EU firms explore water, environment technology business opportunities

Thirty firms from Vietnam and the European Union (EU) attended a seminar on water and environment technology held in Ho Chi Minh City on July 14.

Participants mostly operate in air pollution control, biogas, water and waste treatment, and clean water supply.

At the event, representatives from the municipal Department of Planning and Investment presented an overview of the city’s business climate.

The EU businesses spoke highly of the business opportunities and development potentials of Southeast Asia and Vietnam in particular.

Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam Tom Corrie said the seminar is an important bridge for the EU firms to access Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, adding that Vietnamese and EU firms should make the best use of the bilateral free trade agreement to intensify cooperation in diverse areas, particularly in water technology and the environment.

During the seminar co-hosted by the municipal chapter of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the EU Business Avenues programme in Southeast Asia, from July 14-15, thematic discussions, business connectivity activities and the introduction of new technologies are planned.

Begun in June 2016, the EU Business Avenues in Southeast Asia aims to help the EU’s small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to navigate the regional market, including Vietnam.

It is built on the model of intermediary and business support, and focuses on individual week-long support for 1,000 EU SMEs operating in Southeast Asia over the next five years, particularly those in water and environment technology to help to deal with Asia’s urgent issues, including the shortage of clean water and environmental degradation.

VNA