Networking Opportunities for Circular Start-ups
HSF’s Delegation to ASEAN Circular Economy Forum 2024

The first day of the delegation programme began with an in-depth internal workshop on the circular economy in the morning. Delegates from Vietnam, Tunisia, Tanzania, Uzbekistan, Bolivia and Germany brought diverse perspectives to discussions on global circular economy practices, offering a comprehensive view of progress and challenges in ASEAN and beyond.  In the afternoon, the focus shifted to international collaboration. In partnership with HSF Brussels, HSF Vietnam co-hosted a hybrid Expert Roundtable and launched a report titled “International Cooperation on Climate Change: Insights from South and Southeast Asia and the EU.” The session provided a valuable platform for sharing research and fostering dialogue on climate strategies between the EU and ASEAN sustainability experts and practitioners. The first day concluded with an update from Chatham House on the “Circular Futures 2050” initiative by the Global Roadmap for an Inclusive Circular Economy. Delegates also received key insights into the latest circular economy discussions from the United Nations Summit for the Future.

The second day shifted gears to amplify the voices of circular entrepreneurs. At the interactive side event, “Circular Start-ups in ASEAN – How to Pave the Way for Innovators to Scale Up and Create Impact?” more than 100 stakeholders, including start-ups, incubators, policymakers, and international experts, gathered to exchange ideas and strategies. Hosted by Hanns Seidel Foundation Vietnam, this official side event to the ACEF 2024 highlighted the importance of collaboration in fostering a supportive ecosystem for circular entrepreneurs in ASEAN.

During the side event, participants explored the unique challenges faced by circular start-ups, discussing critical areas such as mentoring, advisory support, and capacity building. A keynote address by the ASEAN Secretariat’s Enterprise & Stakeholders Engagement Division unveiled key findings from the “Business Perception of Circular Economy” survey and the “ASEAN SME Policy Index 2024,” shedding light on MSMEs’ participation in circular initiatives.

The spotlight on the third day of the delegation programme was on regional and international policy approaches at ACEF main event, “Guiding the Transition – ASEAN and EU Approaches to Circular Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” The event brought together experts to discuss the interplay of policies and initiatives driving the circular economy in ASEAN and the EU. HSF’s delegates from Malaysia’s Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (Kementerian Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi), Vietnam’s Institute for Circular Economy Development (ICED), and the Center for Creativity and Sustainability Study and Consultancy (CCS) joined panel discussions in the ACEF main event. Their insights illuminated best practices and challenges in fostering circular economies and supporting start-ups in the region. In addition, key takeaways from the HSF-hosted side event on the second day were also featured during thematic discussions, emphasizing the need to strengthen regional ecosystems for circular entrepreneurs.

The delegation wrapped up its trip on a high note with a visit to the Sustainability Expo 2024. This vibrant showcase of cutting-edge sustainable solutions and technologies inspired participants with real-world applications of circular economy principles. Delegates connected with regional and global leaders committed to sustainability, leaving with renewed inspiration and actionable ideas.

Over four transformative days, the Think Global Sustainability Network delegation not only deepened its understanding of circular economy trends and practices but also forged meaningful connections. With fresh perspectives and strengthened partnerships, the delegation returns ready to champion impactful innovation and drive the transition towards sustainability.