35 years of integration and development
At the ceremony on Oct. 22, the feature film “35 Years of Formation and Development of VPA” showcased the evolution of Vietnam’s plastics industry—from its early modest production capacity to becoming a vital part of the global value chain, supported by modern factories, automated production lines, and internationally certified products that have strengthened the industry’s global presence.
In her keynote, Huynh Thi My, Vice President and General Secretary of VPA, highlighted major milestones in production scale, market expansion, and business growth. She emphasized the need for the industry to shift from quantity-driven growth to quality-focused development, invest in eco-design and advanced technology, and strengthen environmental compliance to align with rising global demand for sustainable products.
From a strategic perspective, Prof. Dr. Vu Minh Khuong, Professor of Practice in Economic Development Strategy and Policy Analysis at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, outlined a roadmap for the plastics industry. He identified digitalization and automation as key growth drivers, public-private partnerships as the implementation mechanism, and the circular economy as the operational framework for sustainable and competitive development regionally and globally.
Positioning for a new era
A highlight of the ceremony was the panel discussion “Vietnam Plastics Industry in the Era of Rising,” chaired by Dinh Duc Thang, Chairman of VPA. Distinguished speakers included Tran Duy Hy, Vice Chairman of VPA and CEO of Duy Tan Recycling; Pham Thi Ngoc Thuy, Director of the Office of the Private Economic Development Research Board (ViEF); Mai Ha Thanh Uyen, Sustainability Development Director, Dow Group Southeast Asia; and Prof. Dr. Vu Minh Khuong.
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Dinh Duc Thang (C), Chairman of VPA, speaks at panel discussion “Vietnam Plastics Industry in the Era of Rising.” Photo courtesy of VPA |
Aspiration to rise
Speaking at the event, Thang emphasized that Vietnam’s plastics industry faces stricter environmental, tariff, and international green trade requirements.
These challenges also present opportunities for the sector to restructure, innovate in technology and design, advance circular economy practices, strengthen recycling, and develop eco-friendly materials.
He urged the business community to unite in building a sustainable development model that enhances domestic competitiveness while integrating into global supply chains.
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Dinh Duc Thang, Chairman of VPA, speaking at the VPA’s 35th anniversary. Photo courtesy of VPA |
Drawing inspiration from international practices of “keeping plastics in the economy, out of the ocean,” Thang introduced the theme “Aspiration to Rise” as the guiding principle for the industry. He also stressed the importance of self-reliance in raw materials, noting that over 70% of plastic resins are imported, and encouraged development of the domestic petrochemical industry in line with Vietnam’s goal of double-digit GDP growth.
Honoring, strengthening, and promoting
The anniversary also recognized outstanding member enterprises (2020-2025) for their achievements in growth, innovation, and sustainable transformation. These awards highlighted companies’ commitments to social responsibility, human capital development, and active participation in VPA initiatives, while encouraging continued investment in clean technology, ethical governance, and a culture of responsibility.
As part of the event, VPA signed an MoU with the Vietnam Waste Recycling Association (2025-2028), marking a step forward in promoting the circular economy, improving product quality, and strengthening domestic production capacity. The two associations will collaborate on developing technical standards for recycled materials, sharing technological and market data, training human resources, piloting local recycling and waste classification models, and supporting enterprises in meeting environmental certification and traceability standards for export markets.
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MOU signing ceremony between VPA and the Vietnam Waste Recycling Association. Photo courtesy of VPA |
From gratitude to aspiration
The 35th anniversary celebration included CSR and community initiatives, such as a tree planting program, donation of waste bins to Naval Brigade 167, the blood donation campaign “Drops of Kindness – Spreading Love,” visits to the Long Dat Rehabilitation Center for War Veterans and National Contributors, and the VPA Golf Cup – “35 Years – Aspiration to Rise.”
According to a VPA representative, Vietnam’s plastics industry is entering a new era where green standards, innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration are crucial for long-term competitiveness. By innovating technology, strengthening management capacity, serving as a bridge of knowledge and resources, and benefiting from stable and transparent policies, the industry is building a responsible, efficient, and sustainable ecosystem.
“The 35th anniversary is not only a time to reflect on past achievements but also a new beginning – marking a phase of deeper transformation, greater sustainability, and stronger aspirations under the leadership of VPA and the shared commitment of the entire industry,” the representative added.
