Celebrating a Decade of Sustainable Business: The Launch of the 2025 Corporate Sustainability Index
On June 5, 2023, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) proudly announced the launch of the 2025 Corporate Sustainability Index (CSI), marking a significant milestone as it enters its 10th consecutive year of implementation. This initiative, developed under the guidance of the Vietnamese government, is aimed at promoting responsible and sustainable business practices across the nation.
The Evolution of the Corporate Sustainability Index
Over the past decade, the CSI has evolved into a vital strategic tool for businesses, reinforcing their commitment to governance, resilience, and competitiveness. As Nguyen Quang Vinh, chairman of the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development, noted, the index recognizes and encourages firms demonstrating dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
“The CSI has proven its vitality over the past decade, especially as the government emphasizes rewarding businesses with strong ESG performance,” Vinh pointed out, referencing the newly announced Resolution 68 on private sector development.
A Comprehensive Framework for Sustainability
The 2025 iteration of the CSI features a robust framework with 145 indicators, segmented into 85 core compliance measures and 58 advanced, practice-driven criteria. Recognizing the diverse landscape of enterprises in Vietnam, a simplified version with 87 indicators has been introduced specifically for micro and small businesses. This inclusive approach aims to widen participation and support the growth of sustainable practices across all business scales.
Spotlight on Leading Innovators: Traphaco and Deep C Industrial Zones
To illustrate the practical application of the CSI framework, we can look at companies like Traphaco and Deep C Industrial Zones, both of which have embedded these principles into their operational ethos.
Traphaco, a renowned pharmaceutical firm, exemplifies how sustainability can align with industry-leading practices. “For Traphaco, sustainability is embedded in our mission to produce medicine for people’s wellbeing,” explained Dao Thuy Ha, deputy CEO and board member. Their approach includes transparent governance practices, enhanced board oversight, and a strong focus on internal culture, all contributing to their recognition as one of Vietnam’s Top 10 sustainable manufacturing companies for seven consecutive years.
On another front, Deep C Industrial Zones views the CSI as a catalyst for bolstering competitiveness and attracting foreign investment. “Our strategy focuses on four pillars: environmental circularity, social responsibility, economic performance, and collaboration,” remarked Diep Thi Kim Hoan, head of sustainable development at Deep C. Their ambitious goal is to establish Vietnam’s first eco-industrial park, championing sustainability within industrial development.
New Features in the 2025 Index
A significant enhancement in the 2025 CSI is the introduction of mandatory materiality analysis for mid- and large-sized enterprises. This crucial requirement empowers businesses to identify and tackle their key sustainability challenges, adapting their strategies to meet evolving environmental and social expectations. Furthermore, the program’s incorporation of artificial intelligence applications aims to streamline reporting processes, reflecting a more digital-forward approach to ESG practices.
Conclusion
With the launch of the 2025 Corporate Sustainability Index, Vietnam’s commitment to fostering sustainable business practices stands strong. As the country moves forward, the CSI remains an essential benchmark for companies aspiring to demonstrate their dedication to responsible governance and social responsibility, enhancing their role in shaping a sustainable future for Vietnam.