As Vietnam deepens economic cooperation with the Nordic countries, attention is turning to how international investment can contribute more broadly to the country’s development. Alongside production capacity, its lasting value lies in the productivity, expertise and business capabilities it helps build locally.

These priorities shaped discussions at the Nordic–Vietnam Business Summit 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City on 29 October, where Carlsberg Vietnam participated as a Strategic Partner. Organized by NordCham Vietnam and its partners within the Autumn Economic Forum 2026, the summit explored how stronger international ties can support investment, technology cooperation and sustainable growth.

Representing Carlsberg Vietnam, Peter Wachenschwanz, Senior Director, Integrated Supply Chain, joined representatives from APM Terminals and Phuc Sinh Corporation in the leadership dialogue, “Turning Momentum into Action for the Next Chapter of Nordic–Vietnam Cooperation.”

Carlsberg brought the perspective of a long-term Danish investor, demonstrating how continued investment in operational efficiency, sustainability and local capabilities can strengthen its business while contributing to Vietnam’s sustainable growth.

Building on the momentum of the State Visit

The summit followed Vietnam’s State Visit to Denmark from 19 to 21 October, which marked 55 years of diplomatic relations and the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Shared priorities in investment, technology and the green transition provide a stronger foundation for businesses to develop projects with long-term value.

For Carlsberg, the visit provided an occasion to reaffirm Vietnam’s importance as one of the Group’s key growth markets. Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen participated in high-level discussions with Vietnam’s senior leadership and presented Letters of Intent to the Chairmen of the People’s Committees of Hue and Da Nang, outlining investment and development intentions for 2026–2031.

These include approximately USD 65 million in intended investment at Phu Bai Brewery in Hue, focused on modernizing production, advancing digital and green transformation, improving resource efficiency and strengthening quality, food safety and supply-chain capabilities.

In Da Nang, the company’s intentions encompass commercial development, digital transformation, operational modernization and more efficient, sustainable logistics, alongside environmental and community initiatives. Subject to relevant approvals, these plans would build on Carlsberg’s established presence in Central Vietnam and strengthen its manufacturing and commercial capabilities in the region.

Peter Wachenschwanz, Senior Director, Integrated Supply Chain at Carlsberg Vietnam, shared during the discussion: “Long-term investment creates lasting value when technology, people and partnerships develop together. For Carlsberg Vietnam, the next phase is about building on our expanded capacity to operate more efficiently and sustainably. Combining our global experience with Vietnamese expertise helps us strengthen our business while contributing to Vietnam’s long-term competitiveness.”

Putting Nordic–Vietnam cooperation into practice

Carlsberg Vietnam’s Phu Bai Brewery provides a practical example of how sustained investment can support production growth alongside improvements in operational performance.

The nearly USD 90 million expansion, inaugurated in August 2025, increased annual capacity by more than 50%, making Phu Bai the largest beer production site in Carlsberg Asia and strengthening Vietnam’s role within the Group’s regional operations.

Alongside this growth, the new brewing line uses approximately 20% less water and 15% less energy than its predecessor. The brewery’s rooftop solar project is expected to supply up to 10% of its electricity needs, supporting the transition to renewable energy. Real-time performance dashboards help teams monitor line efficiency and maintain consistent quality, while a fully electric forklift fleet and AI-enabled cameras support cleaner and safer operations.