Green Logistics – Resilience in volatility and connection with FIATA World Congress 2025

Business Forum Magazine in collaboration with VLA organized the "Green Logistics Forum - Resilience in fluctuations and connection with FIATA World Congress 2025" at VCCI Tower, Hanoi.

In the context of the global economy being strongly volatile, leading to the trend of restructuring and shifting the supply chain, the logistics industry is under unprecedented pressure of profound transformation, businesses are facing the urgent need to adapt to survive in the fluctuations.

In addition, governments and international organizations have set ambitious emission reduction targets such as the carbon border adjustment mechanism, initiatives from the European Union's Fit for 55 Package to the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) carbon reduction roadmap, etc., forcing logistics businesses to "green" their processes and move towards the netZero goal...

The requirement for green transformation in the logistics industry is no longer a trend but has become inevitable, determining the competitiveness and even the survival of businesses in global integration.

This is also an opportunity for businesses and countries to take advantage of the advantages to accelerate, move quickly, and reposition themselves. In particular, Vietnam is considered to be able to take the lead in building a green and sustainable logistics model in the Asia-Pacific region, becoming a pioneering bright spot on the green map of the world logistics industry.

In order to help logistics and import-export businesses update trends and green transformation requirements, discuss digitalization and greening initiatives, and increase opportunities to share and learn from international experiences in a volatile context, the Vietnam Logistics Services Association (VLA) in collaboration with Business Forum Magazine organizes:

GREEN LOGISTICS FORUM – RESILIENCE IN FLUCTUATIONS
AND CONNECT WITH FIATA WORLD CONGRESS 2025

Time: 14:00 – 17:00, Friday, July 11, 2025
Location: Hall 1, 7th Floor, VCCI Building, No. 9 Dao Duy Anh, Kim Lien Ward, Hanoi City

The forum is also an important activity in a series of activities towards the largest event in the global logistics industry - FIATA World Congress 2025, which will be held for the first time in Vietnam this coming October, with the Vietnam Logistics Business Association as the host country representative and Business Forum Magazine as the main media unit.

Attending the Green Logistics Forum, on behalf of the Vietnam Federation of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), there was: Mr. Pham Tan Cong, Chairman of the Vietnam Federation of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).

On behalf of the leaders of central ministries and branches, there were: Mr. Tran Thanh Hai, Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade.

On the side of experts, speakers attending the program included: Mr. Tran Tien Dung, Vice President of Vietnam Logistics Service Enterprises Association, Chairman of Hai Phong Logistics Association, Chairman of Macstar Group; Mr. Dang Vu Thanh, Vice President of Vietnam Logistics Service Enterprises Association, General Director of Southern Logistics Joint Stock Company; Mr. Nguyen Duy Minh, Vice President of Vietnam Logistics Service Enterprises Association, InterLOG International Logistics Joint Stock Company; Mr. Ken Yokeum, Vice President of Asia Pacific World Cargo Alliance (WCAworld); Mr. Edwin Law, Executive Director of Australian Business Association in Vietnam; Ms. Luu Thi Thanh Mau, Permanent Vice President of Ho Chi Minh City Green Business Association, General Director of Phuc Khang Investment and Construction Joint Stock Company; Mr. Koen Soenens, Vice President of Transport and Logistics Committee, European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham); Mr. Nguyen Xuan Ky, Executive Committee Member of Vietnam Seaport Association;

On behalf of the Organizing and Implementing Unit of the Forum, there were: Mr. Dao Trong Khoa, Chairman of the Vietnam Logistics Service Enterprises Association; Journalist Nguyen Linh Anh, Editor-in-Chief of Business Forum Magazine.

The Organizing Committee would like to express special thanks to experts from institutes, schools, research institutes, international organizations, provincial leaders, leaders of local business associations, industry business associations, domestic and foreign business associations in Vietnam: Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises; Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association; Vietnam Association of Electronic Enterprises; Vietnam Aviation Enterprises Association; Vietnam Shippers Association; Vietnam Association of Maritime Agents, Brokers and Services; Vietnam Logistics Human Resources Development Association; Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises; American Business Association in Vietnam; European Business Association in Vietnam; Japanese Business Association in Vietnam; Chinese Business Association in Vietnam; Singapore Business Association in Vietnam; Hai Phong Logistics Association; Ho Chi Minh City Logistics Association; Ho Chi Minh City Green Business Association.

The Forum is pleased to welcome members of the FIATA World Congress 2025 Organizing Committee. We especially welcome logistics and import-export businesses interested in attending the program.

The Organizing Committee would like to thank the journalists, reporters, and editors of news agencies and newspapers who attended and reported on the event.

Competitive advantages for Vietnamese businesses to move forward

Welcoming speech at the Green Logistics Forum - Resilience in fluctuations and connection with FIATA World Congress 2025, organized by the Vietnam Logistics Services Association (VLA) in collaboration with Business Forum Magazine on the afternoon of July 11, 2025, Chairman of Vietnam Federation of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) Pham Tan Cong said that green growth and sustainable development are inevitable, irreversible requirements and a global trend in the current period. The national strategy on green growth for the period 2021 - 2030, with a vision to 2050, has set the goal of "greening" economic sectors, promoting economic restructuring associated with innovation of environmentally sustainable growth models and social equity. "Developing green logistics" is one of the tasks assigned to relevant ministries and branches in this strategy.

“To implement this Strategy, the Prime Minister issued Decision No. 882/QD-TTg approving the National Action Plan on Green Growth for the 2021-2030 period, in which logistics services are one of the 18 key topics of the Plan,” said VCCI Chairman Pham Tan Cong.

At the same time, by setting clear emission reduction targets in the Action Program on Green Energy Transition in the Transport Sector, Vietnam is building a solid policy foundation, promoting multimodal transport, encouraging the use of cleaner fuels and digital technology.

A survey by the Business Council for Sustainable Development of VCCI has shown that transforming supply chains and value chains towards more sustainability is one of the trends that the international business community is paying great attention to and giving high priority to. Accordingly, green supply chain management is closely linked to the management of its links, including green design, green production, green operations, green procurement, green logistics, waste management, etc.

According to VCCI Chairman Pham Tan Cong, when those links are all "green", businesses will be able to improve their operational capacity, while forming a green, sustainable ecosystem around the business, thereby creating competitive advantages and increasing the ability of businesses to adapt, withstand, and recover from market shocks.

The Corporate Sustainability Index (CSI) of VCCI is also a very good tool to help businesses review their sustainable development activities, self-assess their overall "health", as well as the impacts created by their activities, thereby building appropriate action plans to improve weaknesses, promote strengths, and at the same time improve the work of preparing and reporting information, helping to attract investment more effectively and sustainably.

According to VCCI Chairman Pham Tan Cong, from the above general requirements of the global supply chain, developing green logistics is no longer a trend but gradually becoming an inevitable requirement for activities throughout the stages of purchasing raw materials, production, distribution, delivery, waste treatment, and the entire product life cycle. Resolution No. 163/NQ-CP of the Government on promoting the synchronous implementation of key tasks and solutions to enhance competitiveness and develop Vietnam's logistics services has also identified "logistics development associated with sustainable supply chains".

In particular, with the increasingly deep integration of the economy, Vietnamese enterprises have updated the world's increasingly strict standards on green and sustainable development. Green logistics has been at the center of the development strategy, environmental responsibility and legal requirements, even the competitive advantage of enterprises.

Pointing out the growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and build sustainable, resilient networks... VCCI Chairman Pham Tan Cong expressed that, in the volatile context of the world economy, reciprocal tax barriers from large markets such as the United States, the shift and restructuring of global trade, the impact of geopolitical conflicts between countries, fuel price fluctuations, container crisis, along with the demand for ESG standards, Net Zero and carbon border tax... are gradually becoming new technical barriers, forcing logistics businesses to transform to survive and increase competitiveness.

“Greening” has become a vital path for businesses to increase their competitiveness and create resilience in the chain of fluctuations. Developing green logistics will be a competitive advantage for Vietnamese businesses to move faster and surpass in the global sustainable development strategy.

The World Congress of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders and Transport Associations – FIATA World Congress 2025 to be held in Hanoi this coming October will be a historic opportunity for Vietnamese logistics enterprises to integrate internationally right on their “home turf”.

“The proposal of the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) and Business Forum Magazine to organize the Green Logistics Forum and connect FIATA World Congress 2025 today is an important premise towards the largest event in the global logistics industry - FIATA World Congress 2025 with the theme "green logistics, fast adaptation" coming soon", Chairman Pham Tan Cong assessed.

At the same time, we hope that the Leaders, representatives of Ministries, Business Associations, experts as well as businesses will frankly exchange and discuss proposed support solutions from State management agencies, cooperation between international associations, and industry associations for green logistics development and rapid adaptation. Propose roadmaps and measures for businesses to make green transformation.

Your opinions will be compiled by VCCI to report to the Government and relevant agencies as well as contribute to perfecting the program of the FIATA World Congress 2025, which Vietnam will host.

VCCI Chairman Pham Tan Cong also expects that the FIATA WORLD CONGRESS 2025 will be an opportunity for Vietnamese enterprises to exchange and cooperate with thousands of leading logistics enterprises in the world. At the same time, it is an opportunity to affirm the position of the Vietnamese logistics industry in particular and promote the image of the country and Vietnamese people in general in the international arena. Indirectly opening up opportunities to increase import and export, improve competitiveness for enterprises, enter new markets and value chains, contributing to the development of the Vietnamese economy, making the country a developed country by 2045 as the set goal.

The “key” to integrating into the global value chain

Opening remarks at the Forum, UmbrellaMr. Dao Trong Khoa, Chairman of Vietnam Logistics Services Association (VLA) said that in the context of the world economy facing unprecedented fluctuations, from supply chain disruptions, exchange rate fluctuations, rising transportation costs, to technical barriers such as carbon taxes and ESG standards from major markets such as the United States and Europe, the Vietnamese logistics industry is facing a historic turning point.

“Green transformation is no longer an option but has become a mandatory requirement for Vietnamese logistics enterprises to integrate more deeply into the global value chain, improve competitiveness and affirm their position,” Chairman Dao Trong Khoa affirmed.

Mr. Dao Trong Khoa said that today’s Forum brings together the best – from leaders of ministries, sectors, international associations, to pioneering enterprises in the field of logistics and green investment. This is an opportunity for the business community to share visions, discuss practical solutions and connect to realize the goal of greening the supply chain. From developing sustainable infrastructure, applying energy-saving technology, optimizing fleets, to emission management and carbon traceability – all are essential steps for the Vietnamese logistics industry to not only adapt but also break through in this challenging period.

The forum also marks an important milestone in the preparation journey for the FIATA World Congress 2025 (FWC2025) – the largest event of the global logistics industry, to be held in Hanoi this October. With the theme “Green Logistics, Resilient Adaptation”, the congress will gather more than 1,200 delegates from over 150 countries, providing a golden opportunity for Vietnam to showcase its capacity, vision and commitment in shaping the future of sustainable logistics.

The VLA Chairman expressed pride that this event received strong support from the Government, especially from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, along with the companionship of ministries, branches and the business community.

The in-depth discussions at FWC2025 will focus on 7 major topics:

1. Young Logistics Professionals Award Session: Honoring young talents, pioneers of innovation in the logistics industry.

2. Logistics for Cross-Border E-Commerce: Trends and Optimal Solutions: Discusses the potential and solutions for developing logistics to serve global e-commerce.

3. Digital Transformation and Innovation – Breakthroughs in Green and Sustainable Logistics Development: Explore the role of technology and innovation in promoting green logistics.

4. Developing a flexible, sustainable supply chain and modernizing the cold chain: Solutions for building a flexible supply chain and upgrading the cold storage logistics system.

5. Restructuring Global Trade: New Challenges and Adaptation Strategies: Analyzing changes in global trade and how logistics businesses are adapting.

6. Economic Corridors and Next-Generation Transport Corridors: Regional Connectivity for Global Integration: Discusses modern transport corridors to enhance regional and international connectivity.

7. Promoting water and rail transport for sustainable supply chain development: Solutions for developing environmentally friendly transport to support green supply chains.

According to the President of VLA, FWC2025 is not only an annual congress, but a special congress, held in the 99th anniversary year of FIATA - International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations.

With the theme “Green and Resilient Logistics”, FWC2025 reflects the global challenges that the logistics industry is facing, from supply chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts, to pressure on emissions and ESG standards from major markets. This is also a pivotal congress, marking the strong transformation of FIATA and the global logistics community into a new era – where technology, sustainability and cross-border cooperation become pillars.

FWC2025 is the place to realize FIATA’s strategic vision: “Logistics without borders for a digital and sustainable world”. Vietnam – with its geostrategic location, high growth rate and strong green commitment – is proud to be the host country of this landmark event. More than just a congress, FWC2025 is also an opportunity for Vietnam and the world to shape the future of global logistics.

Chairman Dao Trong Khoa affirmed that VLA will continue to accompany businesses, associations and management agencies to build a clear and feasible transformation roadmap, from applying advanced technology, optimizing operations, to meeting international standards on sustainable development.

“Fulcrum” for businesses to overcome market “shocks”

Speaking at the Forum Mr. Tran Thanh Hai - Deputy Director, Import and Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade) According to the WB report in 2023, Vietnam ranked 43rd in the logistics performance index, in the top 5 of ASEAN. The average annual growth rate of Vietnam's logistics from 16% contributed significantly to bringing Vietnam's total import-export turnover in 2024 to more than 786 billion USD.

In recent years, the world market has witnessed major “shocks” that not only affected the flow of global goods but also posed urgent requirements for the adaptability and recovery of the global logistics industry. In this context, according to Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department Tran Thanh Hai, green logistics is identified as the key and fulcrum for global enterprises, including Vietnamese enterprises, to overcome the above “shocks”.

Sharing specifically about the content of green logistics, Mr. Tran Thanh Hai said: this is a logistics activity aimed at sustainable, friendly and environmentally friendly goals, minimizing negative impacts on the environment. Through investing in fuel-efficient means of transport, using smart containers, optimizing routes, digitizing warehouse management, green logistics also supports businesses in reducing the burden of long-term costs. When oil prices and transportation prices are always fluctuating, this is a very necessary "economic shield".

In the face of the global sustainable development trend, green logistics is becoming the new standard of export markets and customer requirements, in which the large European market has implemented the CBAM mechanism - imposing carbon tax on imported goods with high emissions. In particular, owning green certificates, businesses are creating for themselves a superior competitive advantage in an increasingly fiercely competitive market.

In Vietnam, Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department Tran Thanh Hai emphasized: the logistics industry is creating many favorable conditions when the Party and State pay great attention to investing and expanding infrastructure, especially traffic infrastructure with a key highway system to help transport businesses save time and transportation costs.

The logistics industry is seeing a huge opportunity as Vietnam is becoming one of the countries with an e-commerce boom. By 2024, the size of Vietnam's retail e-commerce market will reach 25 billion USD, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year.

However, when participating in the greening process, businesses will face some challenges. First of all, awareness, habits, and infrastructure do not meet the development of green transportation. Greening requires a large investment cost, causing difficulties for businesses, especially SMEs. In addition, businesses face challenges when choosing technology or lack a team of experts with knowledge and implementation capacity.

Discussing some orientations when implementing the conversion, Mr. Tran Thanh Hai said, first of all, energy conversion, means of transport using renewable electricity, hydrogen, LNG...; encouraging the conversion of means of transport to waterways and railways with large transport energy. Besides, it is necessary to optimize the process through larger-scale transportation, reducing empty runs, building smart warehouses and ports. Offsetting emissions by participating in afforestation is also an orientation.

For businesses, the Deputy Director of the Import-Export Department said that it is necessary to build a strategy in line with the green development orientation; upgrade and expand the warehouse system, invest in modern equipment; prioritize the use of environmentally friendly means of transport. Businesses need to share and cooperate; apply new technology and AI to optimize operations; build an integrated green logistics model.

To accelerate green logistics, Mr. Tran Thanh Hai said that the State is playing a creative role with important directions and guidelines. Specifically, Decision No. 876/QD-TTg approved the Action Program on green energy conversion, reducing carbon and methane emissions for the transport sector. The overall goal is to develop a green transport system towards the goal of zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Along with that, the Logistics Services Development Strategy for the 2025-2035 period, with a vision to 2050, sets the goal of developing Vietnam's logistics industry sustainably, effectively, with high quality and added value, capable of competing in the region as well as in the world, promoting Vietnam's advantages in the global value chain.

FWC 2025 – spreading sustainable, innovative and optimal transformation values

Information at the Forum, Mr. Nguyen Duy Minh - Vice President of Vietnam Logistics Services Association (VLA) said that in the context of a volatile and unpredictable global economy, the world supply chain is facing unprecedented challenges: supply chain disruptions, regional conflicts, escalating logistics costs, carbon tax barriers, and increasingly stringent ESG requirements from import and export markets.

Faced with these profound changes, the trend of reshaping the global supply chain is no longer a distant prospect, but is directly impacting all logistics businesses, especially in developing countries like Vietnam. In that context, green transformation is not only a trend, but an inevitable choice for survival and development. This is the key strategy to help businesses increase their resilience, adapt flexibly, and elevate their position in the international supply chain.

According to Mr. Nguyen Duy Minh, FIATA World Congress 2025 (FWC 2025) - the world congress on logistics organized by the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), is scheduled to take place from October 6 to 10, 2025 at the National Convention Center, Hanoi. This is the first time this prestigious event is held in Vietnam.

With the theme “Green and Resilient Logistics”, FWC 2025 will not only be a forum for the world’s leading logistics experts, but also a place to spread the values of sustainable, creative and optimal transformation. In particular, the FWC 2025 agenda with 7 thematic discussion sessions covers the most essential aspects of the logistics industry in the green transformation and international integration period:

Panel 1: Honoring young logistics talents, promoting innovation from the next generation; Panel 2: Optimizing logistics for cross-border e-commerce – a driver of sustainable growth; Panel 3: Digital transformation and innovation – catalysts for green logistics and sustainable development. Panel 4: Developing flexible supply chains and modernizing cold chains – improving resilience to fluctuations; Panel 5: Adapting to global trade restructuring – new strategies for logistics businesses; Panel 6: New generation economic and transport corridors – a driving force for regional and global connectivity; Panel 7: Promoting water and rail transport – a solution to reduce emissions and improve supply chain efficiency.

“These discussions not only provide in-depth insights from international experts but also create conditions for Vietnamese enterprises to: access new knowledge and advanced technology, but also connect investments, transfer technology and access sustainable logistics models,” Mr. Nguyen Duy Minh emphasized.

At the same time, he said, with international exhibitions and promotion activities, businesses have the opportunity to expand their global partner network. This is a truly great and rare opportunity for businesses, especially in the context of unpredictable fluctuations in the global economy and politics as today, with diverse markets and expanding the network is one of the key factors to improve the adaptability and sustainable development of each business in particular and the supply chain and the economy in general.

The positive impact of FWC 2025 does not stop at connecting more than 1,200 delegates from more than 150 countries, but also creates a widespread influence on the import-export, manufacturing and distribution business community in Vietnam - the key players in creating a green supply chain in the future.

Mr. Nguyen Duy Minh expressed that, from the role of the host unit, we are constantly striving to make FWC 2025 truly a global bridge, enhancing integration capacity, and creating a breakthrough momentum for Vietnamese logistics enterprises to overcome old limits, and grow strongly in the green era.

“Let's work together to make FWC 2025 not only a major international event, but also a turning point for the development of Vietnam's logistics industry on the journey of green transformation and adaptation,” he called.

It is known that FIATA was founded in 1926, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with more than 40,000 member enterprises in 150 countries and territories - A non-governmental, non-profit organization representing the global logistics and freight forwarding industry with the goal of: Connecting the global logistics community; Promoting standardization, digitalization and sustainable development of the industry; Being a bridge between businesses and international organizations such as WTO, UNCTAD, ICAO, WCO ...

FIATA World Congress 2025 takes place on the occasion of its 99th anniversary - FIATA's largest annual event - organized since 1950, bringing together more than 1,000 international delegates: businesses, experts, government organizations and logistics associations from more than 150 countries.

The theme of FIATA World Congress 2025 – “GREEN AND RESILIENT LOGISTICS” – reflects the expectation of building a logistics industry that is resilient to fluctuations, deeply connected and actively contributes to global green development goals.

LOGISTICS ENTERPRISES AND GREEN JOURNEY

Moderating the discussion session with the topic: Logistics enterprises and the green journey, Mr. Dang Vu Thanh, Vice President of Vietnam Logistics Services Association (VLA) said that in the context of the global effort to transform towards sustainable development, greening has become an inevitable trend. As the "blood vessel" of the economy, the logistics industry plays an extremely important role in this transformation process. However, for green transformation to truly come into practice, cooperation and experience sharing between countries and business communities are needed, especially with markets with strict standards such as the European Union (EU).

Questioning Mr. Koen Soenens, Vice Chairman of the Transport and Logistics Committee, European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham), Mr. Dang Vu Thanh said: “In your opinion, what are the biggest obstacles that Vietnamese enterprises are currently facing in the process of greening logistics to access the European market? At the same time, can you share more about the experiences and practical lessons that European enterprises have effectively implemented in Vietnam? And finally, does EuroCham have any specific suggestions or recommendations to support Vietnamese enterprises in improving their greening capacity and improving their ability to access the EU market?”.

Share at the Forum, Mr. Koen Soenens, Vice Chairman of the Transport and Logistics Committee, European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) believes that the greening of logistics in Vietnam is facing many challenges, especially when businesses want to access the EU market more deeply. As a representative of DEEP C Industrial Park and at the same time the voice of the European business community operating in Vietnam for many years, we believe that logistics is the "heart" of the economy - the place that connects production, circulation and distribution. However, in the context of the world moving strongly towards sustainable development, this industry is forced to change to adapt and survive.

According to Mr. Koen Soenens, European businesses are currently under great pressure from strict green standards in the domestic market. To adapt, they have proactively implemented many specific solutions in Vietnam such as using solar energy in warehouses and offices; deploying green delivery fleets; integrating digital tools to optimize routes, save fuel and reduce emissions. These are not temporary trends, but smart choices that bring long-term efficiency. However, the reality in Vietnam shows that many barriers still exist such as the logistics infrastructure in Vietnam is not synchronous, policies are still inconsistent, many regulations are unclear, causing difficulties in practical implementation.

“These challenges are not unique to any one person. Therefore, we need to work together to create a sustainable logistics ecosystem,” said Mr. Koen Soenens. The EuroCham representative affirmed that green development is a process that cannot be “outsourced” but requires the cooperation of businesses, the Government and other stakeholders. Although awareness in Vietnam is improving, financial resources, skills and experience are still limited. The most important thing is policy synchronization and unity of viewpoint. Once that is established, Vietnam can move very quickly.

This representative also believes that this is a golden time for Vietnam to build a modern, efficient and sustainable logistics system, while empowering the next generation with a full set of tools to develop a green economy. “We need to continue to focus and coordinate closely to turn green transformation from an idea into a real competitive advantage for Vietnamese businesses in the international market,” the EuroCham representative emphasized.

Discussing at the discussion session, Mr. Tran Tien Dung - Vice President of VLA, President of Hai Phong Logistics Association, President of Macstar Group said that in the past time, Hai Phong, as a customs gateway in the Northern region, has performed its duties well and is one of the few ports that has maintained a growth in customs clearance goods of over 10%. In the coming time, with investment in seaport infrastructure, Hai Phong has a great opportunity to welcome direct shipping routes to Northern European and Mediterranean markets.

In particular, Resolution No. 226/2025/QH15 of the National Assembly was passed with many mechanisms and policies for Hai Phong to pilot, including a part of the free trade zone in the South Hai Phong coastal economic zone, Nam Dinh Vu industrial park, Lach Huyen area, Hai Phong and the Northern region are expected to receive a strong wave of foreign investment. Logistics enterprises, in addition to the opportunity to have more jobs, also face a number of challenges such as road transport accounting for a large proportion of 98-99%, while sea transport in the Northern region has a lot of potential but has not been effectively exploited. In addition, it is necessary to supplement rail transport.

Recognizing this problem, Macstar Group has established an inland waterway and coastal transport group since 2023 and has conducted a trial run of the Hai Phong - Ninh Binh connection by inland waterway. After that, it has invested in installing a pioneering large-tonnage ship through the "Vietnam Panama Canal" to save half the time and have a larger capacity. “We are continuing to coordinate with domestic and foreign partners to research and invest in larger ships with better capacity, reducing logistics costs for businesses and reducing carbon emissions. In addition, we are researching the use of new, more environmentally friendly fuels such as solar batteries, green hydrogen, etc. However, for this research to be highly effective, businesses need the support of state management agencies in issuing technical standards for new fuels, and providing guidance to allow pioneering businesses to apply technology and machinery suitable for new, environmentally friendly fuels,” Mr. Tran Tien Dung informed.

Answering questions about network cooperation models between logistics enterprises, Mr. Ken Yokeum, Vice President of Asia-Pacific region of World Cargo Alliance (WCAworld), emphasizing that global connectivity and collaboration are the essential foundations for a sustainable logistics industry in the future. WCAworld currently has more than 12,800 offices in 195 countries, serving over 11,100 seaports through its network of independent forwarders. As a Diamond Sponsor of FWC 2025, WCA has invited all members of the network to attend the event, demonstrating its commitment to accompany the transformation of the industry.

“We do not compete, we connect and promote cooperation,” Ken stressed. He said that WCA acts as a trade facilitation platform, while FIATA plays a policy-oriented and industry-educational role. The two organizations can complement each other in the goal of sustainable development of global logistics.

In the context of emission reduction becoming an urgent requirement, WCAworld has implemented the ECO program, providing tools to help member businesses calculate carbon emissions, propose reduction plans and conduct standard reports. This tool, developed with the support of modern technology, not only supports businesses in complying with government regulations and customer requirements, but also facilitates their deeper participation in the global supply chain. “Businesses that do not go green will soon be eliminated from the game,” Mr. Ken warned, affirming that initiatives at WCA all come from the actual needs of members. The ECO program currently has 96 participating businesses and those that meet the standards will be certified and have their logo attached to the WCA system, as a reliable signal of environmental capacity in the partnership.

Notably, networking activities within the WCA network are also being organized in a way that reduces emissions. The annual event, scheduled to take place in Singapore in February 2026, will bring together about 5,000 logistics businesses from around the world. “Instead of having to fly to 15 countries to meet partners, they can now meet at a single location,” said Ken, considering this a concrete example of sustainability in network organization.

WCA currently holds an average of 13 annual conferences, of varying sizes, to facilitate businesses to meet, update trends, and seek solutions together. According to Ken, cross-border collaboration will be the key to the successful transformation of the entire industry. “People only start to act when they have access to the right knowledge and tools. And then it is sharing, collaborating, and learning from each other that will create change,” he concluded.

Answering the question about the biggest barriers and challenges in green transformation today, Ms. Luu Thi Thanh Mau, Permanent Vice President, Ho Chi Minh City Green Business Association, General Director of Phuc Khang Investment and Construction Joint Stock Company said that in the context of Vietnam's commitment to a net zero emission target by 2050 and its increasing integration into the global value chain, Vietnamese enterprises - especially small and medium enterprises - are facing increasing pressure in the green transition and sustainable supply chain development.

According to Ms. Luu Thi Thanh Mau, the first limitation is resources, and when we talk about resources, we are talking about financial and human resources.

The first, with very limited resources when Vietnam currently has 90% logistics enterprises which are medium, small and micro enterprises. And the resources for green transformation are a huge challenge, the cost for green transformation is also difficult.

Ms. Luu Thi Thanh Mau asked: So how can small and medium-sized enterprises use environmentally friendly materials, improve production processes, and help them have resources to make green transition easier? According to Ms. Mau, management agencies need to pay attention to come up with appropriate mechanisms and policies... For example, in Singapore more than a decade ago, they also had mechanisms and resources for green transition until now.

Monday is to aim for green products, so to have products, people must be green, however, currently the human resource for green transformation is almost in crisis, because if we train human resources to meet the needs of green transformation, it will take us 20 years. Therefore, we must invest in people flexibly to form a culture, because only with green people can there be green transformation and a green country.

“Humans will play a role in leading green transformation, so it is necessary for organizations and management agencies to train people in professional skills in green transformation,” said Ms. Luu Thi Thanh Mau.

Discussing at the discussion session, Mr. Edwin Law, Executive Director of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (AusCham) I would like to express my sincere thanks to VCCI and FIATA for organizing such a practical and timely event in the context of the world changing strongly for the goal of sustainable development. According to Mr. Edwin Law, the increasingly tightening global commitments on climate change, along with changes in consumer habits and market standards, are posing an urgent requirement for economies to develop in a green, sustainable and responsible direction.

Sharing experiences from Australia, the AusCham representative said that in this country, “green logistics” is no longer an option, but a mandatory requirement. Many businesses have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating sustainability goals right from the start into their business strategies, from investing in green transportation, using renewable energy to building environmentally friendly supply chains. Technology is a key factor in this process. Many companies have pioneered the development and application of many smart technology models, not only helping to save energy but also significantly increasing profits. In fact, some Australian businesses have been transferring this model to partners in Vietnam through joint ventures and bringing positive results.

In addition, the fact that factories in Vietnam have begun to use energy efficiently and integrate environmental standards into production is a positive signal, demonstrating Vietnam's clear efforts in the journey towards the goal of net zero emissions. The AusCham representative expressed his pleasure in cooperating with Vietnamese partners and VCCI in this field. Because green transformation cannot be the effort of one party alone but requires the cooperation of the entire ecosystem. Mr. Edwin Law hopes that in the coming time, he will continue to closely coordinate with VCCI to share experiences, jointly propose solutions on sustainable logistics, and at the same time connect more deeply between the Vietnamese and Australian business communities in this field.

“I believe that the cooperation between the three parties FIATA – VCCI – AusCham will contribute to promoting the green transformation in logistics, making Vietnam an important link in the global supply chain. Green logistics is now not only an environmental responsibility, but also a vital requirement to increase the competitiveness of enterprises in the volatile international economic environment,” Mr. Edwin Law affirmed.

For the successful organization of the world's leading international event in the logistics industry, FIATA World Congress 2025, it is impossible not to mention the valuable support of sponsors and businesses that have been showing a strong commitment to the greening process of the Vietnamese logistics industry and carrying out the pioneering mission of leading the process of developing sustainable logistics globally.

Answering questions about green transformation implementation practices and support proposals from authorities, UmbrellaMr. Yap Kwong Weng, CEO Vietnam SuperPort™, believes that the core thing now is to promote the multimodal integrated logistics model, in parallel with building a sustainable policy and financial corridor to support businesses in implementing the transformation in a substantive manner.

Vietnam SuperPort™ is implementing a new model in Vietnam that integrates air cargo terminals, bonded warehouses, general warehouses, and cross-border connectivity solutions. According to Mr. Yap, this model is not yet popular in the region but has the potential to create a “structural advantage” for Vietnam in the international supply chain. “We are not going in the direction of mass industrial parks, but focusing on optimizing existing assets to increase operational efficiency. For example, if a customer needs to transport goods by air, the goods can be transported directly from the warehouse to the aircraft if regulations allow,” he said.

In addition, the system also aims to connect across borders, with transport routes running from China through Hai Phong port, creating a strategic advantage in the regional network. In the face of the trend of shifting global supply chains due to the impact of tax policies and geopolitics, Mr. Yap believes that Vietnam is facing the opportunity to become a leading destination in chain diversification strategies. And in that context, the sustainability factor is not only a competitive advantage, but also a lever to reshape the business's operating strategy.

Vietnam SuperPort has set a target of achieving net zero emissions by 2040, with a specific roadmap including the use of renewable energy, the deployment of highly automated warehouses, the integration of carbon-neutral materials, and the application of emission-neutral operating methods. “We not only apply modern technology from Singapore, but also develop a domestic technical team to operate and master the technology,” he said.

However, according to Mr. Yap, green transformation efforts of enterprises are only truly effective when accompanied by policies and finance. He proposed the need to encourage green finance and blended finance mechanisms, not only from commercial banks but also from international organizations such as IFC and the World Bank. Vietnam SuperPort is also cooperating with IFC for green infrastructure projects in Vietnam, including through domestic banks. In addition, he also emphasized the importance of tax incentives and legal exemptions, especially in the field of electric vehicles (EV).

“If Vietnam wants to encourage the use of EVs, it needs clear support policies such as exemption of registration tax and easing of procedures for both domestically produced and imported vehicles. This will both promote supply and create momentum for the market,” he analyzed. In the long term, Vietnam SuperPort also invests in technology transfer and skills training, cooperating with international enterprises in training EV engineers, electromechanical engineering and deploying AI in logistics operations. The project is currently using an internal AI platform developed by the company itself with Google and Singaporean research institutes, with the expectation of transferring and replicating the model in Vietnam in the near future. Green transformation is not only about technology but also about thinking and coordination,” Mr. Yap concluded.

Mr. Nguyen Xuan Ky, Executive Board of Vietnam Seaport Association Amazon and Global Optimism have launched “The Climate Pledge” with the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement. This goal is also affecting the operations of shipping lines. Major shipping lines around the world have also committed to working towards Net Zero and the greening process is happening very quickly.

The Vietnam Seaports Association has 2 deep-water port clusters. The founding members of the Association have invested for more than 10 years. However, at present, the port clusters need to continue investing to maintain their competitive advantage and meet the emission reduction requirements of shipping lines within the committed scope of 3. Of the 4 types of fuels converted for greening, the port needs to choose the fuel type to focus on investing. Of the more than 150 ships built in the past 5 months, more than 100 use LNG.

From another perspective, the Government is committed to reducing net emissions to zero by 2050. The maritime transport industry needs to take concrete actions to realize this commitment. Vietnam needs to calculate to join the green transport corridor, otherwise we will be eliminated from the game in the next 5-10 years. This is creating great pressure on the industry and promoting cooperation and research to overcome this challenge together.

Mr. Nguyen Xuan Ky also informed that the Vietnam Seaport Association regularly organizes events to raise awareness of port clusters; invites consultants to help port clusters meet the criteria for green certification, greenhouse gas inventory, etc. At the same time, it gives opinions to build policies for green ports, and build loading and unloading prices for port clusters.

In the journey of promoting green transformation, innovating development models and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese logistics enterprises, the connection between organizations and associations plays a very important role. It is not only the connection of resources, but also the resonance of vision and action strategy.

The signing of the MOU between the two associations today will open up many practical cooperation programs, strongly spreading the spirit of sustainable development and promoting the green transformation process in the logistics sector in Vietnam while aiming towards FIATA World Congress 2025.

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