The announcement ceremony featured the presence of Nguyen Chi Dung, Minister of Planning and Investment cum Vice Chairman of the National Council for Sustainable Development, and many leaders from ministries and agencies. Nearly 300 delegates, including representatives from central and local agencies, domestic and international organizations, media outlets, and the business sector, attended the event.

Pham Tan Cong, VCCI President and Head of the Steering Committee for the 2024 Sustainable Enterprise Program, highlighted the crucial role of businesses in advancing national sustainable development as Vietnam enters a new era. Reflecting on nearly four decades of innovation, he noted that Vietnam has now built a strong foundation to seize the opportunity to become a high-income, developed nation by 2045.

“To fully capitalize on this potential, both the Government and the business community must undergo transformative change,” emphasized Cong.

“This demands overcoming institutional barriers and embracing new business strategies,” he said. “Businesses must prioritize innovation, cultivating sustainable, humane, and creative models that contribute to social progress and the well-being of the people,” he added.

He further emphasized that companies committed to sustainable business models will be better positioned to adapt, address challenges, and capitalize on opportunities arising from green and digital transformations.

In response to the rapidly evolving global landscape, Vietnam must embrace sustainable development, a green economy, the circular economy, and digital transformation to maintain its competitiveness. Geopolitical shifts, economic changes, and technological advancements - especially the Fourth Industrial Revolution - are introducing new challenges that demand continuous innovation. Vietnamese businesses must seize these opportunities to drive the nation's growth and enhance its global competitiveness.

In 2024, nearly 500 enterprises from across the country, spanning various sectors and sizes, participated in the CSI Program. This year, 142 businesses were selected for official evaluation.

Remarkably, the number of first-time participants has increased significantly, with domestic enterprises representing 62% of applicants and new entrants accounting for 35%. This trend signifies a notable shift in both awareness and action within the Vietnamese business community, demonstrating a growing commitment to sustainable practices.

Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice President of VCCI and Chairman of VBCSD reiterated the importance of strengthening corporate governance to enhance businesses’ "internal strength."

This, in turn, helps companies integrate sustainable strategies into their operations, improving their competitiveness and resilience in today’s volatile environment.

Vinh reflected on the nine-year journey of the CSI program. The program has not only helped businesses recognize their sustainable values but also driven innovation in their business models.

This progress is a vital step toward Vietnam’s goal of becoming a high-income, developed nation by 2045. The continued application of the CSI Index will support businesses in refining their governance practices, and VCCI will intensify efforts to promote this initiative within the domestic business community.

"Innovation is the key to unlocking new value in every business activity. The recognition and support from the business community will continue to motivate us to drive sustainable business practices and enhance the CSI program’s impact in the years to come,” he added.