Vietnam Takes a Bold Step as Host of First International Sustainable Aviation Fuel Summit

Vietnam's Commitment to Sustainable Aviation

Vietnam has marked a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable aviation by hosting its first international Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) summit in Da Nang. On May 6-8, 2026, leaders from around the region gathered to discuss the future of aviation fuel that prioritizes environmental responsibility.

With attendance from 70 organizations, including key policymakers and representatives from various sectors, the summit was opened with a speech by Mr. Ho Quang Buu, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People's Committee. The event highlighted Vietnam’s commitment to becoming a serious player in the SAF arena, signaling its readiness to embrace innovative fuel solutions that benefit both the industry and the planet.

Key Agreements to Drive Innovation

During the summit, the Asia SAF Association (ASAFA) signed two crucial agreements with governmental bodies to ensure a robust development framework for SAF in Vietnam. The first memorandum of understanding (MOU) was established with the Agency for Innovation, Green Transition and Industry Promotion (IGIP), an entity within the Ministry of Industry and Trade. This agreement focuses on SAF capacity building, sharing of technical knowledge, and providing support for policy development.

The second MOU was with the Da Nang Innovation Startup Support Centre (DISSC), aiming to create a vibrant innovation hub for SAF in the region. Through a series of joint events, expert networks, and workforce development initiatives, Da Nang is poised to become a leading center for sustainable aviation innovations.

Fabrice Espinosa, the Founder and CEO of ASAFA, expressed optimism regarding Vietnam's inherent capabilities, stating, "Vietnam has the key fundamentals required to build a competitive SAF ecosystem. The question is not whether SAF will scale. The question is where, and who will lead."

A Growing Voice in the SAF Community

Since its inception in 2024, ASAFA has quickly established itself as a leading advocate for sustainable aviation in the Asia-Pacific region. With a network of 44 organizations across 17 countries, the association has influenced SAF policies and facilitated actual procurement efforts. Their notable achievements include the production of the region's first APAC SAF Outlook report and recognition as the winner of the EuroCham Sustainability Award in 2025.

The summit in Vietnam is just the first in a series of three SAF events organized by ASAFA this year, with subsequent summits scheduled for Thailand in June and Malaysia in October. Beyond the summits, ASAFA plans to publish three significant papers and establish a Market Structures Committee aimed at harmonizing regional SAF standards. Furthermore, they will be opening applications for the International SAF Professional Training Academy in September, marking a substantial step in workforce development within the industry.

Conclusion

As Vietnam positions itself as a front-runner in sustainable aviation fuel, the signing of these agreements and the commitment shown during the summit highlight the nation’s vision for a greener future. The collaborative efforts between government entities, industry players, and international organizations pave the way for impactful changes in aviation fuel consumption, making Vietnam not just a participant but a leader in the global SAF movement.