Vietnam’s food and beverage industry has experienced strong growth in recent years and plays a key role in developing a circular economy with low carbon emissions. As a major enterprise in the sector, what sustainable development activities is SABECO implementing to contribute to the circular economy?

At SABECO, we approach sustainability in a very practical way, starting from production activities and factors that have significant environmental impact. Our focus is on energy, water resources, and packaging – the key links of the circular economy in the beverage industry.

Mr. KOO LIANG KWEE – Deputy General Director of SABECO

First, energy. SABECO has invested in solar power systems at 13 breweries, currently meeting more than 10% of production electricity needs, while expanding the use of renewable thermal energy from biomass. At the same time, 100% of SABECO’s breweries have implemented CO₂ recovery and reuse during production, helping reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency.

Next are water resources and packaging. We have deployed comprehensive solutions for water saving, reuse, and efficiency optimization, improving water use intensity by more than 7% in 2024, aiming for 100% water replenishment by 2040. Regarding packaging, SABECO operates a model where all packaging is reusable and recyclable, while continuously optimizing design to reduce materials and emissions throughout the product life cycle.

To ensure these efforts are systematic and long-term, SABECO strictly complies with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and works closely with regulators, industry associations, and the Vietnam Packaging Recycling Alliance (PRO Vietnam).

With these orientations, what motivated SABECO to join VietinBank’s Green Deposit program?

SABECO and VietinBank have been trusted partners for over two decades, navigating both “ups” and “downs” of the economy together. Our close cooperation has fostered mutual understanding of the core values each side pursues. SABECO has identified five key values to build a sustainable future, among which social responsibility is a constant commitment – creating value not only for shareholders but also for communities and the environment. For SABECO, we aim to share this responsibility through practical actions and mutually beneficial partnerships as the foundation for sustainable growth.

Participating in VietinBank’s Green Deposit program is a concrete step to realize these core values. Through VietinBank’s network and resources, SABECO’s green capital will reach projects that bring benefits to communities, the environment, and society.

Besides joining VietinBank’s Green Deposit program, what sustainable development initiatives does SABECO plan for the future?

SABECO will continue what we have been doing – producing quality beer products that meet Vietnamese consumers’ tastes, celebrate Vietnam’s cultural heritage, and set new standards globally. We believe that investing in research and development, combined with our deep passion for brewing quality beer, will help us maintain our leading position in the industry.

Alongside business growth, we remain steadfast in harmonizing business objectives with social responsibility. ESG initiatives in production and business will continue to be strengthened, focusing on three main areas: Climate change response, Empowering employees and communities, and Partnerships to create positive impact – all contributing to Vietnam’s socio-economic progress and a sustainable future. 

With the focus on “Partnerships to create positive impact,” SABECO continuously strengthens collaborations, including with our trusted partner VietinBank. We will continue to participate in VietinBank’s sustainable finance programs, such as the Green Deposit program, whenever conditions allow.

Thank you very much!