SeABank has announced a Sustainable Finance Framework (SFF) that consolidates green, blue, and social financing under a single structure, a move that could significantly expand the bank's ability to raise and allocate capital toward sustainability objectives. The framework, which received a Second-Party Opinion from S&P Global Ratings on September 24, 2026, establishes a foundation for funding growth and capital allocation toward SeABank's sustainability commitments.
The SFF aligns with six international principles and guidelines issued by the International Capital Market Association, Loan Market Association, Asia-Pacific Loan Market Association, Loan Syndications and Trading Association, and International Finance Corporation. It governs the full fund lifecycle through four pillars: use of proceeds, process for evaluation and selection, management of proceeds, and reporting. Funding will support eligible projects across 14 green categories (40-45%), 7 blue categories (10-15%), and 5 social objectives (40-45%).
The framework aims to address Vietnam's environmental and social challenges, such as emissions, water security, waste management and pollution, while improving underserved communities' access to vital services, housing and finance. SeABank also supports marine biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, pioneering blue financing in the country. The framework sets quantitative criteria, including a minimum 20% performance improvement in energy savings, emission reduction or water efficiency, and all credit exposures are screened through SeABank's Environmental and Social Management System.
Building on its 2025 Green and Blue Bond Framework, which was ICMA-aligned and rated "Medium Green" by S&P Global Ratings, the updated framework adds lending and social objectives. Through these moves, SeABank has mobilized nearly US$1.1 billion from international institutions, including IFC, AIIB, Norfund, Proparco, FMO, and DFC. As of September 2026, outstanding green credit exceeded VND4.1 trillion, up over 150% from end-2025. By 2030, SeABank targets green credit at 5% of total outstanding loans alongside a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions against its baseline year, while expanding financial access for vulnerable groups, women-owned businesses, and MSMEs.
The framework's credibility is reinforced by detailed public disclosures. The SeABank's SFF documentation outlines the full criteria and governance structure, while the S&P Global SPO provides an independent assessment of the framework's alignment with market standards. These disclosures aim to enhance accountability and integrate sustainable finance into operations, positioning SeABank as a regional leader in blue financing and a key player in Vietnam's net-zero transition by 2050.
