Vietnamese enterprises are increasingly transforming agricultural by-products into sought-after, environmentally friendly products for the global market. This innovative approach was a key theme at a recent workshop in Ho Chi Minh City, where businesses shared their successes in repurposing materials like bulrush, coffee grounds, loofah fibers, and sedge.
Vietnam Housewares Company, for instance, has found significant success with bulrush. Mr. Lai Tri Moc, the company's General Director, highlighted that bulrush is not only sustainable but also meets stringent international chemical safety standards, making it ideal for discerning markets in Europe, the United States, and Australia. The ease of cultivation and consistent supply of bulrush provide stable livelihoods for communities in the Mekong Delta, bolstering the global competitiveness of Vietnamese handicrafts.
Ms. Vu Kim Hanh, Chairwoman of the High-Quality Vietnamese Goods Business Association, noted that Vietnam possesses valuable natural resources that can become "green gold" with proper innovation and commercialization. The association actively supports businesses in promoting a green economy and building new green brands.
Loofah Village, led by founder Mr. Do Dang Khoa, exemplifies the transformation of waste into valuable export material. What farmers once burned is now being crafted into over 20 product lines, including household items and pet toys. Loofah Village has been exporting to Japan for over a decade and is expanding its reach to South Korea, Europe, and Germany, with success partly attributed to a strong online presence generating hundreds of daily orders through online sales and live streaming.
In the fashion industry, Faslink, under Managing Director Ms. Tran Hoang Phu Xuan, is pioneering the use of new materials derived from pandan leaves and coffee grounds. These innovative textile fibers offer unique user experiences, with a current trend favoring lightweight, multifunctional clothing. Ms. Xuan emphasized that developed markets, particularly in Europe, increasingly demand products demonstrating positive environmental and social impact, a crucial factor for Vietnamese exporters aiming to move beyond less developed markets.
This movement towards sustainable, value-added products aligns with Vietnam's broader agricultural goals. The country aims to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by at least 10% by 2030, focusing on sustainability and promoting low-emission farming practices. This strategic shift not only addresses environmental concerns but also enhances the global competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses.