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Vietnam Advances Extended Producer Responsibility to Tackle Packaging Waste

Vietnam is stepping up its green transition with Extended Producer Responsibility. Producers and importers are already on board, and stakeholders are engaged in shaping the future of recycling.

In this picture we can see different kinds of food items on the paper. On the paper there are price...
In this picture we can see different kinds of food items on the paper. On the paper there are price boards and behind the food items there are other things.

Vietnam Advances Extended Producer Responsibility to Tackle Packaging Waste

Vietnam is pushing ahead with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to tackle packaging waste. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) is drafting a decree to clarify recycling responsibilities for producers and importers. The move is part of Vietnam's broader effort to streamline procedures and facilitate a green transition.

The MAE is seeking public comments on draft amendments to 16 laws, with EPR being a key focus. The draft law aims to address challenges such as ineffective recycling systems and high recycling costs. Producers and importers are already showing commitment, with 80% opting to contribute to the EPR fund. Some are also combining fund contributions with internal initiatives, and a few are delegating responsibilities to recycling units.

Stakeholders are engaged in the process. The Vietnam Beer, Alcohol, and Beverage Association (VBA) proposed measures to ensure reasonable EPR costs and incentives for dual-role recyclers. The ESG Working Group of the British Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam suggested allowing businesses to combine self-organising recycling and financial contributions. Jonathan Sourintha, co-vice chair of the Circular Economy Working Group, proposed exempting recycled plastic packaging from EPR obligations to encourage greener materials.

The MAE is set to issue a decree on EPR to regulate recycling responsibilities. Deputy Director Nguyen Hung Thinh stressed the need for a separate decree to facilitate businesses. With public comments invited and stakeholders engaged, Vietnam is poised to make significant strides in its green transition through EPR.

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