Vietnam’s business leaders step up to advance responsible supply chains

Domestic migrant workers make up a large share of the workforce in Vietnam's key export sectors, including electronics, textiles, and footwear.

According to the General Statistics Office, more than 774,500 internal migrants aged 15 and above were recorded in 2023, with nearly 74 per cent participating in the labour force.

“Many companies know they have internal migrant workers in their supply chains, but understanding their needs and lived realities often remains a blind spot, especially for workers from ethnic minority backgrounds,” said Kendra Rinas, chief of mission at IOM Vietnam.

“Practical and participatory approaches to due diligence are therefore essential. They help businesses move from uncertainty to action, revealing risks and opportunities that traditional audits often overlook.”

Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam Johan Ndisi emphasised Vietnam's growing role in global supply chains.

"With increased integration comes both responsibility and opportunity. Preparing for new global standards such as the EU CS3D gives Vietnamese companies the opportunity to strengthen their competitiveness and demonstrate leadership in responsible business," he said.

Roundtable discussions underscored the clear business case for ethical recruitment, fair employment, and proactive engagement with domestic migrant workers.

Companies adopting these practices can better anticipate regulatory requirements such as the EU CS3D, reduce compliance risks, and improve workforce stability through higher retention and lower turnover. These measures also help strengthen brand reputation and build trust with buyers, investors, and consumers.

“The CS3D introduces mandatory due diligence and sustainability reporting requirements for large Vietnamese companies trading with the EU, ensuring alignment with internationally recognised standards on responsible business conduct,” said Rafael de Bustamante, chargé d'affaires for the EU delegation to Vietnam. “The directive also seeks to protect vulnerable groups, including internal migrant workers, by holding companies accountable for human rights impacts across their value chains.”

Bui Thi Ninh, deputy director of VCCI Ho Chi Minh City, noted the timeliness of the discussion. "For the first time, we have a workshop that explores internal labour migration in depth, especially at a time when Vietnam is facing a labour shortage. Ensuring appropriate policies and support for domestic migrant workers will help stabilise the labour market and address key challenges," she said.

Building on insights from the roundtable, IOM is developing practical guidance to help businesses in Vietnam integrate domestic migrant workers into their due diligence and risk assessment processes.

The outcome, informed by recommendations from participating firms and experts, will be included in guidance released in 2026 to ensure it reflects real-world challenges and practical solutions for Vietnam's business community.

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