Maersk’s Investment Aspirations in Vietnam’s Green Port and Logistics Sector
Danish logistics and shipping giant Maersk is actively seeking substantial investment opportunities in Vietnam’s green port and logistics sector, viewing the nation as a rapidly rising global trade hub. This prospective investment aligns seamlessly with Maersk’s commitment to sustainable development and low-carbon initiatives.
Strategic Discussions with Vietnamese Leadership
At a significant meeting held on November 18, Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk, expressed the company’s keen interest in developing modern, sustainable container ports and strategic logistics projects in Vietnam. This meeting with Party General Secretary To Lam underscored the potential for collaboration between Maersk and the Vietnamese government in enhancing the country’s logistics capacity.
Clerc emphasized that such investments would not only bolster Vietnam’s import-export capabilities but also support the nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy. This aligns with Vietnam’s broader goals of strengthening climate resilience and making strides toward achieving net-zero emissions.
Economic Achievements and Global Partnerships
During the meeting, Clerc praised Vietnam for its noteworthy economic accomplishments, particularly in the context of global challenges. He described Vietnam as a vital partner in the region and beyond, stating, “We see tremendous potential and many opportunities and we hope to contribute even more to Vietnam’s development.”
His remarks reflected Maersk’s ongoing strategic transformation, further integrating Vietnam with major global production and logistics hubs. This transformation is crucial for enhancing the country’s integration into global supply chains, a necessity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Government Support for Sustainable Development
General Secretary To Lam welcomed Maersk’s forward-thinking plans to develop green, smart port infrastructures and logistics services. He articulated that Vietnam prioritizes infrastructure upgrades, especially in green port development, to foster sustainable economic growth.
Lam encouraged Maersk and other foreign investors to bolster their presence in the maritime economy, emphasizing the country’s readiness to support logistics projects. “Vietnam now ranks among the world’s top 20 economies in international trade volume,” he noted, reinforcing the government’s commitment to building a modern and efficient national transport infrastructure network to enhance economic competitiveness.
Enhancing Cooperation through Strategic Partnerships
The dialogue between Maersk and the Vietnamese government is further supported by established frameworks for cooperation, including the Comprehensive Partnership signed in 2013 and the Green Strategic Partnership initiated in 2023 between Vietnam and Denmark. These agreements provide a robust foundation for collaboration focused on green and sustainable development.
The Growing Logistics Sector
Data from the Vietnam Logistics Report 2024 reveals that the logistics sector significantly contributes to Vietnam’s GDP, accounting for approximately 4%–5%. Between 2018 and 2023, this sector experienced average annual growth of a remarkable 14%–16%, indicating a strong upward trajectory.
The logistics infrastructure in Vietnam has evolved, featuring over 30,000 modern warehouses and six newly established first-tier logistics centers. These developments streamline transport and distribution processes, creating a more efficient logistics supply chain essential for vibrant economic growth.
Port Operations and Their Global Standing
According to the Vietnam Seaports Association, seaports across the nation managed more than 22 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in 2024, with expectations for steady growth going forward. This rising volume is pivotal for Vietnam, linking its port network closely with key industrial parks and export zones.
Port facilities such as Ho Chi Minh City Port, Haiphong Port, and Cai Mep Port have attained recognition as among the world’s 100 busiest container ports, according to the Lloyd’s 2025 rankings. Their strategic locations allow for quick and cost-effective access to international markets, further enhancing Vietnam’s appeal as a logistics hub.
Future Prospects
With Maersk poised to deepen its investments in Vietnam’s green port and logistics sector, and with the government’s supportive policies facilitating this transition, the potential for sustainable growth and enhanced global connectivity looks promising. This partnership could be a game-changer, propelling Vietnam toward its ambitious economic goals while firmly positioning the country as a leader in sustainable trade and logistics on the global stage.