Plastic exporters focus on recycling technology transformation

Huynh Thi My, Secretary General of the Vietnam Plastics Association

How do you assess the transformation of Vietnam's plastic companies in recycling efforts in recent times?

In recent years, the plastic industry has undergone many changes, especially concerning the environmental pollution caused by plastic waste. Therefore, we have been focusing on technology to process post-consumer plastic waste that ends up in the environment.

The shift towards recycling technologies and sustainable production has become urgent to meet green development requirements. Simultaneously, businesses are focusing on using new materials produced from agricultural waste.

At the 2024 International Plastics Exhibition held this year, many companies showcased recycling products and technologies. This is a great opportunity for Vietnamese companies to explore, select, and invest in technologies to serve upcoming export orders, especially with the stringent standards set by international markets.

One of the requirements we face is the use of a certain percentage of recycled plastic in finished products, which is a mandatory condition set by European countries. Vietnamese companies must comply with this requirement to export goods to these markets.

How well are Vietnamese businesses able to meet the stringent foreign market standards?

Regarding standards, companies specializing in exporting goods must proactively learn about new standards introduced by foreign countries, even if these regulations haven't been implemented in Vietnam yet.

Recently, leading Vietnamese plastic export companies have taken the initiative to understand and meet the requirements of their partners. Compliance is essential to achieving sustainable exports.

From this reality, we hope that not only leading businesses but also medium-sized companies will start gradually familiarizing themselves and preparing to meet global standards regarding plastic waste and recycled plastic products. They also need to meet packaging requirements for export products, particularly food packaging.

Currently, recycled plastic and rubber products are receiving favorable treatment in many countries worldwide. Therefore, Vietnamese companies need to focus on technological innovation to meet the increasing demands of the market.

What difficulties do plastic exporters face during this transformation, and what solutions are available?

With the continuous innovation of countries around the world and domestic policies, most plastic companies, which are small and medium-sized, face many difficulties due to limited resources for meeting new regulations. To support businesses, we regularly organize seminars and training sessions to update companies on new policies.

Businesses need to prepare to comply with these environmental regulations. Although global economic conditions have been challenging, government stimulus policies and business support have helped maintain growth in Vietnam's plastic industry. However, with regard to financial policy, the government has many other issues to address, so plastic companies must be self-reliant in their production and business activities.

Vietnam's plastic industry faces major challenges regarding plastic waste and the need for recycling. The transition to recycling technology and sustainable production is becoming essential to meet green development demands.

Currently, export markets are becoming more stringent on environmental factors, requiring carbon credits and recycling technology. This forces domestic plastic enterprises to adapt and improve, in order to avoid order disruptions, in the context of increasingly fierce competition.

What activities has the Association been involved in to support its members toward sustainable development?

As the Association, we have held many meetings with government agencies, ministries, international organizations, and especially the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. We have contributed to drafting regulations on environmental protection, including the new Decree 08 on the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This is a powerful tool to support the growth of the recycling industry.

In the near future, Vietnam will develop a strong recycling industry by investing in modern technologies to serve both the domestic market and export orders. Additionally, we are collaborating with ministries to design products that ensure they are beneficial for collection and recycling after disposal.

This is one of the important development goals to help build the plastics industry into one that supports a circular economy and promotes sustainable growth.

Thank you, madam!