UK launches green finance mechanism to help Vietnam attract clean energy investment

The initiative was unveiled by Seema Malhotra, UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, on Wednesday during her first official visit to Vietnam.

Under the mechanism, the UK will share expertise to help Vietnam attract private-sector investment into clean energy projects.

The move is expected to create opportunities for British businesses, investors, and innovators to participate in large-scale energy projects in Vietnam, particularly in offshore wind power and sustainable infrastructure.

According to the UK government, the mechanism will also build on ongoing cooperation under the Just Energy Transition Partnership, including support for offshore wind development, energy system modernization, and expanded access to sustainable finance.

Malhotra's visit is part of broader efforts to advance priorities under the UK-Vietnam comprehensive strategic partnership, with a focus on green growth, migration, and education.

Her trip coincided with the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in Hanoi on June 9-10, where regional energy security and energy transition were key topics of discussion.

Speaking at the forum, Malhotra said that as developments in the Middle East continue to affect global energy markets, countries should strengthen cooperation to pursue diplomatic solutions while accelerating the shift toward cleaner and more reliable energy sources.

She highlighted the role of cooperative initiatives such as the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund, a five-year program designed to help ASEAN member states diversify their energy supplies.

The British official also reaffirmed the UK's support for freedom of navigation and the protection of access to key maritime routes that are vital to the global economy.