On Thursday 30 May, EuroCham actively participated in the second Ho Chi Minh City Logistics Forum, organised by Hoa Sen University. The event aimed at showcasing the competitiveness of Ho Chi Minh City’s logistics sector, bringing together leaders from various departments, industry zones, transportation and logistics businesses, and academia. This included Nguyen Nguyen Phuong, Deputy Director of Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade.
Juergen Weber, Chairman of EuroCham’s Transportation & Logistics Sector Committee, delivered a keynote presentation highlighting the rapid development of Vietnam’s logistics landscape and the essential role of young talents in ensuring sustainable growth. He emphasised the transformational shift of Vietnam from traditional contract manufacturing and agriculture to advanced assembly and high-value product manufacturing.
Mr. Weber outlined key challenges facing the logistics sector, including:
- Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate road networks, outdated sea and air ports, limited rail connectivity, and underutilised inland waterways.
- Fragmented Supply Chain: Many small players with limited optimisation and inefficient route planning.
- High Carbon Intensity: Dependence on fossil fuels and the need for implementing carbon pricing mechanisms to reduce emissions.
He stressed the importance of the new generation to tackle these challenges. Additionally, he highlighted the critical role of logistics in addressing climate change and the necessity for a holistic approach involving technology, policy, and behavioural changes.
Juergen Weber concluded by inviting students to the Student Day at the upcoming Green Economy Forum and Exhibition (GEFE) 2024, offering them a valuable platform to gain practical understanding and experience in sustainability and industry development.
