The Nordic Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (NordCham) successfully hosted its signature annual event, the Nordic Business Awards 2024, on Friday, 27 September. Held at Sofitel Saigon Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City, the event celebrated the outstanding contributions of Nordic businesses in Vietnam, under the theme "Nordic Integrity & Innovation."
The evening brought together Nordic ambassadors, including the Ambassador of Norway, the Ambassador of Sweden, the Ambassador of Finland, and the Ambassador of Denmark,, alongside over 200 business leaders and investors from the Nordic region.
This year’s event emphasized the core values of ethical business practices and pioneering innovation that define Nordic enterprises operating in Vietnam. During her opening remarks, Mrs. Eva Maria Hansen, Chairwoman of NordCham Vietnam, praised the spirit of collaboration between Nordic companies and their Vietnamese counterparts.
“This year’s theme, "Nordic Integrity & Innovation," highlights the ethical practices and pioneering spirit that define our enterprises. We celebrate companies working alongside Vietnamese partners that exemplify these values, showcasing their contributions to sustainable growth and responsible business practices,” she remarked.
Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Keijo Norvanto, the Ambassador of Finland, noted, “Nordic companies in Vietnam are distinguished by their strong commitment to sustainability, ethical business practices, and innovation. They integrate environmental responsibility into their operations and lead in sectors such as clean energy and technology, significantly contributing to Vietnam's modernization. With high standards of transparency and integrity, they uphold fair labor practices, ensuring safe working conditions and equitable treatment”.
Which Businesses Were Recognized At The Awards?
Green Business of the Year: Vestas Wind Technology Vietnam LLC
Vestas, a global leader in wind turbine manufacturing and sustainable energy solutions, was honored for its remarkable contributions to Vietnam’s green energy sector. Since entering Vietnam in 2011, Vestas has installed over 1.6 GW of wind turbines and employs approximately 140 colleagues nationwide. Their environmental initiatives prioritize carbon neutrality, emissions reduction, waste reduction, and community engagement, all seamlessly integrated into their corporate culture.
Business Innovation Award: Bloom. by TetraPak X DenEast
Bloom. is an innovative platform born from the collaboration between Tetra Pak and DenEast, helping Southeast Asian businesses develop and scale new food and beverage products. Besides the innovative process from concept to commercial production, the partnership has revolutionized the market by reducing costs, enabling breakthroughs, and minimizing environmental impact.
SME Excellence Award: Eagle Technology
Eagle Technology, a Norwegian firm offering sustainable solutions for slop water treatment and plastic waste recycling. Since its establishment in 2023, Eagle Technology Vietnam has employed 23 associates at its principal office in Binh Duong province and has made notable strides in environmental sustainability.
Work the Nordic Way (Diversity & Inclusion Award): Ericsson Vietnam
Ericsson Vietnam received this award for its dedication to diversity and inclusion. In Vietnam, Ericsson appointed its first female CEO, achieved 50% female representation on the management board, and maintained 33% female employees overall, with 70% of interns being female and a pay gap of less than 1%. Their commitment to fostering a culture of belonging earned Ericsson Vietnam the distinction of 4th best medium-sized company to work for by Great Place To Work in May 2024.
Nordic Growth Award: Sweco Vietnam (Boydens Vietnam part of Sweco)
Boydens Vietnam part of Sweco (Sweco Vietnam), is a leading engineering consultancy originating from Sweden. The company was recognized for its focus on sustainable construction, with a strong commitment to achieving net-zero energy buildings and addressing healthcare infrastructure needs.
The winners of the first three categories will advance to the finals of the EuroCham Business Awards on 22 October 2024.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the event featured a Nordic-themed gala. Guests enjoyed a delightful Nordic feast curated by Danish Chef Camilla Bailey, a take-home sustainable vegetable bouquet, live music, and a raffle organized in collaboration with the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. The raffle successfully raised 40,100,000 VND to support the foundation's operations and contribute to flood relief efforts in northern Vietnam.
About NordCham Vietnam
The Nordic Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (NordCham) is a not-for-profit, non-political, non-governmental organization representing more than 150 members including the world - renowned companies and investors from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland.
Having celebrated its 25th-anniversary last year, NordCham continues to support trade and investment between Vietnam and Nordic countries and provides a platform for companies to discuss common commercial interests.