VCCI Vice President and VBCSD Chairman Nguyen Quang Vinh (L) presents a commemorative gift to WBCSD President Peter Bakker on the occasion of WBCSD’s 30th anniversary

In an exclusive interview, Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice President of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and Chairman of the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD), shared insights into the opportunities and challenges of sustainable development, as well as key takeaways from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)’s Liaison Delegate (LD) Meeting 2025.

How do you view sustainable business practices today and in the near future and what are the key challenges and opportunities?

It’s fair to say that the global landscape in recent years has been battered by numerous headwinds. Challenges are intensifying due to escalating geopolitical instability, the shift toward a multipolar world, trade protectionism, climate change and risks of crises in energy and food security, among others. These “headwinds” have undeniably impacted efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across all nations.

Yet, amidst these disruptions, there are also significant opportunities. First and foremost is the steady growth of the global economy. According to the latest OECD report, global GDP growth is projected to reach 3.3% in 2025, a slight increase from 3.2% in 2024, and is expected to remain stable at 3.3% in 2026. Additionally, this year’s World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting shifted from the “polycrisis” focus of 2023 to practical solutions, reflecting constructive optimism and encouraging collaboration and action.

Further opportunities lie in emerging economic sectors, particularly in technology transformation, renewable energy and climate change adaptation.

As climate change continues to be a shared global challenge and governments uphold their Net Zero commitments, the transition to “green energy,” “green production,” “circular economy,” and a “nature-positive economy” is unstoppable. Clean energy sources like wind, solar and hydrogen will continue to attract robust investment, while businesses offering low-carbon solutions, recycling and waste reduction will benefit from supportive policies and funding.

Most notably, we are living in an era where the Age of Intelligence is transforming everything simultaneously; never in human history have we witnessed such profound change, driven by the explosion of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). As digital transformation bolsters green transition, opportunities will outweigh challenges, enabling businesses that seize these trends to take the lead and reshape the global playing field.

We understand you recently attended the LD Meeting 2025. Could you share some key highlights from the event and how Vietnamese businesses might leverage them?

I recently made a short trip to Montreux, Switzerland, to attend the LD Meeting in early April. This is one of the two flagship events that WBCSD has consistently organized over the years. This year’s meeting, marking the organization’s 30th anniversary, drew a record attendance of over 700 delegates from more than 40 countries, mainly representing nearly 240 member companies.

This turnout underscores the growing focus on sustainable development, particularly within the business community. As the world faces increasingly unpredictable challenges, sustainable development is proving to be the optimal choice for securing the future we all aspire to.

The CSI program, initiated and developed by VBCSD-VCCI, is highly appreciated for supporting businesses in adopting sustainable practices

At the LD Meeting, WBCSD President Peter Bakker highlighted several factors shaping sustainable development trends in 2025: geopolitical shifts, the aftershocks of trade wars, cultural conflicts, and the “horizon” of AI – the unfolding future of artificial intelligence.

Based on these factors, WBCSD outlined key pillars defining global sustainable business practices now and in the near future. First is the “rise of physical trends” – tangible, real-world impacts such as climate change, natural disasters, resource scarcity, emissions and environmental pollution are becoming undeniable and impossible to ignore. Businesses and governments must directly confront the physical consequences of climate and environmental crises. Second is “realism in transition planning” – green transformation is no longer just a “beautiful dream” but must be practical and sustainable. Stakeholders are taking a more pragmatic approach, factoring in costs, risks, implementation capacity, realistic timelines and accompanying social considerations. Third is “human-centered transition” – for instance, when adopting green technologies, companies need to retrain employees, ensure fair support for those affected, and safeguard local community rights. Fourth is “proactively embracing regulatory frameworks” – as environmental, climate and sustainability reporting regulations grow increasingly complex and stringent, organizations must adapt swiftly, monitor changes closely, and navigate this fast-evolving legal landscape to mitigate risks and capitalize on policy opportunities. These are critical takeaways for Vietnamese businesses pursuing sustainable strategies today and moving forward.

I’d also like to share some exciting news: 2025 marks the 15th anniversary of VBCSD, a milestone reflecting our steadfast, pioneering role in supporting Vietnamese businesses to advance sustainable development. Alongside annual initiatives like the Corporate Sustainability Index Program (CSI) and Vietnam Corporate Sustainability Forum (VCSF), we will ramp up new efforts, including the Sustainable Industrial Zone Promotion Initiative, the establishment of a Green Transition Consulting and Support Center for Businesses, and the launch of working groups to promote green finance, green transformation and ESG practices within the business community. This is a pivotal moment for VBCSD to evolve, enabling us to more effectively partner with the government and businesses on this “voyage through headwinds” toward a green, sustainable and inclusive future, while helping our nation rise in this new era.

Thank you very much!