Hà Nội, 27 March 2026 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with national partners, convened a Technical Meeting on the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), bringing together government representatives, aviation industry stakeholders, development partners, and experts to discuss international experiences and compliance strategies for Viet Nam.

The meeting comes at a critical time as global efforts to address climate change intensify and the aviation sector faces growing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining its role in economic growth and connectivity. CORSIA, established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is the first global market-based mechanism designed to address emissions from international aviation and support carbon-neutral growth.

Viet Nam has demonstrated strong commitment by registering to participate in the first voluntary phase of CORSIA starting in 2026. This step reflects the country’s proactive approach to sustainable development and alignment with global climate goals.

Opening the meeting, Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Viet Nam, emphasized, “We commend Viet Nam for its proactive decision to participate in the first voluntary phase of CORSIA starting in 2026. This demonstrates strong leadership and commitment to responsible and sustainable development.”

She further noted that while participation in CORSIA offers opportunities, it also presents challenges related to compliance requirements, cost implications, and institutional readiness.

Mr. Tạ Quang Hưng, Deputy Director of the Department of Science, Technology, Environment and Construction Materials, the Ministry of Construction, highlighted, “Participation in CORSIA is an inevitable trend. It is not only an international responsibility but also an opportunity for Viet Nam’s aviation sector to enhance its capacity and proactively adapt to increasingly stringent technical requirements.”

Through its support, UNDP is assisting the Government of Viet Nam in preparing for CORSIA implementation by providing evidence-based analysis on compliance options, identifying cost-effective strategies for airlines, and exploring opportunities to develop domestic carbon markets and offset mechanisms. These efforts aim not only to meet international obligations but also to position Viet Nam in the emerging global carbon economy.

The Technical Meeting provided a platform to share international experiences, assess potential impacts on Viet Nam’s aviation sector, and discuss practical pathways forward. Discussions highlighted the importance of strong inter-ministerial coordination, active private sector engagement, and the development of a clear policy and regulatory framework.
Participants also underscored the need for investments in capacity building, data systems, and regulatory mechanisms to ensure effective implementation.

The event forms part of UNDP’s broader support to Viet Nam in advancing a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy, including strengthening carbon markets, promoting green technologies, and mobilizing climate finance.

UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to continue accompanying Viet Nam in this transition, supporting efforts to ensure that climate action contributes to sustainable and inclusive development.

For media inquires, please contact:
Phan Huong Giang   
UNDP Media and Communications Analyst, Climate Change, Energy and Environment 
Email: phan.huong.giang@undp.org 
Mobile: 0948466688