Many Vietnamese businesses say they face difficulties in completing administrative procedures to obtain Eco-label certification from government authorities. This is seen as one of the barriers causing delays in the launch of several eco-friendly product lines.
According to Mr. Nguyen Dinh Dap, from the Viet Nam Academy of Social Sciences, Viet Nam’s legal framework for green labeling was first introduced in the Environmental Protection Laws of 2005 and 2014. It was later strengthened in the 2020 Environmental Protection Law, which integrated eco-label regulations into a unified national Eco-label system, while also adding incentives for green products and services. Notably, eco-friendly products are now given priority in public investment bidding. This is considered an important step forward, expected to encourage stronger business investment in sustainable and green production.
Businesses want clear guidance on how to prepare dossiers for eco-label certification.In reality, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has issued guidance on eco-labeling. However, the entire certification process should be digitalized to ensure transparency and clarity. Many businesses complain about unclear guidance on procedures such as environmental impact assessment. They want to apply, but do not know which agency can guide them in preparing eco-label certification documents. Therefore, a clear set of criteria and guidelines is needed. Certification records of approved eco-labeled products should also be published online so other businesses can learn from them.
“In addition, I propose reforming administrative procedures so businesses can more easily access support projects and preferential green financing. Simplifying paperwork, shortening processing time, and strengthening digital procedures will reduce compliance costs and stimulate both supply and demand for eco-labeled products. Viet Nam should also consider transferring certification authority to independent organizations instead of having government agencies handle it directly”, Mr. Dap suggested.
Policies are needed to encourage businesses to participate in green production and help consumers access environmentally friendly products.According to Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen The Chinh, transparency in administrative procedures must go hand in hand with removing existing bottlenecks so policies can be effectively implemented in real life. This will encourage business participation and help consumers access environmentally friendly products. He emphasized three areas that need priority attention.
First, focus on mandatory regulations that restrict or ban products with high pollution risks. In 2022, the Government issued Decree 08, setting a clear roadmap to phase out single-use plastics. From December 31, 2030, Viet Nam will completely ban the production and consumption of single-use plastics. Beginning in early 2026, local authorities will be responsible for banning these plastics, along with non-degradable packaging, at supermarkets, shopping centers, hotels, and tourist sites.
Second, economic policy tools such as taxes, fees, and financial incentives must be strengthened. The Environmental Protection Tax Law is being revised to expand taxable categories to include more pollution-risk products. In addition, there are preferential credit policies for businesses producing green products.
Third, policies to develop the eco-label market are essential. Viet Nam’s eco-labeled product market remains very small. Meanwhile, in 2016, Japan’s eco-labeled goods and services market exceeded 44 billion USD, and it is now certainly much larger. This comparison shows how small Viet Nam’s market still is, highlighting the need for more practical and effective solutions.
Eco-labeling is not just a sticker. It represents commitment, responsibility, and a vision for sustainable development. It is also a key tool for Viet Nam to achieve its climate change response goals.