Carbon emissions versus value-added in export-driven countries: case of Vietnam

Manufacturing for export is gradually becoming the main pillar of economic growth in many developing countries, including Vietnam. Since 1986, Vietnam has adopted an open economic policy and promoted trade activities. Therefore, Vietnam’s exports have significantly increased and contributed to economic development. The benefits of exports are undeniable, but Vietnam also faces serious environmental problems caused by these activities. This paper analyzes the impact of Vietnam’s export activities on economics and the environment through comparison between carbon emissions and value-added embodied in exports using an input–output model, then provides some recommendations to adjust Vietnam's export strategy in the future. The main findings indicate that carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) embodied in exports have increased from 2006 to 2015. The carbon intensity of exports increases, while the value-added intensity decreases. As compared with production for the domestic market, production for domestic demand creates faster value-added and slower carbon emissions than production for exports. This study suggests that Vietnam should reform its export structure alongside technological improvements and other policy adjustments to curb Vietnam’s growing CO2 emissions. © 2022, The Author(s).