Vietnamese businesses. Participants explored practical steps for developing carbon projects, selecting appropriate measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) methodologies, and connecting projects with available sources of climate finance and technical assistance.

Strengthening collaboration 

The active participation of policymakers, international experts, and businesses generated valuable insights that will help strengthen cooperation between government agencies and the private sector in using market-based mechanisms to achieve both national and corporate emissions reduction goals.

The dialogue also reinforced international cooperation on carbon credits by connecting Vietnamese businesses with global sources of financing, technical support, and market expertise while aligning those opportunities with national policy priorities.

As international carbon markets continue to expand, strengthening institutional capacity and deepening collaboration between governments, businesses, and global partners will be essential to enabling Vietnam to meet its climate commitments and compete successfully in the emerging green economy. 

(*) Mr. Nguyen Tuan Quang is a Deputy Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

-Nguyen Tuan Quang(*)

]]>Total investment capital estimated at $300 million. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/construction-begins-on-450-mw-solar-power-plant-in-tay-ninh-province.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/construction-begins-on-450-mw-solar-power-plant-in-tay-ninh-province.htmGreen EconomyTotal investment capital estimated at $300 million.

Construction of the Dau Tieng 5 Solar Power Plant officially commenced in southern Tay Ninh Province on August 4, marking another major step in Vietnam's clean energy transition.

The project has a total investment of VND7.774 trillion (approximately $300 million).

Developed by DT5.1 Energy JSC, the project will have a total installed capacity of 450 MW. It is expected to significantly expand Vietnam's renewable energy supply while supporting the country's goals of ensuring energy security and accelerating the shift toward cleaner sources of power.

According to the developer, the solar power plant will be built on approximately 645 hectares of semi-submerged land surrounding Dau Tieng Reservoir, located about 500 meters west of Provincial Road DT781 and approximately 3 km north of the Dau Tieng 1 Solar Power Plant.

Once operational, the facility is expected to generate around 808 GWh of clean electricity annually. 

Commercial operation is scheduled to begin in December 2027, making Dau Tieng 5 one of Vietnam's largest new solar energy projects currently under development.

-Linh Ngọc

]]>Mr. Thai Nhu Hiep, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association and Chairman and General Director of the Vinh Hiep Co., Ltd., spoke with Chu Khoi about the preparations and readiness of Vietnamese coffee exporters to meet the requirements of the upcoming EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).Wed, 05 Aug 2026 03:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnamese-coffee-exporters-to-comply-with-eudr.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnamese-coffee-exporters-to-comply-with-eudr.htmGreen EconomyMr. Thai Nhu Hiep, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association and Chairman and General Director of the Vinh Hiep Co., Ltd., spoke with Chu Khoi about the preparations and readiness of Vietnamese coffee exporters to meet the requirements of the upcoming EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

What is your vision for the green development and future of Vietnam’s coffee industry?

Our aspiration is for farmers to sell not only their labor or raw materials but also the value and brand of their land and of Vietnamese coffee.

The global trend is toward green exports, green growth, and sustainable development. Nearly all new standards are built around these requirements. To produce “green” products, the entire value chain and every part of a business, from leadership to frontline employees, must embrace green principles. Green is not simply about meeting environmental standards; it is about changing mindsets and business practices to achieve long-term sustainability.

In my view, companies that lack confidence in their own capabilities, fail to operate transparently, or do not build a genuine business culture will struggle to achieve sustainable growth. At Vinh Hiep, we pursue a model built on green factories, green people, green agriculture, and ultimately green exports. By remaining committed to this direction, we generated approximately $1 billion in export revenue in 2025 and became one of Vietnam’s leading coffee exporters.

What I hope to see is not only Vinh Hiep’s success but also the sustainable development of Vietnam’s entire coffee industry. We need a shared direction to build a coffee sector that is transparent, sustainable, and recognized internationally for its credibility.

How would you assess the readiness of Vietnamese businesses for EUDR compliance?

The EU remained Vietnam’s largest coffee export market in 2025, accounting for approximately 40.7 per cent of the industry’s total export value. Vietnam exported more than 666,000 tons of coffee to the bloc, generating $3.63 billion in export revenue; up 26 per cent in volume and 68.3 per cent in value compared with 2024. Exports to key markets including Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands all posted strong growth.

In the first half of 2026, Vietnam exported 1.1 million tons of coffee worth $4.78 billion in total, up 9.7 per cent in volume but down 14.4 per cent in value from the same period of 2025. The EU remained the largest destination, accounting for more than 40 per cent of total export value. Germany, Italy, and the US continued to be Vietnam’s three largest coffee markets, with market shares of 14.1 per cent, 7.9 per cent, and 6.9 per cent, respectively. This trend suggests that Vietnamese coffee is increasingly meeting Europe’s stringent requirements for quality, traceability, and sustainability.

The EU market is critically important to Vietnam’s coffee industry, yet fewer than six months remain before EUDR compliance becomes mandatory. Over the past few years, nearly every company has claimed it has prepared early and is ready to meet the regulation. However, many businesses are still relying solely on data provided by certification bodies without conducting their own verification. Even more concerning, some companies barely understand what EUDR requires yet still declare themselves compliant.

In my view, this is not simply about selling another shipment. It is about the reputation of Vietnamese businesses and the country’s international standing. One of the biggest concerns is that Vietnamese companies continue to operate largely on their own, with limited information sharing and collaboration, despite this being an industry-wide challenge.

Vinh Hiep has reportedly made a significant investment to rebuild its production-area database rather than relying on existing records. Could you share your experience in collecting field data?

To meet the EU’s traceability requirements, we invested approximately VND30-40 billion ($1.15-1.54 million) to review and standardize its entire production-area database instead of relying solely on existing records. This process enabled the company to identify overlapping data with other organizations and ensure the accuracy of each production area.

Using the 4C certification database as a starting point, the company re-verified information for every farming household, including the household head, citizen identification number, cultivated area, GPS coordinates, and other relevant details. 

We also established an online coordination mechanism with local authorities. Any issues arising during the verification process were immediately shared through a joint working group involving provincial representatives, commune officials, the company, and farmers. This allowed verification requests to be resolved quickly, although cases involving multiple local jurisdictions still required additional time.

While the verification process has not yet been completed across the entire production area, coffee sourced from verified and compliant regions is already sufficient to supply approximately 40 per cent of Vinh Hiep’s exports to the EU.

In your view, what are the biggest obstacles preventing businesses from building EUDR databases, and what risks do overlapping production-area data currently pose?

Many companies have yet to proactively develop and verify their production-area databases because of concerns over cost and limited human resources. Most continue to rely on data provided by certification schemes such as FSC, Rainforest Alliance (RA), Fairtrade, and 4C, assuming those databases are fully reliable. However, the main concern is not the quality of the data itself but the overlap between different companies covering the same farmers or the same land plots.

For example, in Gia Lai province, a farmer with 3 ha of coffee may simultaneously hold three different certifications. Each company maintains its own database, meaning the same coffee output can appear in multiple company records. If EU authorities discover that several shipments are declared as originating from the same farm, with a combined volume far exceeding the farm’s actual production, all companies involved could face allegations of non-compliance and have their shipments rejected. There is currently no clear mechanism for assigning responsibility in such cases.

To reduce this risk, Vinh Hiep has adopted a more cautious approach. The company continues to use data from certification bodies, but only as an initial reference before conducting further verification and field inspections, rather than accepting it at face value. Though the EU has yet to issue detailed guidance on handling overlapping datasets, proactively reviewing and standardizing information will provide companies with stronger evidence of transparency and compliance should inspections occur in the future.

The preparation period for the introduction of the EUDR will end on December 30, 2026, with the regulation entering full force on January 1, 2027. One of the biggest challenges today is the absence of a central body responsible for managing and coordinating production-area databases across companies. Once the EUDR is fully implemented, local authorities should publish lists of companies operating production-area databases within their jurisdictions and review cases of overlapping records. Harmonizing these databases from the outset will help prevent regulatory violations and reduce export risks for businesses serving the EU market.

-Chu Khoi

]]>The city aims to encourage residents to switch to quot;greenquot; transport and increase the usage rate of public passenger transport. Tue, 04 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-to-offer-free-bus-rides-and-green-vehicle-incentives-within-ring-road-1.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-to-offer-free-bus-rides-and-green-vehicle-incentives-within-ring-road-1.htmGreen EconomyThe city aims to encourage residents to switch to "green" transport and increase the usage rate of public passenger transport.

Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, Mr. Truong Viet Dung, has signed a plan to implement Resolution No. 68/2026/NQ-HDND of the city's People's Council, which had approved policies supporting the transition of road vehicles from fossil fuels to clean energy and encourages the use of public transport across the city.

Under the plan, Hanoi will offer free bus rides and green vehicle incentives within Ring Road 1. 

The city aims to encourage residents to switch to "green" transport and increase the usage rate of public passenger transport. This initiative is expected to help reduce emissions, improve air quality, enhance urban transport services, and promote a green transition within the transportation sector.

One of the core tasks is to widely disseminate the Resolution to local government agencies, transport enterprises, credit institutions, green vehicle dealerships, and the general public. Priority will be given to poor households, taxi drivers, e-hailing drivers, and frequent public transport users.

Regarding direct financial subsidies, Hanoi will issue procedures for receiving, appraising, approving, and disbursing payments to individuals from poor households who transition from fossil fuel-powered motorbikes and mopeds to green vehicles.

Furthermore, the city will provide guidelines for accessing preferential loans from the Hanoi Development Investment Fund and offer a 30% interest rate subsidy for transport businesses eligible under the policy. The city is also considering incentive policies for electric feeder buses or integrated transport services.

Hanoi's functional agencies will conduct reviews and statistics on transport enterprises that fall under the category for transitioning taxis and e-hailing vehicles, providing guidance on loan applications and handling appraisals and disbursements.

For needy households, the city will review lists based on the multi-dimensional poverty standards for the 2026-2027 period to identify owners of fossil fuel-powered motorbikes or mopeds registered before the Resolution took effect. According to the regulations, each individual is eligible for support only once for one motorbike or moped.

Additionally, the city will consider waiving fares for buses and urban railways (Metro) during holidays, Lunar New Year, and special political or social events, based on specific decisions by the Hanoi People's Committee regarding the duration, scope, and number of applicable days.

VnEconomy-Hang Anh

]]>The plan aims to develop biotechnology into a key foundational sector that drives innovation to support growth in agriculture and environment based on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.Sat, 01 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/biotechnology-development-plan-in-agriculture-and-environment-approved.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/biotechnology-development-plan-in-agriculture-and-environment-approved.htmGreen EconomyThe plan aims to develop biotechnology into a key foundational sector that drives innovation to support growth in agriculture and environment based on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 1466/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung on July 31, a biotechnology development plan in agriculture and environment has been approved.

According to the plan, biotechnology will be developed into a key foundational sector that drives innovation to support growth in agriculture and environment based on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

The plan seeks to master core and strategic technologies, foster an ecosystem of biotechnology enterprises and strategic technology products, and enhance competitiveness in service of  green, circular, and sustainable agriculture.

It set a target to master next-generation biotechnology, strategic biotechnology, and gene-editing technologies by 2045, which will be applied to develop industrial-scale products and establish a techno-economic sector capable of supplying high-quality and safe products to both domestic and international markets.

According to the plan, Vietnam will form a market for agricultural and environmental biotechnology,  thus positioning the nation as one of the world and region's leading biotechnology countries for smart biotechnology production and services.

Moreover, businesses are expected to increase their investment scale and growth by 70 percent. Biotechnology products are targeted to replace at least 60 percent of imported products, while the biotechnology industry will contribute 15 percent of the sector's value added.

To achieve these objectives, the Plan outlines the following priority tasks and solutions:

- Developing science and technology to support growth in the agriculture and environment sectors;

- Building  and strengthening biotechnology capabilities, including infrastructure, human resources, and research capacity;

- Developing biotechnology industry for agriculture and the environment;

- Establishing and  improving legal and policy frameworks to promote biotechnology industry development;

- Enhancing international cooperation in biotechnology; and

- Raising public awareness and communication about biotechnology industry.

-Khanh Chi

]]>Vietnam’s focus must be on establishing next-generation industrial parks if it hopes to boost its position in global supply chains. Sat, 01 Aug 2026 01:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transition-to-modern-industry.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transition-to-modern-industry.htmGreen EconomyVietnam’s focus must be on establishing next-generation industrial parks if it hopes to boost its position in global supply chains.

Global green standards, digital transformation, and intensifying competition for high-quality FDI are forcing Vietnam’s industrial parks (IPs) to rethink their development models. Experts told the recent Vietnam Industrial Park Summit 2026 that next-generation IPs are no longer a future trend but a modern-day prerequisite for strengthening competitiveness and securing a deeper role in global supply chains.

Shifting global supply chains, carbon reduction requirements, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards are placing increasing pressure on Vietnam’s IPs to transform. These challenges formed the central theme of Conference Session 2 at the Summit, with the theme “Shaping New-Generation Industrial Parks - Operating Optimization And Smart Governance,” which focused on planning IPs around sustainable infrastructure, integrated logistics, information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, the circular economy, and digital governance.

Raising the bar

Speaking at the Summit, Ms. Nguyen Thi Dung, Vice Chairwoman of the Industrial Real Estate Sub-Association at the Vietnam National Real Estate Association (VNREA), said Vietnam currently has 475 IPs, with the 324 in operation posting an average occupancy rate of 79 per cent. However, the country’s IP network is under mounting pressure to transform as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) came into effect on January 1, 2026, alongside Vietnam’s target of 75 per cent of FDI during 2026-2030 coming from developed, high-tech economies and its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

However, only around 1-2 per cent of IPs have begun transitioning toward eco-industrial park (eco-IP) models, and as of mid-2025, none had received official certification under Decree No. 35/2022/ND-CP. According to Ms. Dung, next-generation IPs should be built on three pillars: cleaner production and industrial symbiosis; renewable energy supported by measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems; and digital infrastructure with smart governance.

Pilot projects have already demonstrated measurable results. Under the UN’s Global Eco-Industrial Parks Programme (GEIPP), 329 of 889 Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) solutions were implemented across six IPs in Vietnam during 2020-2024: Amata, DEEP C, Nam Cau Kien, VSIP, Hiep Phuoc, and Tan Do. These initiatives generated $2.6 million in annual operational savings while mobilizing $3.3 million in private investment.

The country’s total industrial real estate area was projected in the Vietnam Industrial Real Estate Yearbook 2025 to reach 2,070,215 ha by 2030. However, accelerating the transition to next-generation IPs will require addressing three key bottlenecks: establishing mechanisms for wastewater and waste reuse; expanding renewable energy development through mechanisms such as Direct Power Purchase Agreements (DPPAs); and strengthening green finance and eco-IP certification systems. These are considered essential to improving the quality of FDI attraction and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports as global environmental standards become increasingly stringent.

Smarter by design

Mr. Tran Van Thanh, Digital Transformation Project Director at VNPT Hai Phong, said the company has worked with the Hai Phong Economic Zone Authority since 2021 to assess digital transformation needs, provide consultancy services, design and deploy digital systems, deliver training, and support operations. As a result, an integrated management platform officially entered service on September 13, 2021, creating a direct communication channel between the Authority and businesses operating within economic zones and IPs.

The platform enables businesses to update information, access data, submit reports, and communicate online with regulators while standardizing administrative processes and integrating internal management, enterprise services, centralized databases, operational dashboards, and environmental monitoring. According to VNPT, once data is digitized, standardized, and interconnected, the platform will gradually integrate geographic information systems (GIS), expand data connectivity, and incorporate AI, laying the foundation for smart management of economic zones and IPs.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Minh, Founder and CEO of energy efficiency firm IoTeamVN, said energy management has become one of the starting points for IP transformation. Manufacturers are facing rising production costs, new two-part electricity pricing mechanisms, and manual operating processes while simultaneously meeting energy efficiency requirements, greenhouse gas reporting obligations, and Net Zero commitments demanded by international customers.

To address these challenges, IoTeamVN has introduced an Energy Management System (EnMS) for commercial and industrial users. The platform provides real-time monitoring of energy consumption and costs, identifies inefficiencies, optimizes electricity use, issues abnormal usage alerts, supports 24/7 monitoring, and facilitates greenhouse gas inventory reporting.

The system has already delivered measurable results. The Huong Hoa Tapioca Starch Factory in central Quang Tri province and Viglacera Thang Long in Vietnam’s northern region have reduced energy consumption by around 3 per cent annually. The nearby Phu Tho Textile Company has cut cooling system electricity use by 30 per cent, equivalent to annual savings of VND1.8 billion ($69,200), while the Tu Phuong Plastic Packaging Factory, which boasts a range of facilities around the country, has reduced cooling energy consumption by 40 per cent. According to Mr. Minh, effective energy management not only lowers operating costs but also helps companies meet sustainability requirements and strengthen their competitiveness within global supply chains.

Mr. Han Anh Vu, Chief Technology Officer at VietnamIZ, said IPs are evolving from multi-sector, labor-intensive models to specialized industrial clusters, integrated industrial-urban-service developments, and ultimately smart eco-IPs operating on digital platforms that support net zero targets and industrial symbiosis.

Traditional management models, he continued, are constrained by fragmented data, reporting delays, and limited analytical capabilities. Next-generation IPs, by contrast, require data that is accurate, complete, standardized, and updated in real time. Smart governance represents a shift from experience-based management to data-driven decision-making through digitized, standardized, and interconnected information systems. These systems integrate Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, digital records, GIS mapping, and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) platforms to serve regulators, businesses, and local communities alike.

Though speakers approached the issue from different perspectives, they shared a common conclusion: next-generation IPs must be built on three foundations: green development, digital transformation, and smart governance. These are becoming essential not only for meeting increasingly demanding international environmental, emissions, and governance standards but also for attracting higher-quality investment.

As competition for high-quality FDI intensifies, the transition to next-generation IPs will increasingly determine the competitiveness of both individual localities and Vietnam’s industrial sector as a whole. From infrastructure planning and renewable energy deployment to industrial symbiosis, data-driven management, and AI-enabled operations, this transformation is creating new opportunities for IPs to improve efficiency, attract higher-value investment, and integrate more deeply into global value chains.

-Nam Khanh Do Hoang

]]>As global sustainability standards tighten, Vietnam is accelerating the shift from traditional industrial parks to greener, smarter, and more resilient industrial ecosystems. Fri, 31 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/underpinning-industrial-growth.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/underpinning-industrial-growth.htmGreen EconomyAs global sustainability standards tighten, Vietnam is accelerating the shift from traditional industrial parks to greener, smarter, and more resilient industrial ecosystems.

Speaking at Conference Session 1 of the Vietnam Industrial Park Summit 2026, with the theme “Planning, Construction, and Operation of Industrial Park Technical Infrastructure Toward Green, Circular, and Sustainable Criteria,” Mr. Vu Manh Hung, Director General of the Department of Sectoral Economics and Member of the Scientific Council at the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy, said developing green industrial parks (IPs) is no longer optional. “This is an inexorable requirement to realize the Party and State’s major policies on industrialization and modernization in tandem with green growth, the circular economy, innovation, and digital transformation,” he told participants.

National competitive advantage

IPs have played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s socio-economic development over the past several decades, he continued, serving as a key driver of FDI attraction, exports, economic restructuring, job creation, and State budget revenue. They have also strengthened links between domestic enterprises and multinational corporations, enabling Vietnam to integrate more deeply into global value chains.

According to the Foreign Investment Agency at the Ministry of Finance, Vietnam had 485 IPs covering 145,910 ha as of December 2025. Of these, 326 were in operation, with an average occupancy rate of 77 per cent. Multi-sector industrial parks account for 84.5 per cent of the total. After eight years of implementing eco-industrial parks (eco-IPs), only three have been officially certified by local authorities, or just 0.61 per cent of the total.

Mr. Hung added that the current development model still faces significant shortcomings. Most IPs have expanded extensively rather than intensively, while the quality and integration of technical infrastructure remain inadequate. Connectivity with regional infrastructure, urban areas and logistics networks also remains limited. At the same time, mounting pressure on land, natural resources, and energy, alongside increasingly stringent emissions reduction requirements, means the traditional model is no longer sufficient.

As Vietnam simultaneously advances green, digital, and energy transitions while pursuing a new growth model, IP infrastructure must be viewed through an entirely different lens. “IP infrastructure is no longer merely a physical foundation for production,” Mr. Hung said. “It must become a decisive factor in the competitiveness of the entire economy.”

To accelerate the transition, the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy proposed five key priorities. 

First, Vietnam should clearly define a next-generation IP model aligned with the national industrial development strategy, green growth strategy, circular economy, digital economy, and climate adaptation objectives, while strengthening links between IPs, urban areas, economic zones, and economic corridors.

Second, requirements for energy efficiency, resource efficiency, circular economy principles, and climate resilience should be integrated into the planning process from the outset. Green and eco-IP standards and technical regulations should also be developed alongside industrial symbiosis and resource reuse models.

Third, digital technologies should be deployed more extensively in infrastructure management through data platforms, the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and centralized control systems to optimize energy consumption, environmental monitoring, water supply, waste treatment, and operational safety.

Fourth, Vietnam should develop modern logistics infrastructure with seamless connections to seaports, airports, railways, and expressways, while establishing logistics centers and smart warehouses to lower costs and strengthen business competitiveness.

Finally, institutional reforms should encourage investment in green and digital infrastructure, expand green finance and green credit, refine tax and fee mechanisms, promote public-private partnerships (PPPs), and mobilize greater private and international financial resources.

“If implemented comprehensively, green IPs will become more than production hubs,” Mr. Hung said. “They will serve as the foundation for Vietnam’s new growth model, bringing together modern manufacturing, innovation, digital transformation, the circular economy, and sustainable development.”

Practical models

While policymakers have outlined the vision for next-generation IPs, businesses say success ultimately depends on translating those ambitions into practical operating models.

Mr. Hoang Tuan Anh, Vice Chairman of the Shinec JSC, the developer of the Nam Cau Kien Industrial Park in northern Hai Phong city, said Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, announced at COP26, is more than a national political pledge. It has become a powerful force driving companies to rethink their development strategies.

Several years ago, Nam Cau Kien adopted an eco-IP model built on three core pillars: green industry, the circular economy, and digital transformation. These principles now underpin its broader sustainable governance framework.

Rather than focusing solely on physical infrastructure, the IP has developed a management model centered on three priorities: sustainable governance supported by environmental, energy and resource monitoring systems; cleaner production that improves resource efficiency and reduces emissions; and industrial symbiosis among tenant companies.

The distinguishing feature of this model is that waste or by-products from one company become raw materials for another. Shared infrastructure and common services are also developed to optimize costs and create value across the entire IP, rather than maximizing efficiency for individual businesses alone.

According to Mr. Anh, the efforts of infrastructure developers alone are insufficient to build a genuine eco-IP. Success depends on coordinated participation from four stakeholders: the government, providing a clear legal and policy framework; infrastructure developers, acting as coordinators; tenant companies, actively participating in industrial symbiosis; and local communities, supporting environmental protection.

From the perspective of sustainability standards, Mr. Douglas Snyder, Executive Director of the Vietnam Green Building Council (VGBC), said one of Vietnam’s biggest gaps is the absence of an independent IP assessment system with clear criteria aligned with international standards.

He said existing regulations have laid an important foundation for eco-IP development but remain largely compliance-based. Meanwhile, businesses and financial institutions increasingly require measurable environmental, social, and governance (ESG)-based standards that support performance assessment, certification, capital raising, and competitiveness.

To address that need, the VGBC has developed the LOTUS Industrial Park certification system, the first certification framework designed specifically for Vietnam’s IPs. The framework references international standards, including the UNIDO Eco-Industrial Park Framework, GRI, the World Green Building Council, the ASEAN Taxonomy, and the Vietnam Green Taxonomy. “These criteria are designed not only to reduce emissions but also to strengthen IPs’ access to green finance while meeting the expectations of investors and global supply chains,” Mr. Snyder said.

He added that renewable energy, green buildings, carbon management in construction materials, water reuse, waste reduction, and digital technologies should all be incorporated into IP planning and operations from the outset. “Every IP should establish a decarbonization roadmap through 2050 starting today, because the net zero target cannot be achieved through short-term measures alone,” he concluded. 

- Ngoc Lan

]]>Dr. Nguyen Nhat Ha Chi, Head of ESG at Dragon Capital, tells Ngoc Lan from Vietnam Economic Times about the role of Vietnam’s newly launched carbon exchange as a key milestone in the country’s net-zero journey. Fri, 31 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-carbon-market-lays-foundation-for-green-investment.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-carbon-market-lays-foundation-for-green-investment.htmGreen EconomyDr. Nguyen Nhat Ha Chi, Head of ESG at Dragon Capital, tells Ngoc Lan from Vietnam Economic Times about the role of Vietnam’s newly launched carbon exchange as a key milestone in the country’s net-zero journey.

Vietnam has officially launched its domestic carbon exchange. What are the prerequisites for this market to truly attract investment capital, rather than just remaining a compliance mechanism?

Every effective market rests on two fundamentals: attractive goods, and a diversified ecosystem of participants. Seen through this lens, the compliance mechanism is not the opposite of an investment market, it is the stage where both fundamentals are built. I like to think of it as the roots of a tree: invisible at first, but everything that grows later depends on them.

Consider the goods. Carbon allowances and credits are unlike most conventional traded assets: they are created and defined through regulatory and verification frameworks, and their market value is largely shaped by policy. Its most important price driver is not a physical supply shock but regulatory change. This is an entirely new logic for Vietnamese enterprises, and the pilot exchange is where they will absorb it, i.e. learning that emissions are now a cost, that reductions can become revenue, and that investment in cleaner technology is, in effect, a hedge.

The compliance mechanism shapes the participants in the same way. It requires companies to measure, report and verify their emissions, and to bring carbon into their annual corporate planning. This discipline – reliable data, internal capacity, management attention – is exactly what investors will later depend on when they assess the market.

Once these roots are established, the tree can grow, and this is where investment capital enters. On the goods side, the market needs a richer shelf than allowances alone: carbon credits from domestic projects – forestry, low-emission rice, renewables – to deepen supply and trading volume, and, as the market matures, a legal basis for carbon futures. On the participant side, the key words are liquidity and breadth: access should progressively widen to financial institutions, investment funds and professional traders, the actors who provide liquidity, price discovery and risk transfer. Further, Vietnam should pursue international linkage by aligning domestic credits with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, connecting our market to global demand, global capital and global price benchmarks.

So the prerequisites are being laid right now. Compliance builds trust in the data and in the system, and trust is what attracts capital. Vietnam is planting the roots today. With the right products, the right participants and the right international connections, the tree will grow.

One of the major challenges today is the quality of carbon credits, the transparency of emission data, and the capacity of businesses to participate in the market. In your opinion, what are the "bottlenecks" that need to be prioritized for the carbon market to operate effectively?

I see the bottlenecks sitting on both sides of the market, demand and supply, and each side needs a different treatment.

On the demand side, the challenge comes from the nature of this market itself: demand for carbon is created by policy, not by consumption, and policy must strike a delicate balance between economic growth and emission reduction. Demand will therefore build gradually, and in the meantime the market risks trading in bursts around compliance deadlines. The answer is to treat carbon as a genuinely tradable good rather than a pure compliance instrument: allowing banking of allowances across periods, developing hedging tools, and progressively widening participation beyond compliance entities.

The supply side is where the deeper bottlenecks lie, and it is exactly where the question points: the quality of carbon credits and the transparency of emission data.

On credit quality, the problem is simple to state: a buyer cannot easily tell whether a credit is genuine. For example, two projects both claim 'one tonne of CO₂' on paper, but one genuinely cuts emissions, while the other may not change anything at all. As a 2026 report on nature markets led by the Dragon Capital Chair in Biodiversity Economics at the University of Exeter puts it, the difficult issue is not the unit on the registry but the counterfactual behind it. When buyers cannot tell the difference, everyone gravitates to the cheapest credits, and honest, high-quality projects are pushed out of the market. This is exactly what happened in the global voluntary carbon market, where transactions in forest-conservation credits fell sharply after several studies raised concerns that many projects may have overstated their impact. 

On data transparency, the solution is more tractable, because disclosure and audit can be mandated. Encouragingly, the rules are largely in place: the national registry, mandatory emission reporting for around two thousand facilities, and the verification framework are all established in law. The real challenge now is not rules but people. Reliable data needs capable hands on both sides: enterprises that can produce it, and professionals who can verify it. As reporting begins at scale, demand for both skills will grow quickly, such as calling for training, simplified templates for smaller emitters, and more accredited verifiers and intermediaries to bridge the factory floor and the trading screen.

So if I must prioritize, I would put it this way. First, use the pilot period to make emission inventories accurate and audits credible, data integrity is the foundation everything else stands on. Second, and just as urgent, issue the policy framework for carbon projects, i.e. methodologies, registry rules, verification standards, as early as possible. Carbon projects take years to develop before they generate a single tradable credit. If project developers can start building during the pilot phase, a supply of quality domestic offsets will be ready when the carbon market moves into full operation from 2029.

The carbon market is expected to open up opportunities for the development of green finance in Vietnam. According to Dragon Capital, what additional financial mechanisms or tools are needed to both mobilize long-term capital and support businesses in sustainably transitioning to green?

Encouragingly, many Vietnamese banks already provide green credit for projects meeting sustainability criteria, including carbon-related projects. But bank lending alone cannot carry the green transition, given the transition requires patient capital over decades. This is where the capital market must step in, with the carbon market serving as its pricing backbone.

First, green and transition bonds – made credible by carbon data. Vietnam’s green bond market remains small relative to its potential, partly because investors have lacked a reliable way to confirm that “green” claims are real. The carbon market changes this: once emissions are measured, reported and verified under the national MRV system, they can serve as hard KPIs for sustainability-linked bonds, where a company’s borrowing cost steps down if verified emission targets are met. In other words, the carbon market supplies the trusted data layer that green finance has been missing.

Second, dedicated financing for the carbon projects themselves. Studies reviewed by the Dragon Capital Chair at the University of Exeter show developers must invest heavily upfront yet earn no credit revenue for several years. Three instruments can bridge this gap: equity funds that invest directly in project developers; offtake agreements, where buyers commit today to purchase future credits, giving developers a predictable revenue stream that banks can lend against; and blended finance, where concessional capital from development institutions absorbs early-stage risk so that private capital can follow at scale

Finally, when Vietnam eventually moves from free allocation toward auctioning of allowances, auction revenues can be recycled into the transition itself, funding technology upgrades and supporting industries facing the steepest decarbonization costs, as the EU has done.

If I may connect this back to where we started: the carbon exchange is the roots; these financial mechanisms are the branches. A verified carbon price feeds into bond covenants, project valuations and investment decisions, turning Vietnam’s net-zero commitment from a policy pledge into an investable asset class. That is ultimately how long-term capital is mobilized by giving them the instruments to price it.

-Ngoc Lan

]]>Vietnam’s industrial parks must evolve to meet emerging investment and sustainability needs and facilitate economic growth. Fri, 31 Jul 2026 07:35:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/towards-better-industrial-parks.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/towards-better-industrial-parks.htmGreen EconomyVietnam’s industrial parks must evolve to meet emerging investment and sustainability needs and facilitate economic growth.

After nearly four decades of economic reform, industrial parks (IPs) have become a cornerstone of Vietnam’s industrialization process, attracting FDI, expanding manufacturing and exports, creating new growth poles, and generating millions of jobs. The country is pursuing double-digit annual economic growth in the years to come, with a focus on shifting from expansion alone to a development model driven by productivity, science and technology, innovation, and high-quality human capital. This requires the country’s IPs to evolve beyond conventional manufacturing hubs into platforms capable of attracting higher-quality investment and supporting the next phase of economic growth.

Given that, the Vietnam Industrial Park Summit 2026 was held in the northern port city of Hai Phong on July 10, endorsed by the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy and organized by the Vietnam National Real Estate Association (VNREA) in coordination with relevant agencies. Policymakers, local authorities, and businesses in attendance agreed that developing green IPs is no longer optional but an essential prerequisite for maintaining Vietnam’s investment appeal, increasing industrial value-added, and achieving sustainable growth.

Changing landscape

According to Mr. Nguyen Anh Duong, Head of General Research and International Integration at the Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies (IPSS) at the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy, the global economy is expected to continue recovering during 2025-2027 but will remain vulnerable to geopolitical competition, trade and investment volatility, and macro-economic risks. Meanwhile, digital transformation, the green transition, the circular economy, and the effective use of free trade agreements are becoming key determinants of national competitiveness in attracting investment.

Mr. Duong noted that global GDP growth is projected to have reached around 2.9 per cent in 2025, will slow to 2.5 per cent in 2026, and then recover to 2.8 per cent in 2027, while global trade growth is also expected to moderate. Against this backdrop, Vietnam aims to sustain double-digit annual economic growth during 2026-2030 while advancing industrial modernization and strengthening economic self-reliance. 

As a result, IPs can no longer focus on merely providing manufacturing space. Mr. Duong argued that they should evolve into modern industrial ecosystems that enable businesses to embrace digital and green transformation, strengthen regional links, enhance investment attraction, and contribute to greater economic resilience.

Associate Professor Le Trung Thanh, Full-Time Member of the National Assembly's Committee on Science, Technology and Environment, observed that 10 to 20 years ago IP competitiveness was largely determined by location, land rental costs, and labor availability, while investors today increasingly prioritize science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

In particular, the implementation of Politburo Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science and technology, innovation, and national digital transformation is creating entirely new requirements for IP development, which must now provide not only integrated physical infrastructure but also robust digital infrastructure, energy-efficient systems, low-carbon operations, supply chain connectivity, and innovation capabilities.

From an international perspective, Ms. Sibylle Bachmann, Chargé d’Affaires a.i at the Embassy of Switzerland in Vietnam, noted that investors worldwide are increasingly selecting locations based not only on costs and logistics but also on renewable energy availability, carbon performance, circular economy solutions, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. “The IPs of the future will no longer simply provide land and infrastructure,” she said. “They must become platforms for innovation, resource efficiency, low-carbon growth, and industrial collaboration.”

Mr. Koen Soenens, CSM Director at DEEP C Industrial Zones, said investors continue to evaluate traditional factors such as labor availability, tax incentives, land supply, and infrastructure when selecting locations. However, when committing hundreds of millions of dollars to factories expected to operate for 20 to 50 years, their greatest concern is whether the IP can serve as a reliable long-term partner.

Building better IPs

Meeting these new expectations requires more than planning and infrastructure investment. It also demands institutional reforms that move ahead of market developments. Speaking at the Summit, Mr. Duong said policies need to be updated to facilitate the formation, efficient operation, and long-term adaptability of new IP models in line with evolving industrial production and investment trends.

One important direction, he noted, is the diversification of IP models. Alongside conventional IPs, Vietnam is also promoting eco-IPs, specialized IPs, high-tech IPs, and integrated industrial-urban-service zones to meet increasingly diverse business needs while supporting green and digital transformation. These efforts are being accompanied by policies encouraging circular economy practices, more efficient resource use, stronger regional connectivity, and closer integration between IPs and logistics, urban areas, and service infrastructure.

Mr. Duong added that institutional reforms should go beyond expanding IP models and create favorable conditions for businesses to invest in next-generation infrastructure, including digital infrastructure, energy systems, and solutions supporting green transition and innovation. At the same time, Vietnam should continue decentralizing authority and strengthening coordination between central and local governments to shorten project implementation timelines and improve investment efficiency.

As IP models evolve, investment attraction strategies must also change accordingly. Rather than focusing primarily on increasing project numbers or scale, priority should be given to attracting investments with advanced technologies, strong innovation capacity, efficient resource use, and meaningful spillover effects for domestic enterprises.

This direction is also reflected in Politburo Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW on the development of the foreign-invested sector, issued shortly after the Summit. The Resolution emphasizes the selective attraction of high-tech, environmentally-friendly projects with modern governance while strengthening links between FDI enterprises and domestic enterprises, promoting technology transfer, developing high-quality human resources, and enhancing Vietnam’s position in global value chains.

From policy direction to implementation

The transition toward new IP models is already moving beyond policy discussions and being translated into planning and implementation in several localities.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Dung, Deputy Head of the Hai Phong Economic Zone Management Board, said that following the city’s administrative expansion, authorities see the restructuring of development space as an opportunity to build a more integrated IP system rather than continuing the fragmented development approach of the past. Under this strategy, IPs are planned in close connection with the city’s seaport network, logistics system, urban development, and transportation infrastructure to create highly-integrated production and supply chains.

She added that alongside reviewing and integrating land use, construction, and transportation planning following the merger, the city is also developing shared technical infrastructure across IPs, including water supply, wastewater treatment, and energy systems. The objective is to reduce investment costs, improve operational efficiency, and better prepare IPs for future development requirements.

Another priority highlighted by the Hai Phong Economic Zone Management Board is the selective attraction of investment projects in sectors such as semiconductors, precision engineering, biotechnology, and other industries that make efficient use of land while generating low emissions. At the same time, the city is implementing a roadmap to upgrade existing IPs into eco-IPs, promote circular economy practices, and expand the use of renewable energy in manufacturing. 

At DEEP C Industrial Zones, Mr. Soenens said that many facilities once regarded as supporting infrastructure are now becoming integral components of IP development. These include renewable energy systems, water reuse, industrial symbiosis, shared logistics, supplier network development, and workforce training.

These components, he continued, must be incorporated from the earliest planning and investment stages to create manufacturing environments capable of meeting the increasingly demanding requirements of international investors. This reflects a broader shift in IP development, which is no longer simply about building physical infrastructure but requires a more integrated approach that addresses the evolving needs of both businesses and industrial development.

Experience from Hai Phong and DEEP C demonstrates that, alongside institutional reform, the transformation of Vietnam’s IPs is already taking shape through integrated spatial planning, infrastructure investment, and the development of comprehensive business ecosystems. Together, these represent the first tangible steps toward realizing the country’s vision for IPs in the next stage of economic development.

-Huynh Dung Ngoc Lan

]]>The southern city is currently focusing on high-tech sectors such as aviation, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technology, with a development roadmap closely linked to green, clean, and high-value-added goals.Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-identifies-eco-industrial-parks-as-strategic-growth-driver.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-identifies-eco-industrial-parks-as-strategic-growth-driver.htmGreen EconomyThe southern city is currently focusing on high-tech sectors such as aviation, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technology, with a development roadmap closely linked to green, clean, and high-value-added goals.

To achieve strategic goals for the 2026–2030 period, Vietnam's economy requires a transformational shift in its development model. In this shift, eco-friendly and smart industries will serve as the new growth engines.

In this scenario, southern Dong Nai city is identified as a vital growth pole,  making significant contributions to the nation’s overall objectives, Dr. Nguyen Duc Hien, Deputy Head of the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy, told the forum "Building Eco-Smart Industrial Parks – A Driver for Investment Attraction and Green Economic Development in the Southeast Region” in Dong Nai City on July 28.

"Dong Nai's economic scale is projected to reach approximately $44 billion by 2030, accounting for nearly 5% of the national GDP by then—a substantial increase from the current $27 billion. With a growth of nearly 1.5 times in just 4 to 5 years, this locality bears a massive responsibility in the national strategy to elevate the country's GDP from approximately $514 billion in the 2021–2025 period to a target of $900 billion for 2026–2030," said Dr. Hien.

Analyzing Dong Nai’s strengths, Dr. Hien highlighted the convergence of eight favorable conditions for the development of eco-industrial parks: large industrial scale, a strategic gateway location, multimodal logistics infrastructure, green growth orientation, digital and technological foundations, an innovative and creative workforce, and practical experience.

In particular, the "airport city" (aerotropolis) model, combined with the connectivity between Bien Hoa, Long Thanh, and key regional axes in the South, creates a distinctive development space compared to many other localities in the region. This serves as the foundation for Dong Nai to not only maintain its role as a traditional industrial hub but also to reshape its growth model toward high technology and higher added value.

According to the official, a Law on Industrial Parks and Economic Zones is currently under study. The proposed law aims to implement a chain-based management model to avoid fragmentation among ministries and sectors, thereby helping businesses access land and resources more efficiently.

Speaking at the forum, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Sy Hung, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), affirmed that transitioning industrial park models toward green and smart development is a key factor for deep integration into global value chains.

To achieve the Net Zero target by 2050, Vietnam aims to maintain double-digit growth in 2026 and the following periods. Studies show that adopting green, eco-friendly, and smart industrial models can boost labor productivity by 15% to 25%. Furthermore, the application of high technology not only improves the working environment but also helps localities attract high-quality human resources.

In Vietnam's Southeast region, Dong Nai is recognized as a pioneering locality in approaching and directing the transition to eco-industrial parks. The city is currently focusing on high-tech sectors such as aviation, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technology, with a development roadmap closely linked to green, clean, and high-value-added goals.

Representing the local government, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Dong Nai People's Committee, Mr. Nguyen Kim Long, said "In our upcoming strategy, Dong Nai will implement selective investment attraction, prioritizing clean technology projects and efficient resource utilization. We will gradually convert existing industrial parks, promote circular economy models—such as water reuse and waste recycling—and foster industrial symbiosis among enterprises."

VnEconomy-Nguyệt Hà

]]>Vietnam’s current and future industrial expansion requires that industrial parks play a greater role in boosting productivity, resilience, and self-reliance.Thu, 30 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/priorities-for-industrial-park-development.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/priorities-for-industrial-park-development.htmGreen EconomyVietnam’s current and future industrial expansion requires that industrial parks play a greater role in boosting productivity, resilience, and self-reliance.

The global economy is entering a period of heightened uncertainty, with increasingly rapid, complex, and unpredictable developments. Several international organizations have forecast that global economic growth will slow markedly in 2026 compared to 2025. Against this backdrop, countries are not only diversifying trade and investment relationships but also accelerating efforts to build more self-reliant economies supported by resilient and adaptable production capacity.

FDI continues to favor destinations that offer political and macro-economic stability, modern digital and energy infrastructure, strong connectivity, and manufacturing ecosystems capable of adapting to supply chain shifts, digital transformation, and the green transition. In this environment, Vietnam has strengthened its position as one of the region’s leading investment destinations through consistent and effective macro-economic policies.

The 14th National Party Congress set a strategic objective of achieving double-digit annual GDP growth during 2026-2030, with the goal of becoming a developing country with a modern industrial base by 2030. This direction was reinforced in Conclusion No. 18-KL/TW, issued on April 2, 2026, which identified industry as the primary engine of economic growth. The industrial and construction sector is targeted to expand by 12.3 per cent annually during 2026-2030, while manufacturing is expected to average 12.4 per cent annual growth.

Future industrial expansion, however, will be driven by a new development model centered on science and technology, innovation, higher value-added production, digitalization, green transformation, and deeper integration into global value chains. Achieving these objectives will require Vietnam’s industrial parks (IPs) and economic zones to be fundamentally repositioned, not only in terms of function and development model but also in the quality of investment they attract. Their role will increasingly be to support modern production ecosystems while enhancing productivity, resilience, and economic self-reliance.

Redefining industrial growth

IPs serve as the foundation for developing industrial clusters and integrated manufacturing ecosystems. Concentrating businesses within shared infrastructure reduces transaction costs, improves logistics efficiency, shortens project implementation timelines, and promotes greater specialization.

When fully connected with seaports, airports, railways, logistics hubs, research institutions, universities, and service-oriented urban areas, IPs become critical links in regional and global production networks. Stronger coordination between IPs in different localities would not only deepen regional integration but also redistribute manufacturing activities more efficiently and create new economic corridors.

IPs also remain one of Vietnam’s most important tools for attracting higher-quality FDI. Politburo Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW, issued on June 8, 2026, sets a target of integrating around 10,000 domestic companies into the value chains of foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs), including 500-1,000 Tier-1 suppliers. The development of IPs provides an important mechanism for implementing this strategy, by prioritizing investment projects involving advanced technologies, RD, workforce training, and stronger links with domestic suppliers.

At the same time, IPs provide an ideal environment for implementing digital and green transformation. Digitalized management systems integrating land, construction, environmental, and energy data can streamline administrative procedures, lower compliance costs, improve incident response, monitor energy efficiency, facilitate data sharing, and strengthen real-time oversight.

Industrial symbiosis - where one company’s waste or byproducts become another company’s production inputs - can also help manufacturers meet increasingly stringent sustainability requirements in export markets. Successful international examples include Denmark’s Kalundborg industrial symbiosis model, South Korea’s transformation of the Ulsan industrial cluster, and Japan’s Kawasaki Eco-Town circular economy initiative.

Policy reforms

Vietnam has already introduced a series of important policies supporting IP development. Beyond the industrial development priorities established by the 14th National Party Congress and Conclusion No. 18, Resolution No. 29-NQ/TW, adopted in November 2022, calls for the development of large-scale modern eco-industrial parks (eco-IPs), expanded railway connections linking IPs with economic zones, airports, and seaports, and the development of coastal eco-IPs integrated with urban areas and major marine economic centers. It also encourages the industrial park-urban-service model.

These policy directions have been translated into concrete legal reforms. Government Decree No. 35/2022/ND-CP established the legal framework for a diverse range of IP models, including specialized IPs, supporting IPs, eco-IPs, high-tech IPs, and integrated industrial park-urban-service developments, while promoting industrial symbiosis.

The Law on Investment 2025 further decentralizes investment approval authority and introduces special investment procedures designed to accelerate project implementation.

More recently, under Official Letter No. 4551/NHNN-CSTT, dated May 29, 2026, the State Bank of Vietnam allowed credit institutions to exclude additional lending to IPs and export processing zones from real estate credit growth calculations in 2026 when monitoring lending limits. This measure is intended to facilitate greater financing for industrial infrastructure development.

Four priorities

Going forward, Vietnam should focus on four key policy priorities to accelerate IP development.

First, industrial infrastructure development should be aligned with major structural transitions, particularly through regulatory sandboxes that support the green and circular economy. In the digital era, data should be treated as strategic infrastructure alongside transportation, energy, and logistics networks, providing the foundation for smart governance, resource optimization, and higher-value business services. Wider adoption of AI, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other digital technologies should improve infrastructure management, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and overall competitiveness, while cybersecurity and data protection must remain integral to the digital transformation process.

Second, policy should shift from expanding the number of IPs to improving their quality and effectiveness. As global supply chains are reconfigured and competition for investment intensifies, success will depend less on attracting more projects than on attracting high-quality investment capable of transferring technology, driving innovation, and strengthening links with domestic enterprises, thereby moving Vietnam higher up global value chains.

Third, investment promotion and incentive policies should evolve in line with Politburo Resolution No. 10 by moving away from input-based incentives toward performance-based support tied to investors’ commitments. This approach should encompass the full project lifecycle while encouraging stronger cooperation between foreign investors and domestic businesses.

Fourth, IPs should become more specialized and better integrated into value chains, evolving into comprehensive manufacturing ecosystems that connect anchor manufacturers, supplier networks, logistics centers, research and innovation institutions, workforce training facilities, financial services, and industrial support services within a coordinated development framework.

(*) Mr. Nguyen Duc Hien is  Vice Chairman of the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy (CCPS), and Chairman of the CCPS Scientific Council.

-Dr. Nguyen Duc Hien(*)

]]>These four areas are crucial for achieving sustainable forestry goals, enhancing forest resilience, and driving green growth across the Asia-Pacific.Wed, 29 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-proposes-four-key-priorities-for-apec-forestry-cooperation.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-proposes-four-key-priorities-for-apec-forestry-cooperation.htmGreen EconomyThese four areas are crucial for achieving sustainable forestry goals, enhancing forest resilience, and driving green growth across the Asia-Pacific.

Under the theme Toward an Asia-Pacific that advances forest resilience and ecological well-being for all, the 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry, held from July 27–28 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, brought together leaders, experts, and scholars from 21 APEC member economies and various international oỏganizations, including a Vietnamese delagation, led by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Nguyen Quoc Tri.

Participants shared experiences in the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources, the realization of eco-product values, and the promotion of science and technology-driven development, while discussing strategies to strengthen regional forestry cooperation.

During the conference, Deputy Minister Nguyen Quoc Tri delivered a keynote presentation, highlighting Vietnam’s sustainable forest management to enhance forest ecosystem resilience and improve ecological well-being.

Drawing from Vietnam’s practical forestry development, he proposed that APEC economies focus their cooperation on four major priorities:

First, accelerating the sharing of knowledge, science, and technology to enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems against the increasing impacts of climate change.

Second, promoting green finance, developing carbon credit markets, and establishing long-term investment mechanisms for forest conservation, restoration, and development.

Third, strengthening research cooperation, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable management of transboundary ecosystems to protect the region’s shared natural heritage.

Fourth, building legal, transparent, and responsible timber supply chains that adapt to the evolving requirements of international trade.

"Vietnam is committed to being a reliable and responsible partner. We are always ready to share experiences and foster cooperation with APEC economies to build healthier forests and contribute to the sustainable development of the region," said Deputy Minister Tri.

He emphasized that these four areas are crucial for achieving sustainable forestry goals, enhancing forest resilience, and driving green growth across the Asia-Pacific.

The 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry concluded with a broad consensus and the adoption of a Joint Statement. The declaration reaffirms the commitment of APEC economies to biodiversity conservation, strengthening law enforcement to prevent the illegal trade of forest products, and integrating sustainable forest management into national economic development strategies and policies.

Furthermore, the Statement calls for increased investment and the expansion of financial opportunities for forestry development and legal timber trade, tailored to the specific conditions and development priorities of each member economy.

Vietnam is scheduled to serve as the host for APEC forestry activities in 2027, under the spirit of "Partnership – Cooperation – Innovation – Sustainable Development."

VnEconomy-Chu Khôi

]]>As CBAM enters its financial enforcement phase, Vinacontrol outlines how businesses can turn carbon compliance into a competitive advantage.Tue, 28 Jul 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/breaking-the-carbon-barrier-cbam-2026-realities-and-corporate-adaptation-strategies.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/breaking-the-carbon-barrier-cbam-2026-realities-and-corporate-adaptation-strategies.htmGreen EconomyAs CBAM enters its financial enforcement phase, Vinacontrol outlines how businesses can turn carbon compliance into a competitive advantage.

As the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) enters its financial enforcement phase, carbon emissions are becoming a direct business cost rather than simply a compliance issue. With CBAM certificates priced at €75.36 ($85.94) per ton of CO₂, companies exporting to Europe are increasingly being judged not only on production costs but also on their ability to measure and reduce carbon emissions.

According to experts, the new framework fundamentally changes how exporters compete, adding carbon alongside raw materials, labor, logistics, and capital as a core determinant of profitability.

Speaking at a recent seminar on CBAM readiness, Ms. Hoang Thi Kim Cuong, Deputy Technical Director and Greenhouse Gas Specialist at Vinacontrol Group, said the regulation is creating a clear distinction between companies that manage carbon data effectively and those that do not.

"In the CBAM era, the real divide is no longer between exporters and non-exporters. It is between enterprises that can verify their carbon performance - and those that allow external regulators to price their uncertainty."

Carbon becomes the "fifth cost dimension"

For decades, manufacturers competed primarily by lowering production costs through cheaper labor, improved logistics, and more efficient sourcing. CBAM introduces a new variable into that equation by assigning a direct financial value to carbon emissions.

According to Vinacontrol, this shift is giving rise to two distinct business models.

Model A transforms emissions data into a financial control instrument. By establishing early measurement, maintaining consistent oversight, and reducing carbon intensity before regulatory levies take effect, the enterprise safeguards its operating margins and secures a structural advantage with global buyers.

Model B relies on deferred action. Lacking verifiable metrics or a practical decarbonization roadmap, its financial exposure is dictated by foreign regulatory assumptions, punitive default values, and buyer-side risk premiums. Under this model, carbon shifts from an environmental line item to a direct threat to corporate solvency.

Common misconceptions leave exporters exposed

Many companies remain vulnerable not because they ignore CBAM intentionally, but because they misunderstand how the regulation will be implemented.

One common assumption is that CBAM affects only direct exporters. However, the European Parliament is already considering expanding the mechanism to more than 180 downstream products by 2028, including automotive components, industrial machinery, and electrical equipment. As a result, suppliers further up the value chain may also be required to provide verified emissions data.

Another misconception is that companies have until 2027 to prepare. While the first financial declaration will be submitted in September 2027, businesses must report emissions covering the entire 2026 reporting year. Companies that delay establishing monitoring systems may find themselves unable to reconstruct historical emissions data when buyers request it.

Vinacontrol also notes that many businesses assume existing greenhouse gas inventories satisfy CBAM requirements. In reality, conventional Scope 1-3 reporting or ISO 14067 assessments do not meet the EU's installation-level methodology for calculating embedded emissions.

Similarly, purchasing renewable energy certificates such as I-RECs or relying on carbon offsets does not eliminate CBAM obligations. EU rules require measurable reductions in emissions at the production facility rather than paper-based offsets.

From compliance risk to competitive advantage

Vinacontrol highlighted the experience of a Vietnamese steel exporter supplying customers in Germany as an example of how companies can reposition themselves before CBAM takes full effect.

The manufacturer initially believed compliance would largely remain the responsibility of its European customer and that purchasing certificates such as I-RECs would be sufficient. That assumption changed when its German buyer requested fully auditable embedded emissions data covering a designated base year.

Without an established carbon accounting system or facility-level emissions data, the exporter faced potential exposure to default emissions values, with estimated additional CBAM costs of €150-200 ($171.09-228.13) per ton of steel compared with better-prepared competitors.

Vinacontrol worked with the company to establish an emissions monitoring framework aligned with CBAM requirements, train internal personnel in carbon accounting, and develop a practical decarbonization roadmap. The program also identified opportunities to improve energy efficiency, optimize thermal performance, and install rooftop solar generation to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

According to the company, approximately 14 weeks after implementation, the facility reduced emissions intensity by about 18 per cent through energy-efficiency measures and on-site renewable energy integration. Based on Vinacontrol's estimates, this translated into projected annual CBAM cost savings exceeding €85,000 ($96,953.55) compared with relying on default emissions values.

Early preparation can significantly reduce CBAM costs

According to Vinacontrol's estimates, replacing conservative default emissions values with verified facility-level data, together with targeted decarbonization measures, could reduce projected CBAM-related costs by approximately 35-60 per cent. Actual savings will depend on factors including baseline emissions, production technology, energy sources, data quality, and the scope of emissions reduction initiatives.

The company says that combining auditable carbon accounting with practical emissions reduction enables businesses to move beyond regulatory compliance toward long-term management of carbon costs while strengthening their position within international supply chains.

Carbon data emerges as a competitive differentiator

As CBAM reshapes international trade, experts argue that competitive advantage will increasingly depend on companies' ability to generate credible emissions data alongside reducing their carbon footprint.

Rather than separating green businesses from traditional manufacturers, the emerging divide is between companies equipped with reliable carbon data and those that remain unprepared for increasingly stringent market requirements.

-

]]>Efforts are afoot to ensure that Vietnam has ample energy supplies for its future development while also meeting net-zero goals. Sun, 26 Jul 2026 02:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/powering-green-growth.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/powering-green-growth.htmGreen EconomyEfforts are afoot to ensure that Vietnam has ample energy supplies for its future development while also meeting net-zero goals.

Vietnam is entering the first year of implementing its 2026-2030 socio-economic development plan, with the goal of posting double-digit annual GDP growth, while continuing to realize its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The international landscape, meanwhile, is marked by geopolitical shifts, pressure to ensure energy security, and increasingly stringent emission reduction and green standards in global markets. This underscores the need for Vietnam to build a modern, safe, and resilient energy system capable of supporting rapid and sustainable growth.

Against this backdrop, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), through the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD), collaborated with partners to organize the World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026 on July 8 in Hanoi, with the theme “Vietnam’s Pathway to Net Zero.”

Shaping green growth

In the face of growing geopolitical uncertainties, inflationary pressures, financial risks, and rapid technological disruption, Vietnam views its green transition not only as an environmental imperative but also as a strategic pathway to strengthening long-term economic competitiveness.

Speaking at the Forum, Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy, said the global economy is entering a period of profound transformation, where scientific and technological breakthroughs, together with deeper international integration, are reshaping development models across countries. At the same time, energy security has become an increasingly critical pillar of economic resilience and political stability, while renewable and low-carbon energy is emerging as a global trend that supports both emission reductions and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

For Vietnam, these trends are particularly significant. As one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies and among those most vulnerable to climate change, it recognizes that restructuring its energy system and promoting green growth are essential to sustaining future development.

The country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, announced at COP26, has since been translated into national development strategies. The 14th National Party Congress identified the energy industry as one of Vietnam’s strategic foundation sectors while emphasizing stronger environmental protection and climate resilience as key drivers of future growth.

According to Mr. Tuan, Vietnam holds significant advantages to accelerate renewable energy development. By 2030, renewable energy is expected to account for 25-30 per cent of primary energy supply, while digital transformation, new energy technologies, green finance, and the green economy will become major priorities. “Vietnam is continuing to improve market institutions, expand private sector participation, and foster a transparent, competitive investment environment where businesses can play a central role in driving the country’s green transition,” he added.

Steering climate action

As the national focal agency on climate change, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) has been acting decisively to implement Party resolutions, the National Strategy on Climate Change, and the National Strategy on Green Growth.

Mr. Le Cong Thanh, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, said net-zero is no longer simply an environmental issue but is becoming one of the driving forces of a new global development competition. “Countries that grasp the green transition trend will have more opportunities to enhance their competitiveness, attract high-quality investment, and build a new position in the global economy,” he said.

According to Mr. Thanh, the MAE will focus its resources on advising on and improving the institutional framework while developing a comprehensive, forward-looking legal framework. At the same time, it will proactively implement and closely monitor international climate commitments to reinforce Vietnam’s international credibility. The sector is also focusing on establishing effective operational mechanisms and fiscal and financial tools, and mobilizing multilateral resources to deepen the green transition.

Specifically, the MAE is closely coordinating with ministries, sectors, and localities to accelerate the development of a transparent greenhouse gas emissions inventory system in line with international standards and to effectively operate the domestic carbon market. National programs on climate change adaptation, environmental protection, forest restoration, wetlands, and coastal areas are also being accelerated to maximize natural carbon absorption capacity and transform ecological potential into green economic resources.

Recognizing that businesses are central to achieving the country’s net-zero target, Mr. Thanh affirmed that the MAE will continue to stand alongside the business community with concrete action. The Ministry will proactively remove policy barriers, optimize administrative procedures, enhance information sharing, and create a favorable investment environment to promote green investment, technological innovation, and the replication of circular business models.

“Vietnam’s net-zero roadmap is not only a roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also one for innovating the growth model, enhancing national competitiveness, and creating new drivers of development,” Mr. Thanh said. “As the global landscape rapidly shifts toward green and low-emission technologies, Vietnam has chosen to proactively adapt, transform, and seize opportunities to develop faster, more sustainably, and more efficiently. With the determination of the Party and the State, the support of the business community, the assistance of international partners, and the innovative spirit of society as a whole, we have a solid foundation to achieve net-zero by 2050.”

Ensuring energy transition

The energy sector has been identified as one of the key areas in achieving Vietnam’s net-zero targets. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), the sector accounted for 66 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 and this could increase to 73 per cent by 2030 under the business-as-usual scenario without transition measures.

In 2023, Vietnam, together with the International Partners Group (IPG), adopted the Joint Political Declaration establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). “This is a groundbreaking step that helps Vietnam mobilize international resources, improve the investment environment, and promote the decarbonization of its electricity system, while also creating new economic opportunities to support the country’s transition toward net-zero emissions,” Mr. Nguyen Hoang Long, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, told the Forum.

Since adopting the JETP Declaration, Vietnam has developed, amended, and supplemented a range of important policy mechanisms to facilitate the mobilization of domestic and foreign capital for energy development. “The refinement of policies has been carried out proactively by Vietnam to meet the country’s development requirements in the new context,” he said. “At the same time, this effort also helps Vietnam fulfill its international commitments under the JETP. However, it must be acknowledged that the mobilization of international resources for energy transition investment projects has not kept pace with Vietnam’s efforts to improve its energy policy.”

To date, Vietnam and its partners have identified 50 projects suitable for the JETP, requiring more than $11 billion in funding. Only three projects have secured $722 million in JETP financing: the Ho Chi Minh City - Binh Duong power transmission line project ($78 million); the expansion of the Tri An hydropower plant ($79 million); and the Bac Ai pumped-storage hydropower project ($565 million). The pace of JETP resource mobilization is expected to accelerate following significant efforts by the MoIT, other Vietnamese ministries and agencies, and especially the IPG, the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ), and international partners.

“Despite these efforts, investment channeled through the JETP meets only a fraction of Vietnam’s energy development and transition needs,” the Deputy Minister added. “A total of $136.3 billion is needed for power generation and grid development during the 2026-2030 period, as outlined in the revised National Power Development Plan VIII. This includes $118.2 billion for power generation and $18.1 billion for grid development. Mobilizing such a substantial amount will require the collective efforts of government agencies, businesses, international financial institutions, development partners, and investors at home and abroad.”

The MoIT will continue coordinating with other ministries and agencies to improve the institutional framework and create the most favorable conditions for businesses and international partners to invest in the energy transition. “We hope to receive the continued support and cooperation of the international community, financial institutions, businesses, and organizations, both at home and abroad, to jointly ensure energy security, reduce emissions, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” he said. 

-An Chi

]]>AI is highlighted as a powerful tool for businesses to enhance performance through real-time monitoring, control, and system optimization.Sun, 26 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-series-of-10-workshops-on-energy-efficiency-to-be-held-throughout-2026.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-series-of-10-workshops-on-energy-efficiency-to-be-held-throughout-2026.htmGreen EconomyAI is highlighted as a powerful tool for businesses to enhance performance through real-time monitoring, control, and system optimization.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) hosted the workshop "Energy Efficiency: Driving Forces from Policy and Technology" on July 24 in Ho Chi Minh City.

This event serves as the launchpad for a series of 10 specialized seminars to be held across all three regions of Vietnam throughout 2026. This initiative is a core component of the National Program on the Economical and Efficient Use of Energy for the 2019–2030 period (VNEEP3).

In his opening remarks, Mr. Dang Hai Dung, Deputy Director of the Agency for Innovation, Green Transition and Industry Promotion under the ministry, noted that MoIT officially launched the Vietnam Energy Efficiency Community in 2025 as an open platform connecting regulators, experts, organizations, and businesses.

Building on the initial successes of this platform, the 2026 workshop series will be rolled out across various provinces nationwide to serve as a forum for stakeholders to strengthen connections, update technological trends, and foster collaboration between management agencies and solution providers, ultimately creating a more robust and sustainable energy efficiency ecosystem.

The technical agenda of the workshop focused on three primary pillars: the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in energy operations, the development of smart industrial park models, and financial mechanisms for energy-saving projects.

Regarding AI, experts highlighted it as a powerful tool for businesses to enhance performance through real-time monitoring, control, and system optimization. These AI systems allow for continuous optimization based on actual operational data, reducing energy consumption and production costs without the immediate need to replace entire existing infrastructures.

The smart industrial park model was a point of significant interest, featuring integrated management technologies designed to optimize operations across entire zones, covering everything from electricity and water systems to waste treatment and internal logistics.

This approach allows for shared investment costs and creates economies of scale that individual companies would find difficult to achieve independently. Furthermore, the workshop introduced smart factory solutions linked to digital transformation aimed at optimizing production processes and boosting overall productivity.

Addressing a major practical concern, the seminar also provided detailed information on financial mechanisms and investment support policies. While many enterprises recognize the benefits of energy efficiency, they often face a significant bottleneck when attempting to access capital. To help navigate this, the workshop offered specific guidance on available funding sources, eligibility criteria, and the necessary procedures for businesses to secure financial backing for their green initiatives.

VnEconomy-Nguyệt Hà

]]>Dr. Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), tells Ngoc Lan that the Agency is committed to continuing its support for Vietnam’s development of nuclear applications across a wide range of sectors.Sat, 25 Jul 2026 08:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/more-support-from-iaea-for-vietnams-peaceful-nuclear-development.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/more-support-from-iaea-for-vietnams-peaceful-nuclear-development.htmGreen EconomyDr. Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), tells Ngoc Lan that the Agency is committed to continuing its support for Vietnam’s development of nuclear applications across a wide range of sectors.

Which areas of nuclear science do you believe hold the greatest potential to support Vietnam’s sustainable development over the next 10 to 20 years?

Vietnam has already developed strong capabilities in several areas where nuclear science and technology can make a significant contribution to sustainable development.

One of the most important is food and agriculture, which is closely linked to food security. Vietnam has successfully developed some of the world’s best rice varieties, demonstrating how nuclear science and technology, through the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM), can support agricultural innovation and strengthen food security.

Another key area is industry. Technologies such as radioisotopes, radiotracers, and non-destructive testing help ensure the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure, including bridges, hospitals, schools, and industrial facilities. Vietnam already possesses considerable expertise in these applications.

Healthcare is equally important. Nuclear technologies play a vital role in the early diagnosis and treatment of non-communicable diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, and dosimetry are essential for ensuring patients receive precise and effective radiation treatment. These technologies will remain indispensable for many decades to come.

To sustain progress across all these sectors, human capital is critical. As the Minister of Science and Technology has emphasized, Vietnam needs to inspire and train a new generation of scientists and engineers in nuclear science and technology. The country has already established a solid foundation for developing future experts, and the IAEA is committed to supporting Vietnam through capacity building and technical cooperation.

Going forward, the IAEA will continue to work alongside Vietnam in advancing nuclear applications for food security, healthcare, water management, ocean health, and environmental monitoring. These are all essential pillars of sustainable development, and VINATOM already has the expertise needed to expand their impact.

As Vietnam prepares to restart its nuclear power program, what should be the country’s top priority to ensure it is developed safely, effectively, and with public confidence?

The decision to pursue nuclear power is entirely Vietnam’s sovereign choice, and the IAEA stands ready to support the country throughout that journey, just as we have done with many other member countries.

The first and most important priority is developing a highly-skilled workforce. Vietnam will need not only nuclear engineers but also specialists in nuclear safety, nuclear security, radiation protection, communication, and other supporting disciplines.

Public communication is another crucial element. People need clear, transparent information about why nuclear power is safe, secure, and beneficial. Building public confidence requires both technical excellence and effective communication.

Once Vietnam has confirmed its roadmap, the IAEA will continue working closely with the government to strengthen institutional capacity and develop the human resources necessary for a safe and successful nuclear power program. Ultimately, human capacity remains the cornerstone of long-term success.

Vietnam is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. How can nuclear and isotopic techniques help it adapt and strengthen climate resilience?

Climate change is a reality, and its impacts are becoming increasingly evident across agriculture, water resources, marine ecosystems, and many other sectors. Addressing these challenges requires science, innovation, and practical solutions, and nuclear science has an important role to play.

Take agriculture as an example. Nuclear techniques can help develop crop varieties that are more resilient to harsh environmental conditions and require less water. Sterile insect techniques can protect crops from pests, while irradiation technologies help preserve food and reduce post-harvest losses.

Vietnam has already developed strong expertise in many of these areas. In fact, whenever I speak internationally about food irradiation, I often encourage people to visit Vietnam and see its achievements firsthand.

Beyond agriculture, nuclear and isotopic techniques also support research on ocean acidification, water resource management, and environmental monitoring. Vietnam already possesses the necessary knowledge and technical capacity. The next step is to expand these successful applications on a broader scale.

As Vietnam expands its international cooperation in nuclear science and technology, what role do you see the country playing in advancing regional collaboration?

Vietnam has already demonstrated regional leadership in this area. For several years, it has worked closely with the IAEA to support neighboring countries such as Laos and Cambodia, particularly in healthcare, through tripartite cooperation programs.

Vietnam is also an active participant in the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA), which brings together more than 20 countries across Asia and the Pacific to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and jointly develop regional programs.

Through these mechanisms, Vietnam is both contributing its expertise and learning from the experiences of other countries. I believe it will continue to play an increasingly important role in strengthening regional cooperation in nuclear science and technology.

What advantages does Vietnam have compared with other countries in the region in developing nuclear power successfully?

As I mentioned earlier, developing nuclear power is a decision for Vietnam to make, and the IAEA’s role is to support that decision.

Vietnam is not starting from scratch. Several countries in the region already operate nuclear power plants, providing valuable experience and opportunities for regional cooperation and knowledge sharing.

The IAEA will continue supporting Vietnam by facilitating access to international expertise and helping the country benefit from lessons learned by others.

What are the IAEA’s priorities in supporting Vietnam’s nuclear power development?

Our priority is capacity building. Developing nuclear power requires a highly-qualified workforce capable of ensuring safe, secure, and reliable operations.

This includes expertise in reactor operation, nuclear fuel management, radioactive waste management, nuclear safety, and nuclear security. Every aspect of the program depends on having well-trained professionals.

The IAEA is ready to support Vietnam through training, technical assistance, and knowledge transfer. At the same time, organizations such as VARANS are also well positioned to strengthen the country’s regulatory framework for nuclear safety and security.

The IAEA has extensive global experience, Vietnam has a strong foundation and a clear commitment, and together we will continue working to ensure the country’s nuclear program develops safely and successfully. 

-Ngoc Lan

]]>According to the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration, the emergence of El Ni#241;o poses significant challenges, increasing the risk of prolonged heatwaves, seasonal rainfall shortages, and depleted water sources. Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/two-el-nino-risk-scenarios-projected-for-vietnam-in-2026-2027.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/two-el-nino-risk-scenarios-projected-for-vietnam-in-2026-2027.htmGreen EconomyAccording to the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration, the emergence of El Niño poses significant challenges, increasing the risk of prolonged heatwaves, seasonal rainfall shortages, and depleted water sources.

The Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration (VNMHA) has outlined two risk scenarios "High Risk and Very High Risk" for the 2026-2027 El Niño, warning of significant impacts on the nation’s water resources, hydropower generation, and agricultural production.

Against the backdrop of record-high global average temperatures, the 2026-2027 El Niño phenomenon has officially formed and is developing rapidly. Forecasts indicate a very high probability (over 95%) that El Niño will persist through the second half of 2026 and into 2027. Its intensity is expected to be moderate to strong, with the possibility of developing into a "very strong" event.

According to VNMHA, the emergence of El Niño poses significant challenges, increasing the risk of prolonged heatwaves, seasonal rainfall shortages, and depleted water sources. These factors lead to severe drought and saltwater intrusion, particularly in the South Central Coast, the Central Highlands, and the Mekong Delta.

The High Risk scenario reflects a situation where El Niño maintains moderate to strong intensity before weakening in the early months of 2027. Under this scenario, average temperatures across the country are projected to be 0.5–1°C higher than the multi-year average. The number of hot days will increase, especially in the North, North Central, South Central Coast, Central Highlands, and the South. Heatwaves are likely to arrive earlier and last longer than average, driving up demand for electricity, domestic water, and irrigation.

Rainfall during the 2026 rainy season is projected to be 10–20% below average, with localized deficits exceeding 25% in the South Central Coast. River flows in many basins are expected to decrease by 10–20%, hindering the water storage capacity of reservoirs ahead of the dry season.

The agency warns that the threat of drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion will remain high, concentrated in the South Central Coast, Central Highlands, and the Mekong Delta. Key sectors expected to face significant impacts include water resources, agriculture, energy, domestic water supply, forest fire prevention, and food security.

Under the Very High Risk scenario, average temperatures nationwide could rise 1–2°C above the multi-year average. Heatwaves are likely to occur earlier, last longer, and become more intense, particularly from March to June 2027.

Rainfall during the 2026 rainy season may see a widespread deficit of 20–40%, with localized drops exceeding 50% in the South Central Coast. Flow in many river basins could decrease by 20–40%, significantly reducing the water storage capacity of irrigation and hydropower reservoirs.

If El Niño persists into the seasonal transition period, the 2027 rainy season risks starting later than usual, especially in the Central Highlands and the South. This would prolong water shortages and delay the recovery of water sources, pushing the threat of drought and saltwater intrusion to critical levels.

Notably, the very high-risk scenario could trigger a "compounding effect" between prolonged heatwaves, a delayed 2027 rainy season, low reservoir levels, and a declining trend in upstream Mekong River flows caused by increased water extraction and regulation by riparian countries.

Should upstream Mekong flows remain low, saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta could reach levels comparable to the most severe El Niño events in history. Many small and medium-sized reservoirs in the South Central Coast and Central Highlands are at risk of failing to reach the necessary water levels for agricultural production and domestic supply.

VNMHA noted that these two scenarios serve as a meteorological basis for management agencies and local authorities to reference when developing response plans; they do not replace official disaster forecasts or executive decisions made by competent authorities.

Beyond providing meteorological data, the report quantifies direct risks to the economy. These range from water security and agriculture (warning of potential impacts on approximately 350,000 hectares of Winter-Spring rice in the Mekong Delta) to energy security (the risk of water shortages for hydropower generation, particularly on the Da River system during the May–June 2027 peak). Conversely, the report also identifies "conditional opportunities" for Vietnam to increase its agricultural export value if water resources are effectively managed.

VnEconomy-Đỗ Phong

]]>The southern city is steering toward a low-carbon economy by integrating climate change adaptation and mitigation solutions into its socio-economic development planning.Wed, 22 Jul 2026 23:16:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcmc-unveils-climate-change-response-plan-to-2030-vision-to-2050.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcmc-unveils-climate-change-response-plan-to-2030-vision-to-2050.htmGreen EconomyThe southern city is steering toward a low-carbon economy by integrating climate change adaptation and mitigation solutions into its socio-economic development planning.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has officially issued a decision, approving  the "Action Plan for Climate Change Response through 2030, with a Vision toward 2050."

Under the plan, the southern city aims to bolster its adaptive capacity against extreme weather events, including heatwaves, droughts, heavy rainfall, flooding, and rising sea levels. The strategy focuses on mitigating disaster risks, conserving biodiversity, ensuring food security and social welfare, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.

The city is steering toward a low-carbon economy by integrating climate change adaptation and mitigation solutions into its socio-economic development planning. This move is designed to align with and contribute to Vietnam’s international commitments on climate action.

To achieve these objectives, the plan outlines several key tasks across various sectors:

In agriculture and the environment, the city will conduct climate impact assessments, manage and restore forests, and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. Efforts will also be directed toward improving the quality of disaster forecasting and warning systems. Additionally, the city will apply advanced technologies in wastewater and waste treatment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen waste management protocols.

In industry and energy, the focus will be on promoting the transition to clean technologies and encouraging energy efficiency. The city plans to develop renewable energy sources, ensure energy security, and implement solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within industrial production.

In construction and urban planning, the city will develop smart city models resilient to climate change. This includes upgrading drainage and flood control systems, ensuring water supply security, and encouraging the development of green buildings and eco-friendly construction materials.

In transportation, priority will be given to developing infrastructure capable of withstanding climate impacts. This involves upgrading roads in frequently flooded areas and promoting the use of clean-energy vehicles and technologies to lower the sector's carbon footprint.

Beyond these technical and economic sectors, the plan also integrates climate change response strategies into the fields of culture, tourism, and healthcare.

VnEconomy-Minh Huy

]]>By prioritizing these industries, Vietnam aims to enhance its industrial self-reliance and sovereignty while strengthening its position in both domestic and global value chains. Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/semiconductors-rare-earths-proposed-as-vietnams-priority-industries.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/semiconductors-rare-earths-proposed-as-vietnams-priority-industries.htmGreen EconomyBy prioritizing these industries, Vietnam aims to enhance its industrial self-reliance and sovereignty while strengthening its position in both domestic and global value chains.

Alongside traditional sectors such as metallurgy, materials, railways, and automobiles, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has proposed adding semiconductors, high-tech electronics, offshore wind power, and strategic minerals including rare earths to the national list of "key industries."

This proposal is a central component of the draft Law on Key Industries, the dossier for which was published by the Ministry of Justice on July 21.

In this latest draft, the MoIT categorizes the following sectors as key industries:

Energy and energy equipment; Offshore wind power; Strategic minerals and rare earths; Metallurgy and materials science; Basic and high-tech chemicals; Mechanical engineering, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and marine engineering; Railways and the automotive industry; Semiconductors and high-tech electronics; Supporting industries; Environmental, recycling, and low-emission technology industries; and other key industries as determined by the Government.

The MoIT emphasized that these sectors represent pivotal manufacturing and production fields essential for the nation’s industrialization and modernization. By prioritizing these industries, Vietnam aims to enhance its industrial self-reliance and sovereignty while strengthening its position in both domestic and global value chains. Furthermore, these industries are deemed vital for ensuring national defense, economic and energy security, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

According to the MoIT, Vietnam is set to invest heavily in critical infrastructure in the coming years. This includes transport projects (high-speed rail, urban transit, and national railway networks), energy projects (offshore wind, small modular nuclear reactors, gas-to-power, and green hydrogen/ammonia production), and digital infrastructure.

The ministry noted that these projects play an exceptionally important role in national security and safety. Therefore, developing domestic production to master core technologies and manufacture essential equipment is a "key requirement" to ensure the security of national infrastructure.

Additionally, the development of these core industries is viewed as an urgent solution to meet localization and "rules of origin" requirements. This will help Vietnam mitigate risks in international trade, maintain and expand export markets, and prevent negative impacts on economic growth.

Finally, the MoIT highlighted that the global energy transition, digital transformation, and the rise of high-tech industries are intensifying global competition for strategic minerals, rare earths, and critical raw materials. Elevating these sectors to "key industry" status will allow Vietnam to better navigate this competitive global landscape.

VnEconomy-Đỗ Như

]]>The projected Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear power plants alone will require about 3,900 direct operational personnel by 2030, including 670 experts trained at universities abroad.Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-needs-tens-of-thousands-of-personnel-for-nuclear-energy-development.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-needs-tens-of-thousands-of-personnel-for-nuclear-energy-development.htmGreen EconomyThe projected Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear power plants alone will require about 3,900 direct operational personnel by 2030, including 670 experts trained at universities abroad.

To achieve its atomic energy and nuclear power development goals by 2035, Vietnam will require tens of thousands of personnel directly and indirectly involved in high-tech, science-intensive sectors.

Speaking at a recent workshop on "Orientation for Training, Capacity Building, and Human Resource Development in Atomic Energy for the 2026-2035 Period," Director General of the Vietnam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety (VARANS), Dr. Nguyen Hoang Linh, emphasized that workforce development has become increasingly urgent. This follows several resolutions and policies issued by the Party, the National Assembly, and the Government aimed at reviving and implementing the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project.

Under the "Strategy for Development and Application of Atomic Energy for Peaceful Purposes to 2035, with a Vision to 2050," nuclear power is expected to account for approximately 6-8% of the national electricity output. The plan includes four large-scale units and 10-15 Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

According to Dr. Linh, the projected Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear power plants alone will require about 3,900 direct operational personnel by 2030, including 670 experts trained at universities abroad.

Human resource demand is not limited to plant operations but spans various fields, including state management, regulatory bodies, nuclear safety and security, research and development (RD), technical support, training, nuclear medicine, radiation technology, radioactive waste management, emergency response, environmental monitoring, industry, and agriculture.

At the workshop, experts focused on assessing the current state of human resources and identifying specific needs for each sector and phase. They also proposed the establishment of competency frameworks, learning outcomes, specialized curricula, and mechanisms to develop a team of lecturers and experts.

One of the key proposed strategies is to concentrate resources on 5-6 core training institutions rather than spreading training across too many facilities. This approach aims to optimize costs and enhance institutional autonomy. Training centers are also encouraged to update their programs in accordance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines and develop advanced engineering programs.

Prof. Acad. Nguyen Quoc Sy from the Moscow Power Engineering Institute (MPEI) suggested a "joint faculty" model with foreign partners to create a shared training platform, develop faculty members, and strengthen academic exchange. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of balancing overseas training with building domestic capacity to mitigate the risk of "brain drain."

VnEconomy-Bạch Dương

]]>The event is held in Ho Chi Minh City as part of Startup Connection Day 2026, a series of activities designed to bridge the innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between startups, enterprises, experts, investors, and state management agencies.Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/smart-green-living-week-2026-showcases-sustainable-city-solutions.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/smart-green-living-week-2026-showcases-sustainable-city-solutions.htmGreen EconomyThe event is held in Ho Chi Minh City as part of Startup Connection Day 2026, a series of activities designed to bridge the innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between startups, enterprises, experts, investors, and state management agencies.

The Smart Green Living Week 2026 is taking place at the Saigon Innovation Hub (SIHUB) in Ho Chi Minh City from July 17 to 19, featuring more than 50 businesses, startups, and innovation projects.

The participants represent a wide array of sectors, including green materials, architecture, smart home technology, IoT, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), environmental technology, clean energy, and the circular economy.

The event is held as part of Startup Connection Day 2026, a series of activities designed to bridge the innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between startups, enterprises, experts, investors, and state management agencies.

Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology, Mr. Tran Trong Tuyen, emphasized that green urban development requires the active participation of all stakeholders within the startup and innovation ecosystem.

He noted that Smart Green Living Week was organized to create a dedicated space where startups, businesses, experts, investors, and regulators can connect, refine their solutions, and accelerate their practical application in real-world scenarios.

In addition to the exhibition area, the event features a series of seminars, business dialogues, and networking activities. These sessions serve as a forum for stakeholders to discuss the latest trends in green urban development, innovation, and sustainable growth. Topics include sustainable consumption trends and the integration of technology and green materials into architecture, landscaping, and modern living spaces.

During the event, experts also highlighted pressing challenges such as climate change, energy efficiency, emission reduction, urban management, and the need to improve quality of life. Addressing these issues, they argued, requires a strategic combination of advanced technology, new materials, data-driven insights, modern governance models, and innovative solutions that are ready for practical implementation.

VnEconomy-Minh Hà

]]>The southern city will promote the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and digital platforms into manufacturing, business operations, and supply chain management.Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-outlines-import-export-strategy-for-2026-2030.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-outlines-import-export-strategy-for-2026-2030.htmGreen EconomyThe southern city will promote the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and digital platforms into manufacturing, business operations, and supply chain management.

The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has issued an Action Plan to implement the city’s import-export strategy for the 2026-2030 period, aimed at maximizing trade advantages and driving sustainable socio-economic development.

Under this strategy, the city will focus on restructuring its export basket by increasing the proportion of high-tech products, supporting industry goods, and high-value-added items that meet international green standards.

In addition to consolidating traditional markets, the city plans to aggressively expand into high-potential niche markets, particularly those with a strong demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products. Trade promotion activities will be intensified and specialized by market group and industry, while efforts will be made to enhance the connectivity between local businesses and global distribution systems and supply chains.

Digital transformation has been identified as a primary driver of the city's trade strategy through 2030. Cross-border e-commerce is expected to become a vital channel, enabling businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—to reach global consumers directly.

Furthermore, the city will promote the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and digital platforms into manufacturing, business operations, and supply chain management.

A central theme of the 2026-2030 strategy is the "greening" of export production. HCM City aims to encourage businesses to transition toward energy-saving models and renewable energy sources, setting a target that at least 30% of the energy consumed by local export manufacturing plants will come from renewable sources by 2030.

The city will also provide support for enterprises to comply with international sustainability standards and mechanisms, including product traceability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and Halal certifications for specific markets.

Finally, the development of modern and green logistics infrastructure is highlighted as a key solution to reduce costs and enhance the competitiveness of export goods. The city will prioritize the synchronization of transport infrastructure, seaports, warehousing, and logistics centers to better serve import and export activities.

Vneconomy-Thiên Ân

]]>Vietnam has officially introduced a carbon exchange, marking a major step toward its net-zero goals and a market-driven approach to reducing emissions.Fri, 17 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-driving-force-for-green-transition.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-driving-force-for-green-transition.htmGreen EconomyVietnam has officially introduced a carbon exchange, marking a major step toward its net-zero goals and a market-driven approach to reducing emissions.

On June 29, the Ministry of Finance (MoF), in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), officially launched Vietnam’s domestic carbon exchange. Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Nguyen Anh Phong, Chairman of the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX), said the launch represents more than a technical milestone, as it links environmental responsibility with corporate economic interests while supporting the country’s long-term sustainable development.

Completing infrastructure

Known internationally as an Emissions Trading System (ETS), the carbon exchange is a mandatory market where greenhouse gas emission allowances and carbon offset credits are traded within a country.

According to the latest World Bank data, there are now 40 ETS markets worldwide, including Vietnam. As of April 1, the EU had the world’s highest carbon allowance price, at $85 per metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), followed by the UK at $55, New Zealand at $24, and China at $12.

The carbon market not only supports businesses in achieving Vietnam’s net-zero emissions by 2050 target, but also provides a mechanism for companies to optimize emission reduction costs through the trading of emission allowances and carbon credits. In doing so, it advances the government’s sustainable development agenda by protecting the environment without sacrificing economic growth.

Vietnam’s carbon exchange will trade two types of assets: greenhouse gas emission allowances and carbon credits. Emission allowances represent the maximum volume of greenhouse gases that regulated businesses are permitted to emit over a specified period. The government has allocated allowances for 2025-2026 to 110 facilities operating in the thermal power, steel, and cement industries. Companies exceeding their allocated limits will be required to purchase additional allowances from businesses with surplus quotas. Allowances are measured in tCO2e.

Carbon credits, meanwhile, are tradable certificates that grant the holder the right to emit one tCO2e or another greenhouse gas. Under current regulations, companies may use carbon credits to offset up to 30 per cent of their allocated emissions allowance.

For emission allowances, sellers are companies whose actual emissions fall below their allocated quotas. Carbon credits, meanwhile, are sold by developers of State-recognized carbon credit projects.

During the pilot phase, only greenhouse gas emission allowances, traded under the code VN2025, will be listed on the exchange. Ninety-two of the 110 companies that received emission quotas are participating in the initial trading phase. The pilot market will operate through 2028 before transitioning to full commercial operation in 2029. Trading service fees will be waived throughout the pilot period.

According to HNX, the exchange is part of Vietnam’s commitment made at COP26 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Under Decision No. 232/QD-TTg and Decree No. 29/2026/ND-CP, HNX has worked with the Vietnam Exchange (VNX), the State Securities Commission (SSC), the Department of Climate Change at the MAE, the Vietnam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation (VSDC), the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), and other stakeholders to establish the legal framework, operational regulations, and registration, trading, and settlement systems for the carbon market.

The information technology infrastructure connecting HNX, VSDC, the Department of Climate Change, and BIDV has been operating safely and reliably. Operational rules and procedures have also been completed. The market currently includes six qualified securities firms as founding members, alongside more than 100 regulated emitters covered by the government’s emissions allocation program. “All necessary conditions for launching Vietnam’s carbon exchange have now been fully established and are ready for operation,” Mr. Phong said.

Five priorities 

While the domestic carbon exchange is now operational, authorities say the next challenge is ensuring the market develops into a stable, transparent, efficient, and sustainable platform.

Ms. Vu Thi Chan Phuong, Chairwoman of the State Securities Commission, called on VNX, HNX, and VSDC to continue working closely with the MoF and MAE to implement five key priorities.

The first is ensuring the secure, stable, and uninterrupted operation of the trading, registration, custody, and settlement systems while maintaining cybersecurity and responding promptly to operational incidents.

Second, authorities will continue refining business procedures to make participation easier for securities firms, regulated emitters, and organizations trading carbon credits, ensuring market access remains transparent and efficient.

Third, regulators will strengthen market surveillance and strictly address violations, particularly market manipulation, fraud, and other abusive trading practices, to maintain a fair and healthy marketplace.

Fourth, government agencies will expand public communication efforts by providing timely and accurate market information, improving awareness among businesses and market participants, while combating misinformation that could undermine market confidence.

Finally, authorities will continue studying international best practices, strengthening the capacity of intermediaries, securities firms, and service providers, while further refining regulations to support the market’s long-term development and international integration.

The official launch of the carbon exchange is not only a significant milestone in completing Vietnam’s green economic framework, but also demonstrates the government’s commitment to building a transparent and efficient market that helps businesses adapt to the evolving requirements of international economic integration.”

Mr. Luong Hai Sinh, Chairman of VNX’s Members’ Council, said the exchange operators are committed to fully implementing their assigned responsibilities by ensuring the secure, transparent, and uninterrupted registration, trading, custody, and settlement of emission allowances and carbon credits in full compliance with Vietnamese law.

Going forward, the operators will continue coordinating closely with government agencies to refine operational procedures, strengthen market supervision, detect and address violations promptly, and expand training and public education programs, while recommending further policy improvements based on practical experience.

New opportunities for businesses

To encourage participation during the pilot phase through the end of 2028, the government has issued Decree No. 29/2026/ND-CP, exempting participating companies from exchange service fees.

“This is a meaningful policy that demonstrates the government’s support for the business community,” Ms. Phuong said. “It encourages companies to actively implement emission reduction measures, invest in new technologies, and pursue sustainable development. The official launch of the carbon exchange is not only an important milestone in Vietnam’s green economic development but also reflects the government’s determination to build a transparent and efficient market that helps businesses adapt to new international economic integration requirements.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, Dr. Nguyen Phuong Nam, Founder and CEO of climate advisory and services firm Klinova, said the exchange creates new momentum for Vietnam’s corporate green transition.

“Demand for carbon credits in Vietnam is growing rapidly, particularly among companies seeking to offset emissions that cannot be eliminated from manufacturing, business operations, or major events,” he said. “A domestic carbon exchange provides businesses with a trusted platform to purchase high-quality, transparent carbon credits to compensate for those emissions.”

However, during the pilot phase, only emission allowances, not carbon credits, will be traded on the exchange.

Dr. Nam nevertheless encouraged businesses to participate in the broader carbon credit market, noting that carbon credits serve as independent verification of a company’s environmental performance. “Green finance fundamentally depends on rigorous post-project verification,” he said. “If a project successfully generates carbon credits, it demonstrates that its environmental performance has already undergone substantial verification.”

He expressed hope that once emissions allowance trading among the initial 110 regulated companies is operating smoothly, the market will gradually expand to include businesses seeking to purchase carbon credits. “That would not only make Vietnam’s carbon market more active, accessible, and efficient, but also accelerate the green transition across the country’s economy while enhancing both corporate credibility and Vietnam’s international reputation,” he said. 

-Ngoc Lan

]]>By upgrading the Nhue River system, the capital city aims to ensure proactive drainage and prevent flooding in inner-city areas, while progressively finalizing its approved general construction and drainage master plans.Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-approves-a-28-bln-project-to-upgrade-dikes-and-clean-up-nhue-river.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-approves-a-28-bln-project-to-upgrade-dikes-and-clean-up-nhue-river.htmGreen EconomyBy upgrading the Nhue River system, the capital city aims to ensure proactive drainage and prevent flooding in inner-city areas, while progressively finalizing its approved general construction and drainage master plans.

The Hanoi People's Council has officially passed resolutions to approve the adjustment of the investment policy for the Yen Xa Wastewater Treatment System, with a total budget exceeding VND11.196 trillion (nearly $456 million), alongside a massive project to strengthen dikes, dredge, and treat environmental pollution in the Nhue River, valued at VND75.115 trillion (approximately $2.86 billion). The Nhue River project will be executed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under a Build-Transfer (BT) contract.

The primary objective of this investment is to resolve critical "bottlenecks" identified in Resolution No. 02-NQ/TU of the Hanoi Party Committee, dated January 25, 2025, which include traffic congestion, flooding, environmental pollution, and systemic violations in land and construction management.

By upgrading the Nhue River system, the city aims to ensure proactive drainage and prevent flooding in inner-city areas, while progressively finalizing the city’s approved general construction and drainage master plans.

A central focus of the project is to mitigate the severe water pollution caused by domestic wastewater being discharged directly into the river. The project seeks to complete a centralized wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure, ensuring operational safety and enhancing the city's resilience against climate change.

Beyond environmental remediation, these efforts are expected to create favorable conditions for agricultural production, improve the quality of life for local residents, and drive regional socio-economic development.

Encompassing 19 communes and wards, including Thuong Cat, Dong Ngac, Phu Dien, Xuan Phuong, Tu Liem, Tay Mo, Dai Mo, Ha Dong, Kien Hung, Dai Thanh, Binh Minh, Ngoc Hoi, Tam Hung, Thuong Tin, Thuong Phuc, Dan Hoa, Phuong Duc, Chuyen My, and Ung Hoa, the project is scheduled for implementation between 2026 and 2029.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Phong

]]>Key infrastructure goals include completing procedures for two new industrial parks in 2026 and ensuring at least five industrial parks are operational by 2030, with an average occupancy rate of approximately 70%.Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/chu-lai-open-ez-aims-to-attract-5-bln-in-investment-for-2026-2030.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/chu-lai-open-ez-aims-to-attract-5-bln-in-investment-for-2026-2030.htmGreen EconomyKey infrastructure goals include completing procedures for two new industrial parks in 2026 and ensuring at least five industrial parks are operational by 2030, with an average occupancy rate of approximately 70%.

The Management Board of the Chu Lai Open Economic Zone (OEZ) in central Da Nặng city has set a target to attract $800 million in new investment capital in 2026, reaching a total of $5 billion for the entire 2026-2030 phase, according to a report by Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

Key infrastructure goals include completing procedures for two new industrial parks in 2026 and ensuring at least five industrial parks are operational by 2030, with an average occupancy rate of approximately 70%.

In 2026, the zone strives to finalize all procedures to break ground on the Cua Lo Channel and the Chu Lai Urban Area projects. Furthermore, the Management Board aims to kickstart a major gas-to-power project chain in 2027 and commence construction on urban areas in Tam Ky, Southeast Thang Binh, and Tam Anh between 2026 and 2030.

To realize these goals, the Management Board is committed to intensifying investment promotion, innovating planning processes, developing infrastructure, and accelerating land clearance.

As Vietnam’s first coastal economic zone, Chu Lai OEZ has attracted 265 projects with a total registered capital of over VND165 trillion (approximately $6.3 billion), comprising 200 domestic projects and 65 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects.

-

]]>Notably, to obtain approval for a nuclear power plant site, the project investor must satisfy specific site-related requirements.Tue, 14 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-list-of-12-new-radiation-and-nuclear-safety-procedures-introduced.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/a-list-of-12-new-radiation-and-nuclear-safety-procedures-introduced.htmGreen EconomyNotably, to obtain approval for a nuclear power plant site, the project investor must satisfy specific site-related requirements.

A list of  12 newly established central-level administrative procedures in the field of radiation and nuclear safety to be approved or issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology has been announced.

The list includes: (1) Approval of nuclear power plant sites; (2) Issuance of construction licenses for nuclear power plants; (3) Approval of trial operation programs for nuclear power plant units; (4) Issuance of trial operation licenses for nuclear power plant units; (5) Issuance of operation licenses for nuclear power plants; (6) Issuance of licenses to terminate the operation (decommissioning) of nuclear power plants; (7) Approval of research reactor sites; (8) Issuance of construction licenses for research reactors; (9) Approval of trial operation programs for research reactors; (10) Issuance of trial operation licenses for research reactors; (11) Issuance of operation licenses for research reactors; and (12) Issuance of licenses to terminate the operation (decommissioning) of research reactors.

Notably, to obtain approval for a nuclear power plant site, the project investor must satisfy following specific site-related requirements:

First, the selection of a nuclear power plant site must comply with national technical regulations. In the absence of such regulations, national standards, foreign standards, foreign technical regulations, or international standards proposed by the project partner may be applied. However, these must ensure suitability with Vietnam’s conditions and comply with the standards and guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding radiation safety, nuclear safety, and nuclear security.

Second, a nuclear power plant site shall only be approved when it simultaneously meets the following basic requirements: Consistency with national, regional, and provincial planning, as well as relevant technical and specialized planning; Ensuring the safety of local residents and environmental protection; Ensuring national defense and the security of the nuclear power plant, consistent with national security and social order and safety requirements; and Ensuring the feasibility of radiation and nuclear emergency response plans to mitigate consequences in the event of an incident.

Third, the survey and assessment of the nuclear power plant site must fully consider the following factors: natural and man-made conditions that could affect the safety of the plant; site and environmental characteristics related to the risk of radioactive dispersion; population density, distribution, and the capability for radiation and nuclear emergency response. Simultaneously, it must assess national defense, security, and safety factors, including the risks of unauthorized entry, sabotage, terrorism, and security conditions throughout the plant's entire lifecycle.

Fourth, a site is only determined suitable for a nuclear power plant when there are no exclusionary factors, when adverse factors have feasible mitigation solutions, and when emergency response plans are effective. The assessment must be based on scientific data and methods, considering plant characteristics, the risk of radioactive emissions, cooling water supply capacity, extreme environmental conditions, and factors ensuring the safe and continuous operation of the plant.

Fifth, exclusionary factors for a site include: the presence of active faults in the vicinity of the site; and potential ground motion caused by earthquakes that poses a danger to the nuclear power plant for which no technical solutions exist.

Sixth, adverse factors that must be assessed and provided with demonstrated mitigation measures.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

]]>During a working session with Ms. Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vietnamese Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan outlined three core priority directions for the joint action plan between the two sides.Sat, 11 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/mst-and-iaea-boost-strategic-nuclear-tech-cooperation.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/mst-and-iaea-boost-strategic-nuclear-tech-cooperation.htmGreen EconomyDuring a working session with Ms. Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vietnamese Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan outlined three core priority directions for the joint action plan between the two sides.

Vietnam prioritizes the development of nuclear science and technology, viewing it as a vital component of the national energy structure.

This was affirmed by the Minister of Science and Technology, Vu Hai Quan, during a working session in Hanoi with Ms. Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on July 9.

The Minister outlined three core priority directions for the joint action plan between the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST) and the IAEA: Training and developing a leadership team and a successor workforce; Establishing a system of technical standards and regulations for nuclear safety and security; and Promoting research activities to gradually master strategic technologies in the nuclear field.

For her part, Ms. Mokhtar described Vietnam as a model member state for its effective cooperation with the IAEA across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and radiation safety. The IAEA representative expressed a commitment to accompanying and supporting Vietnam in building professional capacity, building upon the foundation of a sustainable 50-year partnership.

During a separate working session the same day between the Vietnam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety (VARANS) and the IAEA delegation, Mr. Nguyen Hoang Linh, VARANS Director General, expressed his hope that the IAEA would continue to assist Vietnam in accessing international standards, global expertise, and technical support. Key areas include nuclear infrastructure development, human resource training, and enhancing regulatory capacity to ensure nuclear safety and security.

Specifically, VARANS requested IAEA support in developing human resources and training experts and management staff in radiation safety and atomic energy; perfecting legal and regulatory frameworks; strengthening regulatory capacity for nuclear safety, security, and radiation protection; implementing major projects, such as the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant and the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST); and developing advanced nuclear techniques in medicine.

Ms. Mokhtar reaffirmed the IAEA's readiness to support Vietnam and VARANS in ensuring safety and security for atomic energy applications for peaceful purposes. Furthermore, she encouraged Vietnam to participate more actively in IAEA flagship initiatives, such as ZODIAC (Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action), NUTEC Plastics, Atoms4Food, and Rays of Hope, as well as technical cooperation programs focusing on future priority areas.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

]]>The northern province is expected to become a key growth pole and a major development engine for the Hanoi Metropolitan Region and the Red River Delta.Sat, 11 Jul 2026 07:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/urban-development-strategy-for-bac-ninh-through-2050-vision-to-2075-to-be-planned.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/urban-development-strategy-for-bac-ninh-through-2050-vision-to-2075-to-be-planned.htmGreen EconomyThe northern province is expected to become a key growth pole and a major development engine for the Hanoi Metropolitan Region and the Red River Delta.

has signed

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 1242/QD-TTg, signed recently by Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc,  the planning tasks for the general urban development of northern Bac Ninh province until 2050, with a vision toward 2075, has been approved.

The primary objective is to concretize the strategy to transform Bac Ninh, which shares a border with Hanoi,  into a centrally-governed city. This includes organizing urban spaces, distributing population, and ensuring rational land use to develop Bac Ninh into a model green, smart, modern, and civilized city.

Furthermore, economic growth will be closely integrated with environmental protection, utilizing science, technology, and innovation as the main drivers for development. The plan also emphasizes a balanced and harmonious urban-rural system across all regions of the province.

According to the decision, Bac Ninh is expected to become a key growth pole and a major development engine for the Hanoi Metropolitan Region and the Red River Delta. The city will be developed as a green, smart, and modern urban center. It will also serve as a vital transportation hub and a multimodal logistics center connecting domestic and international economic corridors.

The planning tasks also outline the development of administrative centers, as well as hubs for training, healthcare, culture, sports, and innovation. It identifies the establishment of modern logistics centers and Inland Container Depots (ICDs) linked to major transport nodes and the Gia Binh International Airport.

Additionally, the plan focuses on expanding the network of industrial parks, high-tech zones, Research and Development (RD) centers, and industries specialized in electronics, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence (AI). The strategy also proposes the study of a "nuclear" urban area and a new, synchronized political-administrative-economic complex to coordinate development, infrastructure connectivity, public services, and key economic spaces.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

]]>The southern city encourages businesses to invest in high-efficiency equipment, phase out obsolete technologies, and develop renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar, green hydrogen, green ammonia, biogas, and energy storage systems. Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:10:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-rolls-out-energy-efficiency-program-for-2026-2030-period.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-rolls-out-energy-efficiency-program-for-2026-2030-period.htmGreen EconomyThe southern city encourages businesses to invest in high-efficiency equipment, phase out obsolete technologies, and develop renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar, green hydrogen, green ammonia, biogas, and energy storage systems.

Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has issued an implementation plan for 2026-2030 national energy efficiency program, which sets a target to reduce total energy consumption by 8% to 10% by 2030 compared to the Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario.

It also aims to decrease energy intensity per unit of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) by 1% to 1.5% annually. These efforts are expected to drive the energy transition and support the realization of Vietnam's Net Zero emissions goal by 2050.

Under the plan, the city will deploy comprehensive solutions to enhance energy efficiency across high-consumption sectors, including industry, agriculture, construction, transportation, public lighting, services, and households.

For the public sector, 100% of newly invested or renovated public lighting projects must adopt energy-saving solutions. Additionally, all major energy-using facilities are required to implement energy management systems in accordance with regulations.

To achieve these objectives, the city will review and refine mechanisms and policies regarding energy efficiency, promote digital transformation in energy management, and encourage businesses to innovate technology. The city also aims to foster advanced energy management models and develop energy-saving services based on the ESCO (Energy Service Company) model.

Furthermore, the city encourages businesses to invest in high-efficiency equipment, phase out obsolete technologies, and develop renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar, green hydrogen, green ammonia, biogas, and energy storage systems. Administrative agencies are specifically directed to develop rooftop solar power to improve energy efficiency within the public sector.

In the industrial sector, manufacturing facilities are required to develop annual energy-use plans, modernize production lines, replace high-energy-consuming equipment, and apply advanced production management processes to reduce energy consumption throughout the production cycle.

Regarding construction and urban development, the city will promote the use of energy-saving building materials, high-efficiency equipment, and automated control systems. Furthermore, 100% of new or renovated public lighting systems must utilize energy-saving technology, with an emphasis on expanding LED lighting and automated operations.

In the transportation sector, the roadmap focuses on developing infrastructure for charging stations and green energy supply. It also encourages the transition to electric vehicles and clean fuels, aims to increase the share of public passenger transport, and strengthens connectivity between transport modes to reduce overall energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Vneconomy-Anh Khuê

]]>PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their superior resistance to water, oil, stains, and heat.Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/northern-europe-tightens-pfas-regulations-vietnams-textile-and-footwear-industries-face-transition.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/northern-europe-tightens-pfas-regulations-vietnams-textile-and-footwear-industries-face-transition.htmGreen EconomyPFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their superior resistance to water, oil, stains, and heat.

Regulations governing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as "forever chemicals," in consumer goods—particularly textiles, footwear, waterproof materials, and products featuring water, oil, and stain resistance—are undergoing rapid tightening across Europe.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden (covering Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and Latvia), Denmark and Sweden are spearheading efforts to restrict PFAS. These countries are moving toward managing the entire group of chemicals as a whole, rather than regulating individual substances one by one.

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their superior resistance to water, oil, stains, and heat. In the textile and footwear industries, these substances are commonly found in waterproof fabrics, outdoor jackets, rainwear, footwear, handbags, synthetic leather, and various surface-finishing solutions.

The European Commission (EC) has determined that PFAS are highly persistent in the environment, spreading through water, soil, air, food, and waste. Furthermore, they pose long-term risks to both human health and ecosystems. For these reasons, the EC is moving toward a roadmap for a broad-based ban.

The Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden emphasizes that Vietnamese enterprises must pay immediate attention to specific timelines. The period between now and January 1, 2027, is strictly a window for distributors in Denmark to clear existing inventory imported before July 1, 2026. After the January 1, 2027 deadline, any trade of products containing PFAS exceeding the allowable threshold will be completely prohibited in Denmark.

The Trade Office warned that this is absolutely not an extension for Vietnamese businesses to continue exporting PFAS-containing goods to this market. Consequently, manufacturers must work immediately with Danish partners to clarify the status of shipments, determine testing responsibilities, and establish mechanisms for returns or buy-backs following the transition period.

Sweden is also an active proponent of PFAS restrictions at the EU level. The Swedish Chemicals Agency stated that its goal is to minimize and eventually phase out the use of PFAS, permitting them only in essential cases where no alternatives exist. Businesses are strongly recommended to proactively eliminate these chemicals by consulting the PRIO database—which lists nearly 11,000 PFAS substances—to prevent regulatory risks.

Comprehensive response strategies

To adapt to these new regulations, the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden recommends that Vietnamese enterprises in the textile, footwear, handbag, and accessory sectors promptly implement the following practical measures.

Businesses must categorize high-risk items, particularly those featuring "waterproof," "oil-resistant," "stain-resistant," or "weatherproof" functionalities.

It is necessary to shift to alternative technologies and require raw material suppliers to provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), formal non-PFAS commitments, and transparent laboratory test results, rather than relying solely on verbal assurances.

Businesses should explicitly incorporate clauses regarding chemical compliance. These should specify compensation liabilities, return rights, and protocols for handling shipments in the event of sudden policy changes in the importing country.

"Green" claims such as "PFC-free," "PFAS-free," or "free from harmful chemicals" must only be used when backed by comprehensive scientific evidence. Misleading advertising can lead to severe consequences, including the seizure of goods and the total destruction of brand reputation in international markets.

Vneconomy-Song Hà

]]>A strengthening El Ni#241;o weather pattern would raise temperatures, reduce rainfall, and test Vietnam’s resilience over the remainder of this year and into next. Fri, 10 Jul 2026 01:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-climate-resilience-under-test.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-climate-resilience-under-test.htmGreen EconomyA strengthening El Niño weather pattern would raise temperatures, reduce rainfall, and test Vietnam’s resilience over the remainder of this year and into next.

Meteorological agencies are warning that the El Niño climate phenomenon has officially formed over the central equatorial Pacific and is expected to strengthen significantly in the months to come, raising concerns over prolonged heat, drought, water shortages, and disruptions to agricultural production in Vietnam and beyond.

Major international climate centers, including the Tokyo Climate Center (TCC), the Climate Prediction Center of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (CPC-NOAA), and the Asia-Pacific Climate Center (APCC), have all forecast a continued strengthening of El Niño conditions. Their forecasts point to reduced rainfall and above-average temperatures across many regions.

The United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO) estimates the probability of El Niño developing between June and August at around 80 per cent and has warned that the phenomenon could intensify extreme weather events and trigger unusual rainfall patterns worldwide.

According to Ms. Dang Thanh Mai, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the 2026 El Niño weather pattern has developed more rapidly than many previous cycles.

Strong El Niño risk rises

Observation data show that sea surface temperature anomalies in the Nino 3.4 region - a specific area of the equatorial Pacific Ocean used by meteorologists to monitor and define the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle - reached the El Niño threshold of +0.5°C in May and rose further, to approximately +0.7°C, in early June, confirming the event’s formation.

Experts say the transition from neutral conditions to El Niño has occurred unusually quickly, reflecting rapid warming in the central Pacific and favorable ocean-atmosphere interactions that could fuel further intensification.

Climate models from both domestic and international forecasting centers suggest El Niño will persist through the remainder of 2026, strengthen toward the end of the year, and potentially continue into early 2027. The probability of a very strong El Niño is currently estimated at 60-65 per cent.

Meteorologists note that current conditions resemble those seen during the 2023 El Niño and could ultimately reach a strength comparable to the 2015-2016 event, which was one of the most powerful El Niño episodes recorded since 1950.

If that scenario materializes, Vietnam could face significantly higher temperatures, fewer cold-air outbreaks, and widespread rainfall deficits. Central Vietnam, the central highlands, and the southern region are expected to be particularly vulnerable to drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion during late 2026 and early 2027.

“Though the El Niño weather pattern often brings fewer storms and tropical depressions affecting Vietnam, very powerful storms can still occur and cause severe damage,” Ms. Mai cautioned. “We cannot afford to be complacent about natural disaster risks.”

Mr. Mai Van Khiem, Director General of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, said authorities have been monitoring El Niño developments since the beginning of the year and continually update forecasts to support government agencies and local authorities.

Notably, the probability of a strong El Niño weather pattern has increased rapidly in recent forecasts. The likelihood was estimated at only 20 per cent in April, then rose to 37 per cent in May and reached 60-65 per cent in June. “The current trend suggests a very high probability of a strong El Niño event, potentially comparable to 2015-2016 or even stronger,” Mr. Khiem said.

The growing risk has attracted international attention. Earlier this month, the United Nations Secretary-General urged countries to prepare response plans to mitigate the impacts of the climate phenomenon.

Lessons from past events

Meteorologists point to the 2015-2016 El Niño event as a reminder of the challenges Vietnam could face. That weather pattern brought prolonged and intense heatwaves throughout the country. In central Vietnam, record-breaking heat persisted for weeks, with the longest heatwave lasting 32 days along the south-central coast, 36 days in the central region, and 39 days along the north-central coast.

Temperatures in north-central Vietnam frequently reached 39-41°C, with a peak of 42.7°C recorded in Con Cuong district of Nghe An province in May 2015.

At the same time, severe rainfall deficits triggered widespread drought conditions. River flows in central and southern Vietnam declined sharply, while saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta advanced deep inland, affecting agricultural production and local livelihoods. Storm activity also declined significantly. Only five storms and two tropical depressions were recorded in the East Sea in 2015, or roughly half the long-term average.

Experts believe the most concerning impacts of El Niño in Vietnam typically include prolonged heat, reduced rainfall, drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion. Current forecasts suggest temperatures nationwide during the second half of 2026 could be 0.5-1.5°C above average, with temperatures during the October-December period potentially exceeding normal levels by 1-2°C. Northern and central Vietnam are expected to experience more frequent heatwaves than usual, with the possibility of new temperature records being set.

Rainfall deficits of 25-50 per cent are also forecast for many regions, particularly the south-central coast, central highlands, and southern provinces. Such conditions could increase the risk of localized or widespread drought, especially in areas with high water demand for agriculture and daily consumption.

Despite the overall decline in rainfall associated with El Niño, experts caution that extreme rainfall events can still occur and may even establish new short-term precipitation records. According to Mr. Khiem, while the number of storms and tropical depressions may fall, other extreme weather events, including urban flooding, landslides in mountainous areas, and flash floods, remain possible.

Economic risks and opportunities

Beyond the weather impact, authorities are increasingly focused on the implications of El Niño for economic growth, agricultural production, and global supply chains.

The Hydrometeorology Administration noted that lessons from the 2019-2020 drought and saltwater intrusion event demonstrated the value of early forecasting and proactive adjustments to agricultural production schedules, which helped reduce losses significantly.

Vietnam’s meteorological authorities are now working with international organizations and foreign weather agencies to assess the broader economic implications of El Niño, including potential disruptions to global supply chains.

Mr. Khiem noted that the weather pattern is expected to affect many countries across Asia and Africa, increasing drought risks and reducing water availability for agriculture. Several major agricultural producers, including Thailand, have already begun implementing response measures, such as increasing water storage within Mekong River basin systems.

Recognizing the broader economic implications, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh recently emphasized the need to identify the specific impacts of El Niño on each economic sector as part of Vietnam’s efforts to sustain double-digit growth.

He called on meteorological authorities to explore climate-economic impact models capable of quantifying the effects of El Niño on economic growth, water security, agricultural production, and social welfare. Such assessments could help the government develop sector-specific adaptation plans and launch coordinated inter-ministerial programs aimed at reducing risks while taking advantage of opportunities arising from climate-related market shifts.

Over the longer term, authorities are seeking to establish an early-warning system that assesses not only weather risks but also the socio-economic impacts of major climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña. The initiative is expected to strengthen climate-risk management, support sustainable development, and lay the foundation for climate-information services around Vietnam.

While El Niño poses significant challenges, officials note that it could also create opportunities. If drought conditions reduce agricultural output in major producing countries, global prices for commodities such as rice and coffee could rise, potentially benefiting countries capable of maintaining stable production.

To capitalize on such opportunities while minimizing any risks, authorities are focusing on measures to strengthen water security, improve irrigation management, adjust agricultural production structures, safeguard energy supplies, and enhance the economy’s resilience to drought and water shortages. 

-Hang Anh

]]>A newly-issued plan sets a clear objective: science, technology, and innovation must contribute directly to increasing productivity, quality, added value, and the sector#39;s overall competitiveness. Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/ministry-prioritizes-high-impact-technologies-for-green-growth-and-climate-adaptation.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/ministry-prioritizes-high-impact-technologies-for-green-growth-and-climate-adaptation.htmGreen EconomyA newly-issued plan sets a clear objective: science, technology, and innovation must contribute directly to increasing productivity, quality, added value, and the sector's overall competitiveness.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has officially issued its Science, Technology, and Innovation Plan for the 2026-2030 period.

The plan identifies these fields as the primary drivers for shifting the sector’s growth model toward a green, ecological, low-emission, and circular economy, supported by digital transformation.

The plan sets a clear objective: science, technology, and innovation must contribute directly to increasing productivity, quality, added value, and the sector's overall competitiveness. Simultaneously, these advancements will modernize resource management, environmental protection, and the development of ecological agriculture.

Accordingly, by 2030, the ministry aims for Total Factor Productivity (TFP) to contribute over 55% to the sector's growth. Non-budgetary resources for science and innovation are expected to account for 30-35% of the total funding for projects with commercial potential.

Furthermore, the ministry plans to train approximately 150 core experts and scientists, alongside 1,300 personnel specialized in innovation, digital transformation, intellectual property (IP) management, and research commercialization.

The plan also forecasts a 10% average annual increase in international scientific publications and a 16-18% yearly rise in IP applications and protection titles. At least 30% of all research results are expected to be applied, transferred, or utilized in state management.

A notable goal is the establishment of at least five innovation centers and providing support to at least 50 businesses in accessing new technologies, industry standards, and IP policies.

The portfolio of scientific and technological tasks will be restructured to be more focused and strategic, moving away from fragmented projects. Priority will be given to interdisciplinary and inter-regional programs with high spillover effects. These will directly serve objectives such as green growth, low emissions, food and water security, and climate change adaptation.

A key highlight of the plan is the development of digital infrastructure, data ecosystems, and shared platforms, including core databases, digital maps, and digital twins. Cutting-edge technologies—such as AI, Big Data, blockchain, and cloud computing—will be integrated into state management and public services.

Additionally, the ministry will pilot a "State-led budget, societal co-investment" model. Under this initiative, the State will provide the foundation by investing in digital infrastructure and core databases, while the private sector is encouraged to invest in equipment, technology, and application platforms.

Vneconomy-Hằng Anh

]]>Lessons from cities across the globe show how TOD offers relief from a host of ills by creating quality living areas surrounding public transit. Thu, 09 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transit-oriented-development-a-new-urban-development-mode.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transit-oriented-development-a-new-urban-development-mode.htmGreen EconomyLessons from cities across the globe show how TOD offers relief from a host of ills by creating quality living areas surrounding public transit.

In many of the world’s leading cities, public transportation is no longer viewed simply as infrastructure for moving people. Instead, urban rail networks and transit stations have become the foundation of a new urban development model: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Increasingly adopted from Asia to North America, TOD is emerging as one of the defining urban planning strategies of the 21st century.

More than simply building metro lines, TOD integrates transportation, land use, housing, and economic development into a single long-term strategy. As cities grapple with congestion, housing shortages, carbon emissions, and rapid urbanization, the model is gaining recognition as a way to address multiple challenges simultaneously.

From concept to strategy

The World Bank defines TOD as an urban planning approach that maximizes access to public transportation by encouraging higher-density, mixed-use, and pedestrian-friendly development around transit stations.

Unlike traditional planning, where transportation follows urban growth, TOD places transit at the center of the development process.

Urban planners often assess TOD through what is known as the “3V” framework: Node Value, or the strength of a station’s transportation connections; Place Value, which reflects the quality and intensity of development surrounding the station; and Market Value, which measures the economic and real estate value generated by improved accessibility. Together, these three elements determine whether a transit station functions simply as transport infrastructure or as a catalyst for urban development.

These three elements reinforce one another. A well-connected station without surrounding economic activity generates limited value, while a thriving commercial district without efficient transit cannot sustain long-term growth.

This explains why simply building metro lines does not automatically create successful TOD. Around the world, some cities have invested billions of dollars in urban rail only to experience disappointing ridership because land use remained unchanged and development failed to concentrate around stations.

Successful TOD projects treat metro systems as only one component of a much broader urban transformation. The real objective is creating vibrant districts where people can live, work, shop, and access public services within walking distance of transit.

Three global models

Though Hong Kong (China), Tokyo, and Singapore are widely regarded as the world’s leading examples of successful TOD, each has pursued a different strategy.

Hong Kong (China): Financing Transit Through Land Value

Hong Kong (China)’s success is built on the MTR Corporation’s renowned “Rail + Property” model. Instead of relying primarily on government subsidies, MTR is allowed to develop residential, office, retail, and mixed-use projects on land surrounding metro stations. As new rail lines increase nearby property values, part of that value is captured and reinvested into expanding the transit network.

The result is a self-reinforcing cycle in which transportation infrastructure creates land value, while land value finances transportation infrastructure. Many MTR stations have evolved into major commercial and residential hubs rather than simple transit stops, making Hong Kong (China) a global benchmark for land value capture.

Tokyo: Rail Companies That Build Communities

Tokyo demonstrates a different model, driven largely by private railway companies. For more than a century, operators such as the Tokyu Corporation and Seibu Holdings have developed housing, shopping centers, schools, hospitals, and business districts alongside their rail networks.

Stations function as community centers where residents can work, shop, study, and access essential services without relying on automobiles. This integrated approach has created a network of connected urban centers across the Tokyo metropolitan region while supporting one of the world’s highest public transit ridership rates.

Tokyo shows how rail systems can shape the growth of an entire metropolitan area when transportation and land development are planned together.

Singapore: TOD as National Policy

Singapore has embedded TOD into its national planning strategy from the beginning. Because land is scarce, transportation and land-use planning have always been developed together. The MRT network serves as the backbone of the country’s urban structure, with residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, industrial areas, schools, and hospitals planned around transit accessibility.

Singapore also discourages private vehicle ownership through measures including electronic road pricing and high vehicle registration costs. A defining feature of its model is the integration of public housing with transit. Most Housing Development Board estates are located near MRT stations or connected by feeder bus services, allowing public transportation to support both economic growth and social inclusion.

While Hong Kong (China), Tokyo, and Singapore employ different approaches, they share one fundamental principle: transportation, land development, and urban planning are integrated under a long-term vision.

Challenges in TOD

Despite its many benefits, TOD is not without its drawbacks. Vancouver in Canada offers one of North America’s strongest examples of successful transit-oriented planning. Over the past three decades, the metropolitan region has expanded its SkyTrain network while encouraging higher-density development around stations. The strategy has helped reduce car dependence, limit urban sprawl, and create a series of vibrant urban centers.

According to the OECD, Vancouver’s success stems from coordinating transportation investment with land-use planning across the metropolitan region rather than treating them as separate policies.

However, the city also highlights one of TOD’s greatest challenges. Improved transit accessibility has significantly increased property values around stations, making many formerly middle-income neighborhoods among Canada’s most expensive housing markets. Without complementary housing policies, better transit can unintentionally reduce housing affordability and push lower-income residents farther from areas with the best transportation access. TOD can also accelerate gentrification as redevelopment attracts higher-income residents while displacing existing communities.

Another challenge is time. Building successful transit-oriented communities typically requires decades of consistent planning and investment. Many of today’s best-known TOD districts evolved over a period of 20-40 years before reaching maturity.

These experiences demonstrate that TOD is not measured by the number of stations or kilometers of rail constructed. Success depends on coordinating transportation, land use, housing, and economic development over the long term.

Lessons  for growing cities

For rapidly-urbanizing economies, TOD represents more than a transportation strategy, it offers a new model for sustainable urban growth. International experience suggests five key lessons.

First, TOD should begin with urban planning rather than transportation projects. Transit should shape how cities grow, not simply accommodate future demand.

Second, stations should become destinations in their own right. Their greatest value lies in attracting residents, businesses, jobs, and public services - not simply moving passengers.

Third, governments should establish mechanisms to capture rising land values generated by new transit infrastructure. Hong Kong (China) demonstrates that these revenues can become an important source of long-term infrastructure financing.

Fourth, transportation and housing policies must be developed together. Without affordable housing, TOD risks widening social inequality instead of creating inclusive communities.

Finally, TOD should be viewed as a long-term strategy rather than a construction project. Transforming cities requires sustained planning, investment, governance, and policy continuity over several decades.

As Asian economies invest heavily in new metro and urban rail networks, TOD is increasingly being recognized as an economic development strategy rather than simply a transportation solution.

Ultimately, the cities that thrive in the 21st century will not necessarily be those that build the most kilometers of metro lines. They will be those that successfully transform transit networks into engines of urban renewal, higher living standards, and long-term economic growth. 

-TRONG THOAN

]]>Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang made these remarks at the quot;World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026quot; on July 8.Thu, 09 Jul 2026 01:40:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/deputy-pm-businesses-are-the-decisive-driver-of-net-zero-success.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/deputy-pm-businesses-are-the-decisive-driver-of-net-zero-success.htmGreen EconomyDeputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang made these remarks at the "World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026" on July 8.

The business community is the pivotal force determining the success or failure of the nation’s sustainable energy transition, stated Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang.

He made these remarks at the "World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026," themed "Vietnam's Pathway to Net Zero," held in Hanoi on July 8 by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).

Emphasizing that climate change is the greatest global challenge facing humanity, with far-reaching impacts on every aspect of life, Mr. Thang noted that as a highly open economy experiencing rapid growth and high energy demand, Vietnam is among the countries most visibly affected by these shifts.

The Deputy PM reiterated the consistent stance of the Party and State: economic growth must go hand-in-hand with sustainable development, social progress, and equity. He underscored that the government remains resolute in its refusal to trade environmental integrity for economic expansion.

He further noted that emission reduction targets have been institutionalized through key policy frameworks, including Politburo Resolution No. 70-NQ/TW on national energy security through 2030, with a vision to 2045, and National Assembly Resolution No. 253/2025/QH15 regarding national energy development policies for the 2026-2030 period.

Currently, the Government is focused on drafting and finalizing a new Resolution that will continue to place environmental protection, green transition, and energy transition at the core of the nation's development strategy.

Four decisive orientations

To ensure the energy transition becomes the core of the Net Zero roadmap, Deputy PM Thang emphasized four decisive guiding orientations:

First, implementing a phased, effective, and stable energy transition. The Government will focus on perfecting mechanisms, diversifying supply sources, investing in transmission and storage infrastructure, and encouraging private sector participation.

"We will not abruptly eliminate traditional energy sources. Instead, we must use them more efficiently, applying new technologies to strictly control emissions and gradually reducing their share according to a set roadmap," said Mr. Thang.

"The transition process must simultaneously satisfy three requirements: ensuring sufficient energy for growth, reducing emissions as committed, and guaranteeing a just transition for workers, businesses, and localities."

Second, resolutely adhering to the principle of not sacrificing the environment for growth. Greenhouse gas reduction must be harmonized with the innovation of growth models. This includes elevating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards for Vietnamese goods within global supply chains.

Third, establishing green finance and the carbon market as core pillars. The Government identifies green finance as a vital driver for mobilizing both international and domestic resources.

Vietnam will continue to refine its legal framework, integrate environmental standards into budget management, develop green capital markets (green bonds, green credit), and apply preferential tax policies for green projects. Simultaneously, the country will finalize the domestic carbon trading platform to create a transparent and effective carbon pricing mechanism.

Fourth, leveraging the pivotal role of the business community and local authorities. Enterprises from all economic sectors are the decisive force behind the success of the Net Zero journey. Localities must take the lead in planning, improving the investment environment, and cutting administrative red tape to create the best possible conditions for green projects.

From commitment to action

With a resolute spirit of "moving from commitment to action," Deputy PM Thang assigned specific tasks to each ministry, agency, and organization.

He emphasized that the business community must view green transformation and ESG governance as both a survival strategy and an opportunity to enhance competitiveness. Businesses are encouraged to review their technologies, conduct emissions inventories, ensure transparency in environmental data, and actively participate in the carbon market.

On the occasion, the Deputy PM called on the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), international environmental and sustainable development organizations, and developed nations to provide more practical support programs to help Vietnam and its businesses achieve emission reduction targets on schedule.

Speaking at the forum, Vice President of VCCI and Chairman of the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD), Mr. Nguyen Quang Vinh, stated that Net Zero is no longer a distant concept but has officially become a new standard of national and corporate competitiveness.

"For Vietnam, realizing Net Zero goals is not just about fulfilling an international commitment; it is an optimal strategic choice to improve the quality of growth, firmly consolidate energy security, and increase the resilience of the entire economy against external shocks," said Mr. Vinh. He also clearly positioned the role of the private sector, declaring that the business community is the vanguard force in transforming sustainable development goals into concrete actions.

Vneconomy-Song Hà

]]>The nationwide adoption of E5 and E10 blended gasoline has proceeded smoothly though significant obstacles in production capacity, feedstock availability, and financing remain. Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/benefits-from-biofuels.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/benefits-from-biofuels.htmGreen EconomyThe nationwide adoption of E5 and E10 blended gasoline has proceeded smoothly though significant obstacles in production capacity, feedstock availability, and financing remain.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, after implementing the E5 and E10 biofuel roadmap nationwide for 16 days, from June 1 to June 17, total biofuel consumption reached approximately 540 million liters, including 500 million liters of E10 and 40 million liters of E5. This was comparable to previous consumption levels of conventional gasoline, ensuring that transportation, logistics, and agricultural production activities continued without disruption to the economy. However, economists caution that these figures represent only the initial stage of the transition.

The nationwide shift to E5 and E10 biofuels marks a strategic step toward building a circular bio-economy. To overcome challenges related to feedstock supply and technology, however, Vietnam will need a coordinated approach encompassing policy reforms and green finance solutions to establish a self-reliant and sustainable energy ecosystem.

Opportunity for transformation

From a macro-economic perspective, the development of biofuels is about far more than replacing conventional gasoline. It is increasingly viewed as a critical solution for strengthening the economy’s resilience against global energy shocks. Vietnam remains dependent on imports for a portion of its crude oil and refined fuel needs. Expanding domestic biofuel production could directly reduce gasoline import demand by 8-10 per cent while lowering greenhouse gas emissions in line with blending ratios.

Highlighting the sector’s potential, Mr. Mai Tuan Dat, Deputy General Director of the PetroVietnam Refining and Petrochemical Corporation, pointed to lessons from one of the world’s leading biofuel producers. “Brazil is a major crude oil exporter, yet it has consistently developed biofuels as a national advantage, with blending ratios reaching E20 and E30,” he explained. “Based on Vietnam’s current fuel demand, annual ethanol (E100) consumption could reach around 1 million cu m, creating an industry worth nearly VND20 trillion ($769 million). If the value chain is optimized, more than VND10 trillion ($385 million), equivalent to roughly 70 per cent of feedstock costs, could flow directly to farmers, fishermen, and those working in agriculture, forestry, and aquaculture.”

Similarly, Associate Professor Nguyen Hong Quan, Director of the Institute for Circular Economy Development (ICED), said biofuels should be considered within the broader framework of a circular bio-economy rather than from a narrow or short-term perspective.

Vietnam’s abundant agricultural residues and by-products could strengthen national competitiveness, he said. Beyond cassava and sugarcane, biofuel feedstocks could include fish oil, organic waste, and other biomass resources, enabling more efficient use of both land- and water-based resources.

Persistent bottlenecks

Despite being described as a potential “gold mine,” Vietnam’s biofuel industry continues to face significant structural barriers, ranging from production capacity and technology to feedstock supply.

One of the most pressing challenges is limited domestic production capacity amid intensifying global competition. Vietnam built seven ethanol plants between 2010 and 2014 under an earlier biofuel development program. However, only four have resumed operations, with combined output of around 20,000-25,000 cu m per month; enough to meet only some 25 per cent of nationwide ethanol demand.

According to Mr. Dao Duy Anh, Deputy Director General of the Department of Innovation, Green Transition and Industrial Promotion at the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), even if six of the plants were fully restored, annual production capacity would reach only about 500,000 cu m; enough to supply just half of the ethanol required for E10 gasoline blending. The remainder would still need to be imported.

At the same time, domestic producers face intense price competition from major ethanol exporters such as the US, which produces ethanol from corn, and Brazil, which relies on sugarcane and benefits from substantial government support.

Feedstock supply presents another major challenge. Vietnam’s bioethanol industry currently depends almost entirely on dried cassava chips. Though annual production of cassava chips is estimated at around 5 million tons and only 1.5 million tons would theoretically be needed to produce 1 million cu m of ethanol, the sector faces significant constraints.

Mr. Nguyen Hung Manh, Chief of Office at the Vietnam Cassava Association, noted that cassava production is highly seasonal and incurs substantial storage costs. Ethanol producers must also compete with higher-margin cassava starch processors, animal feed manufacturers, and export markets for raw materials. Vietnam already imports cassava chips and fresh cassava roots from Cambodia and Laos.

Historical experience has shown that when global oil prices fall and domestic gasoline prices drop below VND20,000 per liter, ethanol plants quickly become unprofitable and struggle to compete for feedstock supplies.

Another challenge lies in the lack of coordinated financial support mechanisms. Ms. Luu Anh Nguyet from the National Institute for Economics and Finance at the Ministry of Finance acknowledged that while Vietnam is gradually developing frameworks for green credit, green bonds, and sustainable finance taxonomies, dedicated long-term financial mechanisms for the biofuel sector remain limited.

Biofuel projects typically feature large upfront investments, long payback periods, and significant exposure to global oil price volatility. Without attractive financing packages and risk-sharing mechanisms, private sector participation is likely to remain limited.

Five breakthrough solutions

To move beyond the cycle of intermittent growth and stagnation, experts argue that Vietnam needs a comprehensive strategy that shifts from administrative mandates toward market-based incentives.

The first priority is establishing a stable long-term roadmap for biofuel blending while diversifying feedstock sources. A predictable policy framework would provide investors with greater confidence to commit capital. Vietnam should also accelerate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) policies to align with global decarbonization trends. At the same time, the country must move beyond its dependence on cassava and expand into advanced biomass feedstocks that do not compete with food production.

The second priority is investing in technologies that convert agricultural waste into energy. Public investment should support innovation and technology transfer, including next-generation ethanol plants capable of processing rice straw, rice husks, and organic waste. Such projects would not only reduce production costs but also address the environmental problems associated with open-field burning of agricultural residues.

Third, policymakers should develop dedicated green credit programs and value-chain financing mechanisms. Under such models, banks would assess projects based on the cash flows and contractual relationships across the entire value chain, from the cultivation and collection of biomass to production, blending, and distribution, rather than relying solely on collateral. Specialized blended-finance institutions could also provide preferential green financing to lower initial capital barriers.

Fourth, Vietnam needs to standardize lifecycle emissions data and integrate biofuels into carbon markets. Developing a national database on biomass resources and lifecycle assessment methodologies would allow domestic biofuel products to meet green certification standards, improving access to international climate finance, facilitating green bond issuance, and enabling participation in Vietnam’s planned carbon market, which is expected to become fully operational after 2028.

Finally, tax and fee policies should be used more strategically to create a meaningful price advantage for biofuels. While Vietnam has already introduced incentives such as preferential environmental protection taxes and a zero Special Consumption Tax rate for biofuels during periods of energy market volatility, experts believe a stable long-term tax framework is needed to ensure a sufficient price gap between biofuels and conventional gasoline. Such a differential would provide consumers with a natural economic incentive to choose greener fuels without relying on administrative measures.

-Song Ha

]]>The developer will prioritize building quot;modelquot; industrial zones that meet green industry standards, focusing on energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and alignment with Lao Cai’s sustainable development goals.Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/lao-cai-to-invest-nearly-210-mln-in-two-green-industrial-zones.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/lao-cai-to-invest-nearly-210-mln-in-two-green-industrial-zones.htmGreen EconomyThe developer will prioritize building "model" industrial zones that meet green industry standards, focusing on energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and alignment with Lao Cai’s sustainable development goals.

The People’s Committee of Lao Cai province in northern Vietnam has officially approved an investment policy and a selected developer for two major infrastructure projects: the Phu Xuan Industrial Park and the Phu Xuan 1 Industrial Park.

Both projects, which involve the construction and operation of industrial infrastructure, will be developed by Linh Linh Industrial Joint Stock Company.

The two industrial parks will cover a combined area of 500 ha, with a total registered investment of VND5.462 trillion (approximately $208 million).

According to the development plan, infrastructure construction for both projects is slated for completion by early 2028 to begin attracting secondary investors. Each project will operate for a term of 70 years starting from the date of land allocation or lease by the State.

In terms of land use structure, industrial production and warehousing facilities will account for 61.07% of the total area in Phu Xuan IP and 59.38% in Phu Xuan 1 IP.

The two projects are designed to follow a modern industrial park model, featuring synchronized technical infrastructure and integrated transport connectivity. The developer will prioritize building "model" industrial zones that meet green industry standards, focusing on energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and alignment with Lao Cai’s sustainable development goals.

Priority sectors for investment attraction include: high-tech industries and mechanical engineering; manufacturing and assembly of electronic components; deep mineral processing using clean technology; agro-forestry processing for domestic and export markets; consumer goods and light industry; and logistics services, including warehousing, packaging, and distribution.

Vneconomy-Hằng Anh

]]>According to experts, Vietnam’s endorsement of the joint declaration is of strategic importance as domestic electricity demand continues to surge driven by industrialization, urbanization, and digital transformation.Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-endorses-montreal-declaration-naming-energy-efficiency-a-top-priority.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-endorses-montreal-declaration-naming-energy-efficiency-a-top-priority.htmGreen EconomyAccording to experts, Vietnam’s endorsement of the joint declaration is of strategic importance as domestic electricity demand continues to surge driven by industrialization, urbanization, and digital transformation.

At the 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency of the International Energy Agency (IEA) that concluded in late June in Montreal, Canada, Vietnam was among the participating nations that joined the consensus to endorse the Montreal Declaration on Energy Efficiency.

Under the declaration, Vietnam and the international community reaffirmed the principle of "energy efficiency as the top priority" and expressed support for the goal of doubling the global rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030.

Vietnam’s participation in the Montreal Declaration establishes a foundation for the country to further monitor and explore deeper involvement in the IEA’s multilateral cooperation mechanisms. This serves as a vital channel for Vietnam to access high-quality data, policy expertise, technical tools, and public-private partnership (PPP) models in the field of energy conservation.

According to experts, Vietnam’s endorsement of the joint declaration is of strategic importance as domestic electricity demand continues to surge driven by industrialization, urbanization, and digital transformation.

This event marked the first time the IEA's annual energy efficiency conference was held in North America. It attracted over 600 delegates, including dozens of ministers and high-ranking officials from more than 40 governments, alongside 70 CEOs from the world’s leading energy, finance, and technology corporations.

The conference took place amidst significant volatility in global energy markets caused by conflicts in the Middle East and shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other essential energy commodities.

In this challenging context, participating countries reached a consensus that energy efficiency is one of the fastest and most cost-effective solutions available. It not only helps reduce energy bills for households and businesses but also bolsters national energy security.

The core message of “energy efficiency as the top priority” is the centerpiece of the Montreal Declaration on Energy Efficiency—also known as the Montreal Action Plan—which was released at the close of the conference that took place from June 29-30. The declaration reaffirms the target of doubling the average global rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030, a goal previously agreed upon by nations at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in 2023.

Vneconomy-An Chi

]]>The Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) certification is used in more than 129 countries and territories to assess buildings#39; performance in energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable building materials.Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-first-local-government-complex-earns-edge-advanced-green-certification.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-first-local-government-complex-earns-edge-advanced-green-certification.htmGreen EconomyThe Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) certification is used in more than 129 countries and territories to assess buildings' performance in energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable building materials.

Central Khanh Hoa province has become home to Vietnam's first provincial government headquarters to receive the internationally recognized EDGE Advanced green building certification, marking a significant milestone in the country's public-sector sustainable construction.

The certification plaque was unveiled at a ceremony jointly organized by the Khanh Hoa People's Committee and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with support from the Australian Government.

The new political and administrative complex, located at 1 Tran Phu Street in Nha Trang Ward, covers 2.3 hectares with a total investment of more than VND544.6 billion ($20.8 million). The project broke ground in April 2024, was completed after nearly two years of construction and is now fully operational.

Developed by the IFC, the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification is used in more than 129 countries and territories to assess buildings' performance in energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable building materials.

-Vy Vy

]]>Once fully operational, the facility is expected to generate more than 40,000 MWh of clean electricity annually.Sun, 05 Jul 2026 01:10:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/samsung-electronics-inaugrates-rooftop-solar-power-project-in-hcm-city.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/samsung-electronics-inaugrates-rooftop-solar-power-project-in-hcm-city.htmGreen EconomyOnce fully operational, the facility is expected to generate more than 40,000 MWh of clean electricity annually.

Samsung Electronics inaugurated a rooftop solar power project with a capacity of nearly 28 MWp at its Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex (SEHC) manufacturing facility in Ho Chi Minh City's High-Tech Park on July 3.

The system comprises nearly 45,000 solar panels installed across the factory's rooftops, along with equipment meeting international technical standards.

According to Samsung, it is the first rooftop solar project in Vietnam to operate under the Direct Power Purchase Agreement (DPPA) mechanism through a dedicated transmission line, in accordance with Government Decree No. 57/2025/ND-CP.

Once fully operational, the facility is expected to generate more than 40,000 MWh of clean electricity annually, reducing carbon emissions by over 26,000 tons of CO2 each year while increasing the share of renewable energy used in Samsung's manufacturing operations.

Samsung said the project will provide a foundation for expanding its renewable energy initiatives, supporting the group's global sustainability strategy while contributing to Vietnam's energy transition and emissions reduction goals.

-

]]>Vietnam has emerged as a gateway to Southeast Asia for a host of Australian climate technologies. Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:20:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/an-effective-climate-tech-partner-of-vietnam.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/an-effective-climate-tech-partner-of-vietnam.htmGreen EconomyVietnam has emerged as a gateway to Southeast Asia for a host of Australian climate technologies.

As Vietnam accelerates its green transition and pursues ambitious economic growth targets, demand for clean technologies is expanding across the energy, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. Australian businesses, researchers, and investors increasingly see opportunities to contribute technology, expertise, and capital to the endeavor, with Vietnam offering scale, manufacturing capabilities, and a rapidly-evolving policy framework. Speakers at a recent Australia-Vietnam climate technology forum discussed how the two countries can work together to move innovations from concept to commercialization and support Southeast Asia’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

From ambition to opportunity

Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is increasingly shaping the country’s economic and industrial development strategy. According to Mr. Khuat Tuan Anh, Policy Manager (Vietnam) at Climateworks Centre, Southeast Asia has become a critical region in the global energy transition, with growing manufacturing activity, urbanization, and rising energy demand expected to drive a significant share of future global energy consumption.

Within that context, Vietnam occupies a particularly important position. The country has maintained strong economic growth for decades and continues to target annual growth of 7-8 per cent, with ambitions for even higher growth in the years ahead. At the same time, electricity demand is rising even faster than economic output.

“Decarbonization is becoming part of economic strategy, not just environmental strategy,” Mr. Tuan Anh said. Vietnam’s integration into global supply chains means competitiveness is increasingly linked not only to labor costs but also to energy costs and carbon intensity. As international markets introduce stricter sustainability requirements, manufacturers are facing growing pressure to manage emissions, energy consumption, and environmental compliance.

To support this transition, Vietnam has introduced a series of policies aimed at translating long-term climate commitments into practical implementation measures. Among the most significant developments are the revised National Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8), the Direct Power Purchase Agreement (DPPA) mechanism, the development of a carbon market, and the introduction of a national green taxonomy.

Mr. Tuan Anh described PDP8 as the backbone of Vietnam’s energy policy, outlining a substantial expansion of power generation capacity and a growing role for renewable energy. By 2030, wind, solar, and hydropower are expected to account for approximately half of installed generation capacity, while coal’s role is expected to decline over time as Vietnam progresses toward its longer-term climate targets.

For investors and technology providers, these reforms provide important signals about future market direction. “The policies provide direction and incentives, but implementation requires close collaboration between stakeholders, government agencies, investors, technology providers, and industry,” he added.

Ms. Sarah Hooper, Australian Consul-General in Ho Chi Minh City, said the significance of Vietnam’s transition extends beyond its domestic market. “Australia sees Vietnam not only as a priority partner but also as a market where climate solutions can be proven, adapted, and scaled, including across Southeast Asia,” she explained.

Natural partners

Australia and Vietnam can bring their complementary strengths to climate-tech collaboration. Australia offers expertise in RD, technological innovation, governance frameworks, and financing mechanisms. Vietnam, meanwhile, offers a rapidly-growing market, strong manufacturing capabilities, a young workforce, and an increasingly supportive policy environment.

For Mr. Oscar Omegna, Founder and CEO of The Improbability Company and VoltaRocks, those factors made Vietnam a natural choice for expansion. After spending years exploring opportunities in the country, he concluded that Vietnam offered a combination of market demand, policy ambition, and entrepreneurial energy that was difficult to find elsewhere in the region. “The people are welcoming, honest, and incredibly hardworking,” he said. “That creates a great environment in which to build businesses and develop new solutions.”

His company focuses on helping households and small businesses navigate renewable energy adoption through digital platforms that simplify decision-making around solar and battery systems. For him, Vietnam’s opportunity extends beyond emissions reduction. Reliable and affordable energy solutions can also help businesses improve operational resilience, particularly if power interruptions affect productivity.

Mr. Nguyen Bach Viet, Founder and CEO of the VioT Technology Group, shares a similar perspective. He described Australia as highly advanced in technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and energy innovation, while Vietnam provides an environment where new technologies can be tested, adapted, and brought to market more quickly. “In Australia, bringing new technologies to market often requires considerable time due to regulatory requirements and commercialization processes,” he explained. “Vietnam, on the other hand, is a market that is eager to learn, adapt, and scale solutions quickly.”

The elevation of Australia-Vietnam relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has further strengthened opportunities for collaboration. For businesses on both sides, the relationship increasingly provides a framework for technology transfer, joint innovation, and regional expansion.

From pilots to scale

Despite the opportunities, speakers at the forum agreed that commercialization remains one of the biggest challenges facing climate technology. “The real challenge is moving from good ideas to bankable projects, from pilots to scale, and from interest to long-term partnerships,” Ms. Hooper said.

Ms. Nguyen Hong Giang, Managing Director of Zenwood, identified limited access to early-stage and scale-up financing as among the most significant barriers facing climate-tech businesses in Vietnam.

While entrepreneurs are often able to develop concepts and pilot projects, obtaining the funding necessary to commercialize and expand those innovations remains difficult. Many founders rely on self-funding in the early stages, but scaling technologies requires larger pools of capital and greater investor confidence. Ms. Giang also highlighted regulatory uncertainty, technology transfer challenges, and workforce development as other key barriers.

Building the necessary skills and implementation capacity is equally important. Though Vietnam has a young and technically-capable workforce, many climate technologies require specialized expertise that must be developed through training and experience.

For Mr. Hoang Minh Tam from the Queensland University of Technology, stronger collaboration between universities and industry can help address many of these challenges. He argued that research partnerships should focus on resolving practical problems rather than remaining confined to laboratories. 

Universities can provide testing facilities, technical expertise, and independent validation that help reduce technical risks and strengthen investment cases. “Research creates the greatest impact when it is connected to real industry needs and practical applications,” Mr. Tam said.

Mr. Viet also emphasized the value of industry-led collaboration. Through initiatives such as IoT Living Labs, researchers, students, startups, and corporations can work together to address real-world challenges while creating pathways for commercialization. Importantly, involving industry partners from the outset provides both market validation and potential sources of funding. “If we can strengthen collaboration between Australian universities and Vietnamese innovation ecosystems, we can create a highly-effective model,” he believes.

Building the framework

While technology and innovation are essential, climate-tech growth ultimately depends on investor confidence. That is where governance, disclosure, and financial frameworks play a critical role.

Ms. Tracey Dodd, Board Director of Green Industries SA and Senior Lecturer at Adelaide University, argued that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks are often misunderstood.

Decarbonization is becoming part of economic strategy, not just environmental strategy.” 

Rather than serving simply as sustainability metrics, ESG frameworks help organizations understand and manage risk. “ESG is a framework designed to help organizations understand and manage environmental and social risks,” she said.

Investors, she continued, increasingly use ESG indicators to assess whether companies understand their exposure to environmental, social, and governance risks and whether they have systems in place to manage them effectively. Strong ESG performance can therefore help attract investment by reducing uncertainty and improving transparency. For Vietnam, ESG frameworks offer a way to signal to global markets that businesses are becoming more sophisticated in managing risks and opportunities associated with sustainability.

Australia’s recent climate-reporting reforms provide another example of how governance frameworks are evolving. Organizations are increasingly required to assess and disclose their exposure to both physical climate risks and transition risks associated with decarbonization. Those requirements are expected to create growing demand for technologies and services that help companies measure, manage, and reduce climate-related risks.

At the same time, Vietnam’s own policy reforms, including the green taxonomy, carbon market development, and renewable energy procurement mechanisms, are beginning to create a more structured environment for investment. While implementation remains a work in progress, these developments provide greater visibility and certainty for businesses considering long-term investments in the country.

In conclusion, the future of climate-tech collaboration between Australia and Vietnam will depend on more than technological innovation alone. Success will require supportive policies, access to capital, effective partnerships, workforce development, and practical pathways to commercialization. The opportunity now is to transform the complementary strengths from both countries into scalable projects, commercial partnerships, and deployable solutions that can help accelerate the region’s green transition. 

-Linh Tong

]]>Looking toward 2050, the southern city aspires to lead the country in high-tech industries, evolving into a premier center for nuclear research, training, and application in both Vietnam and the broader region.Thu, 02 Jul 2026 03:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-seeks-to-pioneer-pilot-nuclear-power-plant-using-small-modular-reactors.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-seeks-to-pioneer-pilot-nuclear-power-plant-using-small-modular-reactors.htmGreen EconomyLooking toward 2050, the southern city aspires to lead the country in high-tech industries, evolving into a premier center for nuclear research, training, and application in both Vietnam and the broader region.

Dong Nai City in southern Vietnam has set a strategic goal to become the pioneering locality selected by the Central Government to pilot a nuclear power plant using Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology by 2035.

In implementation of the Prime Minister’s Decision No. 438/QD-TTg regarding the strategy for the development and application of atomic energy for peaceful purposes through 2035, with a vision to 2050, the City People's Committee has issued a comprehensive plan to execute this strategy locally.

By 2030, the city aims to complete and safely operate the Nuclear Science and Technology Research Center in Hang Gon, ensuring synchronized infrastructure such as transportation, electricity, and water to support the project.

Following this, by 2035, Dong Nai intends to have all environmental radiation monitoring stations under its management fully operational. These stations will be integrated into the National Digital Platform and the city’s Intelligent Operations Center (IOC), utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for data analysis and early pollution warnings, as the locality strives to be designated as the nation's pilot site for SMR technology.

Looking toward 2050, Dong Nai aspires to lead the country in high-tech industries, evolving into a premier center for nuclear research, training, and application in both Vietnam and the broader region.

The locality intends to establish itself as an integrated clean energy hub for the Southeast region through a "Hybrid Energy System" model. This system will combine SMRs with renewable energy sources—such as floating solar, biomass, and waste-to-energy—to provide a stable baseload power supply with net-zero emissions, directly serving concentrated digital technology zones and data centers.

To realize these ambitions, Dong Nai will invest in upgrading its automated environmental radiation monitoring network, linking it directly to central authorities and the provincial IOC. The city will also enhance its nuclear incident response plans to address large-scale scenarios, conducting annual drills in coordination with specialized central forces.

Furthermore, the plan includes establishing medical centers capable of specialized treatment for acute radiation syndrome and planning strict management cycles for medical and industrial radioactive waste.

To ensure a skilled workforce, the city will launch academic programs in radiation engineering, nuclear medicine, and environmental law, while upgrading laboratories and enacting policies to attract and retain top-tier talent.

Vneconomy-Bạch Dương

]]>With ambitious offshore wind targets and growing international partnerships, Vietnam is positioning itself as a leading renewable energy market in the Asia-Pacific region.Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-offshore-wind-power-potential.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-offshore-wind-power-potential.htmGreen EconomyWith ambitious offshore wind targets and growing international partnerships, Vietnam is positioning itself as a leading renewable energy market in the Asia-Pacific region.

With its long coastline, abundant wind resources, and commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Vietnam is considered one of the most promising offshore wind power markets in the Asia-Pacific region. Its revised National Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8) also sets a target for the development of offshore wind power, with a capacity of approximately 6,000-17,000 MW to be operational during the 2030-2035 period. “This is a very ambitious goal and a significant challenge for Vietnam, but it also serves as a foundation, opening up a vast new market for the business community,” Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hoang Long said at the APAC Wind Energy Summit 2026, held by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) on June 10 in Hanoi.

Unlocking potential

Accelerating the implementation of energy projects to meet electricity demand for economic growth, he continued, is an urgent issue. Vietnam needs more energy sources and new projects to meet the demands of economic development, but it is crucial that this process is implemented in an efficient and sustainable manner. Accordingly, the institutional system and legal framework are being comprehensively improved, with offshore wind power placed at the center of the national energy development strategy.

“Developing offshore wind power not only contributes to supplementing clean electricity sources but also opens up strategic opportunities for developing support industries, forming domestic supply chains, upgrading port infrastructure, and creating many high-skilled jobs,” Mr. Long added. “Vietnam is currently focusing on building a legal framework and incentive mechanisms for this sector, while promoting the localization of mechanical components, wind turbines, submarine cables, and operational services.”

From an international perspective, Mr. Ben Backwell, CEO of the GWEC, believes that Vietnam is in a very favorable position to promote its energy transition given its vast, almost limitless renewable energy resources. Offshore wind power alone has a technical potential of approximately 600 GW, representing a crucial resource for Vietnam to seize new development opportunities.

Besides its resource advantages, Vietnam also possesses a strong industrial base, a rapidly-growing economy, and a highly-skilled workforce. These factors open the possibility for it to become a leading country in renewable energy-based electrification in Southeast Asia and, more broadly, across Asia.

“A crucial foundation has been established through the PDP8, recent policies and laws, the legal framework, licensing mechanisms, and environmental regulations,” Mr. Backwell affirmed. “In the years to come, wind power, solar power, and power generation capacity will continue to expand. In particular, offshore wind power is expected to become a dynamic industry, driving shifts in supply chains, localizing production, developing port infrastructure, and creating hundreds of thousands of high-skilled jobs.”

The key to turning projects into reality lies in optimizing coordination mechanisms and simplifying administrative procedures. “When every step becomes clear and transparent, investor confidence will be strengthened,” he continued. “In particular, finalizing power purchase agreements (PPAs) with strong financial backing will be a crucial foundation for attracting capital, thereby establishing a robust and professional investment environment for the offshore wind power industry.”

A recent report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on 24/7 renewable energy solutions shows that the combination of wind, solar, and energy storage is opening up a new trend, in which the cost of providing a stable power supply is rapidly decreasing and gradually becoming competitive with new thermal power projects in some countries. “With nearly 165 GW of wind power commissioned last year, the momentum for global wind power development has clearly formed,” said Ms. Gauri Singh, Deputy Director General of IRENA. “With the political will of countries like Vietnam, this momentum can be translated into benefits for each nation, while also promoting regional cooperation.”

Lessons from abroad

Offshore wind power remains a relatively new field in Vietnam, requiring thorough preparation in terms of technical capacity, project development, coordination mechanisms, and implementation infrastructure. In this context, Deputy Minister Long affirmed that international cooperation, experience sharing, and technical support from reputable partners such as the GWEC and the international business community are particularly important.

Within the framework of the Summit, Mr. Long announced the launch of a cooperative initiative to boost offshore wind development, establishing a new coordination mechanism to support the growth of Vietnam’s offshore wind market.

According to the Deputy Minister, in addition to developing power generation projects, Vietnam needs to focus on building a complete offshore wind ecosystem, including a domestic supply chain, port infrastructure, and related support industries and services. This is not only a crucial condition for ensuring the sustainable development of the offshore wind industry but also opens up opportunities to attract global supply chain shifts, creating hundreds of thousands of high-skilled jobs in the future.

“The Ministry of Industry and Trade greatly appreciates the cooperation proposal from the Embassy of the UK in Vietnam and is committed to closely coordinating to effectively implement technical support and capacity-building activities within the framework of the Just Energy Transition Partnership,” Mr. Long said. “The Ministry believes that the partnership to promote offshore wind power between the UK and Vietnam will make a significant contribution to realizing Vietnam’s offshore wind power potential, while also opening up more opportunities for deeper cooperation between the two sides in the clean energy sector.”

Notably, Norway’s participation is being led by Norwegian Energy Partners (NORWEP) and includes DNV AS, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, Glamox AS, Øglænd System/Hilti, the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), and Reach Subsea. Together, this delegation represents expertise across key segments of the offshore wind value chain.

While some members of the delegation are visiting Vietnam for the first time, all are engaging with Vietnamese stakeholders through a series of meetings and networking activities during the Summit.

“Norwegian companies bring expertise spanning the entire offshore wind value chain, from seabed surveys and geotechnical investigations to certification, turbine installation, subsea operations, and offshore infrastructure,” said Mr. Jon Dugstad, Director of Renewables at NORWEP. “Drawing on experience from projects in the North Sea, the UK, and Taiwan (China), we bring competence and capacity and are keen to work with local partners, including developers and engineering firms, in support of the efforts of the government of Vietnam to develop a safe, sustainable, and competitive offshore wind industry.”

The focus on long-term industry development was echoed by H.E. Hilde Solbakken, Ambassador of Norway to Vietnam. Sharing Norway’s experience in developing one of the world’s most advanced offshore wind industries, Ambassador Solbakken highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in accelerating offshore wind deployment across the Asia-Pacific region. She noted that collaboration on supply chains, workforce development, port infrastructure, and grid integration would be critical to scaling up the sector.

“Developing offshore wind is not only about generating renewable electricity,” she said. “It requires the entire ecosystem to move forward together, from grid infrastructure and market arrangements to ports, supply chains, and workforce development. Ensuring that these elements are developed in parallel is one of the key challenges facing all countries seeking to build a successful offshore wind industry.”

The Ambassador also encouraged Vietnamese stakeholders to engage with Norwegian companies attending the Summit and explore opportunities for future collaboration. “As Vietnam continues to refine its energy transition plans, industry participants at the Summit say international partnerships and knowledge sharing will play an important role in supporting future offshore wind development,” she noted.

VET-Ngoc Lan

]]>The Politburo#39;s Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW adopts a more comprehensive approach, including foreign direct investment (FDI), portfolio investment, capital markets, and international financial institutions.Tue, 30 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/pivotal-shifts-in-vietnams-foreign-investment-attraction-strategy.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/pivotal-shifts-in-vietnams-foreign-investment-attraction-strategy.htmGreen EconomyThe Politburo's Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW adopts a more comprehensive approach, including foreign direct investment (FDI), portfolio investment, capital markets, and international financial institutions.

Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc summarized the key principles and core contents of the Politburo's Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW on the development of the foreign-invested economic sector, at a teleconference held on June 30, according to a report from the Government News.

Accordingly, he highlighted the six major shifts in the development of the foreign-invested economic sector, including:

(1) The shift from attracting foreign investment to developing the foreign-invested economic sector. The Resolution adopts a more comprehensive approach, including foreign direct investment (FDI), portfolio investment, capital markets, and international financial institutions.

It regards the foreign-invested economic sector as an integral part of the national economy, together with the domestic economic sector to serve the country's development objectives.

(2) The shift from emphasizing the scale of investment capital to prioritizing quality, efficiency, and value-added investment. The focus is no longer on attracting a greater number of investment projects, but on selecting projects that feature advanced technologies, innovation, modern governance, strong spillover effects, and significant contributions to improving the economy's productivity and competitiveness.

(3) The shift from input-based incentives to outcome-based incentives. Incentive policies are being redesigned to be linked to the fulfillment of commitments on technology transfer, research and development (RD), workforce training, linkages with domestic enterprises, green transition, and sustainable development.

(4) The shift from merely luring FDI to building a comprehensive ecosystem for international capital flows. It places foreign direct investment, portfolio investment, capital markets, international financial centers, and new development spaces (such as free trade zones and special economic zones) within a unified framework with a view to improving the mobilization and allocation of resources.

(5) The shift from investment administration into creating an enabling environment for investment and development. The State will focus on improving institutions, enhancing the quality of national governance, developing infrastructure and human resources, and fostering an innovation ecosystem to create favorable conditions for both domestic and international resources to thrive.

(6) The shift from competition among localities to attract investment at national-coordination development level. The Resolution calls for stronger regional connectivity, closer linkages between foreign-invested sector and domestic economy, and greater utilization of growth poles and innovation hubs to enhance the development efficiency of the national economy.

The Standing Deputy Prime Minister said, previously, whereas Vietnam only concentrated on attracting foreign capital, the new phase sets a higher objective: maximizing the effectiveness of these resources, combining them with the country's internal strengths to build new development capabilities and enhance the economy's self-reliance, competitiveness, and resilience.

Vietnam to attract $200-300 bln in newly registered FDI by 2030

So far, Vietnam has emerged as an attractive investment destination in the region, attracting nearly $550 billion in registered foreign investment in more than 46,000 active projects.

The foreign-invested economic sector has made significant contributions to economic growth, industrialization and modernization, export expansion, job creation, improved governance capacity, and the nation's standing in the global economy.

By 2030, the Resolution sets a goal to attract $200–300 billion in newly registered FDI, with $150–200 billion to be disbursed.

The quality of capital inflows will be improved, with 75 percent of newly registered investment coming from developed economies with advantages in technology, capital, and modern governance.

Under the Resolution, the country will increase the average localization rate in key manufacturing industries to 40–50 percent, while enabling around 10,000 Vietnamese enterprises to join the supply chains of foreign-invested enterprises.

Vietnam's stock market will be upgraded into emerging market status before 2030, laying the foundation for attracting substantially larger inflows of international portfolio investment.

Looking ahead to 2045, the Resolution envisions a foreign-invested economic sector that is efficient, sustainable, and closely integrated with the state-owned and private sectors.

Vietnam targets to become a regional hub for manufacturing, services, innovation, and corporate management for numerous multinational corporations, thereby strengthening its position in global value chains.

By then, the foreign-invested economic sector is expected to account for around 25 percent of total social investment and to contribute approximately 30 percent of the nation's GDP.

VGP-Khanh Van

]]>With its international experience, UNIDO is supporting Vietnam in developing green industry...Tue, 30 Jun 2026 07:56:15 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/powering-green-growth-vietnams-industrial-turning-point.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/powering-green-growth-vietnams-industrial-turning-point.htmGreen EconomyWith its international experience, UNIDO is supporting Vietnam in developing green industry...

The climate crisis and the energy crisis share a common root cause: our dependence on fossil fuels. Addressing both challenges requires more than reducing emissions.

GREEN INDUSTRY: THE KEY TO VIETNAM'S NEW COMPETITIVENESS

In his special address delivered on June 23 at London Climate Action Week 2026 that took place across London from June 20 - 28, the UN Secretary-General outlined a clear pathway to accelerate the transition to a more secure, resilient, and sustainable energy future. This requires a just transition to cleaner, more resilient energy systems that support economic growth, create opportunities, and leave no one behind.

For Vietnam, this global transition represents far more than an environmental imperative; it marks an industrial turning point. Around the world, the rules of economic competitiveness are being rewritten.

Access to international markets, investment, and global value chains is increasingly shaped by countries' ability to reduce emissions, improve resource efficiency, and build resilient, low-carbon industries.

For an export-oriented economy deeply integrated into new-generation free trade agreements such as the EVFTA, CPTPP, and RCEP, green growth is no longer a parallel agenda to industrial development; it is becoming a prerequisite for sustaining it.

Against this backdrop, the industrial sector emerges as the decisive arena where this transition will be won or lost. It accounts for approximately 50 per cent of Vietnam’s final energy consumption and around 87 per cent of final coal consumption across the economy.

To sustain economic growth while meeting climate commitments, Vietnam must transform its industrial sector, the engine of its economic success, into a driver of sustainable development. The technologies, investments, and business decisions made today will determine whether Vietnam can continue to grow while reducing emissions and strengthening energy security.

UNIDO ACCOMPANIES VIETNAM'S GREEN INDUSTRY REVOLUTION

As the UN’s specialized agency for inclusive and sustainable industrial development, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) brings global expertise in industrial transformation, technical cooperation, and policy support to help countries navigate the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.

Working closely with governments, industries, financial institutions, and international partners, UNIDO supports Vietnam through its Country Programme in scaling up energy efficiency, advancing industrial decarbonization, promoting circular economy solutions, facilitating access to innovative technologies, and strengthening the competitiveness of industries in an increasingly dynamic global marketplace. 

A key entry point for this transformation is industrial energy efficiency. Energy efficiency remains the fastest, most cost-effective, and scalable solution for reducing industrial emissions.

Drawing on its global expertise, UNIDO supports both large industries and small and medium-sized enterprises in implementing energy management systems aligned with ISO 50001 standards, optimizing energy use, and improving operational performance.

Its approach targets high-impact systems such as steam, compressed air, cooling and refrigeration, pumping, motor-driven systems, and process heating, delivering tangible benefits in the form of lower operating costs, higher productivity, and enhanced competitiveness. 

Beyond individual enterprises, UNIDO also advances integrated, system-level solutions such as Energy Districts, which optimize energy production, distribution, and consumption across industrial parks, cities, and mixed-use developments.

By enabling energy recovery and sharing, balancing supply and demand, and integrating renewable energy, these approaches unlock deeper efficiency gains, reduce emissions, strengthen energy security, and support more competitive and resilient industrial development.

However, energy efficiency alone is not sufficient. Achieving net-zero emissions will require deeper industrial decarbonization, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, cement, chemicals, and construction materials, where process emissions cannot be eliminated through efficiency gains alone. These industries remain essential to economic growth but are still heavily dependent on fossil fuels and carbon-intensive processes, requiring transformative technologies, sustained innovation, and long-term investment. 

UNIDO brings technical expertise and convening power to support this transition, helping industries identify and deploy solutions such as waste heat recovery, low-carbon materials like LC3, renewable energy integration, digitalization, and the assessment of Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) potential. At the same time, UNIDO works to address one of the most critical barriers—limited access to affordable, long-term finance—by promoting blended finance approaches that de-risk early investments and mobilize private capital, enabling a scalable pipeline of bankable decarbonization projects.

Equally important is the transition toward a circular economy. Industrial competitiveness increasingly depends on how efficiently resources are used. Through Eco-Industrial Park initiative, UNIDO supports industries in reducing waste and pollution, improving resource productivity, reusing industrial by-products, promoting industrial symbiosis, strengthening resilience against resource and supply-chain disruptions, and supporting access to green finance. By transforming waste into value and maximizing resource efficiency, circular economy approaches turn environmental challenges into economic opportunities.

No country can undertake this transformation alone. International cooperation is therefore essential. Drawing on its global mandate and technical expertise, UNIDO connects Vietnam to key international initiatives such as the Industrial Deep Decarbonization Initiative (IDDI) and the Global Programme on Green Hydrogen in Industry.

Through these platforms, Vietnam can access technology transfer, capacity-building, international expertise, and climate finance and investment opportunities—critical enablers for accelerating its transition to a low-carbon industrial future.

Vietnam now stands at an industrial turning point. The choices made today will shape the country's economic competitiveness, energy security, and environmental sustainability for decades to come.

By combining energy efficiency, industrial decarbonization, circular economy solutions, innovation, and international cooperation, Vietnam has an opportunity to transform its most carbon-intensive sectors into engines of sustainable growth.

The next industrial revolution in Vietnam must be green, circular, and inclusive. Through its Country Programme and global partnerships, UNIDO is committed to helping make that vision a reality—supporting a shift toward low-carbon growth and ensuring that Vietnam's development journey remains both prosperous and sustainable.

(*) Le Thi Thanh Thao, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and UNIDO Vietnam Program Coordinators: Nguyen Tram Anh, Nguyen Thai Binh, Hoang Kim Cuc, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Lan, Nguyen Thi Xuan Thuy, and Rasha Abdrabu.

-Le Thi Thanh Thao (*)

]]>CSR-AFTA is not a negotiating mechanism nor does it impose new legal obligations on nations. Instead, it is designed as a voluntary, open, and inclusive cooperation platform.Mon, 29 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-proposes-formation-of-green-agricultural-trade-alliance.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-proposes-formation-of-green-agricultural-trade-alliance.htmGreen EconomyCSR-AFTA is not a negotiating mechanism nor does it impose new legal obligations on nations. Instead, it is designed as a voluntary, open, and inclusive cooperation platform.

Vietnam is preparing to present an initiative to establish the Climate Smart and Responsible Agricultural and Forestry Trade Alliance (CSR-AFTA) at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).

The initiative aims to build green value chains for agricultural and forestry products, promote sustainable trade, and bolster climate change resilience.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), COP31 is scheduled to take place in November 2026 in Turkey.

The initiative is designed to align with international sustainable development commitments and goals, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs), and recommendations from the UN Food Systems Summit.

The CSR-AFTA proposal outlines three central goals: to promote sustainable trade in agricultural and forestry products based on unified standards; to protect farmers' livelihoods by encouraging ecological, circular, and regenerative production models linked to forest conservation and biodiversity; and to mobilize green financial resources to develop sustainable agricultural value chains.

Director General of the MAE's International Cooperation Department, Mr. Nguyen Do Anh Tuan, emphasized that CSR-AFTA is not a negotiating mechanism nor does it impose new legal obligations on nations. Instead, it is designed as a voluntary, open, and inclusive cooperation platform.

The initiative aims to connect governments, international organizations, the private sector, financial institutions, research institutes, industry associations, and farming communities to promote agricultural and forestry trade that is transparent, climate-smart, and sustainable.

Through this initiative, Vietnam seeks to work with partners to build a framework that benefits all parties, promotes knowledge sharing, mobilizes resources, increases investment, fosters innovation, and provides capacity-building support, particularly for developing nations.

According to the draft proposal, Vietnam will play a coordinating role. It will work with partners to develop a set of criteria for "green" agricultural and forestry origins, promote the exchange of carbon credits, and share expertise in developing sustainable raw material zones.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Vietnam alongside Turkey and Australia—the two co-hosts of COP31. It is expected to draw participation from major international organizations and corporations, including the FAO, WTO, UNDP, WWF, IUCN, CIAT, Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo.

The parties involved plan to hold an annual CSR-AFTA High-Level Dialogue on the sidelines of future COP summits to evaluate progress and further drive cooperation.

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

]]>Mr. Matt Western MP, UK Trade Envoy to Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, tells Ngoc Lan about the UK’s expertise in promoting a sustainable energy transition and supercharging an innovation-driven economy in Vietnam.Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transformative-potential-of-vietnams-economy.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/transformative-potential-of-vietnams-economy.htmGreen EconomyMr. Matt Western MP, UK Trade Envoy to Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, tells Ngoc Lan about the UK’s expertise in promoting a sustainable energy transition and supercharging an innovation-driven economy in Vietnam.

Tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East have exposed major vulnerabilities in Europe regarding energy disruptions, triggering one of the most severe energy crises in recent decades. Looking back, what do you believe is the most critical lesson the UK and European nations have learned regarding energy security?

I think the most critical lesson is that all nations must make themselves more resilient in regard to energy. We can no longer rely on shipping fossil fuels around the world over the coming decades. Rather, we must move toward a system where energy is produced more locally, to ensure domestic resilience and autonomy, regardless of the generation method.

Given the visible impacts of climate change here in Vietnam and across Southeast Asia, this energy mix clearly needs to be more renewable and sustainable. Transitioning to local renewables also allows for better control over energy costs - which is crucial for supporting households and keeping businesses competitive. Ultimately, achieving this resilience requires investing in renewables, exploring nuclear energy through technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs) developed in the UK, and diversifying our overall energy mix.

The UK and Europe implemented a range of measures in response to the crisis, from diversifying energy imports and expanding LNG infrastructure to ramping up investments in renewables. Which of these strategies has proven most effective in enhancing long-term energy resilience, and why?

While oil and gas remain essential components of the current energy mix, transitioning to an entirely new system is not easy. This is particularly true for nations managing legacy energy infrastructure, meaning traditional sources will inevitably persist for some time.

Nevertheless, governments must actively incentivize the shift toward electrification - an area where the Vietnamese Government is already making notable progress. Success in this transition requires implementing the right policy incentives and rigorously planning grid infrastructure. This is precisely where the UK’s expertise can add significant value, particularly regarding regulatory frameworks and market mechanisms. By leveraging these instruments, nations can effectively accelerate their transition.

Vietnam is currently striving to balance energy security for rapid economic growth with its highly-ambitious, long-term climate commitments. Based on the UK and European experience over the past decade, I think the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) program presents an incredibly vital framework. Vietnam possesses immense potential in this arena, particularly within the solar and offshore wind sectors.

Furthermore, drawing from my experience leading a delegation on railway development and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), it is evident that the strategic approach used in transportation planning can be effectively mirrored in the energy sector. Ultimately, integrated infrastructure planning remains the absolute key to unlocking these capabilities.

You have previously described Vietnam as one of the UK’s most promising trade partners in Asia. From the UK Government’s perspective, how do you evaluate Vietnam’s ambition toward building an innovation-driven economy?

Vietnam possesses immense economic potential. The visit in October last year by a Vietnamese delegation to London, which included Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and approximately 200 ministers and businesses, marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The visit culminated in the signing of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership alongside a wide range of MoUs, reflecting the deep synergies in how both nations perceive their roles on the global stage.

While Vietnam is currently experiencing remarkable, rapid economic growth, the UK - despite a lower overall growth rate - led the G7 in economic performance during the first quarter of 2026. Strengthening this strategic partnership will allow the UK to effectively support Vietnam’s ongoing growth trajectory while delivering mutual economic benefits to the UK.

Based on your engagements with the British business community, which sectors in Vietnam are currently attracting the greatest interest from UK companies and investors?

The development of the International Financial Center (IFC) remains a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation. The UK has been deeply involved in this major initiative since its inception, providing critical support in establishing the necessary financial and legal frameworks. This project is poised to create substantial opportunities for both the broader financial sector and the UK’s fintech industry.

Beyond financial services, energy and decarbonization across various infrastructure sectors represent immense areas of growth. Numerous UK enterprises are prepared to offer their expertise, particularly in supporting the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to advance TOD and maximize urban efficiency. Coupled with ongoing collaborations in education, these diverse sectors underscore the vast potential for the UK to support Vietnam’s growth trajectory, signaling an exciting period ahead.

Many UK businesses operate in highly knowledge-intensive sectors like pharmaceuticals, healthcare, finance, and digital technology. In your investment dialogues, how critical is the issue of intellectual property (IP) protection for these companies?

IP protection is of paramount importance. Sectors such as life sciences, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare represent immense industries for the UK, backed by an expansive network of research organizations and higher education institutions that are recognized as global leaders. Given this foundation, robustly protecting IP is essential, particularly when collaborating with international partners to facilitate secure knowledge sharing.

Conversely, a distinct lack of respect for intellectual property rights in certain nations remains a serious concern. Establishing and enforcing global rules is vital; without them, the market risks degenerating into a chaotic “Wild West” environment. This regulatory void significantly diminishes the incentive to pour substantial capital into highly research-intensive products and services. Ultimately, in the absence of stringent protections, financial investment will inevitably retreat, making IP a highly critical focus area in the years ahead.

Vietnam can learn from the UK’s experience in commercializing research outcomes. In particular, a significant portion of this advancement will inevitably be driven through strategic collaboration and the efforts of research institutions. However, the core challenge lies in developing robust frameworks and an enabling environment that empower entrepreneurs and innovators - those who readily identify market opportunities - and providing them with a structured space to operate. Within this ecosystem, they must be able to seamlessly access capital and financing, which are essential to scaling a nascent idea into a genuinely successful commercial product or service.

This imperative ties back directly to the development of the IFC and its surrounding regulatory framework. In the absence of such clear-cut legal and financial structures, capital inflows will naturally diminish, as international investors will remain hesitant to commit funds due to heightened concerns regarding the security and protection of their investments.

Vietnam aims for exceptionally high growth in the years to come. What do you think is the most sustainable contribution and support the UK can provide to help Vietnam achieve this milestone?

Economic growth is driven not only by unlocking and unleashing innovative ideas but by the ability to translate those concepts into genuinely successful, commercially-viable businesses. Success hinges on effectively seizing these opportunities to build thriving enterprises.

In this regard, the UK’s most significant contribution will be its partnership with Vietnam to develop the necessary tools, skills, and regulatory ecosystems required to realize this transformative potential. By fostering such an environment, this collaboration will ultimately enable Vietnamese businesses to scale successfully both within the domestic market and on the global stage.

VET-Ngoc Lan

]]>The launch of the domestic carbon exchange marks an important step in the formation and development of the carbon market in Vietnam...Mon, 29 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/domestic-carbon-exchange-officially-launched.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/domestic-carbon-exchange-officially-launched.htmGreen EconomyThe launch of the domestic carbon exchange marks an important step in the formation and development of the carbon market in Vietnam...

The domestic carbon exchange officially commenced operations at the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) on June 29,  with the quota code VN2025.

According to an announcement from the HNX, the first product traded was the VN2025 greenhouse gas emission quota. Its volume is 511,473,846 tons of CO₂ equivalent, with the lowest offering starting at VND135,000 (around $5.14) per ton, for the compliance period of 2025-2026. The last trading day for this greenhouse gas emission quota is December 24, 2027.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, HNX Chairman Nguyen Anh Phong said that the launch of the domestic carbon exchange is the result of implementing the Project on establishing and developing the carbon market in Vietnam under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 232/QD-TTg.

According to the current roadmap, traded goods consist of two types: greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits. Under the direction of the Vietnam Stock Exchange (VNX) and the State Securities Commission (SSC), the HNX has closely coordinated with the Department of Climate Change (DCC) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), the Vietnam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation (VSDC), BIDV, and other relevant units to develop the legal framework, with regulations for managing and operating the market, and its registration, trading, and settlement system. 

To date, the information technology system connecting HNX, VSDC, the DCC and BIDV has been tested and is operating stably and smoothly. The relevant regulations and operational procedures have also been issued.

The membership system includes the first six securities companies that meet the market participation conditions and more than 100 emission sources included in the list of allocated greenhouse gas emission quotas.

"The launch of the domestic carbon exchange is not just a technical step, but also links environmental protection responsibility with the economic interests of businesses themselves, ensuring the sustainable development of the nation," said Mr. Phong.

Ms. Vu Thi Chan Phuong, Chairwoman of the SSC, also stated that after active and coordinated preparation between the Ministry of Finance (MoF), the MAE, and other relevant agencies and units, the conditions regarding the legal framework, technological infrastructure, operational procedures, and coordination mechanisms have been basically completed, allowing the domestic carbon exchange to officially begin operation.

Notably, to facilitate businesses during the pilot phase until the end of 2028, the Government has issued Decree No. 29/2026/ND-CP stipulating that no fees will be charged to businesses participating in the domestic carbon exchange.

"This policy demonstrates the Government's commitment to supporting the business community, contributing to reducing market participation costs, encouraging businesses to actively implement emission reduction solutions, innovate technology, and develop sustainably," Ms. Phuong shared.

According to Ms. Phuong, the establishment of a carbon exchange not only creates a mechanism for trading greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits in a public, transparent, and fair manner, but also serves as an economic tool to help businesses proactively innovate technology, improve production efficiency, and reduce emissions.

For the financial market, this is a new component of the green financial ecosystem, opening up a channel for mobilizing and allocating resources for sustainable development projects, gradually approaching international practices in the development of capital and environmental markets.

Representing the operating units, Mr. Luong Hai Sinh, Chairman of the Board of Members of the VNX, stated that the launch of the carbon exchange is a significant milestone for the development of Vietnam's financial and carbon markets, but this is only the beginning.

"Safe, transparent, and efficient operation is not only a professional task but also contributes to achieving economic development goals, enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses, and realizing the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050," Mr. Sinh affirmed.

-Ngoc Lan

]]>AtkinsR#233;alis, the Canadian company behind CANDU nuclear technology, is advancing next-generation nuclear solutions to strengthen energy security and support net-zero goals. In an interview with Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy, Dr. Sara Supa-Amornkul shared her views on the prospects for nuclear cooperation between Vietnam and Canada...Mon, 29 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/atkinsrealis-and-candu-technology-nuclear-solutions-for-energy-security-and-net-zero-ambitions.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/atkinsrealis-and-candu-technology-nuclear-solutions-for-energy-security-and-net-zero-ambitions.htmGreen EconomyAtkinsRéalis, the Canadian company behind CANDU nuclear technology, is advancing next-generation nuclear solutions to strengthen energy security and support net-zero goals. In an interview with Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy, Dr. Sara Supa-Amornkul shared her views on the prospects for nuclear cooperation between Vietnam and Canada...

As global electricity demand continues to grow while countries seek to strengthen energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, nuclear energy is experiencing a strong resurgence. With its ability to provide reliable, large-scale baseload power with near-zero carbon emissions, nuclear power is increasingly recognized as a key pillar of the global energy transition.

Amid this nuclear renaissance, Canada is widely regarded as one of the world's leading nations in civilian nuclear technology. At the heart of this ecosystem is AtkinsRéalis, a Canadian engineering, project management, and nuclear technology company that serves as the developer and commercial steward of CANDU (Canada Deuterium Uranium) reactor technology.

One of the distinguishing features of CANDU technology is its ability to operate using natural uranium rather than enriched uranium, as required by most conventional reactor designs. This provides countries with greater fuel flexibility, enhanced energy security, and reduced dependence on enrichment services. CANDU reactors can also be refueled while operating, allowing them to achieve some of the highest capacity factors in the nuclear industry.

Beyond generating clean electricity, CANDU reactors play an important role in the production of medical isotopes, including Cobalt-60, which is widely used in cancer treatment and the sterilization of medical equipment around the world.

During her visit to Vietnam, Dr. Sara Supa-Amornkul, Business Development Director at Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company, spoke with Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy about global trends in nuclear energy, the competitive advantages of CANDU technology, and the potential for deeper cooperation between Canada and Vietnam in clean energy development, workforce training, and the long-term growth of a domestic nuclear industry.

The following is the full interview.

Dr. Sara, Thank you for joining Vietnam Economic Times. Could you briefly introduce yourself and AtkinsRéalis' role in the global nuclear industry?

Thank you for having me today. My name is Sara Supa- Amornkul, and I am the Senior Business Development Director at Candu Energy, a subsidiary of AtkinsRéalis. We are one of the world's leading companies in nuclear technology and nuclear project development.

What is the main purpose of your visit to Vietnam at this important stage of the country's energy transition?

As the global nuclear renaissance gains momentum, Canada and our company are looking to explore opportunities internationally, particularly in Southeast Asia, where we see tremendous potential for collaboration and nuclear industry development.

Vietnam has always been one of the most important countries in the region. That is why I am here to explore opportunities and determine how Canadian nuclear technology can contribute to Vietnam’s nuclear energy development in this new era.

What makes CANDU technology different from other reactor technologies currently available in the global market? What are the key advantages of CANDU reactors in terms of safety, reliability, fuel flexibility, and lifecycle costs?

I am glad you asked that question because CANDU reactors are truly unique. We are the only reactor technology in the world that uses natural uranium, or unenriched uranium.

This gives countries greater energy independence because they do not need to rely on uranium enrichment services when it comes to fuel supply.

Another important feature is that CANDU reactors can produce medical isotopes during operation. This means countries can achieve not only energy security but also greater medical security. During the COVID-19 pandemic and other geopolitical disruptions, many countries experienced supply chain interruptions that affected access to critical medical isotopes, especially for cancer treatment.

With a CANDU reactor, those isotopes can be produced domestically.

In addition, CANDU reactors have one of the highest capacity factors in the industry above 90 percent because they can be refueled online without shutting down the reactor. We are the only technology that offers this capability.

Our newest reactor designs also incorporate modular construction approaches, allowing large nuclear facilities to benefit from many of the efficiencies associated with modular deployment.

Beyond supplying reactor technology, what kind of long-term partnership does AtkinsRéalis envision with Vietnam?  How important are workforce development and knowledge transfer in your cooperation model with Vietnam?

I would like to answer this question from a personal perspective. I come from Thailand. I was a Thai student who went to Canada to pursue my Master's degree and PhD. Today, I travel around the world representing Canadian nuclear technology.

My own journey is an example of how Canada collaborates with people from other countries. It did not matter that I was not born in Canada. I was given the opportunity to contribute and represent Canadian technology globally. This is what true collaboration looks like.

Canada and AtkinsRéalis are committed to helping Vietnam develop its workforce and build long-term domestic capabilities so that the country can successfully support and sustain its own nuclear industry for generations to come.

Nuclear power projects require significant investment. How can Canada and AtkinsRéalis support financing and project implementation in Vietnam?

CANDU technology ultimately belongs to the Government of Canada. AtkinsRéalis has the rights to develop and build CANDU reactors, while the intellectual property remains under Canadian ownership.

When we undertake international projects, we typically form consortia involving partners from multiple countries because these are large-scale projects that require broad collaboration.

In many cases, export credit agencies from participating countries also become involved and can provide support in project financing and risk mitigation.

What lessons from successful CANDU projects in countries such as Romania, South Korea, and China could be valuable for Vietnam?

One of the most important aspects of large infrastructure projects is financing.

Financing depends heavily on investor confidence. Through decades of experience around the world, CANDU technology has built a reputation for delivering projects on time and on budget.

This is extremely important for investors and lenders because projects that are completed as planned generally have lower financing risks and lower borrowing costs.

Our global experience has helped us become a stronger technology provider and project developer, and those lessons can certainly benefit future projects in Vietnam.

What message would you like to send to Vietnamese policymakers as they evaluate different nuclear technologies? There is strong international competition among nuclear technology suppliers. Why should Vietnam choose Canada's CANDU technology over other available options?

One of the major concerns around the world today is geopolitical uncertainty. Conflicts and geopolitical tensions can significantly affect energy prices and energy security.

As a result, every country wants greater control over its electricity supply and costs.

This is where CANDU technology offers a unique advantage. Because CANDU reactors use natural uranium, they are not dependent on uranium enrichment services.

Today, only a limited number of countries operate uranium enrichment facilities. If access to enrichment services becomes restricted for political or commercial reasons, countries that depend entirely on enriched fuel could face significant challenges.

Vietnam is already moving forward with nuclear development, and diversification is important. If one project relies on enriched uranium, another project based on natural uranium technology could provide additional energy security and resilience. From my perspective, this diversification would strengthen Vietnam’s long-term energy independence and reduce exposure to external supply risks.

Finally, what is your vision for the future of Vietnam-Canada cooperation in clean energy and nuclear technology?

People often say that a nuclear project is like a marriage  it is a long-term commitment and a marathon rather than a sprint.

With refurbishment, a CANDU reactor can operate for close to 100 years. Therefore, it is important to choose a partner that is reliable, trustworthy, and easy to work with over the long term.

I often use my own experience as an example. As someone born outside Canada who was given the opportunity to grow and represent Canadian technology globally, I believe successful partnerships are built on mutual respect, equal opportunity, and trust.

That is the kind of long-term relationship Canada hopes to build with Vietnam in the field of clean energy and nuclear technology.

Thank you for sharing your valuable insights. We wish Candu Energy every success in Vietnam.

Thank you very much. It has been my pleasure.

tác giả phỏng vấn trực tiếp-Trọng Hoàng

]]>The domestic carbon trading exchange is organized and operated as regulated by the Government’s Decree 29/2026/ND-CP.Sun, 28 Jun 2026 01:05:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-first-carbon-trading-exchange-is-to-launh-soon.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnams-first-carbon-trading-exchange-is-to-launh-soon.htmGreen EconomyThe domestic carbon trading exchange is organized and operated as regulated by the Government’s Decree 29/2026/ND-CP.

Vietnam’s  first carbon trading exchange is scheduled  for launching on June 29.

This will mark a significant milestone in the development of the country's carbon market, thus making contributions to fulfilling its international commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting green transition, fostering the development of a low-carbon economy, and providing businesses with an additional market-based instrument to support the achievement of their sustainable development goals.

Vietnam is actively developing a centrally managed domestic carbon market, with a pilot phase from late 2026 to 2028 and full implementation scheduled for 2029.

This development  aims to achieve the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets by 2030 and ultimately reach an ambitious goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Earlier, the Vietnamese Government had approved pilot greenhouse gas emission quotas for key industrial sector in 2025 and 2026.

Under this pilot policy, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment had allocated greenhouse gas emission quotas to 110 facilities.

The ministry has also issued a circular regulating the management and operation of the national registry system for greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits, providing the foundation for managing and trading commodities on the carbon exchange.

In January this year, the Government promulgated Decree 29/2026/ND-CP, paving the way for  setting up domestic carbon exchange. The Decree stipulates that the domestic carbon exchange is a comprehensive legal framework for the organization and operation of the carbon market in Vietnam.

VGP-Pham Long

]]>Spanning over 4,000 sq.m, the event will showcase the latest advancements in processing technology, packaging, automation, smart factories, and cold chain logistics.Sat, 27 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/propak-hanoi-2026-technological-boost-for-manufacturing-sector.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/propak-hanoi-2026-technological-boost-for-manufacturing-sector.htmGreen EconomySpanning over 4,000 sq.m, the event will showcase the latest advancements in processing technology, packaging, automation, smart factories, and cold chain logistics.

The International Processing and Packaging Exhibition — ProPak Hanoi 2026 — will take place from October 13 to 15, 2026, at the Vietnam Exposition Center in Dong Anh, Hanoi.

As Northern Vietnam emerges as a pivotal industrial growth hub, fueled by an explosion of industrial zones, global supply chain shifts, and a surge in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), ProPak Hanoi 2026 is set to become the premier platform for connecting knowledge, technology, and business opportunities across the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries.

Spanning over 4,000 sq.m, the event will showcase the latest advancements in processing technology, packaging, automation, smart factories, and cold chain logistics.

Speaking at the press conference on June 25, Senior Manager of Informa Markets Vietnam, Ms. Annie Tran, said "Businesses no longer compete solely on scale or cost. Today’s competition is defined by operational efficiency, technological integration, quality standards, sustainability, and the capacity to participate in global supply chains."

According to Ms. Tran, a modern production line does more than just increase productivity; it serves as a vital tool for businesses to minimize waste, optimize quality control, and meet the stringent demands of international markets. 

Chairman of the Vietnam Beer, Alcohol, and Beverage Association (VBA), Mr. Nguyen Van Viet, noted that for the beverage industry, processing, filling, and packaging technologies must be viewed as strategic pillars of development. He argued that these are no longer just technical components of a production line, but factors that directly impact product quality, operational efficiency, and overall market competitiveness.

From a research and application perspective, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duy Lam, President of the Vietnam Association of Food Science and Technology, asserted that science and technology are the "keys" to the industry’s major breakthroughs.

“Processing, preservation, and packaging technologies are no longer isolated technical stages; they have become fundamental elements that determine the efficiency of the entire value chain. From reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing product quality to ensuring food safety and expanding export markets, modern technology is the direct contributor to every success,” said Mr. Lam.

Vneconomy-Vũ Khuê

]]>Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:10:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-unveils-100-year-master-plan-through-digital-exhibition.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hanoi-unveils-100-year-master-plan-through-digital-exhibition.htmGreen EconomyScheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

To bring the 100-year vision of the Capital Master Plan closer to its citizens, Hanoi will launch a large-scale exhibition at the Hanoi Museum, featuring advanced digital technology to illustrate the city's future growth.

According to a press conference held on June 25 regarding the conference to announce the Hanoi Capital Master Plan with a 100-Year Vision and Investment Promotion 2026, the exhibition will be spread across multiple floors of the museum. On the first floor, a circular scale model with a 7-meter diameter will be displayed, providing fully updated information on the latest planning boundaries.

The fourth floor, spanning 1,200 sq.m, has been designed as a "special experience space." In addition to large-scale panels detailing Hanoi’s development throughout history, visitors can witness a 3D Mapping model that visually demonstrates the city’s technical infrastructure and spatial orientation. Guests will also have the opportunity to view 3D documentaries and trial-test an urban planning information lookup system.

The Master Plan covers a natural area of over 3,359 sq.km. It establishes a development structure based on a "multi-tier, multi-layer, multi-polar, and multi-center" model, utilizing the Red River as the primary ecological and cultural landscape axis.

By 2045, Hanoi aims to reach a GRDP of approximately $640 billion, transforming into a global city with a high quality of life. To realize this vision, the city has identified 11 breakthrough solution groups, notably an urban railway system integrated with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and a commitment to "Net Zero" emissions.

Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

On this occasion, the city will officially debut a 360-degree digitized data management system for investment projects. This system, along with the digital experience zone, promises to provide a comprehensive overview of investment potential and local products.

As part of the program, Hanoi is expected to grant investment policy decisions and investment registration certificates to key projects, while signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with major global corporations.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

]]>The zones are designed to serve as centers for research, development and application of advanced technologies in agriculture. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 02:17:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-establishes-seven-high-tech-agricultural-zones.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/hcm-city-establishes-seven-high-tech-agricultural-zones.htmGreen EconomyThe zones are designed to serve as centers for research, development and application of advanced technologies in agriculture.

Under a recent decision by the Ho Chi Minh People's Committee, seven High-Tech Agricultural Zones will be established with their operational framework approved, marking a significant step in advancing technology-driven and sustainable agricultural development.

The seven zones will cover more than 1,700 ha across key agricultural areas of the southern city. The zones include 2 facilities in Nhuan Duc commune (88.17 ha and 470 ha), and 5 others in Can Gio (89.74 ha), Cu Chi (23.3 ha), An Nhon Tay (470 ha), Binh Gia (383.22 ha), and Phuoc Hoa (203 ha).

The zones are designed to serve as centers for research, development and application of advanced technologies in crop cultivation, livestock farming, aquaculture, forestry, medicinal plants, biotechnology and post-harvest processing.

They will also function as hubs for testing, demonstrating and transferring new technologies, helping accelerate the modernization of agricultural production while improving efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Under the approved regulations, the zones will undertake a wide range of activities, including applied research, pilot production, controlled testing of new technologies and policy initiatives, technology exhibitions, and scientific and technical services. They will also provide agricultural quality testing services, support business incubation and innovation startups, and train highly skilled agricultural workers.

In addition, the zones are expected to attract domestic and international scientists, experts and investors to participate in the development of high-tech agriculture.

Each zone will focus on sectors suited to local conditions. Can Gio will specialize in high-tech aquaculture, Cu Chi will prioritize crop production and post-harvest technologies, An Nhon Tay will focus on high-tech livestock farming, while Binh Gia and Phuoc Hoa will develop crop cultivation, medicinal plants and forestry. Other zones will support a combination of agriculture, aquaculture and biotechnology-related activities.

VnEconomy-Thi Nguyễn

]]>Green transition is no longer optional but essential for the southern city’s industrial parks to attract high-quality investment.Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-targets-green-transition-of-44-industrial-parks-by-2030.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/dong-nai-targets-green-transition-of-44-industrial-parks-by-2030.htmGreen EconomyGreen transition is no longer optional but essential for the southern city’s industrial parks to attract high-quality investment.

Dong Nai city is aiming to transform all 44 of its industrial parks into eco-industrial parks by 2030, with a vision to 2050, as the southern city seeks to strengthen its investment appeal amid increasingly stringent global environmental standards.

The strategy reflects a broader shift in industrial competitiveness, where factors such as carbon emissions, resource efficiency and compliance with environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards are becoming as important as land availability and labor costs.

The transformation agenda was highlighted at a seminar on promoting eco-industrial parks, circular economy development and carbon emission reduction, jointly organized on June 25 by the Dong Nai Industrial Zones and Economic Zones Authority (DNIEZA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Speaking at the event, Mr. Pham Viet Phuong, Acting Deputy Head of DNIEZA, said green transformation is no longer optional but essential for industrial parks seeking to attract high-quality investment.

"Investment attraction is increasingly judged not only by the scale of capital or the number of projects, but also by technology, resource efficiency, energy use and environmental performance," he said.

Dong Nai is home to 44 established industrial parks with 2,793 active investment projects, making it one of Vietnam's leading destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI). However, the city's large industrial base has also placed growing pressure on energy consumption, water resources, environmental infrastructure and greenhouse gas emissions.

To address these challenges, the city People's Committee issued a roadmap in February 2026 to convert existing industrial parks into green and eco-industrial parks by 2030, with a longer-term vision extending to 2050.

The plan aligns with the Politburo's Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW, issued in June 2026, which targets having around 10% of Vietnam's industrial parks operating under the eco-industrial model by 2030 through both new developments and the conversion of existing sites.

Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thao, UNIDO's Country Representative in Vietnam, said Dong Nai is well positioned to become a national leader in eco-industrial park development. She noted that the transition could significantly enhance the city's ability to attract high-quality FDI, as multinational corporations increasingly favor industrial parks that meet ESG requirements and support low-carbon supply chains.

VnEconomy-Nguyệt Hà

]]>Key actions include refining policies to support the SAF ecosystem, ensuring sustainable feedstock supplies, selecting appropriate technologies, and developing supply chains and supporting infrastructure. Thu, 25 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-capable-of-producing-1-million-barrels-of-saf-daily-expert.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/vietnam-capable-of-producing-1-million-barrels-of-saf-daily-expert.htmGreen EconomyKey actions include refining policies to support the SAF ecosystem, ensuring sustainable feedstock supplies, selecting appropriate technologies, and developing supply chains and supporting infrastructure.

Vietnam has a potential to produce roughly 1 million barrels of SAF daily between 2030 and 2050 by leveraging its vast agricultural waste from rice and cassava.

This assessment was shared by Mr. Sharmine Tan, Boeing’s Southeast Asia Sustainability Lead, at the international workshop titled "Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Policy Framework and Market Development in ASEAN" held on June 25, according to a report by the Government News.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Construction Le Anh Tuan noted that the green transition and sustainable development within the aviation sector are becoming increasingly urgent. This urgency aligns with Vietnam's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and its official participation in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) starting in 2026.

According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong Hien, Deputy Director of  the Ministry of Construction's Institute of Strategy and Development, Vietnam's aviation industry is maintaining one of the fastest growth rates in Asia. Current consumption of traditional Jet A-1 fuel stands at approximately 2.8 to 3 million tons annually. Demand for air transport is forecasted to continue rising sharply, potentially driving fuel consumption to 4 million tons by 2030 and reaching 11 million tons by 2050.

"The biggest barrier to the development of SAF in Vietnam remains the economic challenge, as SAF production requires massive capital investment and cutting-edge technology," Ms. Hien remarked.

Currently, the production cost of SAF is 2 to 5 times higher than that of conventional Jet A-1 fuel, while investment incentive mechanisms are still being refined. Vietnam also faces several hurdles, including the lack of a formal SAF adoption roadmap, the absence of appropriate support mechanisms, difficulties in mobilizing sustainable raw materials, and challenges regarding traceability and meeting international certification standards.

Sharing this perspective, Mr. Philip Goh, CEO of the Asia-Pacific Sustainable Aviation Centre (APSAC), noted that SAF is projected to account for less than 1% of total global aviation fuel consumption by 2025. This is primarily due to its high cost compared to conventional fuels and the fact that production is concentrated in only a few countries. Furthermore, market instability and uncertain demand make investors hesitant to fund production without guaranteed long-term off-take agreements.

To drive SAF development, Ms. Hien suggested that Vietnam needs to establish a roadmap tailored to its practical conditions. Key actions include refining policies to support the SAF ecosystem, ensuring sustainable feedstock supplies, selecting appropriate technologies, and developing supply chains and supporting infrastructure. She also emphasized the need to mobilize investment, create risk-sharing mechanisms, expand international cooperation, and accelerate technology transfer alongside high-quality human resource development.

Echoing these views, Mr. Subash S, Deputy Regional Director for Asia-Pacific at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), stated that each nation must build an SAF roadmap aligned with its specific reality, based on its potential feedstock, energy sources, market demand, and existing infrastructure.

Developing SAF cannot be the sole responsibility of the aviation industry; it requires a coordinated policy framework involving transport, energy, environment, finance, industry, and investment. SAF must be integrated into existing national policies, with the Government playing a leading role by committing to SAF usage in state-managed activities, said Mr. Subash S.

Mr. Philip Goh added that Vietnam possesses immense potential for feedstock derived from agricultural by-products and biomass waste, such as rice straw, husks, bagasse, and other sources. APSAC is prepared to support research on materials and policies suitable for Vietnam, while providing training and capacity-building for government officials and connecting Vietnam with ICAO, regional partners, and the global aviation industry.

VGP-

]]>The ultimate goal of the planning is to transform Quang Ninh into a modern, smart, green, and sustainable city that serves as a national growth pole and a driver for regional development. Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:45:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/quang-ninh-to-become-smart-coastal-city-and-national-maritime-economic-hub.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/quang-ninh-to-become-smart-coastal-city-and-national-maritime-economic-hub.htmGreen EconomyThe ultimate goal of the planning is to transform Quang Ninh into a modern, smart, green, and sustainable city that serves as a national growth pole and a driver for regional development.

The Prime Minister has issued Decision No. 1123/QD-TTg dated June 23, 2026, approving the General Urban Planning for northern Quang Ninh province through 2050, with a vision toward 2075.

The ultimate goal of the planning is to transform the province into a modern, smart, green, and sustainable city that serves as a national growth pole and a driver for regional development. The province aims to possess international competitiveness while maintaining a balance between economic growth, social welfare, and environmental protection.

The planning scope covers approximately 6,232.4 sq.km of land along with the sea area within the province's administrative boundaries. This timeline is divided into stages: short-term to 2040, long-term to 2050, and a vision extending to 2075.

The locality is directed to integrate its urban, maritime, border, and heritage components into a complete ecosystem, providing the spatial and infrastructural foundation for the development of services, the maritime economy, and high-tech industries. This development is to be closely linked with science and technology, innovation, and green and digital transformations.

The vision identifies Quang Ninh as an international gateway, a global service and tourism hub, and a national maritime economic center. It is envisioned as a civilized, modern coastal city with a high international standard of living, pioneering national innovation models while remaining human-centric and heritage-focused.

According to the development roadmap, by 2030, Quang Ninh will be an international tourism service center, a national trade gateway, and a hub for high-quality services and high-tech manufacturing.

By 2040, it will become a national maritime economic center and a modern coastal city that applies innovative models in economic development, social management, and infrastructure governance. By 2050, Quang Ninh is oriented to be an international heritage city and a leading maritime economic center for both the nation and Southeast Asia. It will serve as a key national economic locomotive and a model for green, smart, and sustainable urban governance that preserves local identity and adapts to climate change.

In terms of its urban character, Quang Ninh is defined as a modern national and international maritime economic center, positioned as a leader in Southeast Asia and a primary driver for the Red River Delta. It will function as a national and international tourism hub, as well as a center for modern industry, trade, and logistics featuring maritime economic sectors with high global competitiveness.

Furthermore, Quang Ninh will be a "green, smart, and climate-resilient" coastal-border-heritage city, serving as a vital national transport node that connects domestic and international economic corridors and acts as a regional and international hub for logistics and trade.

Vneconomy-Hà Lê

]]>The energy transition is a crucial pillar of Vietnam’s economic development targets and overall ambitions. Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:35:00 GMThttps://en.vneconomy.vn/energy-transition-for-economic-development.htmhttps://en.vneconomy.vn/energy-transition-for-economic-development.htmGreen EconomyThe energy transition is a crucial pillar of Vietnam’s economic development targets and overall ambitions.

From its double-digit growth target to its aspiration of becoming a developed, high-income nation by 2045, Vietnam is facing the need to accelerate the development of new growth drivers. Politburo Resolution No. 70-NQ/TW, dated August 20, 2025, on ensuring national energy security to 2030, with a vision to 2045, has identified the importance of the energy sector for socio-economic development, national defense and security, and social welfare. 

At the “Energy Transition - A Driving Force for Double-Digit Growth Targets” workshop, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) in coordination with relevant agencies on June 9, Associate Professor Ngo Tri Long, Economic Expert at the Vietnam Financial Consulting Association, said that in the current context, energy transition has become a global development trend, directly linked to energy security, national competitiveness, supply chain restructuring, export standards, investment flows, and a new growth model. 

Securing the energy future

Over the years, Vietnam’s economic growth rate has consistently remained high compared to other countries in the region and around the world. Accordingly, the demand for energy in general and electricity in particular has also increased rapidly.

Regarding institutional reform, the MoIT advised the National Assembly (NA) to enact the amended Law on Electricity in November 2024, and simultaneously developed guiding documents under the Law. This is an important foundation for perfecting mechanisms and policies for the electricity and renewable energy sectors, especially offshore wind power.

Regarding electricity development planning, the MoIT has coordinated with ministries, sectors, and localities to implement the Project to Adjust the Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8), prioritizing the development of green and clean energy sources and efficiently exploiting domestic energy potential. The goal is to ensure electricity supply for socio-economic development, while reducing emissions and enhancing national energy self-reliance.

Regarding mechanisms to promote investment, the Ministry has advised the government to submit Resolution No. 253/2025/QH15 on mechanisms and policies for national energy development in the 2026-2030 period to the NA, aiming to remove institutional bottlenecks from the past, build mechanisms and policies to promote the development of power projects, and ensure energy security in the 2026-2030 period.

Specifically for 2026, Mr. Trinh Quoc Vu, Deputy Director General of the Electricity Department at MoIT, said the Ministry has developed three scenarios. The baseline scenario forecasts a 5.5 per cent increase in load compared to 2025. The operational scenario forecasts a load increase of up to 11.7 per cent, and the contingency scenario forecasts a load increase of up to 14.1 per cent compared to 2025. 

He added that the Resolution of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam sets a target of economic growth of 10 per cent or more a year during the 2026-2030 period, so ensuring sufficient electricity supply for socio-economic development plays an extremely important role. “Under the guidance and direction of the government and various ministries, departments, and localities, we have basically ensured sufficient electricity and energy supply for the country’s economic development in the past,” he said. 

In the time to come, the MoIT will continue to research and review amendments to certain articles of the Law on Electricity and issue detailed guiding documents to institutionalize the new and important policies of the Party in Politburo Resolution No. 70, which is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly for promulgation this year.

Range of challenges

Vietnam’s energy transition process still has many limitations. The existing power grid is severely overloaded and lacks synchronization. As of the end of 2025, the total national power generation capacity was expected to have reached approximately 87,600-95,000 MW, of which renewable energy (excluding large hydropower) is expected to account for 27-28 per cent, equivalent to more than 24,000 MW. Many provinces in the central and southern regions, such as Khanh Hoa and Lam Dong, frequently have to reduce renewable energy output by 20-30 per cent or even up to 50-60 per cent during certain hours or when the weather changes suddenly. 

This creates a paradox, according to Dr. Nguyen Xuan Quang from the Institute of Energy Technology at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. “Vietnam has clean energy sources but cannot transmit all of them to the grid, leading to wasted resources and reduced investor confidence,” he said.

In addition, the policy mechanisms are unstable and inconsistent. According to the Institute, the initial success of the preferential electricity purchase price mechanism with the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) pricing system contributed to the boom in solar and wind power. However, this rapid development has also revealed many shortcomings. The power system has not had time to prepare in terms of grid and dispatching, leading to many projects having to reduce output despite having completed investment. After the FIT mechanism ended, many transitional projects continued to face difficulties in determining electricity selling prices. 

Financial challenges are fundamental issues determining the success of the energy transition process. According to the revised PDP8, the total investment capital required for power generation and transmission grids in the 2026-2030 period is estimated at $136-150 billion. On average, the power sector needs to mobilize $27-30 billion annually, equivalent to about 6-7 per cent of Vietnam’s current GDP. This capital must be invested in the development of renewable energy sources. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Quang said, the commitment under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), worth $15.5 billion, is progressing slowly, with only a small portion disbursed. High domestic borrowing interest rates, exchange rate risks, and production cuts are making many projects less attractive. Foreign investors often require that power purchase agreements (PPAs) meet conditions that facilitate access to funding from international financial institutions. Furthermore, the trend of reduced financing for fossil fuels from international financial institutions is putting significant pressure on coal and natural gas power projects.

Under the guidance and direction of the government and various ministries, departments, and localities, we have basically ensured sufficient electricity and energy supply for the country’s economic development in the past.

Mr. Trinh Quoc Vu, Deputy Director General of the Electricity Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Proposed solutions

Vietnam’s energy transition is at a critical stage. To effectively implement the set goals and meet the growth needs for socio-economic development of the country, Mr. Vu said several important solutions are needed, including continuing to improve mechanisms and policies to create a favorable environment for the implementation of power projects; regularly urging localities to support and facilitate investors in implementing projects within their areas, ensuring the set deadlines are met; diversifying capital sources and forms of capital mobilization, effectively attracting domestic and foreign capital; and encouraging all economic sectors to participate in investing in the power sector.

“With these comprehensive solutions, from the legal framework for power development to project investment implementation, I believe that investors will have sufficient legal framework to implement power projects in general, and renewable energy projects in particular, to realize Vietnam’s sustainable energy development strategy,” he added.

Mr. Quang also proposed accelerating investment in the power grid and energy storage systems, perfecting the electricity market mechanism, promoting the implementation of the JETP, and developing flexible power sources. At the same time, it is necessary to enhance energy efficiency, synchronously plan electricity and transportation, reform electricity pricing, and focus on training human resources for a just energy transition.

“With its abundant potential and favorable geographical location, Vietnam can absolutely become a renewable energy hub in Southeast Asia,” he said. “The energy transition is not only a responsibility to the environment but also a crucial opportunity for sustainable economic development and ensuring long-term energy security for the country.”

On the other hand, Mr. Long pointed out that energy transition must be based on science, markets, technology, infrastructure, institutions, and social consensus. In this new phase, the content of Vietnam’s energy transition must be understood more broadly: not just electricity, but also petroleum, biofuels like E10, green transportation, energy efficiency, carbon markets, energy prices, storage infrastructure, smart grids, and the consumption behavior of the entire society. 

“If done correctly, energy transition will not be a cost burden,” he believes. “On the contrary, it will be a driving force for Vietnam to upgrade its growth model, reduce dependence on imported fuels, increase the competitiveness of businesses, attract green investment, expand new industries, and ensure national energy security.” 

VET- Linh Ngoc

]]>