HCMC SETS DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH, GREEN TARGET FOR WOOD SECTOR

Visitors explore furniture displays at the HCMC Export Furniture Fair 2026 - PHOTO: LE HOANG

HCMC – HCMC is aiming for double-digit growth in its wood industry in 2026, with 80% of products required to meet green and traceability standards.

The target was announced by Nguyen Van Duoc, chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee, at the opening of the HCMC Export Furniture Fair 2026 (HawaExpo 2026) on March 4.

Duoc said that green transformation is now a mandatory requirement as major markets such as the European Union and the United States tighten rules on origin traceability and anti-deforestation. The city aims for 80% of wood products to meet green criteria, apply ESG practices and comply with international technical standards.

He also called on the industry to shift from contract manufacturing to mastering design, technology and branding under a “Made by Vietnam” approach to increase value added.

Digital transformation was identified as another priority. The Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of HCMC (HAWA), which has more than 1,000 members, was urged to support companies in applying technology to improve supply chain transparency and reduce trade remedy risks.

In 2025, the city’s total export revenue reached US$92.7 billion, with the wood sector accounting for about 10%, according to Duoc.

The wood and furniture industry targets export revenue of US$18-19 billion in 2026, with HCMC contributing around half of the total.

HawaExpo 2026 features more than 2,500 booths and is expected to attract about 18,000 visitors. Nearly 90% of exhibited products are manufactured in Vietnam, according to Phung Quoc Man, chairman of HAWA and head of the organizing committee.

Source: The Saigon Times