In Germany, the delegation met with government agencies, Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), environmental technology companies, and waste collection and recycling facilities. Through these exchanges, the delegation observed that Germany has established a modern waste management system based on circular economy principles, with EPR serving as a key policy instrument to promote recycling and the efficient use of resources. Producer responsibility extends across the entire product life cycle, from design and production to collection and recycling after use. Transparent data systems and the active participation of PROs have contributed significantly to effective implementation and oversight.

The delegation also noted that Germany’s policy approach is gradually shifting from waste management to product life-cycle and resource management. There is increasing emphasis on eco-design, improving product recyclability, and reducing the use of materials that are difficult to process after use.

In Norway, the delegation further explored EPR and DRS models, widely recognised as among the most effective systems in the world. EPR is integrated into the country’s broader strategies for green growth and the circular economy, reflecting the “polluter pays” principle. Non-profit PROs established by businesses are responsible for collecting, sorting, and recycling waste streams covered by producer responsibility obligations. In parallel, Norway has adopted economic instruments that encourage eco-design, increase product recyclability, and support the development of secondary materials markets.

During the visit, Vice Minister Le Cong Thanh also met with representatives of Norway’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and international partners to discuss cooperation on environmental protection, plastic pollution reduction, green growth, and the implementation of the Viet Nam–Norway Green Strategic Partnership for 2026–2028.

The Vice Minister also visited WWF-Norway, where discussions centred on the successful outcomes of the Hue – Plastic Smart Cities Project (2021–2025). WWF-Norway reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Viet Nam’s efforts to tackle plastic pollution through EPR and DRS solutions. Vice Minister Thanh expressed appreciation for WWF-Norway’s continued support, highlighted the importance of scaling up successful initiatives in Viet Nam, and explored opportunities for expanded cooperation in marine conservation and ecosystem management. Both sides acknowledged Viet Nam’s important role in the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations and expressed their shared commitment to advancing international efforts to address plastic pollution.

The mission took place as the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment are reviewing and refining policies and legislation on waste management, EPR, and the circular economy, while also implementing activities under the Viet Nam–Norway Green Strategic Partnership, established in April 2026.

Experiences from Germany and Norway will provide valuable practical insights to improve Viet Nam’s policies and legal framework for environmental protection, waste management, and EPR. They will also support the effective implementation of the Viet Nam–Norway Green Strategic Partnership in the coming years. More broadly, the mission reaffirmed Viet Nam’s commitment to promoting green growth, advancing the circular economy, and strengthening international cooperation to address global environmental challenges and achieve sustainable, low-emission development.