H & H Lawyers Hosts Vietnam Electricity Delegation to Discuss ESG and Australia’s Net Zero Framework

In December 2025, we had the privilege of hosting a delegation of senior lawyers from Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and its subsidiaries. The visit provided an important opportunity to discuss the changing landscape of inbound investment into Australia, particularly as ESG frameworks increasingly shape global capital decisions.

Our James Jung, Dr Paul Govind and Kenneth Hong led focused discussions on the legal and regulatory requirements for international entrants in Australia's "Net Zero" era. While energy remains central to the Australia–Vietnam relationship, our dialogue expanded to the practical realities of operating in a market driven by mandatory climate disclosures and ambitious decarbonisation policy.

Key themes included:
- ESG as a Gateway: How Australia's emerging ESG and climate-reporting regime is influencing opportunities for international state-owned enterprises.
- Japan & Korea Insights: Lessons from the transition of Japanese and Korean investors from traditional gas projects toward green hydrogen and large-scale renewables.
- Inbound Pathways: The legal frameworks and governance structures required to navigate Australian infrastructure and energy projects.

Australia's role in the regional energy transition continues to mature, and we remain committed to supporting organisations like EVN as they pursue strategic opportunities aligned with Australia's high ESG standards.

We thank the EVN delegation for a productive exchange and look forward to continuing these important conversations.