The signing ceremony took place on 23/6, as part of the Net Zero Summit 2026 international event series, focusing on "creating a green building future". The agreement outlines that both parties will research and establish a foundational standard for the domestic wood construction industry, while also promoting the Mass Timber Design Awards competition.

Specifically, the cooperation's core focus includes: finalizing the technical standard system for timber structures; conducting in-depth research on the applicability of CLT and Glulam under Vietnam's climatic conditions; and promoting the application of green material solutions to help reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry.

Representatives from Tran Duc Group (left) and the Institute of Building Science and Technology (IBST). Photo: Tran Duc

Nguyen Hong Hai, Director of the Institute of Building Science and Technology (IBST), described the collaboration as strategic, contributing to solving core challenges in the construction industry. Nguyen Huy Hien, Technical Director of Tran Duc, shared this perspective, stating that for the wood construction industry to develop sustainably, it requires not only technology or production capacity but also a suitable standard foundation tailored to domestic practical conditions.

"Collaboration with IBST is an important step to connect businesses, research institutions, and domestic and international partners to build that foundation", said Huy Hien.

Leaders from both sides highlighted the significant role of the Mass Timber Design Awards 2026 in developing human resources for the industry. Through the competition, architects, designers, and students will create innovative ideas for applying Mass Timber in modern architecture, emphasizing creativity, practical implementation feasibility, environmental effectiveness, and sustainable development.

The Net Zero Summit 2026 gathered representatives from regulatory bodies, research institutes, universities, professional organizations, and a global network of partners. More than just a forum for sharing new trends, the event was positioned as a platform to connect research, standards, technology, and international cooperation, gradually forming a green building ecosystem to help realize Net Zero goals.

The event series commenced with "the pioneering generation of the green era" program at the University of Technology - Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. Experts, along with future engineers and architects, engaged in discussions on low-carbon materials, Mass Timber, construction industrialization, and sustainable development trends.

During this occasion, Tran Duc Group awarded four scholarships to students from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, encouraging research related to green materials and new construction technologies.

Following this was a specialized seminar, "new materials - new standards", held at An Lam Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City. Experts exchanged insights on technology, materials, and technical requirements for modern timber structures, opening up various perspectives on the practical application of Mass Timber.

The gala, "creating a green building future", at the JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon concluded the event series. The organizing committee announced new initiatives, presented awards for the Mass Timber Design Awards 2026 competition, and expanded connections with domestic and international partners.

According to a representative of the organizing committee, a highlight of the Net Zero Summit 2026 was the TD Tech Hub initiative, launched by Tran Duc Group. This initiative aims to become an international hub for wood materials and industrialized construction in Southeast Asia.

Upon its launch, TD Tech Hub brought together a network of strategic partners, including the American Institute of Architects Southeast Asia (AIA Southeast Asia), the Institute of Building Science and Technology (IBST), Rothoblaas (Italy), Minda (Germany), Life Design Kabaya (Japan), along with many experts and businesses active in green materials, Mass Timber, and industrialized construction.

The company introduced the TD ShieldWood timber system at Net Zero Summit 2026. Photo: Tran Duc

Additionally, Tran Duc Group introduced TD ShieldWood, an engineered timber system designed for Vietnam's climate, integrating three technologies: Thermo, H-Grade, and engineered laminated timber. The product boasts advantages such as resistance to termites, warping, and long-term durability. It offers diverse applications in various projects, from interior and exterior finishes, flooring, ceilings, and partitions to structural components like columns and beams. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty, with the timber having a lifespan of up to 50 years.

A Tran Duc representative stated that in the future, the group plans to expand its domestic and international cooperation network through strategic agreements with Hoa Binh Construction Company, Mass Timber Korea, and Mavrix (Canada).

(Source: Tran Duc Group)