The rapid expansion of Viet Nam's plastic industry has led to considerable environmental and public health challenges, particularly due to the extensive use of chemicals of concern (CoCs).

These hazardous substances are present across all stages of the plastic life cycle, from production through to disposal, posing significant risks to both human health and the environment. As the industry grows, driven by rising demand, foreign direct investment, and increased production capacity, chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenols, and flame retardants contribute to long-term risks that require urgent attention.

In response to the global push to combat plastic pollution, as seen in the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiation Committee (INC-4) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, regulatory measures to reduce the use of harmful chemicals are gaining momentum.

Viet Nam has the opportunity to align its plastic industry with international best practices by adopting green chemistry principles, which focus on designing products that minimize the use of hazardous substances. International collaboration and stakeholder engagement are crucial in this process, ensuring that the transition to safer alternatives is both effective and inclusive. This approach would not only mitigate the environmental and health impacts of CoCs but also create a more sustainable and resilient plastic industry in Viet Nam, in line with emerging global regulatory trends.