Vietnam's top performers in ESG and innovation honoured

Vietnam's top performers in ESG and innovation honoured

Vietnam's most forward-thinking and environmentally responsible enterprises have been recognised for their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and innovation leadership, marking a significant step in promoting responsible business practices and industrial progress.

On June 27, Vietnam Investment Review, under the Ministry of Finance, and in collaboration with Viet Research, hosted a ceremony to announce several key rankings: Vietnam ESG Green 2025 (including the ESG100 and ESG10), the Top 10 ESG Industrial Parks, and the Top 50 Most Innovative Enterprises 2025 (VIE50), along with the Top 10 by sector (VIE10).

This marks the third consecutive year of the VIE50 and VIE10 rankings and the first time the ESG100, ESG10, and ESG Industrial Parks have been included. All rankings are based on independent research conducted by Viet Research.

According to Viet Research, nearly 96 per cent of ESG100 and ESG10 firms have set Net Zero or sustainability targets, with 93 per cent committing to carbon reduction across production and operations.

Meanwhile, 90 per cent of VIE50 and VIE10 enterprises have increased investment in research and development and accelerated digital transformation. For 86 per cent, innovation is cited as a key growth driver over the next three to five years, and nearly one-third have formalised innovation strategies in writing.

At the event, leading economists underscored the role of innovation and sustainability in shaping Vietnam’s next-generation business ecosystem. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Quang Tuan, vice president of the Vietnam Economic Science Association, highlighted ESG capabilities and long-term green growth strategies, while Dr. Vo Tri Thanh, director of the Institute for Brand and Competitiveness Strategy, shared insights on green transition opportunities.

Innovation and ESG are increasingly seen as strategic pillars enabling businesses to build resilience, manage risks, and generate long-term value amid fast-evolving technologies and intensifying competition. Firms that can differentiate through innovation and demonstrate strong ESG commitment are well-positioned to not just survive, but to lead in the sustainable economy of the future.

The event attracted nearly 200 representatives from standout businesses as well as economic experts, media organisations, and policy stakeholders.

Le Trong Minh, deputy editor-in-chief of Vietnam Investment Review, highlighted the growing momentum of ESG adoption in Vietnam, particularly following the country’s Net Zero commitments, with a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

"The Vietnamese government has demonstrated strong determination through policies that encourage emissions reduction, the circular economy, sustainable growth, and improved corporate governance with a focus on transparency and accountability," said Minh.

At the same time, innovation remains a key driver of national competitiveness. In 2024, Vietnam ranked 44^th out of 133 economies in the Global Innovation Index, up two places from 2023. It is also among the top eight middle-income countries showing the greatest improvement since 2013, and one of only three countries to outperform its development level for 14 consecutive years.

"The announcement today honours exemplary businesses and serves as a platform to connect the business community," Minh said. "It also provides a space for entrepreneurs, managers, and experts to share practical insights, explore strategic partnerships, and discuss emerging trends and business models in a time of rapid transformation."

VIR