ESG implementation strengthens pharma’s resilience in a rapidly evolving world

Health is the ultimate wealth - and businesses understand and act

Given its intrinsic link to human health and quality of life, the pharmaceutical industry’s integration of ESG is no longer a benchmark, it has evolved into a foundational principle for generating lasting value across society. Once a quiet enabler, Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector is steadily emerging as a strategic cornerstone in the nation’s economic and healthcare development, aiming not only to deliver effective medical solutions but also to elevate community well-being.

Vietnam’s Pharmaceutical Development Strategy through 2030, with a vision to 2045, clearly articulates the goal of enhancing domestic capacity and transforming Vietnam into a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub. Achieving this vision requires not only significant investment in advanced technologies and global standards, but also a proactive embrace of ESG principles, across environmental stewardship, social impact, and governance excellence.

Among the leading examples is Imexpharm, recently named among the Top 50 Corporate Sustainability Awards – CSA 2025, organized by Nhip Cau Dau Tu Magazine, on July 15, 2025. The recognition was assessed by an expert panel including representatives from respected organizations such as HSBC Vietnam, PwC Vietnam, Schneider Electric, the Institute for Circular Economy Development, Talentnet, and VinaCapital.

Imexpharm doesn’t just talk ESG, it lives it. From leadership mindset to concrete actions, ESG is at the core of everything Imexpharm does. This genuine commitment helped the company excel across evaluation criteria, including sustainable development strategy, social and environmental impact, and long-term community value creation.

Imexpharm’s ESG mindset was shaped early on. Since its establishment in 1977, the company has remained steadfast in its founding vision: “Trusted Quality – European Standards”, dedicated to delivering highly effective healthcare solutions for the community.

This vision has been consistently translated into strategic investments in technology and governance. Imexpharm allocates up to 5% of its annual revenue to R&D. In 2024 alone, the company launched 24 new products, focusing on next-generation antibiotics and injectable formulations. It is also expanding into specialized treatment areas such as cardiovascular, diabetes, neurology, and gastroenterology, underscoring a clear shift toward high-tech, knowledge-intensive pharmaceuticals.

Choosing ESG: A path of integrity and endurance

As Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector enters a period of accelerated growth, ESG awareness is becoming increasingly prominent, especially in the wake of the country’s net-zero commitment made at COP26. ESG is by no means an easy path. It demands sustained investment, a transformation in governance thinking, and agility in the face of emerging challenges.

In its pursuit of long-term societal value, Imexpharm remains unwavering on this demanding yet vital ESG journey. Operating a closed-loop manufacturing model with stringent controls across the entire production lifecycle, from raw material sourcing to finished products, Imexpharm prioritizes clean, CEP-compliant inputs and employs enzymatic technologies in its antibiotic production.

The company is also focused on renewable energy development and effective waste management. All of Imexpharm’s green factories are equipped with ISO 14001:2015-certified wastewater systems, as well as CIP (Cleaning In Place), SIP (Sterilization In Place), and HVAC systems for comprehensive control of temperature, humidity, and airflow.

Alongside green manufacturing, Imexpharm continues to invest in production capacity, currently operating 12 EU-GMP-certified production lines. As of now, the company holds 28 EU Marketing Authorizations (EU-MAs) for 11 products.

People's Doctor, Pharmacist Tran Thi Dao, General director of Imexpharm: “The ESG journey is undeniably challenging. But at its core, ESG is not simply a checklist, it is a quiet yet transformative force shaping a better future. At Imexpharm, we chose this path early, with full conviction. To us, ESG is more than a responsibility—it is the foundation for building a healthier, more sustainable world for generations to come.”

Beyond green production, Imexpharm proudly contributes to the VNSI20 sustainable development index, applies International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and has implemented SAP S/4HANA Cloud ERP to enhance transparency and modernize operations.

Imexpharm is also an active participant in healthcare programs, scholarships, education, and environmental initiatives. In 2024, the company contributed 755 million VND in scholarships and educational support, distributed free medicine, and donated 500 trees to the Da Lat Youth Union.

Imexpharm’s nearly 50-year journey stands as a testament to sustainable development—a path requiring courage, compassion, and long-term vision. Just like our philosophy says: ‘1,000 years later, the lotus still blooms’.