Hanoi (VNA) – A forum on green export promotion was held in Hanoi on December 4 to help Vietnamese enterprises switch to sustainable and low-carbon growth models and improve their competitiveness amidst globalisation.

Addressing the event, held by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Swiss Government-funded projects, Deputy Minister Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan said Vietnam is well positioned to become an important link of global supply chains, especially in the export of green and sustainable goods, and boost investment in renewable energy and the digital economy. Producing export goods adapted to sustainability standards is vital to the economy, he remarked, noting that seizing this opportunity will help Vietnam meet international markets’ requirements but also realise its commitment to the global Sustainable Development Goals.

The official pointed out that sustainability has become a trend of the era defining the development strategy of each nation, with sustainable economic development considered a basis for social development and environmental protection. Green and sustainable growth is not only an inevitable trend but also a prerequisite for maintaining competitiveness and ensuring long-term development of economies. Andri Meier, Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the Swiss Embassy in Vietnam, said amid the fast changing landscape of international trade and environmental challenges, sustainability is not optional or compulsory but needs to be adopted as soon as possible.

He noted customers, businesses, and governments now give more priority to socially and environmentally sustainable products and services.

Vietnam is a dynamic economy with considerable entrepreneurship and strong commitment to sustainable development. Its Government, ministries, sectors, and businesses are also exerting relentless efforts to promote green transition. This is a challenge but also a great opportunity for enhancing Vietnamese companies’ capabilities to create jobs for people, according to Meier.

Affirming Switzerland’s commitment to assisting Vietnam on this path, he revealed that the Swiss Embassy is preparing a framework of economic development cooperation with Vietnam for the 2025 - 2028 period. The programme, to be launched in late 2025, aims to help the Southeast Asian nation in a roadmap towards a high-income and more resilient economic status./.