EuroCham Whitebook proposes boosting investment for greener, more sustainable economy

Addressing the event, EU Ambassador to Vietnam Julien Guerrier emphasised that since its first edition, the Whitebook has served as a practical barometer and a conduit for policy dialogue between the public sector and the European business community.

“Over the past 25 years, EuroCham's Whitebook has cemented its position as a vital communication channel, effectively conveying the perspectives of the business community to the Government of Vietnam. With the 15th edition now available, this valuable tradition will continue to gain strength and have an even greater impact,” said the ambassador.

He went on to say “By carefully considering the recommendations in this Whitebook, listening to each other's opinions, and actively engaging in the implementation of the EVFTA and other initiatives of the EU and Vietnam, we can contribute to the growth and prosperity of our economies.”

Meanwhile, Gabor Fluit, chairman of EuroCham, spoke highly of the close, mutual cooperation between EU and Vietnam in addressing challenges, noting their joint commitment and aligned vision pave the way for significant progress in developing Vietnam’s business climate.

“This Whitebook aims to help shape a future where responsible businesses spur innovation and positively benefit Vietnam's people and environment. Despite obstacles ahead, Vietnam and Europe share strong determination to realize ambitious sustainability goals. Past achievements, combined with future focus, signal exciting prospects,” stressed the EuroCham chairman.

Taking the floor, Paul-Antoine Croize, chairman of the EuroCham Vietnam Food Agri & Aqua Business Sector Committee (FAABS), put forth recommendations in EuroCham’s Whitebook to assist Vietnam in leveraging the EVFTA, by proposing practical solutions such as collaborative training, impactful educational schemes, targeted capability investments, and unifying partnerships.

“We advocate environmentally sustainable models that simultaneously ensure food safety and expand innovative financing options. By promoting eco-friendly and organic techniques, we believe Vietnam can profitably elevate the supreme quality and value of its produce for both domestic and global consumers. Adopting prudent financial strategies and a One Health approach to reduce antimicrobials are important next steps. These forward-thinking measures represent key milestones along the shared journey towards an advanced and internationally competitive Vietnamese agriculture sector," he said.

Meanwhile, Erik Contreras, chairman of the EuroCham Green Growth Sector Committee, pointed out that through the Green Growth Sector Committee’s Whitebook chapters, EuroCham vows to partner with the country in order to champion next-generation sustainability solutions across key industries.

“Green building presents a significant opportunity. By fostering knowledge exchange and best practices in energy-efficient design, we can position Vietnam's growing cities to become regional leaders in sustainability, while reducing the overall cost for all stakeholders,” he noted.

To support the country’s renewable energy future, he recommended focusing cooperation efforts on streamlining clean power investments and purchase agreements, enabling and maintaining the delivery of green energy growth that maximises Vietnamese potential in this area, and supporting a socio-economic boost to the supply chain and labour force.

“Allowing greater private sector participation is critical for realizing a fossil fuel-free future that preserves enduring prosperity,” he said.

At the event, experts from EuroCham's 19 Sector Committees set forth policy suggestions on a wide range of sectors, from the fast-evolving digital economy to initiatives towards sustainable and green growth.