Vietnam’s Green Packaging: Growth & Innovation
Vietnam’s packaging industry is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in eco-friendly segments. The paper packaging market is projected to reach USD 2.6 billion by 2024 and grow to USD 4.14 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.73%. Meanwhile, plastic packaging is expected to hit 15.09 million tons by 2028, with a CAGR of 8.44%.
Vietnam’s packaging industry is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in eco-friendly segments.
1. Strong market momentum
This growth is driven by rising demand from both domestic and global markets. Many foreign retailers, food, and beverage companies are shifting toward sustainable packaging solutions in response to supply chain greening trends and Vietnam’s competitive production advantages.
2. Export demand on the rise
Global buyers are showing increasing interest in packaging products from Vietnam. According to Alibaba.com Vietnam, searches for packaging and printing products from Vietnamese suppliers rose by over 70% year-on-year. Items such as paper cups, cardboard tubes, bamboo boxes, and compostable containers are seeing a surge in international demand.
Vietnam’s ability to quickly adapt and innovate has made it a standout supplier. The industry’s view-to-order conversion rate on Alibaba has reached 8.94%, outperforming many other sectors.
Global buyers are showing increasing interest in packaging products from Vietnam.
3. Government backing and legal framework
Vietnam’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in policy. The Law on Environmental Protection (2020) outlines a phased ban on single-use plastic in supermarkets and commercial centers. Major cities like HCMC, Hanoi, and Da Nang are rolling out specific action plans for implementation from 2025 to 2030.
More than 6,000 businesses in Vietnam are active in packaging, many of which are transitioning to sustainable production to meet increasing export and local demand.
4. Business innovations and circular economy
- Duy Tân Recycling: Leading with bottle-to-bottle recycling
Duy Tân, one of Vietnam’s largest plastic manufacturers, is leading the shift with its circular economy model. The company has built a 100,000-ton-per-year recycling facility that turns used PET bottles into food-grade plastic pellets. Since 2020, it has recycled over 80,000 tons of plastic waste, with most of it exported.
- Magix: Smarter design, less material
SMEs are also stepping up. Magix, a packaging design company, focuses on material-saving innovations. Redesigning a single box can save 0.2 m² of paper, lowering both costs and environmental impact. The firm also uses biodegradable adhesives, honeycomb paper for cushioning, and has developed durable paper-based office and toy products.
- Bquarius: Turning areca palm leaves into value
Startups like Bquarius are creating alternatives to single-use plastics. Since 2018, the HCMC-based company has been producing plates and bowls made from areca palm leaves, with monthly exports of around one container. However, domestic uptake remains limited due to higher pricing—twice the cost of plastic alternatives.
“Once consumers understand the product’s value, they’ll be more willing to pay for it,” says Lê Bạch Kim, the company’s business director. She believes mass adoption will reduce costs over time.
Duy Tân, one of Vietnam’s largest plastic manufacturers, is leading the shift with its circular economy model.
5. Changing consumer behavior is key
According to Ngô Bích Quyên, CEO of Organicfood, sustainable packaging must go hand-in-hand with shifting consumer habits.
Her company has eliminated foam trays and switched to sugarcane-based containers. Customers bringing their own bags receive a 2% discount, and free reusable bags are also given to promote long-term behavior change.
Quyên points out how, in Europe, shoppers are accustomed to bringing reusable bags because plastic bags are not freely offered. In contrast, Vietnam still faces challenges due to widespread availability of single-use plastics at retail points.
6. A future worth investing in
Vietnam’s sustainable packaging industry is poised for strong growth, backed by market demand, policy support, and innovative businesses. However, unlocking its full potential requires investment in technology, support for small manufacturers, and most importantly, consumer education.
With the right ecosystem, Vietnam is well-positioned to become a global hub for sustainable packaging solutions.
Operating under the motto of “Pioneering Quality,” Hoang Vuong consistently aims for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions. We proudly hold the following certifications: FSC Certification, GMI Certification, G7 Certification, ISO 9001:2015
With over 15 years of experience in the paper packaging industry and a solid brand reputation, Hoang Vuong is a leading private paper packaging enterprise in Vietnam, partnering with numerous major brands locally and internationally. We accompany your company on the journey of innovation, seeking differentiation through continuous improvement. Your success is both an achievement and motivation for us to continue innovating and maintaining professionalism.
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