Latest news with #Phuong
Korea Herald
01-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
From Energy Labels to Green Leadership: The ESG Rise of a Vietnamese Compliance Firm
ExtendMax, a leading consultancy in regulatory compliance, has been honored with the Green Leadership Award for its comprehensive ESG strategy that transforms regulatory compliance into sustainable impact. HANOI, Vietnam, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As ESG (Environmental – Social – Governance) becomes a global imperative, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are still struggling to find a practical pathway forward. But ExtendMax, a Vietnam-based SME, proves otherwise: sustainable development does not solely belong to billion-dollar corporations with abundant resources—it begins with strategic intention and internal commitment. Turning Compliance into a Sustainable Advantage As a legal and technical consulting firm focused on import/export compliance for IT products, ExtendMax facilitates hundreds of VNEEP energy labeling certifications annually. However, the company doesn't stop at helping clients meet regulatory requirements—it has elevated this service into a foundational pillar of its ESG strategy. According to Mr. Tran Thanh Phuong, CEO of ExtendMax, the company works directly with the R&D teams of its clients, helping design products from the ground up to maximize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. "We don't just help products pass legal thresholds—we create competitive advantages," said Mr. Phuong. "For Vietnamese tech products, the energy label has become a 'green passport' to access markets with strict sustainability standards. At the same time, we support international brands in navigating Vietnam's environmental regulations, enabling them to enter the market faster and more responsibly. Compliance is no longer just about legality—it's a strategic step toward long-term business success," said Mr. Phuong. By embedding ESG principles into supply chain advisory services, ExtendMax has helped numerous technology brands—from laptops, TVs, and monitors to printers—achieve energy efficiency certification and reduce emissions. Building ESG from Within: People and Governance First Beyond product-focused initiatives, ExtendMax sees people as the cornerstone of sustainable transformation. Guided by the belief that "Compliance Begins with People", the company has built a three-tier ESG capacity-building model that includes mentorship, training, and real-time performance feedback. Within just 18 months, over 80% of ExtendMax employees had upskilled in ESG competencies, contributing to an above-industry-average retention rate. The company also launched "Governance with Integrity," a digital platform that enables transparent management, risk control, and compliance across all operations—with no legal violations recorded to date. "ESG transformation is not a checklist or CSR formality. At ExtendMax, ESG functions as our operating system—from how we design services to how we hire, train, and lead," Mr. Phuong emphasized. Green Finance Opens New Pathways According to the World Bank, by the end of Q1 2024, Vietnam's outstanding green credit reached approximately VND 640 trillion (~USD 28 billion), accounting for 4.5% of the nation's total credit portfolio. Vietnam also ranks among the top two ASEAN countries in issuing green, social, and sustainability (GSS) bonds. This evolving financial landscape increasingly favors businesses with transparent and well-defined ESG strategies. It offers new opportunities for SMEs like ExtendMax—companies with modest size but ambitious, well-executed ESG roadmaps. Green Leadership: Leading Through Action, Not Obligation PwC's 2024 regional data reveals that 53% of Asia-Pacific companies have set net-zero targets, yet only 42% have linked ESG performance to executive compensation—a clear sign of the implementation gap. In this context, companies like ExtendMax—those who proactively integrate ESG into operations instead of waiting for top-down mandates—are reshaping the standards of leadership. The AREA 2025 recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to a replicable green model for other Vietnamese and regional SMEs. "Green Leadership is not a title—it's a living commitment reflected in everyday decisions," said Mr. Phuong. Vietnam to Asia: A New Chapter for ESG Transformation For ExtendMax, the AREA 2025 award is a milestone—but not the final destination. The company aims to expand its sustainable advisory programs into emerging sectors in Vietnam while sharing its ESG transformation framework with other markets across Asia. From a local SME to a regional enabler, ExtendMax is emerging as a force in shaping ESG standards in Asia—a challenging yet promising journey in the age of green economy. About the AREA Awards The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA), organized annually by Enterprise Asia since 2011, recognize businesses with outstanding contributions to social responsibility and sustainable development. In 2025, over 350 submissions across 19 countries and markets underwent a rigorous judging process based on relevance, effectiveness and reach, and sustainability. ExtendMax was honored with the Green Leadership Award, a category that recognizes enterprises leading the way in environmental stewardship, climate action, and green innovation. This award highlights organizations that not only comply with environmental standards, but actively integrate sustainability into their strategy, operations, and industry influence. ExtendMax's recognition in this category places it alongside other leading Asian enterprises that are driving the region's green transition—affirming that even small and medium-sized companies can make a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable future. About ExtendMax Vietnam ExtendMax Vietnam Company Limited is a leading provider of IT product conformity certification and Importer/Exporter of Record services, enabling seamless market entry and cross-border operations for global technology companies doing business in Vietnam. With deep expertise in regulatory compliance, ExtendMax helps clients minimize risk, reduce lead time, and optimize import-export processes without the need for a local legal entity. In addition to its core services, ExtendMax is highly regarded for its VNEEP energy labeling advisory program, which supports both domestic and international manufacturers in meeting Vietnam's stringent energy efficiency regulations. This comprehensive service includes identifying applicable technical standards, coordinating accredited testing, preparing energy labeling dossiers, and supporting post-certification monitoring. By doing so, ExtendMax empowers clients not only to achieve full legal compliance but also to enhance product competitiveness in a sustainability-driven market. Founded in 2015 and led by industry expert Tran Thanh Phuong, ExtendMax has built a strong reputation for its integrity, execution speed, and ability to manage mission-critical projects for leading global brands in highly regulated sectors such as ICT, electronics, and civil cryptography.
Korea Herald
21-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
ExtendMax Becomes First Vietnamese Company to Win the Asia-Pacific People's Choice Stevie Awards
HANOI, Vietnam, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ExtendMax has made history as the first Vietnamese company to win the Asia-Pacific Stevie® People's Choice Award, securing the coveted "Favorite Company" title. This major milestone reflects ExtendMax Vietnam Company Limited 's decade-long journey building trust through regulatory expertise and seamless project execution for multinational clients entering or operating in Vietnam. "We're honored to represent Vietnam on a global stage," said Tran Thanh Phuong, Founder and CEO of ExtendMax. "This award belongs to our customers, partners, and team – people who've trusted us to solve complex compliance challenges and deliver critical business outcomes." ExtendMax's recognition follows a growing list of achievements, including Gold and Silver Stevie Awards in innovation categories, further cementing Mr. Phuong's status as a leading legal and compliance expert in Vietnam's fast-evolving tech and import landscape. One of ExtendMax's hallmark achievements underscoring its capabilities is the project supporting LEGO in importing the IT systems for LEGO's largest global factory in Vietnam, with a total investment of approximately USD 1.3 billion. From the outset, this project faced numerous regulatory challenges related to importing IT equipment that uses encryption technology and network security systems. As both a consulting firm and a trusted provider of Importer of Record (IOR) services in Vietnam, ExtendMax provided end-to-end advisory services, crafted detailed plans, applied for encryption licenses, and prepared all necessary procedures to ensure the project stayed on schedule without disruption. Thanks to its comprehensive solutions and extensive experience handling large-scale projects, ExtendMax enabled LEGO to smoothly import tens of millions of dollars' worth of IT equipment, helping ensure the factory's construction and operations progressed as planned. "The LEGO project is a testament to the values of commitment and customer-centricity that ExtendMax upholds. We don't just provide consulting; we stand side by side with our clients, overcoming every obstacle, executing every procedure, and taking responsibility for the final outcomes. Our clients' success is our success – and that is the value we cherish most," Mr. Tran Thanh Phuong added. According to CEO Tran Thanh Phuong, this People's Choice Stevie Award is not only a recognition of his personal efforts or those of the leadership team – it is a proud achievement of the entire ExtendMax collective, whose members have remained steadfast in their mission to accompany and support clients in successfully completing every project. He also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the customers, partners, and community who took the time to vote, share, and support ExtendMax, helping the company make its mark across the region: "The Stevie Awards are among the world's most prestigious business awards. This year, the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received over 1,000 nominations from 29 markets, but only eight People's Choice Stevie Awards were presented. ExtendMax is honored and proud to be the only Vietnamese company to win this special category. I believe this award belongs to all of us – the ExtendMax team, our customers, partners, and friends – those who have joined me in a nearly decade-long journey of continuous innovation, relentless effort, and the ambition to reach the global stage." Looking ahead, Mr. Phuong shared that ExtendMax remains committed to its strategic focus on developing professional compliance certification consulting services and Importer of Record solutions, enhancing internal capabilities, embracing digital transformation, and expanding international partnerships. "We will not stop at this award. This is the motivation for ExtendMax to continue improving service quality, pursuing innovative solutions, and advancing transparent, sustainable development that brings value to the business community in Vietnam and the broader region," Mr. Tran Thanh Phuong emphasized. ExtendMax Vietnam Co., Ltd. is a leading provider of product conformity certification and IOR services, enabling seamless market entry and regulatory compliance for global companies operating in Vietnam. Founded in 2014 and led by industry expert Tran Thanh Phuong, ExtendMax has built a reputation for integrity, speed, and execution in mission-critical projects for some of the world's largest brands.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ExtendMax Becomes First Vietnamese Company to Win the Asia-Pacific People's Choice Stevie Awards
HANOI, Vietnam, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ExtendMax has made history as the first Vietnamese company to win the Asia-Pacific Stevie® People's Choice Award, securing the coveted "Favorite Company" title. This major milestone reflects ExtendMax Vietnam Company Limited's decade-long journey building trust through regulatory expertise and seamless project execution for multinational clients entering or operating in Vietnam. "We're honored to represent Vietnam on a global stage," said Tran Thanh Phuong, Founder and CEO of ExtendMax. "This award belongs to our customers, partners, and team – people who've trusted us to solve complex compliance challenges and deliver critical business outcomes." ExtendMax's recognition follows a growing list of achievements, including Gold and Silver Stevie Awards in innovation categories, further cementing Mr. Phuong's status as a leading legal and compliance expert in Vietnam's fast-evolving tech and import landscape. One of ExtendMax's hallmark achievements underscoring its capabilities is the project supporting LEGO in importing the IT systems for LEGO's largest global factory in Vietnam, with a total investment of approximately USD 1.3 billion. From the outset, this project faced numerous regulatory challenges related to importing IT equipment that uses encryption technology and network security systems. As both a consulting firm and a trusted provider of Importer of Record (IOR) services in Vietnam, ExtendMax provided end-to-end advisory services, crafted detailed plans, applied for encryption licenses, and prepared all necessary procedures to ensure the project stayed on schedule without disruption. Thanks to its comprehensive solutions and extensive experience handling large-scale projects, ExtendMax enabled LEGO to smoothly import tens of millions of dollars' worth of IT equipment, helping ensure the factory's construction and operations progressed as planned. "The LEGO project is a testament to the values of commitment and customer-centricity that ExtendMax upholds. We don't just provide consulting; we stand side by side with our clients, overcoming every obstacle, executing every procedure, and taking responsibility for the final outcomes. Our clients' success is our success – and that is the value we cherish most," Mr. Tran Thanh Phuong added. According to CEO Tran Thanh Phuong, this People's Choice Stevie Award is not only a recognition of his personal efforts or those of the leadership team – it is a proud achievement of the entire ExtendMax collective, whose members have remained steadfast in their mission to accompany and support clients in successfully completing every project. He also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the customers, partners, and community who took the time to vote, share, and support ExtendMax, helping the company make its mark across the region: "The Stevie Awards are among the world's most prestigious business awards. This year, the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received over 1,000 nominations from 29 markets, but only eight People's Choice Stevie Awards were presented. ExtendMax is honored and proud to be the only Vietnamese company to win this special category. I believe this award belongs to all of us – the ExtendMax team, our customers, partners, and friends – those who have joined me in a nearly decade-long journey of continuous innovation, relentless effort, and the ambition to reach the global stage." Looking ahead, Mr. Phuong shared that ExtendMax remains committed to its strategic focus on developing professional compliance certification consulting services and Importer of Record solutions, enhancing internal capabilities, embracing digital transformation, and expanding international partnerships. "We will not stop at this award. This is the motivation for ExtendMax to continue improving service quality, pursuing innovative solutions, and advancing transparent, sustainable development that brings value to the business community in Vietnam and the broader region," Mr. Tran Thanh Phuong emphasized. About ExtendMax ExtendMax Vietnam Co., Ltd. is a leading provider of product conformity certification and IOR services, enabling seamless market entry and regulatory compliance for global companies operating in Vietnam. Founded in 2014 and led by industry expert Tran Thanh Phuong, ExtendMax has built a reputation for integrity, speed, and execution in mission-critical projects for some of the world's largest brands. Head Office: ExtendMax Villa, C01-L18 An Vượng, Dương Nội Urban Area, Hà Đông, HanoiTel: +84 24 6666 3066Email: consultant@ Website: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE EXTENDMAX VIETNAM COMPANY LIMITED
South China Morning Post
19-05-2025
- South China Morning Post
In the footsteps of Saigon's Quiet American, 70 years on
Northeast of central Saigon lies the Dakow canal. It was here, in its dirty waters, that the body of an American man was found drowned in the mud – stabbed in the chest, it would later be determined, by 'a rusty bayonet'. Thus begins Graham Greene 's The Quiet American, published 70 years ago this year. Set during the first Indochina war (1946-1954), the novel tells of a love triangle between a jaded British foreign correspondent and self-professed désengagé, Thomas Fowler; Vietnamese beauty Phuong; and a young American, Alden Pyle, whose quietness belies a dangerous idealism. Often noted for its foresight into American involvement in the Vietnam war, the novel's real triumph lies in how vividly it brings its setting to life. Today, it makes for an interesting companion while exploring Saigon – now officially known as Ho Chi Minh City – where traces of remote Greeneland can still be found. The Cao Dai Temple in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Oliver Raw The far bank of the canal, described in the novel as Vietminh territory by night, is now part of the urban core, with restaurants lining the water and apartment buildings shooting upwards beyond. During my visit, I find no bodies floating under the bridge, just elderly residents doing their morning exercises and a man fishing in the muddy waters. A woman empties a plastic bag filled with juvenile catfish into the canal. 'For peace,' she tells me, before hopping on her scooter and speeding away like someone fleeing the scene of a crime. Those familiar with the novel will know I have begun, like Greene, where the story comes full circle. To follow events properly, however, we must visit the Rue Catinat, or Dong Khoi ('mass uprising') Street as it is known today, where much of the action of the novel takes place. The Hotel Continental is the city's oldest hostelry and during the war was a watering hole for journalists. Greene doesn't offer much detail about its appearance but its Grecian-influenced design remains largely unchanged from early photographs, although the terrace, which once would have resounded to the clatter of dice games (a favourite pastime of French colonials) is now fully enclosed.
American Military News
11-05-2025
- Politics
- American Military News
Imprisoned Vietnam activist charged for writing ‘down with communism'
This article was originally published by Radio Free Asia and is reprinted with permission. Prominent Vietnamese land rights activist Trinh Ba Phuong is facing a second charge of anti-state propaganda after prison guards found a document in his cell that said, 'down with communism,' his wife told Radio Free Asia. Phuong is already serving a 10-year prison sentence related to his dissemination of information about a 2020 land dispute where police clashed with villagers outside Hanoi. Do Thi Thu, Phuong's wife, told RFA Vietnamese that he has been charged again under Article 117 of the Criminal Code which punishes 'making, storing, and disseminating' anti-state information – a charge commonly used against government critics. 'According to the investigator, in November 2024, my husband was found having papers and banners whose content were deemed against the state,' Thu said, adding that authorities at An Diem prison in central Quang Nam province where he is held forwarded those materials to the provincial security agency which decided to prosecute him. She said the documents and banners were all written by Phuong to protest harsh conditions in An Diem prison and he kept them in his cell. One included the words, 'down with communism.' An Diem prison is known for incarcerating political prisoners. In April 2024, RFA reported on four prisoners of conscience, including Phuong, who were allegedly mistreated by the prison authorities. 'I am very upset about what the prison in Quang Nam province did to my husband! My husband's writing has no impact on society because he is in prison. They are just trying to punish him. Now facing another charge, the number of years my husband will have to spend in prison will be very high if the sentences pile up,' Thu told RFA. Phuong's lawyer, Dang Dinh Manh, who has decades of experience in political cases, said it is unprecedented for a political prisoner to be prosecuted for expressing his opinions in prison. 'The suppression of political prisoners in communist prisons is quite common, but Trinh Ba Phuong's is the first case where a prisoner is criminally prosecuted for expressing their political opinions,' Manh said. He said the latest charge against Phuong under Article 117 is 'baseless.' 'Article 117 only applies to acts against the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The Communist Party is a political organization, not a state. There is also no provision that allows equating the Communist Party with the State,' he said. Phuong's mother Can Thi Theu and younger brother Trinh Ba Tu are also imprisoned, serving 8-year sentences imposed in 2021, also on charges of spreading anti-state propaganda. The family is known for opposing land grabs and for supporting farmers who have lost their land to development projects.
