The growth of the business sector, especially non-state businesses, has considerqbly contributed to the, economy s development in the last decades. Besides ensuring a favourable business environment, promot ing corporate social responsibility has become critical for sustainable development. However, businesses are facing internal and external challenges in practicing their social responsibility. This paper discusses some key results from interviews with business managers, government officials, and non-profit organizations. High competition pressure, weak community monitoring, coupled with unclear visions of strategic benefits are key challenges for promoting social responsibility in Vietnam.