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Vietnam Accelerates Toward a Low-Carbon Future
From banning single-use plastics to restricting fossil-fueled vehicles, Vietnam is stepping up its environmental focus, charting a clearer path toward its net-zero emissions commitment by 2050.
Plastics on the way out:
- By 2026, small non-biodegradable plastic bags will be banned from production and import.
- By 2030–2031, Vietnam targets a nationwide phase-out of single-use plastics, including foam containers and products with microplastics.
- Hanoi leads the charge with a phased plan: no plastic straws/cups in downtown eateries from Oct 2025, no free bags at stores by 2027, and a full ban on non-biodegradable plastic packaging by 2028.
→ These actions will help cut the 38+ million plastic bags distributed annually just in Hanoi supermarkets.
Paper emerges as a sustainable alternative:
As plastic restrictions tighten, paper-based packaging and biodegradable materials are gaining traction as viable substitutes—especially in food service, retail, and personal care sectors. The shift presents a tailwind for the paper industry, which stands to benefit from rising demand for eco-friendly and recyclable alternatives.
Laying the foundation for a carbon market:
In parallel, Vietnam is actively developing a carbon credit trading platform, with a pilot program underway through 2027 and full implementation targeted for 2028–2029. This mechanism will enable industries to price carbon, incentivize low-emission operations, and attract green investment.
For businesses and investors, this presents both a compliance challenge and a strategic opportunity. Whether you’re in manufacturing, logistics, retail, or clean tech, the direction is clear: align now or risk falling behind.
