On behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK), AHK Vietnam collaborates with Enviacon International to conduct a business initiation trip to Vietnam for German companies from the waste management and recycling industry, focusing on packaging and plastic waste. This is a project-related funding measure as part of the Market Development Program for SMEs. The target group is primarily small and medium-sized German companies (SMEs).

Formats and conditions

The business initiation program focuses on B2B matchmaking between German companies and international stakeholders. This market development initiative is primarily targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany's waste management sector. Participation is limited to 12 companies, with priority given to SMEs over larger firms. Registrations will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The program involves intensive preparation of the participants for market entry in Vietnam, including:

• Personal appointments: Individually prepared business appointments and first contact meetings accompanied by interpreters.
• Market briefing: Seminar event with information on politics, the economy, and society.
• Presentation event: Supported by local industry associations and companies, this event provides participants with the opportunity to network and showcase products, services, and business intentions to local professionals and partners.
• Comprehensive target market analysis: This includes access to a target market webinar and a comprehensive handout with general information about the market and the industry.

This trip is organized on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK) and is part of the Market Development Program for SMEs, which is funded based on a decision by the German Parlament.

An overview of other projects of the Market Development Program for SMEs can be found at www.gtai.de/mep.

Target market: Vietnam

Vietnam, one of the most dynamic countries in Southeast Asia, fascinates with its impressive economic development. With an average GDP growth rate of 6 to 7 percent per year, it is one of the five fastest-growing economies in the world. The economic centers of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are key drivers of Vietnamese prosperity. With Germany as the leading economic partner in the EU, the bilateral trade volume has increased continuously, while Vietnam is recognized as an attractive location for German companies.

Waste management in Vietnam

Vietnam generates around 3.9 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, but only about one-third is recycled. Plastic bags pose a significant issue, with annual usage exceeding 30 billion pieces. Due to the low scrap price for plastic waste, recycled plastic pellets from household waste are much cheaper than new ones. The export turnover of plastic products is growing by about 20 percent, highlighting the immense potential of the recycled plastics industry.

The government supports recycling through various laws, regulations, and financial incentives. For instance, the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection incorporates the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR) to enhance plastic waste management. Additional steps toward sustainability include the introduction of circular economy regulations, the ban on single-use plastic products, and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Business opportunities for German companies

German companies can contribute to increasing efficiency and quality in Vietnam with their advanced recycling technology and expertise. The upcoming introduction of the EPR system for plastic packaging in 2024 also offers opportunities for cooperation in implementing and complying with these regulations. In addition, the government is offering incentives for investment in waste management, encouraging German companies to enter the market.

With the entry into force of laws such as the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection and guidelines to promote the recycling sector, German companies have the opportunity to participate in the development of the recycling industry in Vietnam, contributing to the sustainable development of the country.

Target group and price

The business initiation program is aimed at German companies from the waste management sector. It aims to establish and expand contacts with Vietnamese companies and to facilitate new co-operations in this market.

A participation fee is payable for taking part in this program. Depending on the size of the company, this is between 500 - 1,000 EUR (Net). Further information can be found in the information letter, which you can download above.

Your contact from enviacon:

Alba Elena Scheffler

Consultant

Phone: +49 30 814 8841 -23

scheffler(at)enviacon.com