Forum identifies skilled workforce as key to ESG success

A critical shortage of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) professionals is emerging as a major bottleneck in Viet Nam’s sustainable business transition, experts warned at a forum in Ha Noi on June 24.

A view of the forum. (Photo: TRUNG HUNG)
A view of the forum. (Photo: TRUNG HUNG)

The event, themed “Digital Transformation and ESG Practices: Keys to Global Integration,” was co-hosted by Dan Tri newspaper and VietinBank, as part of the 2025 Viet Nam ESG Forum. It focused on the dual role of ESG and digital innovation in shaping long-term corporate strategy, particularly in the financial sector.

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Thu Hang, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Dan Tri, stressed that ESG is no longer a trend but a core pillar of business strategy. Digitalisation enhances operational efficiency, while ESG serves as a “passport” to global markets, attracting investment and affirming corporate responsibility.

Sam Hana, ASEAN Strategy Vice President at Shell Global Lubricants and EMBA Director at AIT, highlighted ESG as a 21st-century priority. With Asia playing a growing global economic role, Viet Nam must match its rapid growth with stronger ESG commitments. Although 80% of Vietnamese firms have ESG intentions, only 34% have programmes in place and just 15% publish full ESG reports.

Experts agreed that the lack of skilled ESG talent and strategic vision poses a major hurdle. Dr Phung Van Dong, Director of AIT Viet Nam, called human capital the "strategic factor" for ESG and digital success, urging stronger collaboration between government, businesses, and education providers to bridge this gap.

The forum also featured the Viet Nam ESG Awards 2025, honouring enterprises excelling in ESG-driven science and technology practices for sustainable development.

NDO
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