As global priorities shift toward sustainability and clean energy, the partnership between Vietnam and Denmark is emerging as a model for green cooperation. Over the years, this bilateral relationship has evolved from diplomatic ties into a comprehensive strategic alliance, centered on climate action, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
Today, Denmark is not only one of Vietnam’s important trade partners in Europe, but also a key ally in supporting its clean energy transition and green growth ambitions.
From diplomatic friends to strategic green partners
Vietnam and Denmark established diplomatic relations in 1971. Since then, their relationship has grown steadily, underpinned by shared values in sustainability and innovation.
In 2011, both countries launched a Strategic Partnership focused on climate change, environment, and green growth. This was upgraded in 2013 to a Comprehensive Partnership, deepening collaboration across various sectors — from governance and education to trade and technology.
The real turning point came with the “Green Strategic Partnership,” which marked a mutual commitment to tackle climate challenges while enhancing economic cooperation.
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Strengthening trade and investment ties
Trade between Vietnam and Denmark has flourished in recent years. In 2023, bilateral trade reached impressive levels, driven by Vietnam’s open business environment and Denmark’s advanced capabilities in high-tech and green solutions.
Denmark exports industrial machinery, pharmaceuticals, and dairy products to Vietnam. In return, Vietnam supplies Denmark with garments, agricultural products, and furniture.
On the investment front, Danish companies are increasingly entering the Vietnamese market, especially in sectors aligned with sustainability such as:
- Wind energy: Denmark, home to global wind energy leaders like Ørsted and Vestas, has been instrumental in supporting Vietnam’s offshore wind development. With Vietnam’s long coastline and wind potential, this partnership is expected to scale rapidly in coming years.
- Energy efficiency: Danish firms are helping Vietnamese industries adopt modern energy-saving technologies — from smart lighting systems to efficient cooling solutions — reducing environmental impact while lowering costs.
- Waste and water management: Danish expertise in clean water, wastewater treatment, and solid waste solutions offers great potential in Vietnam’s urban development efforts.
Vietnam’s green goals match Denmark’s strengths
Vietnam has set ambitious climate goals — aiming to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Denmark, a world leader in clean energy transition, is an ideal partner in this journey.
In fact, the two countries signed a Green Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Green Growth in 2023. Under this, Denmark supports Vietnam in policy development, technology transfer, and capacity building to help achieve its sustainability targets.
This cooperation is not just about aid — it’s about co-developing solutions, sharing know-how, and building a foundation for long-term, mutually beneficial business.
Opportunities for businesses
The Vietnam–Denmark green alliance opens up valuable opportunities for both local and international businesses.
- For Danish companies: Vietnam’s growing economy, favorable demographics, and push for renewable energy make it a prime destination for green investments.
- For Vietnamese companies: Collaborating with Danish firms offers access to world-class technology, European markets, and best practices in sustainable production.
- For startups and tech innovators: Clean tech, agritech, and smart city solutions are in high demand, presenting new opportunities for partnerships, R&D, and joint ventures.
In short, this partnership is helping shift the narrative from traditional donor-recipient dynamics to a modern, equal business relationship based on green innovation.
Education and knowledge sharing
Beyond economics, the Vietnam–Denmark partnership emphasizes knowledge transfer and education. Denmark has supported vocational training programs and academic exchanges to help Vietnam build a skilled workforce for the green economy.
This includes partnerships between Danish and Vietnamese universities, as well as public-private collaborations focused on green skills, circular economy practices, and digital transformation in sustainability.
Looking ahead
With the world facing urgent climate and energy challenges, the Vietnam–Denmark relationship is a powerful example of how countries can collaborate for shared prosperity and a greener future.
As Vietnam continues to rise as a regional economic powerhouse, and Denmark continues to lead in sustainability and innovation, this partnership stands as a blueprint for future-oriented cooperation.
The message is clear: Going green is not just an environmental responsibility — it’s a smart economic strategy. And together, Vietnam and Denmark are proving that sustainable development and trade can go hand in hand.
