Driving Sustainable Growth: How Vietnamese MSMEs Can Lead the ESG Transformation
A new report by the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP), in collaboration with Indochina Research Vietnam, CCIFV member, reveals how micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Vietnam are leveraging ESG practices not just to meet regulations but to fuel long-term business success.
ESG Adoption on the Rise
Southeast Asia’s MSMEs are at a turning point. A recent study from the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP), with research conducted by Indochina Research Vietnam, highlights a powerful trend: small businesses in Vietnam are embracing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices to strengthen competitiveness and resilience. Rather than viewing sustainability as a burden, more and more MSMEs see it as a lever for cost-efficiency, talent retention, and strategic growth.
Key Findings from the Vietnamese Market
The numbers tell a compelling story. According to the study, 39% of MSMEs in the region report that adopting sustainability measures helps reduce operational costs and improve efficiency. Another 27% see ESG initiatives as a key to attracting and retaining skilled employees. In Vietnam, key sectors such as consumer goods, food and beverage, electronics, and tourism are showing strong ESG momentum. However, many enterprises still face critical barriers, including limited internal capacity and access to financial resources.
Building the Ecosystem for Sustainable Impact
To overcome these challenges and unlock long-term value, the report outlines five strategic actions tailored to local conditions: simplified ESG tools, targeted capacity-building programs, innovative financing mechanisms, stronger partnerships with multinational corporations, and a supportive ecosystem. Based on insights from over 3,500 MSMEs and 85 ecosystem players, the report provides a practical roadmap for embedding sustainability across value chains in Vietnam and beyond.
Download the full report:
https://ciip.com.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/250508-ciip-transforming-for-sustainability-report.pdf?sfvrsn=c7ddd499_1
