Green Transition in the Packaging Industry

Key pointsNew EU regulations on packaging and packaging waste impose strict standards on exporting companies, prompting the domestic packaging industry to accelerate its shift towards environmentally friendly products. The industry has registered many designs from 2021 to 2025, making the green transition an inevitable response to market pressures.
Business impactJapanese companies exporting to the EU market must adapt to these new regulations. This necessitates a review of product design and manufacturing processes to meet environmental standards.

Key pointsThe 19th Resolution aims to innovate Vietnam's development model and open new growth spaces. To accelerate economic and social development, it requires a shift in thinking, improved management capabilities, enhanced institutional quality, and mastery of science and technology. Efforts are also underway to achieve agricultural, farmer, and rural goals by 2030.
Business impactThis policy may present new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly for those in the agriculture sector, which will need to reassess strategies to capture new market opportunities arising from institutional reforms.

Key pointsVietnam's national budget management agency is developing budget management policies suitable for the dual-model of local government, promoting the decentralization of authority and simplification of procedures to facilitate rapid disbursement of public investment funds. As a result, the disbursement rate of public investment funds has reached 38.1%, and the payment time has been reduced from two business days to one. Additionally, the introduction of electronic services has enabled all budget expenditures to be processed online.
Business impactThis policy means faster participation and funding for Japanese companies in public investment projects. In particular, the accounting departments will need to adapt to new procedures and establish systems to ensure smooth cash flow.

Key pointsAt the 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum, businesses in Lai Chau raised issues regarding access to land and the need for expedited investment procedures. They expressed that difficulties in land acquisition are impacting their operations and are seeking solutions from local government.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this situation and assess its potential impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsThe Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (Lefaso) reports that exporters are facing delays in the issuance of Certificates of Origin (C/O), particularly for the U.S. market, leading to increased costs and delayed delivery times. The issuance of C/O is crucial in export procedures, especially in markets without Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Business impactDelays in C/O issuance can increase tax burdens and disrupt logistics for exporters, necessitating close attention from the export sector and prompt action.

Key pointsAugust 16, 2026, marks the 50th anniversary of CTCP Dat Mai Thanh Cong (HOSE: TCM). This 50-year journey illustrates the company's growth from a small textile factory to a key player in Vietnam's textile industry, establishing its position in the international market. The company continues to face new challenges as it looks toward the next century.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsAs of August 14, 2026, it was reported at the Carbon Forum held in Ho Chi Minh City that 92 companies are participating in Vietnam's carbon credit market. This marks an important step towards the implementation of environmental policies and promotes sustainable growth for businesses.
Business impactJapanese companies need to enhance their engagement in carbon credit trading and environmental considerations to comply with Vietnam's environmental regulations. In particular, there is a demand for building sustainable business models.

Key pointsHI-TECH VIETNAM 2026 will be held from September 9 to 11, 2026, at the Vietnam Exhibition Center in Hanoi. This international exhibition will feature many companies involved in advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and the digital economy. The development of the digital economy requires institutional and resource support.
Business impactJapanese companies have the opportunity to enhance their competitiveness by advancing the adoption of digital technologies. In particular, the utilization of AI and robotics has the potential to improve operational efficiency.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, ministries and local governments are reviewing scenarios to achieve the 2026 growth targets and implementing flexible operational strategies to address economic fluctuations. There is an urgent need for foundational investments to enhance economic growth potential.
Business impactJapanese companies need to respond sensitively to changes in economic policies, particularly by revising investment plans and market strategies. It is important to explore new opportunities to promote growth.

Key pointsOn August 14, 2026, a car export ceremony for Mexico and Australia was held at the Hyundai Thanh Cong factory in Ninh Binh Province. This event marks a significant step for Vietnamese products entering the international market. Hyundai Thanh Cong plans to export 15,280 vehicles by 2026 and aims to expand into the Middle East and South American markets in the future.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor the growth of Vietnam's automotive industry and explore opportunities for parts supply and technological collaboration.

Key pointsVietnam's digital economy is expected to be a new growth engine, but institutional barriers must be addressed to improve actual productivity and added value. A business forum held on August 14, 2026, set a goal to raise the digital economy's share of GDP to 30% by 2030.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to policies promoting digitalization and can find new business opportunities by focusing on supporting the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Key pointsAccording to Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh of Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, effective operation of the carbon market requires institutional development, technological advancement, ensuring transparency, and the central role of the business community. A key theme for the 2026 Vietnam Carbon Forum will be bridging policy and implementation.
Business impactJapanese companies need to monitor trends in the carbon market and develop strategies to adapt to environmental regulations. In particular, compliance with new standards for managing and reporting carbon emissions will be necessary.