On 10 June 2025, EuroCham Vice-Chair Erick Contreras delivered a keynote address at the inaugural dialogue of the Ho Chi Minh City Green Business Association (HGBA), welcoming the creation of this new platform dedicated to sustainable business advocacy in Vietnam.
In his remarks, Mr. Contreras offered a European perspective on the green transition, noting how the EU Green Deal and its expanding regulatory framework, such as ESG due diligence requirements, are reshaping global trade. He underlined both the opportunities and the challenges these present to Vietnam’s integration into sustainable global value chains.
Drawing on EuroCham’s latest WhiteBook, Mr. Contreras outlined recommendations in three priority areas:
- Renewable Energy: Vietnam’s PDP8 sets a clear direction for green power development, but rising demand and the coal phase-out remain critical hurdles. International frameworks like JETP and the EU Global Gateway are essential to mobilise technical and financial support.
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction: With regulations like Decision 896 and Decree 06 taking shape, Mr. Contreras called for clearer emissions baselines and mechanisms for effective carbon trading to ensure alignment with international standards.
- Circular Economy & Waste: He addressed the challenges in EPR implementation, particularly in improving recycling economics and integrating the informal sector, while calling for incentives to boost demand for recycled content.
Mr. Contreras concluded by affirming EuroCham’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s green ambitions through public-private dialogue and collaboration. “Initiatives like HGBA play a vital role in fostering responsible business leadership. We look forward to working hand-in-hand to accelerate Vietnam’s sustainable transition.”
The event gathered government representatives, business leaders, and green economy advocates—marking an important step forward for Vietnam’s sustainability agenda.
