Carlsberg reinforces long-term commitment to Vietnam during Vietnam’s State Visit to Denmark

Carlsberg Group reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Vietnam during the recent State Visit to Denmark by H.E. General Secretary and President To Lam, with Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen participating in high-level discussions on strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and advancing opportunities for investment and sustainable growth.

Taking place from 19 to 21 October 2026, the State Visit marked 55 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Denmark, providing an important platform to deepen cooperation in trade, investment and sustainable development. For Carlsberg, one of the first Danish multinational investors in Vietnam, the occasion underscored the depth of a partnership built over more than three decades.

The official Return Banquet hosted by H.E. General Secretary and President To Lam was held at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of Copenhagen’s cultural landmarks. Founded by brewer Carl Jacobsen, son of Carlsberg founder J.C. Jacobsen, the museum opened in 1897 following his donation of its original art collection to the public. With its roots in the Carlsberg family’s tradition of philanthropy and contribution to society, the Glyptotek provided a fitting setting for an occasion celebrating the strong ties between Vietnam and Denmark.

At the CEO Roundtable with H.E. General Secretary and President To Lam, Mr. Aarup-Andersen reaffirmed Vietnam’s importance as a key growth market for Carlsberg and the Group’s long-term confidence in the country’s potential. As part of the visit, Mr. João Abecasis, Executive Vice President of Carlsberg Asia, also participated in the Denmark–Vietnam Business Forum, contributing to discussions on Vietnam’s growing role as a manufacturing and investment hub and the opportunities to strengthen industrial competitiveness.

Reflecting this long-term confidence, Carlsberg presented its investment and development intentions for Central Vietnam, where the Group has established deep roots over more than three decades. These include approximately USD 65 million in intended investment at Phu Bai Brewery in Hue during 2026–2031, alongside plans to strengthen its business operations and support sustainable development in Da Nang. Both cities play an important role in Carlsberg’s long-term growth strategy in Vietnam.

Jacob Aarup-Andersen, Group CEO of Carlsberg, said:

“Vietnam is one of Carlsberg’s key growth markets, and our confidence in its long-term potential is firmly grounded in more than three decades of experience and investment in the country. The expansion of Phu Bai Brewery is a clear demonstration of our commitment, and we see further opportunities to build on this foundation. Our ambition is to combine Carlsberg’s global capabilities with our strong local roots to drive the next phase of growth, while continuing to invest in more efficient, innovative and sustainable operations that create lasting value for Vietnam.”

Advancing the next phase of investment

During the visit, Mr. Aarup-Andersen presented Letters of Intent to the Chairmen of the People’s Committees of Hue and Da Nang, setting out Carlsberg’s investment and development intentions for the two cities during 2026–2031.

In Hue, Carlsberg envisages investing approximately USD 65 million at Phu Bai Brewery during this period to further modernize its manufacturing operations, accelerate digital and green transformation, strengthen supply-chain capabilities, and enhance product quality and food safety.

The intended investment builds on the nearly USD 90 million expansion inaugurated in August 2025, which increased Phu Bai Brewery’s annual production capacity by more than 50%, making it Carlsberg’s largest beer production site in Asia. The next phase would focus on advanced production technologies, smarter operations, resource efficiency and renewable energy, further strengthening Hue’s role in Carlsberg’s regional production network.

In Da Nang, Carlsberg aims to expand its business presence and strengthen local capabilities through commercial development, digital transformation, operational modernization and more efficient, sustainable logistics. Alongside these business priorities, the Group intends to continue investing in environmental protection and community initiatives, working with local partners to support Da Nang’s ambition to become a greener, smarter and more livable city.

Together, these priorities reflect Carlsberg’s long-term approach to sustainable growth in Vietnam, strengthening its business and operational capabilities while contributing to local economic development, environmental sustainability and community well-being.

Strengthening partnerships to accelerate growth in Vietnam

Beyond continued investment in its brewing operations, Carlsberg is pursuing new opportunities to strengthen its position in Vietnam’s evolving beer market. Most recently, the Group entered into an agreement with Sapporo Breweries to form a major strategic joint venture across six markets in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong, including Vietnam, alongside a partnership in the UK.

The addition of Sapporo Premium Beer, characterised by its premium brand positioning and distinctive Japanese provenance, complements Carlsberg’s strong brand portfolio. In Vietnam, the partnership brings together Sapporo’s premium brand with Carlsberg’s established operational footprint, creating a strong platform to build the brand and support future growth.

Together, Carlsberg’s continued investment in manufacturing, focus on commercial capabilities and strategic partnership with Sapporo reflect its ambition to build a stronger, more competitive and sustainable business in Vietnam. As the country enters a new chapter of growth, Carlsberg remains committed to investing in its future, strengthening local partnerships and creating lasting value for the economy and communities it serves, guided by its purpose of brewing for a better today and tomorrow.