Setting the Standard: Stavian Chemical and the 8th ICIS Asian Polyolefins Conference

The 8th ICIS Asian Polyolefins Conference, hosted by ICIS (Independent Commodity Intelligence Services), is taking place from November 7 to 8, 2023, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The conference highlights  the polymer supply and demand situation in the region, emphasising the growth of the region's polymer market.

One of the key contributors to this conference was Stavian Chemical, a renowned chemical distributor headquartered in Hanoi and a leading manufacturer of biodegradable plastic packaging. Stavian Chemical, ranked among the top 22 global chemical distributors, played a prominent role by sharing its expertise on significant developments within the polyolefins sector in Asia, with a specific emphasis on sustainability.

In this exclusive interview with Plastics and Rubber Asia (PRA), Mr Tony Dinh. Chairman & CEO – Stavian Chemical, provides insights about his company and its role in the emerging sustainability agenda for the industry. Under his leadership, the company has grown to become one of the leading distributors and producers of resins, plastic finished products, petrochemicals, and chemicals in Asia, Europe, North & Latin America, and Africa.His visionary approach has not only established the company as a global benchmark for sustainability in the industry but has also inspired communities in Vietnam to adopt sustainable practices that will ultimately benefit the nation.

PRA: Are there any specific contributions or initiatives that Stavian Chemical is involved in as a participant at the ICIS Polymer Conference, beyond its role as the host partner?

Tony Dinh: Vietnam has hosted its first-ever ICIS conference to acknowledge the market's growth in the country. The conference brings together experts and decision-makers from various fields, including resin producers, converters, retailers, traders, and technology providers from both Asia and beyond. As one of the prominent polymer distributors in Southeast Asia, Stavian Chemical views this as a valuable opportunity to acquire in-depth knowledge and insights into the polyolefins industry. We aim to learn from ICIS experts and external thought leaders about upcoming industry trends, innovations, and initiatives that can assist us in effectively addressing future challenges.

Moreover, we are excited to share our experiences on plastic resin and chemical business opportunities in the huge potential market of Vietnam. The country stands out as one of the most attractive investment destinations for foreign investors, especially in the chemical/plastic industry due to its strategic location, growing middle class, and young population. Additionally, Vietnam has signed 18 active and planned bilateral and multilateral Free Trade Agreements, offering a significant advantage to businesses. The Vietnamese Government has also provided a wide range of investment and tax incentive schemes, prioritised domestic infrastructure improvements, and expanded industrial real estate to attract more foreign direct investment in the coming years.

PRA: Could you provide more details about the impact of Stavian Chemical's biodegradable plastic packaging on reducing waste and promoting a green lifestyle within Vietnamese households?

Tony Dinh: Vietnam is one of the countries with the highest plastic waste generation per capita worldwide. Biodegradable plastic packaging can help reduce plastic waste in the environment, as it decomposes faster than traditional plastic. This reduces the amount of plastic in landfills or oceans, which can positively impact reducing waste and promoting a green lifestyle within Vietnamese households.

One of the benefits of biodegradable plastic packaging is that it can be composted with organic waste, turning it into nutrient-rich soil. This reduces the need for chemical fertilisers and helps to divert waste from landfills, reducing the amount of methane gas released into the atmosphere. Using biodegradable plastic packaging can encourage more sustainable habits within Vietnamese households, promoting a green lifestyle. Consumers can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier planet by choosing products packaged in biodegradable plastic. Overall, biodegradable plastic packaging can be essential in reducing waste and promoting sustainable living practices in Vietnam.

PRA: In response to the increasing focus on environmental issues, can you provide examples of how Stavian Chemical is actively working to improve the sustainability of its chemical supply chain?

Tony Dinh: Sustainability is a global challenge that affects every sector and industry, and it plays a crucial role in our chemical industry's strategic vision, from supply chain to waste treatment. All these aspects require an optimal, effective, seamless process and stakeholder coordination. At Stavian Chemical, sustainability is one of the most critical factors in our strategy to tackle major business challenges and embrace the future.

We also implement many initiatives to support society and communities in Vietnam and abroad. Regarding CSR, we launched the "Stavian - For a Greener Vietnam" campaign, donating 20,000 seedlings to La Pan Tan and De Xu Phinh communes, Mu Cang Chai district, Yen Bai province. The aim is to reforest over 50 hectares of bare hills and low-yielding forest areas in the two communes. Besides its environmental impact, the campaign also contributes to Mu Cang Chai's socio-economic development and supports local people, especially ethnic minorities whose lives depend on nature, to increase their incomes and improve their lives sustainably.

We publicly monitor and report our progress toward sustainability goals, increasing transparency and accountability. At the same time, Stavian Chemical fully cooperates with international organisations to conduct initiatives, raising community awareness and encouraging other companies in the chemical industry to prioritise sustainability locally and globally.As a forward-looking organisation, we alsoprioritise our ESG (environmental, social and governance )programs with a strong commitment.

PRA: It is evident that Stavian Chemical has taken a leading role in promoting sustainability through its research and expansion activities, with a focus on minimising environmental impact and fostering long-term sustainability. Can you provide more details about your initiatives in this regard?

Tony Dinh: We have invested in research and the construction of a PET recycling complex - not only in Vietnam but also in some other Asian markets - which results in energy savings, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and landfill waste minimisation.

PRA:What are Stavian Chemical's aspirations for the future of the Vietnam polymers industry, and what key developments or improvements does the company anticipate in the years to come?

Tony Dinh:Vietnam has a high demand for polymers and plastic products due to rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, population growth, and rising disposable incomes. The government's initiatives to promote foreign investment, improve infrastructure, and support the growth of the manufacturing sector are also likely to impact the polymer industry's development positively. Additionally, customers are expressing increasing diversification in their needs.

As for Stavian's expectations, they may vary depending on their business strategy, product portfolio, target market, and competition. Some key developments or improvements that the company may anticipate in the coming years include:

(PRA)

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