The 53^rd International Pepper Community (IPC) Annual Session, held under the theme “Rejuvenating Pepper Trade: Innovation, Equity, and Regional Resilience” , is bringing together industry associations and enterprises from the world’s major pepper-producing, exporting, and consuming nations from October 28-29. For Vietnam, the recognition of Simexco Daklak highlights both the country’s export achievements and its commitment to a sustainable spice trade.

At the event, Simexco Daklak is showcasing activities that underline its leadership. Alongside its participation in the IPC session and the International Spice Exhibition, the company is receiving the award for Outstanding Pepper Exporter of 2024. It is also deepening connections with importers, distributors, and partners, while unveiling digital initiatives such as an interactive online factory tour and a system enabling international customers to trace products and track orders in real time. Beyond trade promotion, Simexco is working with global spice organisations to advance sustainability, farmer empowerment, and environmentally responsible production.

The company was the first Vietnamese pepper exporter to gain Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade certification in 2009, launching traceability and compliance with Maximum Residue Limits in demanding markets including the EU, United States, South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.

This role as a sustainability pioneer has enabled Simexco to collaborate with leading global spice companies on projects promoting regenerative agriculture, carbon reduction, and resilient farming. Its consistent focus on quality and responsibility has shaped a unique advantage in Vietnam’s spice industry. In August this year, after years of ranking among the top six, the company rose to become Vietnam’s largest pepper exporter, a milestone now affirmed by the IPC award.

Established in 1993, Simexco Daklak is wholly owned by Daklak Party Committee, with charter capital of VND315 billion ($12.6 million). Based in Buon Ma Thuot city, the firm is also among Vietnam’s top three green coffee exporters, and is expanding into roasted and instant coffee products. Its three factories, Buon Ma Thuot, Binh Duong, and Hoa Phu, process up to 500 tonnes per day. In Daklak province, Simexco directly connects with over 40,000 coffee-farming household across 50,000 hectares.

The company’s financial results underscore its growth momentum. In the fiscal year 2024 (October 2023-September 2024), Simexco Daklak recorded consolidated revenue of VND9,401 billion ($376 million), up 38 per cent on-year, with after-tax profit exceeding VND85 billion ($3.4 million), a 24 per cent increase.

As industry leaders convene in India, Simexco Daklak’s award and participation underline Vietnam’s position as a major exporter and as a champion of a sustainable and innovative spice trade.

Amid the bright stage lights, pounding bass, and the enthusiastic cheers of the audience, Den appears with the limited-edition Number 1 bottle in vivid yellow, which shines like the flames of passion. The release of Number 1 and Den’s commercial creates a strong impression, marking a combination full of energy and strong Vietnamese spirit.

This campaign is not just a collaboration between the brand and the artist, it represents a harmonious meeting of two sources of energy: Den and Number 1. Sharing the same aspirations, both brought the message “Fuel the energy, persist your passion”. The phrase is not only a slogan but also a wave of strong emotions, touching the hearts of millions of young people filled with passion and aspirations.

“During 15 years of rapping, Den has constantly embarked on a journey full of passion,” Den said in a heartfelt, rustic voice capturing the essence of a long journey of perseverance.

From small stages for underground rappers to brilliant performances in front of thousands, Den performs each song with the mark of a steadfast journey, where will and belief blend into music, lighting a flame that never goes out.

Den and Number 1 have created a collaboration touching the youth with the message “Fuel the energy, persist your passion”.

Unyielding perseverance is also the DNA of Number 1, a Vietnamese brand that has been energising millions of Vietnamese people for over 20 years. Whether students, drivers, workers, or young entrepreneurs, everyone who holds a Number 1 bottle shares the same spirit, perseverance, burning passion, and the will to constantly move forward and conquer.

When energy meets passion, the flame spreads across Vietnam

“Persist your passion” is not only a message but also a way of life. Amidst the fast pace of modern life, filled with deadlines and burnout, young Vietnamese people still prove a simple but powerful thing: no one can go fast forever, but anyone can go far with enough perseverance.

Many young people recharge with Number 1 to overcome challenges, thereby becoming their better versions

In a small room in Thu Duc, Ngoc Lan, a graphic design student, focuses on her drawing at midnight. Next to the laptop is the limited-edition Number 1 bottle in vivid yellow, reflecting her eyes filled with belief and aspirations. “When looking at “Persist your passion”, I am motivated to try a little harder,” Lan said.

On a long journey through the night, truck driver Khuong Duy turns on Den’s music while his hands grip the steering wheel. Streetlights reflect through the windshield, and the vivid yellow of a Number 1 bottle glows like a source of energy, helping him keep a firm grip on the wheel and steadily conquer every mile.

Number 1 energises and inspires passion among millions of Vietnamese people every day

In Binh Duong, during a night shift at a factory, Quang Liem, a worker, looks up from the hum of machines.

He takes a sip of Number 1, feeling the energy spread through his body. “I have to try a little harder for a better future for my child,” he tells himself.

In Danang, in a small kitchen filled with the scent of freshly baked cakes, Thao Vy stands before her oven, light reflected on her face filled with determination.

“With Number 1 by my side, I believe every new beginning is worth it,” she says, her smile glowing with faith in the journey ahead.

Number 1 energises and ignites passion to help Vietnamese people pursue their goals and shine on their own journeys

From brilliant stages to nighttime roads, from rented rooms and factory sites, to the dreams of young entrepreneurs, the flame of “Persist your passion” is spreading across Vietnam.

Wherever there are young people who dare to dream, dare to act, and stay steadfast in their pursuit, there is Number 1, energising, inspiring passion, and stoking the Vietnamese spirit. It fans the flames of millions of Vietnamese people living to their fullest and persistently moving forward to conquer their dreams.

Among those flames, Number 1 is a symbol that never goes out but persistently provides energy and ignites passion so that every Vietnamese person can become a better version of themselves.

Digital transformation at Tan Hiep Phat: Change is a must for survival As the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the economy and businesses alike, Tan Hiep Phat has made efforts to survive the tough time by accelerating digital transformation.

Tan Hiep Phat awards 200 scholarships to disadvantage students in Binh Duong On October 28, Tan Hiep Phat, Vietnam’s leading beverage manufacturer, joined forces with Binh Duong Youth Union to award 200 scholarships to underprivileged students.

Tan Hiep Phat – 30 years of perseverance and breakthroughs Overcoming challenges, many beverage businesses have affirmed their breakthrough with synergy coming from a chain of links that have been persistently built over decades.

Aligned with Vietnam’s ambition to rank among the world’s top 30 countries for innovation and digital transformation by 2045, Michelin is pioneering the application of AI and data analysis in the tyre industry. The company aims to redefine mobility by integrating technology that enhances safety, efficiency, and sustainability across its operations.

By leveraging vast datasets and advanced algorithms, Michelin can extract insights from usage patterns and customer behaviour, turning data into actionable solutions. This capability allows the group to design smarter products and services while delivering greater value to its customers worldwide.

Michelin has integrated three data-driven companies – Sascar in Brazil, Nextraq in the US, and Masternaut in Europe –under the Michelin Connected Fleet brand. Together with its ‘tyre-as-a-service’ model, these operations manage more than one million contracted trucks and vans, providing a valuable data network for fleet management customers.

One key innovation, the Smart Predictive Tyre solution, uses sensors and advanced analytics to monitor tyre conditions in real time and predict potential issues before they occur. This helps businesses reduce downtime, lower fuel costs, and cut CO₂ emissions. Recognised for its strong contribution to safety, performance, and sustainability, the solution received the I-Innovation Award at the SOLUTRANS international exhibition in 2023.

Michelin’s Smart Predictive tyre solution received the I-Innovation Award at SOLUTRANS

Michelin is harnessing AI to develop robotic systems for handling complex flexible composites, further enhancing efficiency and precision in production. To accelerate AI integration across its global production facilities, the Group has partnered with Microsoft to deploy digital solutions that optimise energy management and reduce emissions – key steps towards achieving net-zero by 2050.

Under its All Sustainable vision, Michelin targets 40 per cent renewable or recycled materials in production and a 50 per cent reduction in CO₂ emissions from 2010 levels by 2030. By 2050, it aims to reach 100 per cent sustainable materials, achieve carbon neutrality, and ensure all natural rubber used is deforestation-free.

The company is also advancing mobility safety and efficiency through connected solutions, tyre inspection technologies, and data-driven insights to improve road infrastructure.

Jason Tan Jing Shen, managing director of Michelin for Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos noted, “We will achieve this by building and empowering a world-class organization: one that champions a sustainable tomorrow through our innovations, nurtures talent, and advances sustainability. Together, we will deliver and create lasting value for our consumers, customers, partners, employees, society, and planet – fully aligned with our ‘All-Sustainable’ approach of People, Profit, Planet.”

In Vietnam, Michelin has cut CO₂ emissions by more than half through greater use of sea freight and renewable energy. The company has also eliminated plastic packaging for motorcycle tyres – saving over 300 tonnes of plastic annually – and reduced more than 3,700 tonnes of CO₂ each year through biomass boilers and solar power at its Binh Duong plant.

Operating model reflecting Michelin’s ‘All-Sustainable’ vision

Guided by its core values of respect for facts, people, customers, shareholders, and the environment, Michelin is pursuing a balanced approach to sustainability, aligning every decision around ‘People, Profit, and the Planet’.

In the tyre sector, the Group focuses on premium segments – from cars and two-wheelers to specialised vehicles in mining, agriculture, and aviation – while advancing Industry 4.0 production, expanding closer to customers, and growing business-to-business services.

Through its Polymer Composite Solutions, Michelin continues to innovate with bio-based resins, active membranes, and advanced reinforcements. Strategic ventures such as Symbio (hydrogen mobility), ResiCare (high-performance bio-materials), and WISAMO (Wing Sail Mobility – wind propulsion for maritime transport) reinforce its commitment to sustainable mobility.

The group is also accelerating its Connected Solutions, including tyre-as-a-service, electric fleet support, and IoT-based mobility expertise, while expanding its Lifestyle portfolio – from the MICHELIN Guide and its Green Star and MICHELIN Key awards to consumer products such as car and bike accessories, sports gear, and collectibles.

Operating in Vietnam since 2009, Michelin has supported the country’s fast-developing mobility sector with innovative and sustainable tyre solutions that prioritise innovation for a better and more sustainable life in motion. Today, it serves consumers, enterprises, and mobility partners nationwide through an extensive authorised network. Its retail arm, Michelin Car Service, reached a key milestone in August with the opening of its 100th store.

New managing director for Michelin Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar Jason Tan Jing Shen has been named managing director for Michelin in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Visa and Ho Chi Minh City sign MoU to deliver smart mobility Visa, the world-leader in digital payments, and the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transportation have just signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive the development and adoption of digital payments to achieve smart mobility in Ho Chi Minh City.

Opening up opportunities for cooperation and investment in smart mobility The Smart Mobility Industry Networking Seminar took place in Hanoi on November 1, bringing the industry together to discuss solutions and technologies related to the smart mobility sector in Vietnam.

At the third international conference on ‘Contemporary Issues in Business and Management’, held on October 25 by the University of Economics and Business (UEB) under the Vietnam National University, Hanoi, experts from Vietnam and abroad discussed how academic institutions can contribute to sustainable double-digit economic growth. The event brought together more than 100 experts, scholars, policymakers, and business leaders to exchange insights on the role of education and innovation in national development.

Hoang Khac Lich, vice rector of the UEB

Hoang Khac Lich, vice rector of UEB, explained that achieving the Politburo’s four-pillar development goals requires joint efforts from domestic and international experts to build a modern and innovative business management system. Such reform, he said, is vital for sustaining growth and helping Vietnam escape the middle-income trap.

“In this context, comprehensive innovation in business management is no longer a choice but a prerequisite. This is not a slogan; it is a matter of survival,” Lich said.

Gary L. Frankwick from the University of Texas at El Paso highlighted that sustainable growth cannot rely solely on exports or infrastructure, it must be rooted in the intellectual and institutional foundations that academia provides.

“Universities are not just places of learning, they are also national knowledge centres, where business management is taught with a clear vision and purpose, capable of turning double-digit growth into reality,” said Frankwick.

Vietnam is moving from a production economy towards a technology-driven one, requiring a skilled, creative, and sustainability-oriented workforce. As a result, universities must train future leaders who can integrate business goals with sustainable development; adjust curricula in line with national strategies and real economic demands; and become regional development hubs-linking government, business, and local communities.

This means, according to Frankwick, MBA, management, and economics courses should reflect global trends, digital transformation, and local specificities. Students must be taught responsible leadership, balancing profit with social and environmental impact.

Universities play a key role in linking education with practice through internships, joint research, and business advisory boards that connect learning with real-world needs. These collaborations provide students with practical experience, offer enterprises access to new ideas, and support the development of an academic–economic ecosystem that contributes to national growth.

“Universities should not just grant degrees, they should nurture startups. Business education must teach students to take risks, be creative, and fail intelligently,” said Frankwick, “We must teach students how to fail, and how to stand up again.”

This mindset builds resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and intellectual stamina, vital for a dynamic economy like Vietnam’s.

Frankwick cautioned that growth built on unsustainable foundations cannot endure. Business education, he said, should embed principles of climate adaptation, the circular economy, and inclusive, green development. Academia must also nurture a mindset of ‘business for the future’, shifting focus from short-term gains to long-term resilience.

Bradley A. Corbertt from Canada’s Ivey School of Business compared the economy to an engine, where government, business, and academia act as three pistons operating together. Without the academic piston, he argued, the engine cannot generate enough power to achieve explosive double-digit growth.

“Academia is the source of intellectual energy that keeps the economic engine running efficiently, ensuring long-term momentum and avoiding overheated, unsustainable growth,” Corbertt noted.

As businesses and governments face the need for rapid decision-making, academia provides strategic thinking and empirical evidence. Universities and research institutes can analyse theories, global trends, and models to propose evidence-based policies tailored to Vietnam’s context.

Such ‘evidence-based policymaking’ reduces the risk of misjudgment and improves economic governance efficiency. Ministries, universities, and enterprises can jointly forecast labour and technology needs, thereby designing training activities aligned with economic development realities.

Universities shape the quality and structure of the workforce by continuously updating curricula in response to market needs and new industrial directions (such as semiconductors, AI, and green energy). They can expand short-term, reskilling, and postgraduate courses to help workers adapt quickly to economic and technological transitions, while partnering with businesses in practical training, so students can work effectively immediately after graduation.

Through innovation centres, incubators, and research parks, universities can support small and medium-sized enterprises and startups, turning ideas into marketable realities and enabling technology transfer. By spreading knowledge in areas such as the circular economy, green management, and digital transformation, academia helps Vietnamese businesses stay aligned with global trends.

“A prime example is the National Innovation Centre, a model of trilateral collaboration among the state, businesses, and universities,” said Corbertt. He suggested that major universities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as regional institutions, should evolve into local knowledge hubs that drive development in their surrounding areas.

“When every region has its own ‘intellectual engine,’ Vietnam’s economy will grow more evenly and sustainably,” he added.

Universities, he noted, possess the agility to experiment, innovate, and adapt faster than administrative bodies, making them ideal environments for research and entrepreneurship. At the same time, academia plays a moral and cultural role, safeguarding values and ethics that ensure the economy grows not only in scale but also in quality, identity, and sustainability amid globalisation.

Corbett urged Vietnam to deepen collaboration among government, business, and academia through joint policymaking, training, and technology transfer; encourage research-based corporate management; connect universities with industrial zones; and invest in lifelong learning to keep the workforce adaptable.

At the conference, six parallel sessions explored key themes including corporate strategy amid digital transformation, technology applications in management, marketing and communications, sustainable human resource development, labour in globalisation, and practical approaches to business management.

Together, these discussions underscored a unified direction for Vietnam – leveraging knowledge, innovation, and modern management to power long-term, sustainable growth.

Report highlights role of industrial policy towards double-digit growth

Finding a homegrown growth driver for Vietnam

According to data shared at a workshop organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) in Hanoi on October 21, nearly 60 per cent of Vietnamese businesses exporting to the EU have never heard of the bloc’s new supply chain due diligence rules.

The event focused on how these regulations will affect Vietnamese exporters, highlighting the urgent need for better communication and stronger preparedness as compliance pressures increase.

“Several European countries, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands, are strengthening legal requirements to ensure human rights and environmental protection across global supply chains,” said Dau Anh Tuan, deputy secretary-general of the VCCI. “Key frameworks such as Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, in force since 2023, and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), effective from 2024, are reshaping the way exporters must operate.”

While formally targeting large EU-based firms, these regulations extend to their suppliers worldwide. For Vietnamese companies – whether in raw materials, manufacturing, or logistics – compliance has become a prerequisite to remain in European value chains. Failure to provide information or meet standards could mean losing contracts or being excluded from supply networks.

However, the VCCI’s quick survey in mid-2025 found that just under 60 per cent of Vietnamese exporters to the EU had never heard of these rules, while another 36.6 per cent had only superficial awareness. Even for the CSDDD, the best-recognised regulation, nearly half of respondents admitted no knowledge, with most of the rest having heard of it but not studied its details.

This lack of awareness is fostering excessive concern without real preparedness. Many firms correctly assumed the rules would cover human rights and environmental standards but misunderstood their scope and requirements. “There is a large gap between the speed of regulatory change in Europe and the readiness of Vietnamese businesses,” said Tuan

However, experts have stressed, compliance is not solely a threat. Vanessa Steinmetz, director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in Vietnam, argued that the rules also create opportunities. By raising transparency and accountability, Vietnamese exporters can strengthen trust with EU buyers and consumers. “Those demonstrating good governance and responsibility will become stronger, more competitive partners internationally,” she said.

To help businesses adapt, the VCCI’s Nguyen Thi Thu Trang recommended that companies start by fully complying with domestic labour and environmental regulations, while gradually aligning with European standards. She emphasised the need for closer coordination with EU partners on due diligence practices, and urged business associations and regulators to expand training, guidance, and early warning systems.

“Compliance is no longer just a requirement – it’s the foundation for survival and sustainable growth in this vital export market,” Trang said.