Vietnam Refines EPR Rules as Packaging Industry Adapts
4 Aug 2026 – Vietnam is entering a new phase of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) implementation, with updated regulations and evolving compliance requirements requiring packaging producers and importers to prepare for new recycling obligations. The latest developments have also sparked discussion among industry stakeholders and environmental groups over how recycling contributions should be calculated, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the country’s packaging waste management framework.
Under Vietnam’s EPR system, producers and importers of designated packaging can fulfil their obligations either by organising the collection and recycling of packaging placed on the market—directly or through authorised recyclers and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs)—or by making financial contributions to the Vietnam Environmental Protection Fund. The framework forms part of the country’s broader efforts to increase recycling rates and strengthen producer responsibility for packaging waste.
For companies choosing the financial contribution route, payments are calculated using the formula:
F = R × V × Fs
where R is the mandatory recycling rate for the relevant packaging category, V is the mass of packaging placed on the Vietnamese market during the year of recycling responsibility, and Fs is the government-determined financial contribution rate per unit mass of packaging. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is responsible for setting the Fs values for different packaging materials and reviewing them periodically.
Recent discussion has focused on revisions to the contribution formula, with environmental organisations questioning whether the updated methodology will generate sufficient funding to support Vietnam’s long-term recycling objectives. At the same time, the changes reflect the government’s continued efforts to refine the EPR framework as implementation progresses and businesses adapt to the new compliance requirements.
For packaging producers and brand owners operating in Vietnam, compliance extends beyond making financial contributions. Companies are also expected to maintain accurate records of the packaging they place on the market, determine the most appropriate compliance route, and meet annual declaration and reporting requirements under the country’s EPR system.
As Vietnam continues refining its EPR framework, packaging manufacturers supplying the market are likely to place greater emphasis on packaging data management, recycling documentation and regulatory compliance alongside broader sustainability initiatives. The developments also highlight the growing importance of EPR schemes across Asia as governments continue to strengthen policies aimed at improving packaging collection and recycling.
Under the decree, mandatory recycling rates vary according to packaging material. For example, rigid PET packaging carries a mandatory recycling rate of 22%, while different rates apply to paper, metals and other packaging materials.
