Apple today announced it will increase its spending on suppliers in Vietnam, along with new progress on an initiative to support clean water for local schools. The company has spent nearly VND400 trillion since 2019 through its regional supply chain and has more than doubled its annual spending in Vietnam over the same period.
Apple began operating in Vietnam more than a decade ago and now supports more than 200,000 jobs across the country through direct employment, supply chain, and a vibrant iOS app economy. Vietnam’s app economy continues to be a growth driver, with employment nearly tripling since 2017. Vietnam is now among the top five countries in the world for mobile game production.
“There is no place like Vietnam, a vibrant and beautiful country. I am excited to be here connecting with students, innovators, and customers, and learning more about the diverse ways they use our products to do extraordinary things,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “At Apple, we work hard to build deeper connections and bring more benefits to the people where we operate. From partnering with local suppliers to supporting clean water projects and educational opportunities, we are committed to continuing to strengthen our connections in Vietnam.”
As part of its commitment to the environment, Apple has partnered with global clean water organization Gravity Water to install innovative rainwater harvesting systems in schools in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam. With Apple’s support, the organization is on track to reach its goal of reaching 131 schools by the end of this month, providing safe, reliable water year-round to more than 42,000 students, teachers, and their families.
In addition to clean water, Apple is working to bring clean energy to schools in rural Vietnam through the company’s Power for Impact initiative. Launched globally in 2019, Power for Impact funds small-scale clean energy projects that help communities and local organizations access reliable, cost-effective energy. Apple is partnering with the TRE Foundation to install solar panels in 20 schools in rural Vietnam, while also supporting sustainability and STEM education for children.
Across its supply chain, Apple is creating opportunities for learning and growth, managing health, and developing new leadership skills for local communities. Since 2019, more than 38,000 people in Vietnam have participated in Apple’s supplier wellness education program. This year, the company will expand its Disability Vocational Training program to promote inclusion and greater opportunities for people with disabilities in its supply chain. Apple will continue to expand programs under its $50 million Supplier Employee Development Fund, including education to build skills for today’s and future jobs, as the company increases its investment in Vietnamese suppliers.
Apple supports students and teachers across the country in STEM education with programming and app development resources in Vietnamese, including Apple’s Swift Playgrounds app and the Everyone Can Code project, which helps teachers guide students in designing and building their first apps. Last year, Apple launched the Apple Store online in Vietnam. Customers across the country can shop directly with Apple and experience superior service from staff who can share their expertise in Vietnamese.
