As part of a signing ceremony for an MoU on digital transformation and sustainable development between the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and FPT Corporation on March 19, a panel discussion provided in-depth insights into environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting and green finance.

Bringing together hundreds of financial and technology professionals, the discussion featured insights from the two host organisations, as well as FiinRatings and HSBC Bank Vietnam. Experts highlighted how digital solutions are transforming corporate sustainability practices by enhancing financial transparency, improving the accuracy of ESG reporting, and streamlining access to green capital.

Photo: ACCA Vietnam

To Quoc Hung, country manager of ACCA Vietnam, highlighted that in a sustainability-focused economy, integrating technology is essential for businesses to collect, process, and analyse data. This, in turn, enhances decision-making capabilities and enables enterprises to operate with higher efficiency and competitiveness.

"Europe has already implemented the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive," said Hung. "To deepen their integration into global supply chains, Vietnamese businesses must swiftly adopt and comply with these standards. Technology serves as a crucial solution to help companies keep pace effectively."

One of the most pressing challenges in ESG reporting is measuring carbon emissions. Nguyen Quang Thuan, chairman of FiinGroup and FiinRatings, noted that tracking emissions across corporate activities requires precise data systems.

"Measuring emissions from employee commuting or energy consumption can be complex without technological support," he explained. "Companies need a systematic approach to leverage green transition benefits while ensuring transparency in sustainability reporting."

Recognising this challenge, FPT has developed VertZéro, Vietnam's first automated carbon inventory solution. "Our platform automates emissions data collection and analysis, aligning with international standards," Nguyen Thi Phuong, consulting director at FPT IS Business Block, FPT Corporatio, said, "By eliminating manual processes, we minimise errors and provide businesses with a seamless ESG reporting solution. With AI and data analytics, ESG tracking and reporting become more transparent and efficient."

Beyond optimising ESG reporting, accessing and managing green finance remains a top concern for many businesses. Hoang Tuan Linh, relationship manager of HSBC Bank Vietnam revealed that HSBC has developed a range of financial products to support corporate sustainability goals, including green loans, social loans, and sustainability-linked loans.

"These products provide businesses with preferential financing and encourage them to fulfil their sustainability commitments," said Linh.

"Green credit is a top priority for HSBC. We have outlined a long-term strategy to become a net-zero bank by 2050 and have committed between $750 billion and $1 trillion to green and sustainable development projects. In Vietnam, HSBC has pledged $12 billion for green projects, with approximately 22 per cent of this capital already disbursed. We aim to complete the allocation by 2030," he added.

Ren Varma, head of Mainland Southeast Asia, ACCA This event marks a significant milestone in ACCA's partnership with FPT in Vietnam. Our collaboration is not limited to Vietnam; we aim to expand it across other markets as well. As a digital transformation leader, FPT is an ideal partner to enhance expertise and skill development in accounting, finance, and auditing across Vietnam and the broader Asia-Pacific region. ACCA remains committed to economic and professional development in Vietnam. Our focus includes advancing the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards, raising sustainability standards, and promoting ESG frameworks. Another key area is the application of AI-driven innovation in auditing, finance, and accounting. Our goal is to equip future financial professionals with the necessary skills to harness technology, drive economic growth, and support corporate expansion. This is why the collaboration between ACCA and FPT is crucial. By leveraging FPT's expertise in digital transformation and technology, we can cultivate a future-ready workforce while accelerating Vietnam's economic growth.