In this session, The speakers will delve into the importance of transparency and disclosure practices, their impact on the business environment in Vietnam, and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Transparency and disclosure are fundamental pillars of good corporate governance. They involve the timely and accurate communication of relevant information to stakeholders, including investors, employees, customers, and the wider public. By providing clear and comprehensive information, organizations can build trust, attract investment, and foster a favorable business environment.

In Vietnam, as the economy continues to grow and attract foreign investment, the need for transparency and disclosure becomes even more critical. Transparent practices not only enhance investor confidence but also contribute to the overall stability and sustainability of the corporate sector. By providing stakeholders with access to reliable information, organizations can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and drive long-term value creation.

However, achieving transparency and disclosure in Vietnam’s corporate sector is not without its challenges. Cultural norms, legal frameworks, and historical practices may pose obstacles to the adoption of robust transparency and disclosure practices. Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness and understanding of the benefits of transparency, as well as concerns about competitive disadvantage or reputational risks.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts and industry leaders who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for promoting transparency and disclosure in Vietnam’s corporate sector. We will explore topics such as regulatory frameworks, reporting standards, corporate governance practices, and the role of technology in enhancing transparency.

Agenda

13.00 – 13.20: Presentation: “How Vietnamese companies are tackling the lack of transparency on ESG data” by Mr. Nguyễn Hữu Nam – Deputy Director, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry

13.20 – 13.40: Presentation: “Disclosure of ESG commitments in the banking sector – Initial progress towards sustainability” by Ms. Bui Thu Loan, Coordinator of the Assessment of ESG policies and commitment of Vietnamese Commercial Banks, Fair Finance Vietnam

13.40 – 14.10: Presentation: “ESG & Data Protection Strategy at PNJ” By Mr. Phan Van Anh – Head of IT, Phu Nhuan Jewelry JSC & Mr. Le Pham Hieu Nguyen – Head of Data, Phu Nhuan Jewelry JSC

14.10 – 14.30: Presentation: “Impact of the Vietnamese bank system on SME’s” By Mr. Marc Vanborren – Co-founder & Manager, Belvie Chocolate

14.10 – 14.45: Coffee Break

14.45 – 15.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

• Location: Red Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Hotel
• Time: 13:00 – 15:30
• Date: December 1st, 2023

Moderator

Speakers

In recent years, Vietnam has seen an annual generation of over 15 million tons of solid waste from various sources. Urban areas account for over 80% of this waste, while the remaining portion is attributed to industrial sources. It is important to note that the collection and treatment of waste is only carried out for a small percentage of the total waste generated. In cities, the rates of waste collection and treatment surpass 70%, but in rural areas, those numbers are roughly 20%. The primary sources of emissions include CH4 emissions originating from landfill waste that has been collected, emissions coming from both industrial and household wastewater, N2O emissions arising from domestic wastewater sludge, as well as CO2 and N2O emissions resulting from waste incineration procedures. In general, the waste industry contributes a very small percentage (ranging from 2.5% to 5.3%) to the overall composition of national emissions.

The agricultural and energy sectors exhibit the largest percentage of emissions, followed by industrial processes, waste and land use, land use change, and forestry. However, it is anticipated that there will be an important increase in emissions originating from the energy sector in the near future. This growth will include both the overall quantity of emissions and their relative contribution to the overall emissions framework. Like many other nations, the energy sector is projected to have the highest proportion of emissions within the national economic framework in the years to come. 

This break-out session will focus on “The Science behind Climate Change” and will dive into the scientific basis of climate change, the role of GHG emissions, and their impact on global warming. It will provide clear examples through case studies on how enterprises reduce their GHG emission and the relevance of climate science to businesses.

Break-out room info

• Location: Yellow Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Hotel
• Time: 13.00-15.30
• Date: December 1st, 2023

Moderator

Speakers

People are the cornerstone of our society. Vietnam, with its demographic shifts and societal changes, experiences pressure on its health systems and demands new directions in the delivery of healthcare.

These new directions are pushing companies, hospitals and research institutes to provide innovative solutions for the patients and ensure the demands of the population are met.

This break-out session will look into new developments regarding pharmaceutical and vaccine requirements, the local research and development that this has enabled, and how the hospitals are collaborating with these research institutes.

Agenda:

09.00 – 09.20: Presentation: “Innovation saves lives” By Noel Yeo, CEO of Hanh Phuc Hospital

09.20 – 09.40: Presentation by Professor Sophie Yacoub Head of the Dengue Research Group and Associate OUCRU-Vietnam

09.40 – 10.10: Presentation: “Adult Immunization – One of Innovative Solution” by Dr. Elena DeAngelis, Country Medical Affairs Director of GSK

10.10 – 10.30: Presentation: “Sustainable and Innovative Medical Cold Chain” by Luc Provost, CEO of B-medical systems

10.30 – 10.45 Coffee Break

10.45 – 11.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info:

• Location: Blue Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Time: 09.00 – 11.30
• Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Speakers

Corporate Governance serves as the framework that outlines the rules, processes, and practices by which a company is directed and controlled. It encompasses the relationships between various stakeholders, including shareholders, management, employees, customers, suppliers, and the community at large. By establishing transparent and accountable decision-making structures, Corporate Governance ensures that organizations operate in an ethical and responsible manner.

The importance of governance cannot be overstated, as it sets the stage for the effective integration of ESG principles into an organization’s operations. ESG refers to the three key factors that measure the sustainability and societal impact of a company’s practices. Environmental factors consider a company’s impact on the environment, such as its carbon footprint and resource consumption. Social factors encompass the company’s relationships with employees, customers, and the broader community. Governance, the focus of our session, addresses the internal systems and processes that guide decision-making and ensure accountability.

By emphasizing the governance aspect, organizations can lay a solid foundation for the successful implementation of ESG practices. Robust governance structures promote transparency, accountability, and ethical behavior, which are essential for addressing environmental and social challenges. Effective governance mechanisms enable organizations to identify and manage risks, align their strategies with long-term sustainability goals, and foster trust among stakeholders.

Furthermore, a strong governance framework enhances the organization’s reputation, attracts investors who prioritize sustainable practices, and mitigates potential legal and reputational risks. It also helps organizations adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and changing stakeholder expectations, ensuring their long-term viability and resilience.

This break-out session will focus on how companies are applying Corporate Governance throughout their organization and will bring clear examples that have shown success in their organizations.

Agenda:

09.00 – 09.20: Presentation: “Integration of ESG into Corporate Strategy – The Role of Board” By Dr. Trung Dinh Scientific Director Solvay Brussels School in Vietnam

09.20 – 09.40: Presentation: “Unlocking Corporate Success: The Power of Effective Governance” by Ashish Chaturvedi – Director Forensic Advisory of Grant Thornton

09.40 – 10.10: Presentation: “Share for Sustainability” by Gricha Safarian, CEO of Puratos Grand-Place Vietnam

10.10 – 10.30: Presentation: “Purpose is the answer to good Governance” by Outi Gruener, Market Development and Sustainability Advisor at The Purpose Business

10.30 – 10.45 Coffee Break

10.45 – 11.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info:

• Location: Black Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Time: 09.00 – 11.30
• Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Speakers

To implement ESG in your company, a well-balanced sustainability team is a prerequisite for meaningful engagement with peers and colleagues. It should include knowledgeable professionals from environment, health and safety, operations, marketing, human resource, procurement and other key business units. The key is to involve people across the range of functions.

ESG & Sustainability Reporting Guidance (2022)

This break-out session will focus on Labor Management and evelopment with a specific focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measures for the social aspect of the Human Resources (HR) lifecycle. In this session, we will explore practical and immediate strategies to integrate ESG principles into labor management and development practices, with a particular emphasis on the social dimension.

ESG has emerged as a crucial framework for organizations to ensure sustainable and responsible business practices. While the environmental and governance aspects of ESG have received significant attention, the social dimension is equally important. It encompasses the well-being, diversity, inclusion, and fair treatment of employees throughout their HR lifecycle.

This workshop aims to provide you with direct and practical measures to enhance the social part of the HR lifecycle, aligning it with ESG principles. We will explore strategies for attracting and recruiting diverse talent, fostering an inclusive work environment, promoting employee well-being and work-life balance, and ensuring fair and equitable compensation and benefits.

By integrating ESG principles into labor management and development practices, organizations can create a positive impact on their employees, stakeholders, and society as a whole. This workshop will focus on immediate and practical steps that organizations can take to enhance the social aspect of their HR lifecycle, fostering a culture of inclusivity, fairness, and employee well-being.

During this break-out session, Miss Christa Stienen will draw upon her extensive experience to demonstrate the critical role of HR in the realm of ESG. She will offer direct, immediate, and practical measures for integrating the social aspect within the HR lifecycle. As suggested by the “ESG & Sustainability Reporting Guidance (2022),” creating a sustainability team is vital for meaningful engagement, and Christa’s insights will help you navigate this complex landscape.

The break-out room on Human Management Resources (HR) is designed for professionals and individuals who are interested in understanding the critical role of HR in driving positive social impact and sustainability within organizations. This session will provide valuable insights and practical measures for integrating the social aspect within the HR lifecycle.

Break-out room info:

• Location: 2nd Floor, Yellow Room, Pullman Saigon Centre Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Time: 09.00 AM – 11.00 AM
• Date: December 1, 2023

Moderator

Speakers