Vietnam advances sustainability goals with EPR system reforms

VIETNAM – Vietnam is undergoing a significant transformation in waste management with the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, signalling a nationwide push toward a more circular and environmentally sustainable economy.

The new EPR rules, introduced under Decree No. 08/2022/ND-CP and effective from January 1, 2024, require manufacturers and importers to take full responsibility for the end-of-life management of the products they introduce into the market.

This shift moves the burden of waste management away from consumers and local authorities, placing it squarely on the shoulders of producers.

Under the EPR framework, producers and importers must ensure the proper collection, reuse, and recycling of products such as plastic packaging, tyres, batteries, and electronic devices like smartphones and televisions.

To meet their obligations, companies can either establish their own recycling systems or contribute to the Vietnam Environmental Protection Fund (VEPF), which supports national recycling infrastructure.

One key feature of the EPR system is the introduction of mandatory recycling targets that will increase every three years.

These escalating targets are designed to drive innovation and promote circularity, particularly in sectors like food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical packaging, where stricter recycling quotas are being enforced.

Tackling electronic waste

Among the most complex waste streams covered by the new regulations is electronic waste (e-waste). With the rapid advancement of AI and consumer electronics, devices have shorter life cycles and contain valuable but difficult-to-extract materials such as gold, silver, and copper.

Vietnam faces a pressing need for modern recycling facilities capable of handling e-waste safely and efficiently. While the technical and financial challenges are significant, they also present a major opportunity for investment in advanced recycling technologies.

Tyre recycling has also emerged as a critical issue under the EPR regime. Although tyres offer recyclable materials like rubber and steel, improper recycling processes can cause environmental harm.

To address these concerns, the Vietnamese government is implementing stricter environmental and health standards for tyre recycling technologies.

This initiative aligns with the broader objective of reducing pollution and safeguarding public health through improved waste management practices.

Strengthening enforcement and future outlook

To support enforcement, the government has launched a national electronic portal where producers and importers can register products, submit recycling reports, and manage financial contributions to the VEPF.

Non-compliance may result in penalties, underlining the government’s commitment to accountability.

In early 2025, the government introduced amendments under Decree No. 05/2025/ND-CP, which refined existing recycling requirements and introduced new management fees for specific industries.

These updates reflect Vietnam’s evolving approach to strengthening its EPR framework and bolstering its circular economy ambitions.

Vietnam’s EPR regulations represent a major leap forward in its environmental strategy, encouraging responsible production, reducing waste, and improving resource recovery.

As businesses adapt to these new rules, they face both regulatory pressure and significant opportunity.

Companies that invest in recycling innovation and align with national sustainability goals will be well-positioned to lead Vietnam’s transition to a greener, circular economy—contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

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