Plastic is a threat to the planet, and products seen as seemingly insignificant such as plastic straws are causing huge consequences for the environment.

“According to global statistics, of the eight million tonnes of plastic dumped into the ocean each year, 4 per cent comes from straws. We have only one planet, and right now, we need to work together to protect it. Small actions can make a big difference," Thao told VIR.

CEO Do Thi Huong Thao

VinaStraw is present both domestically and internationally due to its alignment with the green goals the world is pursuing.

"Compared to paper straws, cereal straws have the advantage of being edible, and can remain immersed in water for up to two hours without deformation," Thao said. "The product is used by many high-end cafes, hotels, and resorts in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Ninh, and Haiphong. Additionally, VinaStraws' foreign market includes developed countries such as South Korea, the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. In our first year, we exported eight tonnes of straws to Germany with a total value of around $17,000."

The immediate goal set by the CEO and her team is to boost exports, continue promoting, win over domestic customers, and strive for an annual export turnover of $290,000 and domestic market revenue of $125,000.

"Due to cost, plastic straws are still the choice of restaurants and cafes. However, as today's younger generation becomes aware of the environment, I believe we will surpass these goals," she said. "The EU and many countries have banned or restricted single-use plastic products."

Previously, Thao worked in the import-export sector. With the support of her family, she established VinaStraws in 2019 with a production line located in the northern province of Hai Duong.

Thao's production line only requires three workers, with a wastage rate of 10-15 per cent.

"Straws made from rice cannot completely replace plastic straws, but surely, this product will become increasingly popular. I believe that VinaStraws' rice straws are capable of going worldwide," she added.