Vietnam’s “One Commune, One Product” (OCOP) program has elevated the value of Vietnamese agricultural products, food, and handicrafts, with 14,642 products achieving 3-star ratings or higher by 2024, including 79 products certified at the prestigious 5-star level. To conquer demanding markets like the EU, US, and Japan, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) has emerged as a pivotal factor. ESG fosters sustainable branding through:

1. Weaving local history and culture into products, creating trust and relatability as a core pillar.
2. Sustainable packaging that not only captivates but also conveys a message of environmental responsibility.
3. Optimizing the ESG value chain by adopting organic farming, renewable energy, fair wages, and transparent governance.

High-quality 4- and 5-star OCOP products, such as Đắk Lắk coffee and Phú Quốc fish sauce, have successfully penetrated global markets thanks to organic certifications and ESG integration. However, over 60% of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) participating in OCOP face challenges due to limited knowledge, financial resources, and ESG management expertise. The government supports these efforts through preferential loan policies and promotion of international standards (ISO, HACCP). ESG is a strategic investment that transforms premium OCOP products into cultural ambassadors, carrying Vietnam’s local stories, sustainable production, and transparent practices to the world stage.