Vietnam inaugurates first paper-based food packaging line

The first paper-based food packaging line in Vietnam applying Tetra Recart® technology was officially inaugurated in Son La province on Wednesday by Vietnam’s leading supplier of processed food, Dong Giao Foodstuff Export JSC (Doveco), and Sweden's Tetra Pak Group.

The line will begin full operation this month at Doveco’s Son La factory, a key agro-processing hub in the northwest region.

The Tetra Recart® packaging solution allows food to be sterilized and preserved without the need for refrigeration or preservatives.

With a capacity of 6,000 cartons per hour, the new line offers cost-effective production, reduces waste, and meets growing demand for safe, convenient, and environmentally friendly food products.

Agricultural products such as sweet corn, pineapple juice, and various beans will be packaged in recyclable and lightweight cartons, aligning with the global consumer trend.

Dinh Cao Khue, chairman of Doveco’s board of directors, said the new technology will help elevate the quality, output, and brand recognition of Doveco products, while ensuring stable market access for farm produce from Son La and the broader region, serving sustainable development.

He affirmed that the company will continue to purchase materials at stable prices, ensure transparent payments, and maintain long-term partnerships with local farmers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Thanh Nam noted that with over 80,000 hectares of fruit trees and annual output exceeding 500,000 tonnes, Son La has significant potential for developing raw material zones linked with processing facilities.

He said the new Doveco line is a clear demonstration of efforts to attract investment, build closed-loop value chains, and improve both product value and farmers’ incomes.

The official added that the ministry will continue to support the locality and businesses, including through a joint initiative with Doveco to develop 50,000 hectares of high-quality raw material areas in Son La.

After a decade of developing fruit cultivation, the province has established nearly 120,000 hectares of perennial crops, including more than 85,000 hectares of fruit trees yielding over 510,000 tonnes annually.

It has also formed over 2,000 certified safe production chains, and secured production unit codes and intellectual property protection for 31 key agricultural products.