The Trade Union Congresses at all levels for the 2025–2030 term are taking place at a time when the Nation and Vietnam’s textile and garment industry are undergoing a strong transformation toward sustainable development, adaptability, and deep international integration. The Resolutions of the Party Congress of the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group, along with those of the Party Congresses at various levels, have been gradually put into practice within each unit’s operations. The convening of this Congress marks an important milestone, helping to shape the goals and strategic direction of the Trade Union’s activities in this new phase.
The world is entering a period of rapid and unpredictable change, with profound economic and technological transformations reshaping production models and systems of governance. In step with this global shift, Vietnam is accelerating its efforts to reform its growth model, streamline its administrative apparatus, improve its institutional framework, and pursue sustainable development.
In this context, Vietnam’s textile and garment industry — a pillar of the nation’s exports, facing the imperative of comprehensive transformation through digitalization, green transition, transparent governance, increased labor productivity, and responsible business practices that meet international labor standards. These changes not only impact enterprises but also require trade unions to undergo a strong transformation, truly fulfilling their role as the representative and protector of workers, and serving as a vital bridge between the Government, businesses, and the workforce.
Early Conclusion of the 2023–2028 Term: Flexibility for Streamlining and Efficiency
The 2023–2028 term is only halfway through, yet it has already witnessed many positive changes in the organization and operations of trade unions at all levels. However, in response to the Party Central Committee’s resolution on organizational restructuring, the trade union system has undertaken adjustments to align with the nation’s overall reform process, ensuring streamlining and efficiency; while concluding the term early to transition into a new phase of development.
The early conclusion of the 2023–2028 term to organize the Trade Union Congresses for the 2025–2030 term is not merely a technical adjustment in timing, but a necessary step reflecting adaptability and flexibility. It also provides an opportunity to comprehensively assess the outcomes achieved after two years of implementing the 2023–2028 Trade Union Congress Resolution, thereby enabling timely adjustments to objectives and directions in alignment with the Party Congress Resolutions at all levels. At the same time, it helps strengthen the organization – laying a solid foundation for a more dynamic, effective, and substantive transformation ahead.
Trade Union Congresses at All Levels for the 2025–2030 Term: A Significant Milestone in a New Stage of Development
The Trade Union Congresses at all levels, leading up to the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Trade Union Congress for the 2025–2030 term, hold special significance in charting the course for a new stage of development — parallel with the nation’s progress. This Congress is organized under the motto: “Solidarity – Democracy – Discipline – Innovation – Development.” This is not merely a slogan for action, but a guiding mindset that shapes the vision and solutions of trade unions at all levels.
In that spirit, the Trade Union Congresses at all levels must be organized in a serious, substantive, and well-structured manner, aiming to build a strong and modern trade union organization, one that truly serves as a reliable support for workers and a trusted partner of enterprises on their development journey. Key areas of focus include:
- Summarize, evaluate the 2023–2028 term: Substantive, objective, and open-minded.
The first two years of the 2023–2028 term have been a relatively short yet eventful period, marked by both achievements and challenges. The review of this term is not merely a procedural formality but a process of self-reflection, self-correction, and continuous improvement. Trade unions at all levels must conduct an objective and honest evaluation of their activities and workers’ movements, avoiding formality and the pursuit of achievements for appearance’s sake. The Political Report and the Self-Assessment Report of the Trade Union Executive Committee should clearly identify strengths to be promoted and weaknesses to be addressed—particularly recognizing the limitations in trade union operations and in fulfilling the role of representing and protecting workers. These reports should also analyze both objective and subjective causes and draw meaningful lessons for future improvement.
Accordingly, the term-end review must serve as a starting point for renewal — helping to accurately define the focus areas, modes of operation, and breakthrough priorities for the coming period — so that the Trade Union Congress truly becomes a congress of comprehensive, substantive, and effective transformation.
- Orientation for the 2025–2030 Term: Building a strong, adaptive, and leading trade union.
The 2025–2030 term should be defined as a period of comprehensive renewal, agile adaptation, and robust development for the trade union organization. The Trade Union Congresses at all levels, leading up to the 7th Congress of the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Trade Union, will not only outline the action program for the next 5 years but also shape the strategic vision for the long-term development of the sector’s trade union in the nation’s new era.
The formulation of the operational strategy must be carried out under the comprehensive leadership and direction of the Party organization; closely aligned with the objectives and solutions set forth in the Party Congress Resolutions at all levels, and supported by the cooperation and facilitation of government authorities in the reform of trade union organization and operations.
Accordingly, the Vinatex Union has identified 5 strategic orientations as follows:
First, strongly promote the trade union’s role in representing, caring for, and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of workers.
The trade union must continue to affirm its position as a trusted representative of the workforce by: enhancing the quality of collective bargaining and regular dialogue; developing feasible and substantive collective labor agreements; proactively understanding workers’ thoughts and aspirations to provide timely policy recommendations; and strengthening legal consultation, support, and protection for union members. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the voice of workers is placed at the center of every decision that affects them.
Second, improve the quality and effectiveness of grassroots trade union activities.
The grassroots level is the “foundation” of the trade union system, where the organization’s credibility, position, and vitality are most clearly reflected. In the new term, grassroots unions must be strengthened toward a more streamlined structure with practical and visibly effective operations.
There needs to be a strong shift from the mindset of “doing things on behalf of” to “supporting, guiding, and connecting,” so that grassroots trade unions truly become centers of solidarity that attract and unite workers. Activities should closely align with real needs, using member satisfaction as the key measure of success, while promoting innovative models and new approaches tailored to the specific conditions of each enterprise.
Third, leverage the combined strength of the Party – Government – Organizations, aligning trade union activities with political missions and business development plans, accompanying enterprises on the path toward sustainable growth.
The trade union must remain closely connected with and actively support all aspects of enterprise operations. In the context of global competition, digital transformation, green production, and the shift toward new growth models, trade unions should play the role of a development partner – working alongside businesses to enhance labor productivity, improve workplace environments, build corporate culture, and fulfill social responsibility commitments.
Through these efforts, trade unions not only protect workers but also contribute to strengthening the reputation and global brand of Vietnam’s textile and garment industry, while affirming the image of textile workers as professional – disciplined – creative – and responsible.
Fourth, accelerate digital transformation in trade union operations.
Digital transformation is an inevitable trend and a necessary requirement for the modernization of trade unions. In the upcoming term, it is essential to intensify the application of information technology and digital platforms across various areas: member management, opinion surveys, communication and engagement, legal support, skills training, and the provision of online welfare services.
The digitalization of data and operational processes will enable trade unions to function more flexibly, reach workers more quickly, and handle tasks in a more timely and accurate manner; thereby enhancing governance capacity, transparency, and overall operational efficiency.
Fifth, enhance the quality of human resources.
Trade union officials are the “soul of the organization.” Therefore, the Trade Union Congresses at all levels must elect executive committees composed of individuals with both integrity and competence. Throughout the term, efforts should focus on training, fostering, planning, and rejuvenating the cadre team, ensuring they possess not only strong political qualities but also professional expertise, digital skills, communication and negotiation abilities, and modern management capabilities; the goal is to build a model image of trade union officials who are close to workers, knowledgeable, skilled, courageous, and dedicated.
Workers are the “central focus of the organization.” Hence, trade unions should work closely with enterprises to promote training programs that improve workers’ qualifications, skills, and craftsmanship; create opportunities for lifelong learning; and help them adapt to digital transformation and modern labor trends. At the same time, trade unions should actively contribute to building safe, progressive workplaces and a rich cultural environment, thereby fostering workers’ professionalism, discipline, and resilience in the new era.
- Spreading Trust – Inspiring Workers’ Aspirations
The Trade Union Congresses at all levels should not stop at setting goals or directions, they must ignite a spirit of renewal, responsibility, and solidarity, becoming a true source of inspiration for action in this new phase. The highest objective is to awaken confidence and aspiration – so that every worker feels heard, supported, and motivated to create and contribute.
In particular, it is essential to revitalize the close bond between the trade union organization and the workforce through genuine companionship, empathy, and concrete actions – ensuring that the spirit of the Congress is not confined to resolutions, but spreads to every sewing line, every factory, and every individual within Vietnam’s textile and garment community.
Steadfastly Advancing into a New Era – With Hope and Confidence
With clear orientations, a spirit of innovation, and a strong aspiration for sustainable development, the Trade Union Congresses at all levels for the 2025–2030 term are expected to serve as a solid springboard for the trade union organization to enter a new stage of development: modern, professional, adaptive, and effective.
Believable, with thoughful preparation, a genuine spirit of innovation, and strong consensus from union members and workers, together with the close guidance of the Party Committee of the Vinatex and the support of Party committees and authorities, the Trade Union Congresses at all levels, leading up to the 7th Vietnam National Textile and Garment Trade Union Congress for the 2025–2030 term, will be a great success.
Attribution to elevate the role and position of the trade union organization, also make a meaningful contribution to the sustainable development of the industry and the nation in this era of national advancement.
