Vietnam Boosts Beverage Packaging Recycling to Advance towards a Circular Economy

The Vietnamese government is promoting beverage packaging recycling to reduce pollution and foster a circular economy. The measure seeks to collect and reuse materials such as plastic, aluminum, and multi-layer paper boxes, which, if not managed correctly, put pressure on the waste system and the environment.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has gradually implemented Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, obliging companies to recycle according to established rates and specifications, as well as to manage difficult-to-recycle packaging or packaging with toxic substances.

The Deputy Director of the Department of Environment, Ho Kien Trung, highlighted that the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection consolidated these rules, while recent decrees and circulars complete the legal framework for the application of EPR. “The policy has been gradually put into practice, promoting more effective and sustainable recycling,” Trung stated.

According to the Vice President of the Vietnam Beer, Alcohol and Beverage Association, Chu Thi Van Anh, more than 80% of companies faced initial difficulties due to costs and lack of recycling partners. However, by 2024-2025, most understand the regulations and participate in training courses. Nearly 80% of companies contribute to a recycling fund, 20% combine this option with internal initiatives, and 10% authorize external recycling units.

Despite the progress, implementation continues to face challenges, especially with glass, aluminum, and multi-layer packaging, and the absence of local plants that recycle aluminum for new production rolls.

Experts and business representatives propose incentives for the use of recycled materials, investment in recycling infrastructure, technological development, and a system for recognizing ecological practices. In addition, they emphasize the need for coordination between the State, producers, importers, recyclers, consumers, and the media.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment reported that it is in consultation to develop a specific decree on EPR that strengthens the legal framework, ensuring transparency, feasibility, and effectiveness in the country’s environmental management.