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Manufacturing for export is gradually becoming the main pillar of economic growth in many developing countries, including Vietnam. Since 1986, Vietnam has adopted an open economic policy and promoted trade activities. Therefore, Vietnam's exports have significantly increased and contributed to economic development. The benefits of exports are undeniable, but Vietnam also faces serious environmental problems caused by these activities. This paper analyzes the impact of Vietnam's export activities on economics and the environment through comparison between carbon emissions and value-added embodied in exports using an input–output model, then provides some recommendations to adjust Vietnam's export strategy in the future. The main findings indicate that carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) embodied in exports have increased from 2006 to 2015. The carbon intensity of exports increases, while the value-added intensity decreases. As compared with production for the domestic market, production for domestic demand creates faster value-added and slower carbon emissions than production for exports. This study suggests that Vietnam should reform its export structure alongside technological improvements and other policy adjustments to curb Vietnam's growing CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue of ASEAN Economic Bulletin zeroes in on the challenges faced by one of the emerging ASEAN economies, Vietnam. Vietnam. which was hailed as a miracle economy in the recent years, came under severe pressure in 2008. Inflation rose, real estate market crashed, and stock market burst. It was in the second half of 2008, as the central bank's policy measures came into play and global economies slowed, Vietnam could rein in its macroeconomic meltdown. Going into 2009, with external demand still showing no signs of recovery, Vietnam will face a slower growth. The paper further gives some policy options for Vietnam to restructure its economy and deliver good quality growth. Finally, the paper previews the articles contained in this special issue on Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global garment and textile industries face changing international trade regimes, concerns with labour standards, new competitors and forms of competition. These challenges have a differentiated impact on developing-country producers and workers. One potential 'winner' is Vietnam. This paper uses a global value-chain framework to analyse the Vietnamese experience. It maps Vietnam's changing position in the global industry, and probes ties between Vietnamese firms and global buyers. It explores links within the Vietnamese garment and textiles sectors, and considers the impact of global challenges on Vietnamese firms and workers. This helps distinguish who are the potential 'winners' and 'losers'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]