From local innovation to global export: Vietnam’s push for eco-packaging
Employees can serve as a strong first line of defense against cyber attacks / Vietnam’s role in Southeast Asia’s 2025 startup resurgence
From pollution to opportunity
Packaging accounts for over 40% of global plastic waste, most of which is single-use and ends up in landfills or oceans. As environmental regulations tighten and consumer awareness rises, businesses are shifting toward biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging materials.
A 2025 report by Wired highlights that the sustainable packaging market is projected to exceed USD 470 billion globally by 2027, driven by demand from both multinational brands and local businesses seeking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Asia’s pivotal role
Asia — especially Southeast Asia — has historically struggled with high plastic waste generation. However, governments and entrepreneurs are responding with urgency. Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are investing in circular economy models and local startup ecosystems are increasingly aligned with sustainability goals.
Multinational corporations such as Nestlé and Unilever are piloting refill stations and alternative packaging across cities in the region. Meanwhile, local suppliers are scaling innovations in materials such as banana fiber, cassava starch, and sugarcane bagasse.
Vietnam: A growing green hub
Vietnam stands out with several startups actively developing sustainable packaging solutions. Among them:
Green Joy: Specializes in eco-friendly straws made from grey sedge and grass. The company exports to markets like Japan, Germany, and South Korea.
AnEco: A subsidiary of An Phát Holdings, this brand produces compostable bags, food containers, and cutlery made from PLA and PBAT bio-compounds.
In 2024, Vietnam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment also announced new guidelines encouraging businesses to switch to sustainable materials in food, logistics, and retail sectors.
Investment and export potential
With Vietnam’s booming food and beverage industry and rising consumer preference for green products, sustainable packaging presents both domestic and export opportunities. Startups in this field have begun attracting funding from impact-focused investors, including regional green venture funds and European partners seeking alternatives to traditional plastic manufacturers.
Sustainable packaging is no longer optional — it is a competitive advantage. For Vietnam, this trend not only offers a path to reduce environmental harm but also strengthens its innovation brand on the global stage. As Q2 2025 begins, businesses that embrace sustainable design early will be best positioned to lead in the coming decade.
References:
Wired (2025) The future of packaging: How materials are being reinvented.
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (2024) Guidelines on sustainable packaging in commercial sectors.
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