Cover Now is the chance for industry to evolve towards sustainable growth by embracing green production methods and the principles of circular economy.
Now is the chance for industry to evolve towards sustainable growth by embracing green production methods and the principles of circular economy.
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Plastic and rubber enterprises are under increasing pressure to adopt greener practices. But alongside the challenge lies opportunity.
Present in nearly every facet of modern economic and social life, the plastics and rubber sector is undergoing a significant shift towards green transformation. Heightened environmental standards are posing fresh challenges for the industry. Yet, they also open the door for businesses to explore long-term, sustainable solutions. From proactively adapting production to becoming more eco-friendly, to embracing circular models and ensuring compliance with both market expectations and legal frameworks, companies are showing fresh commitment to the cause. Technological upgrades and equipment modernisation are becoming part of a broader push to balance economic advancement with environmental stewardship.
Read more: ESG: Are Vietnamese businesses ready for the “green yardstick”?
Impressive growth comes with challenges
Despite notable economic gains in Vietnam’s plastics and rubber sector (industry figures show plastics revenue at approximately USD 25 billion annually, with growth averaging 10–12%, while rubber exports reach around USD 3.5 billion per year) this success also brings considerable environmental strain. Rising plastic consumption has led to a surge in waste, placing immense pressure on collection and treatment infrastructure. Urgently, the focus must shift to recycling, waste reduction, and minimising environmental impact at the production stage.
Above Industries should move collectively towards a greener, more circular and accountable future. Photo: hanoiplastics
Industries should move collectively towards a greener, more circular and accountable future. Photo: hanoiplastics
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According to Mr Tran Viet Anh, Chairman of the Vietnam Waste Recycling Association (VWRA), the moment has come for the industry to move collectively towards a greener, more circular and accountable future.
A notable area of change lies in plastic packaging, where the shift towards environmentally friendly alternatives is becoming ever more pronounced. Market forecasts suggest Vietnam’s paper packaging segment is thriving, while growth in plastic packaging has slowed. This signals rising demand for sustainable products from both consumers and the market. Yet, producers of bio-packaging are contending with higher costs compared to conventional materials. To address this, investment in improved technologies, skilled labour, and modern machinery is essential—ensuring green products are not only eco-conscious but competitively priced as well.
Above The rubber and plastics industries are forecast to continue expansion. Photo: Plastic & Rubber Vietnam
The rubber and plastics industries are forecast to continue expansion. Photo: Plastic & Rubber Vietnam
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Amid intensifying global competition, experts remain optimistic about the sector’s outlook. The rubber and plastics industries are forecast to continue expanding, supported by production shifts to Vietnam as a result of multiple free trade agreements (FTAs). These shifts are expected to drive export growth and foster innovation, pushing manufacturers to refine their processes in the name of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Vietnamese businesses seize the opportunity to “go green”
The revival of the EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) policy tool has injected fresh momentum into the recycling sector, offering new opportunities for businesses operating in plastic and rubber recovery. To meet tightening sustainability demands, recyclers are stepping up investments in research and the adoption of advanced technologies—improving both the quality and efficiency of waste processing. As a result, the industry is witnessing notable progress: around 67% of plastic recycling enterprises now operate at a moderately advanced technological level or higher, according to the Vietnam Plastics Association.
Read more: Legendary conservationist Jane Goodall and environmental lessons for every generation
Above Vietnam Plastics Association members have shown a marked increase in building recycling facilities. Photo: duytanrecycling
Vietnam Plastics Association members have shown a marked increase in building recycling facilities. Photo: duytanrecycling
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Significantly, a number of major players in the plastics sector are also moving decisively towards recycling. Among them is the DUYTAN Recycled Plastic project led by Tran Duy Hy, a prominent figure in the industry, and the Stavian Recycled Plastics Joint Stock Company under the Stavian Group. Ms Huynh Thi My, General Secretary of the Vietnam Plastics Association, has observed a marked increase in member companies showing interest in building recycling facilities—an encouraging shift in mindset and action across the sector.
While some firms focus on recycling, others are taking a different approach—choosing to green their processes from the very beginning, even with virgin plastic products. Tien Phong Plastic stands out in this space with its carbon-neutral strategy, investing in a streamlined production system that maximises efficiency, lowers energy usage, and limits hazardous waste. These initiatives have positioned Tien Phong Plastic as a preferred supplier for businesses looking to reduce the environmental footprint of their supply chains, such as seafood exporter Minh Phu Group and industrial park developer Shinec Joint Stock Company.
Above Vietnamese enterprises in the rubber industry are demonstrating a heightened awareness of sustainable development. Photo: Dau Tieng Rubber Company
Vietnamese enterprises in the rubber industry are demonstrating a heightened awareness of sustainable development. Photo: Dau Tieng Rubber Company
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The rubber sector, too, is not standing still in the green transition. Dau Tieng One Member Co., Ltd. has adopted sustainable practices in forest management and rubber harvesting. Similarly, Dong Phu Rubber Joint Stock Company has introduced systems to collect and reuse by-products during production—reducing waste while making better use of available resources.
These initiatives reflect a broader trend: Vietnamese enterprises in the plastic and rubber industries are demonstrating a heightened awareness of sustainable development. With the market evolving rapidly, they are actively exploring and applying green solutions to remain competitive and responsible.
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