The Ho Chi Minh City Economic Forum (HEF) 2023 officially opened on September 15 with a focus on green growth, the green economy, and the circular economy for sustainable development.

With the theme “Green growth - A journey to net zero emissions”, the HEF drew the participation of over 1,200 delegates representing international financial institutions and organizations such as the World Economic Forum (WEF) as well as leaders, managers, experts, and businesses from 21 countries and territories.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai said the Prime Minister made a strong commitment at COP 26 to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. To realize the commitment, the Prime Minister approved a national strategy on green growth and a strategy on the circular economy with the aim of reducing emissions and boosting green growth in economic sectors.

However, the effective implementation of international commitments, policies, and strategies need the broad participation of people and businesses and the mobilization of significant resources from society, investors, and financial institutions both inside and outside of the country, Mr. Khai said.

He asked relevant ministries, agencies, and localities to listen to the opinions and experience of businesses, soon complete supporting policies and standards, and promote new green growth models.

The Forum will serve as consultancy for localities on building their own green economic development in line with conditions in each sector and locality, he said.

This is also a good opportunity for businesses to review their traditional business model, gain access to new trading opportunities, boost cooperation, and mobilize resources to renew business models towards long-term efficiency, according to Mr. Khai.

Discussions focused on trends in green growth and circular economy development, the establishment of an ecosystem for the circular economy, policies for promoting green growth and the role of enterprises, resources in developing the circular economy, and international experience in green growth.