31-8-2023 (HANOI) According to a report from the local Vietnam News newspaper, numerous micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Vietnam are facing challenges in their journey towards sustainability due to limitations in human and capital resources.
The Ministry of Planning and Investment conducted a survey revealing that approximately 98 percent of Vietnam’s MSMEs encounter difficulties when attempting to transform their business models into more sustainable ones. This struggle is primarily attributed to the lack of resources available to these enterprises.
The survey highlighted that foreign direct investment firms, public companies, and exporting enterprises spearhead the green development movement in Vietnam, mainly due to the significant resources at their disposal. Conversely, many MSMEs still lack the necessary knowledge regarding environmental standards, social responsibility, and corporate governance.
Hoang Minh Chien, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency under the Ministry, stated that capital resource challenges further hinder the upgrade of outdated production technologies within these enterprises. Moreover, existing sustainable development programs and projects primarily cater to larger businesses and fail to meet the specific needs of smaller enterprises.
Recognizing the importance of raising awareness and fostering green transformation, Nguyen Quang Vinh, Deputy Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the significance of developing a transformation roadmap and cultivating qualified human resources within these enterprises.
The green transition of Vietnamese enterprises is crucial in aligning the nation with global sustainability goals and mitigating environmental impacts. However, the lack of resources, both in terms of human capital and financial support, poses a significant obstacle to achieving these objectives.