Three decades ago, when Unilever began its journey in Vietnam, the company set out not only to do business but also to deliver sustainable social value. Since then, Unilever has helped approximately 30 million Vietnamese improve their hygiene and health conditions; upgraded 1,400 school sanitation facilities nationwide; planted over 1 million trees; and achieved net-zero emissions in internal operations since 2021, nine years ahead of its global commitment.
The company has also supported over 90,000 women in entrepreneurship training, provided 50,000 microloans through the New Beginnings Fund, and granted non-refundable capital for 167 women-led startup projects.
Speaking at the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Thị Liên Hương, Vice Minister of Health, affirmed, “I am confident that with the responsibility, consensus, and strong determination of the Department of Preventive Medicine and partners like Unilever Vietnam, the ‘For a Healthy and Sustainable Vietnam’ program will contribute to promoting preventive healthcare, improving public health, and building a sustainable Vietnam for the people.”
Mr. Iain Frew, British Ambassador to Vietnam, highlighted Unilever Vietnam as a vivid example of the current practical cooperation between the two nations – Photo: VGP/VA
Also sharing at the anniversary, Mr. Iain Frew, British Ambassador to Vietnam, emphasized the deepening partnership between the two countries, with Unilever as a vivid example: “The elevation of our relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership marks a new era in UK-Vietnam relations, built on trust, shared vision, and practical cooperation. Through its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community contribution, Unilever Vietnam is helping to create a greener, fairer, and more resilient future, demonstrating that businesses can be a positive force between nations, where commercial success and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.”
During the event, Unilever signed several strategic memorandums of understanding with government agencies and international organizations, including: The “For a Healthy and Sustainable Vietnam 2025-2030” program with the Department of Preventive Medicine (Ministry of Health); The “Health Check-ups for a Healthier Vietnam 2025-2028” program with the Vietnam Young Physicians Association and Lifebuoy; The “Safe, Healthy, and Sustainable Schools 2025–2028” agreement between Unilever and UNICEF; and The “Developing Green, Clean, and Healthy Schools” program 2024–2029 with the Ministry of Education and Training.
Ms. Silvia Danailov, UNICEF Representative in Vietnam, and Ms. Nguyễn Thị Bích Vân, National CEO of Unilever Vietnam, signing the cooperation agreement – Photo: VGP/VA
Praising this partnership, Ms. Silvia Danailov, UNICEF Representative in Vietnam, stated, “Through this valuable collaboration, we will continue to support the Vietnamese government in reaching 2 million students, inspiring and empowering the younger generation—the future leaders who will drive positive change for the country.”
Alongside these strategic partnerships, Unilever Vietnam announced new commitments for the upcoming phase: Promoting digital transformation in the supply chain, improving livelihoods for 200,000 Vietnamese over the next decade, providing hygiene and health education to 10 million people, planting an additional 1 million trees from 2026 to 2030, and aiming for 100% recyclable or biodegradable plastic packaging by 2035.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Nguyễn Thị Bích Vân, National CEO of Unilever Vietnam, emotionally shared, “Over the past three decades, Unilever Vietnam has not only built brands but also nurtured human values. Every step we take, from partnering with the government and local communities to collaborating with retailers, is aimed at a common goal: Building a healthier, greener, and brighter Vietnam.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Thị Liên Hương – Vice Minister of Health awards Unilever Vietnam with a Certificate of Merit from the Ministry of Health for outstanding achievements in implementing the Patriotic Sanitation Movement to improve public health from 2012-2022 – Photo: VGP/VA
On this occasion, Unilever Vietnam was honored to receive Certificates of Merit from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Training, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam Women’s Union, and Vietnam Young Physicians Association, recognizing the company’s outstanding contributions to healthcare, education, environmental protection, and community development.
After 30 years of accompanying the nation, Unilever Vietnam continues to affirm its position as a pioneer in sustainable development, placing people and the planet at the heart of all its activities. The anniversary event not only marks a milestone of gratitude but also opens a new chapter—one of stronger commitments, broader cooperation, and greater social responsibility for a prosperous, healthy, and sustainable Vietnam.
