The Eurasian Economic Commission (EAEU) comprises five member states: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan.

Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EAEU) Bakytzhan Sagintayev has pledged to strengthen cooperation between Vietnam and the EAEU, including promoting the establishment of direct air links between Vietnam and all EAEU member states.

The commitment was made during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on March 2.

The EAEU comprises five member states: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. Sagintayev, a Kazakh national, currently serves as Chairman of the Board under the bloc’s rotating leadership mechanism.

Prime Minister Chinh underscored the need to further advance relations through concrete agreements and cooperation projects, and to make full use of the free trade agreement (FTA) by expanding market access and encouraging greater trade and investment flows.

He called for the effective implementation of bilateral cooperation mechanisms to promptly address technical barriers, and urged EAEU member states to consider lifting safeguard measures and increasing quotas on certain Vietnamese exports, particularly agricultural products, seafood and electronics.

After a decade of implementing the FTA between Vietnam and the EAEU, bilateral trade has recorded strong growth. Import-export turnover rose by nearly 30% annually during the 2017–2018 period, peaking at over $6.3 billion in 2021 and reaching nearly $6 billion in 2025, up 5% year on year.

VnEconomy-Minh Hiếu

Gold prices in Vietnam reaching a historic high of nearly VND191 million ($7,290) per tael on March 2.

Gold prices in Vietnam fell sharply on March 3, dropping by VND1.5 million (US$57.2) per tael for both buying and selling after reaching a record high of nearly VND191 million ($7,290) per tael a day earlier.

One tael equals 37.5 grams, or 1.2 ounces.

Prices of SJC-branded gold bars were listed at VND186.4 million ($7,114) per tael for buying and VND189.4 million ($7,229) per tael for selling.

Gold ring prices followed a similar downward trend, declining by between VND300,000 ($11.45) and VND1.5 million ($57.2) per tael, depending on the retailer.

Meanwhile, global gold prices continued to edge higher, rising 0.9% from the previous session to $5,370.4 per ounce. At this level, domestic gold prices remain about VND17.39 million ($663) per tael higher than international prices.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi

Given that the Middle East offers relatively healthy profit margins for pangasius and certain value-added product lines, the sharp rise in logistics costs could fundamentally alter the profit structure of the entire supply chain.

The Middle East has emerged as a significant growth market for Vietnamese seafood. In 2025, seafood exports to this region reached $401 million, a 9.6% increase compared to 2024, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).

However, escalating military tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran in recent days have rapidly transformed into a major "shock" for maritime transport and insurance in the Middle East—a region that plays a pivotal role in the global flow of energy and goods.

VASEP warns that for the seafood industry, the impact extends beyond skyrocketing shipping costs. There are also mounting risks of cold chain disruptions, localized supply shortages, and price volatility across various product segments. The primary risk is currently centered on the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime gateway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Indian Ocean.

As security warnings intensify, several international shipping lines have adjusted their operations. Vessels have been instructed to find safe anchorages, while some routes through Hormuz have been suspended. Furthermore, many carriers are rerouting journeys around the Cape of Good Hope instead of using the Red Sea–Bab el-Mandeb–Suez Canal corridor.

In just a few days, freight rates on the Asia-Dubai route have nearly doubled. Emergency surcharges for routes to and from Gulf countries have been announced at levels between $1,500 and $4,000 per container, with refrigerated (reefer) containers facing even higher fees. For seafood enterprises, these direct costs are driving up product prices and narrowing profit margins.

Parallel to the transport crisis, the maritime insurance market is also reacting sharply. Several Protection and Indemnity (PI) clubs and war risk insurers have issued notices to cancel or restrict coverage for vessels operating in Iran and the Persian Gulf region, with such notices becoming effective just 72 hours after issuance.

Seafood cold chain: vulnerable link

According to Deputy General Secretary of VASEP, Le Hang, seafood is a product category that requires strict temperature control and precise delivery timelines. The Middle East is a major consumer of salmon, shrimp, tuna, and various high-value products imported from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

With restricted airspace and disrupted flight schedules, the supply of fresh seafood—which relies heavily on air freight—is at risk of shortages within just a few days. Consequently, importers are forced to shift to frozen products. However, this channel also faces significant challenges as bookings for refrigerated (reefer) containers are being restricted or temporarily suspended.

"For Vietnamese enterprises, particularly exporters of pangasius and shrimp, extending the transit journey by an additional one to two weeks means higher electricity costs to maintain temperatures, increased container storage fees, and the heightened risk of quality-related disputes," Ms. Hang said.

Given that the Middle East offers relatively healthy profit margins for pangasius and certain value-added product lines, the sharp rise in logistics costs could fundamentally alter the profit structure of the entire supply chain.

In the short term, if tensions de-escalate and security conditions improve, shipping lines may gradually restore routes through the Strait of Hormuz, reopen reefer container bookings, and phase out war risk surcharges. Under this scenario, the seafood supply chain could recover relatively quickly, particularly for frozen goods.

Conversely, if risks persist, rerouting will become the "new normal." Insurance premiums would remain high, war risk surcharges would stay in place, and the capacity for reefer containers into the Gulf region would be limited. In this case, seafood import costs into the Middle East could remain elevated for months, causing price volatility to spill over into related global markets.

In the current context, VASEP advises Vietnamese seafood enterprises to diversify transportation routes and avoid relying entirely on a single maritime corridor; increase cold storage reserves in regional facilities, especially at major transshipment centers; and prioritize long‑term shipping contracts to reduce dependence on the spot market.

Enterprises should closely monitor developments in marine insurance and the policies of shipping companies in order to proactively negotiate.

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

Vietnam’s fertilizer industry is accelerating its green transition, balancing environmental demands with productivity, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability.

According to data from the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), Vietnam had nearly 800 fertilizer production facilities nationwide as of the end of June 2025, with a combined annual capacity of more than 20 million tons. Of these, 261 facilities produce inorganic fertilizers, 161 produce organic fertilizers, and 308 produce both inorganic and organic products. The total organic fertilizer output capacity is estimated at around 4.7 million tons annually.

Green transformation in the fertilizer industry is not only about meeting increasingly stringent environmental standards but also a fundamental solution to improving efficiency in agricultural production and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnam’s agricultural products.

Inevitable equation

Domestic facilities are now able to produce most key fertilizer types, including phosphate fertilizer, urea, and NPK, fully meeting domestic demand. DAP plants cover around 60 per cent of demand, while potassium and SA fertilizers remain entirely dependent on imports. For organic fertilizers, domestic producers are able to meet both local demand and export requirements, without reliance on imported raw materials.

Many enterprises have actively invested in research and successfully applied science and technology to develop organic and bio-fertilizers for production. Notably, a number of products have demonstrated the ability to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 10-20 per cent, or even more.

According to Mr. Nguyen Tri Ngoc, Standing Vice Chairman of the Fertilizer Association of Vietnam, fertilizers are an indispensable input for agricultural production, contributing roughly 40-60 per cent of crop productivity. This critical role also makes the fertilizer sector a sensitive “link” in terms of environmental impact and the agricultural ecosystem. Improper fertilizer use, whether excessive or insufficient, can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and direct impacts on human health.

Against this backdrop, greening the fertilizer industry has become an inexorable trend amid growing demand for emission reductions, energy efficiency, and the application of clean technologies. Mr. Ngoc noted that this process goes beyond cutting emissions or meeting environmental standards; it is closely tied to improving agricultural efficiency, ensuring food security, and enhancing the value of Vietnam’s agricultural products. Expanding the use of organic and bio-fertilizers, applying clean technologies, and using resources more efficiently are seen as key pillars of this transition.

Conversely, the green transition also presents clear opportunities for businesses to strengthen competitiveness, access sustainable agriculture markets, and meet the increasingly strict requirements of international partners.

“We already have initiatives related to greening agriculture and using fertilizers to drive that process,” he said. “One example is the 1-million-ha high-quality rice project, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is a positive model for agricultural greening, with fertilizers playing a direct role in that transformation.” He stressed that greening the fertilizer industry is an inexorable trend, and to integrate and participate in green agriculture the fertilizer industry must move one step ahead to catalyze broader agricultural greening.

Some enterprises have already taken the lead, proactively upgrading technology and conducting in-house research to develop green products for production. Mr. Phan Van Tam, Deputy General Director of Binh Dien Fertilizer, said greening has been identified as a core development strategy, implemented across the entire value chain from production to fertilizer use. The company has focused on adopting environmentally-friendly technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while improving input efficiency in cultivation.

The company has participated in several programs led by the MAE in recent years, most notably the Soil Health Program and the project on sustainable development of 1 million ha of high-quality, low-emission rice linked to green growth in the Mekong Delta to 2030. Through its involvement, Binh Dien has found that sensible fertilizer use, in line with proper technical processes, can significantly reduce emissions, not only during fertilizer production but also in on-field application.

Clear roadmap and coordinated policies

However, the path towards greening the fertilizer industry remains beset by barriers. Mr. Ngoc pointed out that current efforts face major challenges, particularly high investment costs and a lack of coordinated legal frameworks. Not all enterprises have sufficient resources to invest in new technologies in a short period, especially small and medium-sized enterprises with limited financial capacity. Access to “green credit” remains difficult due to complex lending procedures and the absence of a clear legal framework.

From a practical perspective, Mr. Hoang Quang Phong, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), noted that the greening of the fertilizer industry is constrained by multiple issues, including the lack of a concrete legal framework for green production, non-uniform technological processes, high transition costs, fragmented standards systems, uneven awareness about green production, and the persistence of counterfeit and imitation products that undermine market trust.

To promote an effective green transition, Mr. Ngoc emphasized the State’s role in refining policies, establishing appropriate incentive mechanisms, and strengthening dialogue and cooperation between regulators, associations, and businesses. Investment in RD, along with workforce training, is also considered crucial for enabling enterprises to master technology and implement greening in a sustainable manner.

He called for revisions and improvements to laws such as the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations, the Law on Product and Goods Quality, and the Law on Crop Production, to better align with integration realities. He also advocated for a shift in quality management from pre-inspection to post-inspection to reduce unnecessary barriers for businesses. Technological innovation, he added, must be accompanied by systematic human resource training to ensure both quality and greening objectives are met.

From the perspective of manufacturers, Mr. Phung Ngoc Bo, Head of the Technical Committee at the Vietnam National Chemical Group (Vinachem), emphasized that green transformation is not only a response to climate change but also a key driver of production efficiency, value creation, and competitiveness for chemical products amid deeper integration. Nevertheless, the sector continues to face major hurdles, including large capital requirements, outdated technologies that are difficult to integrate with new solutions, and pricing pressure as green products often carry higher costs.

As a result, tailored support mechanisms and policies are needed for foundational industries such as fertilizers and chemicals during the green transition. These include building a stable and transparent legal framework for circular and low-carbon production; providing financial support and green credit to facilitate access to preferential domestic and international funding; and supporting technological innovation, research, technology transfer, localization, and mastery of clean, low-carbon technologies for waste recovery, recycling, and treatment suited to Vietnam’s production conditions. Policies should also encourage domestic and foreign investors to participate in capital contributions and partnerships for green fertilizer production projects, circular plants, and high-tech industrial parks.

According to Mr. Ha Van Thang, Chairman of the Vietnam Council of Agricultural Enterprises (VCAC), organic bio-fertilizers are not merely agricultural products but integrated solutions encompassing technology, management, and environmental protection. The development and effective use of organic bio-fertilizers can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect soil resources, enhance the value of agricultural products, and advance towards green, circular, low-emission agriculture. He therefore called for stronger research efforts, technology transfer, and the completion of policy mechanisms to support the fertilizer sector’s transition towards green and sustainable development.

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Beyond security concerns, the VMIWA advised businesses to evaluate the economic impact of the conflict, specifically regarding fluctuations in oil prices, freight rates, and shipping surcharges.

The Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration (VMIWA) has issued an official dispatch, requesting Vietnamese shipowners, crew manning agencies, and shipping enterprises to closely monitor the military conflict in the Middle East to proactively prevent and respond to emerging risks.

Under the directive, businesses are required to stay updated on safety warnings and information from international maritime authorities, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and other official sources. Companies must actively assess risks and adjust operational plans, including utilizing alternative shipping routes when necessary, to ensure the absolute safety of vessels and their crews.

Shipowners and maritime transport companies have been instructed to implement the highest level of security measures in accordance with their established Ship Security Plans. This includes maintaining seamless communication, reporting vessel positions punctually, and ensuring that Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) are functioning accurately to avoid the risk of misidentification by regional military forces.

Enterprises must also conduct a comprehensive review of all vessels and crew members currently operating in conflict-affected zones. The VMIWA emphasized the importance of maintaining contact with Vietnamese diplomatic missions in the Gulf region and the VMIWA’s own hotlines for immediate guidance and support.

Beyond security concerns, the VMIWA advised businesses to evaluate the economic impact of the conflict, specifically regarding fluctuations in oil prices, freight rates, and shipping surcharges. Agencies are encouraged to develop contingency and adaptation scenarios to mitigate international trade risks and ensure that supply chains remain uninterrupted.

For vessels currently stationed or operating within the Middle East, shipowners are required to enhance watchkeeping, maintain a high state of alertness, and prepare emergency response plans for immediate deployment. Furthermore, they are instructed to avoid areas with active military operations or proactively divert to the territorial waters of neutral countries when necessary.

Specifically, when transiting the Strait of Hormuz, vessels are advised to apply maximum security measures and limit crew activities on open decks. Companies must also take steps to stabilize crew morale and coordinate with relevant authorities to facilitate safe repatriation should the need arise.

Vneconomy-Đan Tiên

The establishment of the fund is part of an action plan to implement the Law on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Ministry of Science and Technology will establish a national Artificial Intelligence (AI) Development Fund for the 2026–2027 period, following a Prime Ministerial decision recently signed by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung  on  approving a plan to implement the Law on AI.

Under the decision, a National AI Database will be developed and housed at the National Data Center.

The Ministry of Science and Technology will oversee AI data standards, technical regulations, algorithm models and related matters. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Security will be responsible for building infrastructure for the National Data Center, as well as ensuring data security, safety and the integration of source data.

AI-related databases managed by ministries, ministerial-level and government-affiliated agencies, and People’s Committees at all levels will be developed, updated and uniformly connected to the National AI Database. These databases must comply with the National Data Center’s standards and technical regulations to ensure data quality and information security.

In addition, AI clusters will be developed under a model that combines centralized physical spaces with digital network linkages. Cluster hubs will be established at high-tech parks, concentrated digital technology zones and innovation centers, while organizations and individuals will be encouraged to invest in technical infrastructure supporting cluster activities.

VnEconomy-Ngô Huyền

Railway projects are required to follow the principle of digitalisation, green transition, efficiency optimisation, and smart governance.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh required relevant ministries, agencies and localities to speed up major railway projects while chairing the seventh meeting of the Steering Committee for key national railway projects in Hanoi on March 3.

The PM urged a thorough review of tasks assigned at the previous meeting, focusing on progress updates, existing bottlenecks and key lessons learned.

He requested focused efforts to accelerate major projects, including segments 1 and 2 of the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway line, rail connectivity and cross-border railway links with China, feasibility study for the North–South high-speed railway, urban railway lines in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, construction of the Gia Binh–Ha Long and Lang Son–Hanoi lines, and a railway industrial complex.

The PM directed that railway projects must follow the principle of digitalistion, green transition, efficiency optimisation, smart governance, and balanced interests among the State, citizens and businesses.

Vneconomy -Minh Kiệt

The total number of Vietnamese guest workers currently living and working across the Middle East is estimated to be over 10,000.

In response to the increasingly volatile security situation in the Middle East, the Department of Overseas Labor (under the Ministry of Home Affairs) has directed manpower agencies to suspend sending Vietnamese workers to the region and urged immediate measures to ensure the safety of those currently on site.

The directive follows the coordinated airstrikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory on February 28, an event that has sharply intensified regional tensions. Iran has since initiated retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli targets across the Middle East, including several countries with significant Vietnamese labor populations such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

To prioritize the security and safety of Vietnamese citizens, the Department has requested that all licensed labor export agencies temporarily halt the deployment of workers to the Middle East. This suspension will remain in effect until the situation is stabilized and returns to normalcy.

Labor agencies are required to maintain constant communication with host-country partners and employers to stay updated on the conflict. They are expected to take proactive steps to safeguard the security, safety, and legal rights of Vietnamese workers in case of emergency.

Furthermore, agencies have been instructed to provide psychological support to workers currently in the region to prevent panic and anxiety. They must ensure that workers are well-informed of the situation so they can actively cooperate in safety and security protocols.

The Department also emphasized the importance of maintaining regular contact with Vietnamese diplomatic missions and labor management sections at Vietnamese embassies within the region to provide timely updates on the status of the workforce.

According to the Department, approximately 34 Vietnamese enterprises are deploying workers to the Middle East. The total number of Vietnamese guest workers currently living and working across the Middle East is estimated to be over 10,000.

Vneconomy-Thu Hằng

Ms. Silvia Danailov, Representative of UNICEF in Vietnam, tells Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy that Vietnam’s ambition to achieve sustained double-digit growth in the new era will not be realized unless women are fully empowered to lead and succeed in the economy.

As a female leader in Vietnam’s current development landscape, what specific ways has UNICEF Vietnam and your leadership contributed to the country’s economic growth, including in job creation, innovation, and sustainable development?

My work is grounded in a simple conviction: investing in children - especially girls - is one of the most powerful drivers of sustainable economic growth. As the world’s leading child rights organization, UNICEF has partnered with the government and people of Vietnam for more than 50 years to strengthen national systems and programs in education, health, nutrition, water and sanitation, child protection, and social protection. These investments are not only essential for children’s well-being; they also form the foundation of a productive, resilient, and future-ready workforce.

UNICEF’s initiatives actively contribute to job creation and economic stability by strengthening public service systems that employ and serve millions - particularly women, young people, and marginalized communities. From expanding access to quality early childhood education and health services to reducing child poverty through robust social protection policies, UNICEF works to ensure that economic opportunity is inclusive and that human capital development keeps pace with Vietnam’s ambition to become a high-income country by 2045.

Under my leadership, UNICEF Vietnam has placed strong emphasis on digital transformation and innovation. We harness digital tools to improve service delivery, broaden outreach, and strengthen data-driven decision-making. At the same time, we equip adolescents - especially girls - with the digital and transferable skills needed for the future economy.

We also champion gender-transformative education by promoting girls’ participation in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), fostering women’s leadership, and addressing structural barriers that limit women’s economic potential. These efforts are essential for sustainable development, because when girls and women thrive, economies become stronger, more innovative, and more resilient.

In parallel, we integrate environmental sustainability across our programs and operations, promoting climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable practices - because economic progress must never come at the cost of future generations. Together, these efforts contribute to building a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable economy for Vietnam.

Vietnam is aiming for double-digit GDP growth in the coming years to transition towards high-income status. What key initiatives or strategies do you believe are essential for the economy to achieve this target?

Vietnam’s ambition to achieve sustained high GDP growth and transition to high-income status are bold - and achievable. But reaching these milestones will require a shift towards a growth model driven by productivity, innovation, and high-quality human capital. With a shrinking child population and a rapidly-aging society, maximizing the potential of every young person has become an urgent national priority. Long-term investment in children and youth is therefore not only a social responsibility; it is a central economic strategy.

Achieving this transformation demands coordinated action on several key fronts: an inclusive and future-oriented education system; a digitally skilled and adaptable workforce; strong social protection systems that reduce inequality; and climate resilience to safeguard development gains. International experience shows that countries that successfully made the leap to high-income status invested early and consistently in their people - starting from early childhood through adolescence - to ensure that growth is rapid, inclusive, and sustainable.

What specific action is your organization taking to support this goal?

UNICEF’s contribution in Vietnam is focused on supporting these national priorities at scale and with long-term impact. We work with government partners to strengthen education systems so that children and adolescents acquire not only foundational competencies but also digital and transferable skills essential for success in a modern, dynamic economy. We support digital transformation across education, health, and social services to improve efficiency, expand coverage, and enhance quality - while ensuring that vulnerable and remote communities are not left behind.

We also advocate for robust social protection systems that help families withstand economic and climate-related shocks, protecting children’s learning, health, and future productivity. At the same time, we promote climate-resilient social services - recognizing that climate risks, if unaddressed, can undermine growth potential and reverse hard-won development gains.

Across all our programs, UNICEF is committed to ensuring that investments in children translate into measurable improvements in human capital and productivity. By strengthening workforce readiness, reducing inequality, and building resilience, these efforts help lay the foundation for the sustained, high-quality growth Vietnam needs to achieve its long-term economic aspirations.

Women leaders like yourself have played an increasingly vital role in driving Vietnam’s inclusive and resilient economic progress. What challenges have you faced as a female leader in contributing to national development?

Women leaders are becoming increasingly visible in Vietnam’s development landscape, but the journey continues to present challenges. One of the most persistent obstacles I have encountered over more than 25 years working around the world - and witnessed among many women - is navigating unconscious bias and deeply rooted stereotypes. Women’s leadership styles and decisions are often judged through a different lens, requiring us to demonstrate competence and resilience in ways our male counterparts may not.

Unequal access to leadership development opportunities is another challenge. Early in my career, I noticed that high-quality training in strategic leadership, financial management, digital transformation, or executive decision-making was not always accessible or affordable for women, especially in social or mission-driven sectors. This can reinforce skill gaps and slow women’s progression into senior roles, even when they carry significant responsibilities. This is, however, changing, which is very encouraging.

Given my experiences as a women leader, I see values-driven and human-centered leadership, focused on empathy, care and inclusion, as a must to motivate teams and achieve impactful results. Workplaces where respect, inclusion, and psychological safety are non-negotiable are the best ones for women and men to thrive and contribute to the collective goals.

Balancing leadership responsibilities with family and caregiving duties is a reality for many women, like me, and workplaces that recognize this - through adaptable work arrangements and supportive parental leave - are the ones in which employees thrive. Equally important is fostering a culture where caregiving is respected and does not limit career advancement. When workplaces support caregivers, they unlock the full potential of women leaders, strengthen organizational performance, and contribute to more resilient and sustainable development for Vietnam’s future.

Throughout my career, strong support networks have been critical. Mentors, peers, and professional communities help women navigate challenges, share lessons, and maintain confidence. This is why I strongly advocate for investing in women and girls - through digital skills, financial literacy, leadership training, and supportive networks - so they can participate fully in Vietnam’s social and economic transformation.

Ultimately, addressing these challenges is not only about advancing women leaders; it is about unlocking Vietnam’s full talent potential. Inclusive leadership strengthens institutions, improves decision-making, and contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future for the country’s children.

What bold policies would you recommend to further empower women entrepreneurs and leaders to accelerate Vietnam’s path toward sustained double-digit growth in the new era?

Vietnam’s ambition to achieve sustained double-digit growth in the new era will not be realized unless women - who make up half of the population and a significant share of entrepreneurs, workers, and innovators - are fully empowered to lead and succeed in the economy. From my perspective, bold policies are needed not only to support today’s women entrepreneurs and leaders, but also to build a strong pipeline of girls and young women who will drive Vietnam’s future growth.

First, Vietnam should significantly increase investment in training, mentorship, and leadership development programs specifically designed for women entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders. This includes targeted support in strategic leadership, financial management, digital transformation, innovation, and green skills - particularly in high-growth sectors such as the digital economy, the green transition, and advanced manufacturing. When women have equal access to skills, networks, and leadership opportunities, the economic returns are substantial in terms of job creation and productivity.

Second, expanding women’s access to finance at scale is essential. Women-owned businesses still face structural barriers in accessing capital, despite strong performance and growth potential. Policies that incentivize financial institutions to lend to women entrepreneurs, alongside blended finance and guarantee mechanisms, could unlock significant domestic value creation and employment.

Third, strengthening social protection and care policies is a game-changer for women’s economic participation. Reducing the burden of unpaid care work - through affordable childcare, shared parental leave, and inclusive social protection - frees women’s time, increases their economic agency, and enables greater investment in entrepreneurship and leadership.

Fourth, long-term transformation must start early. Empowering adolescent girls and young women through education, skills development, and access to networks is critical to building the next generation of women leaders. This means expanding girls’ participation in STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics] from the early grades, embedding digital, financial, and entrepreneurial skills in education systems, providing equitable access to career guidance and vocational pathways, and actively challenging gender stereotypes that limit girls’ ambitions.

To ensure impact and accountability, Vietnam should also strengthen the availability and use of sex-disaggregated data. High-quality data and analysis are essential to inform policy decisions, track progress, and hold institutions accountable for results related to women’s economic empowerment - especially during periods of economic transition or crisis.

Finally, policies and financing must link humanitarian and development goals, ensuring that systems such as education, health, and social protection are resilient and inclusive. When shocks occur - whether economic, health-related, or climate-driven - women and girls are often the first to be left behind. Strong, shock-responsive systems are therefore not only a social safeguard, but a foundation for sustained growth.

UNICEF accompanies Vietnam stakeholders in advancing these priorities. We have been present in the country for over 50 years and will continue to partner with all to achieve women’s rights and children’s rights.

-Linh San

MAs are increasingly becoming the best option for major players to expand their real estate assets.

In a tightening financial environment, many businesses have pivoted towards mergers and acquisitions (MAs) as a key strategy to sustain growth momentum. In addition, a number of conglomerates, following restructuring efforts, have been actively expanding their real estate portfolios through MA transactions.

According to the Foreign Investment Agency at the Ministry of Finance, total newly-registered, additional, and contributed foreign investment, including share purchases and capital contributions, exceeded $38.4 billion in 2025, up 0.5 per cent against 2024. Real estate ranked second among investment destinations, attracting more than $7.1 billion, or 18.51 per cent of the total and representing a 12.7 per cent increase.

Solution to sustain growth

Capital inflows continued to favor projects with strong legal transparency, particularly commercial land banks that have secured planning approval, hold clear land use rights, and offer well-defined construction completion timelines.

That said, the market is showing clear stratification between investor groups. While domestic investors lead in transaction frequency, primarily through small and mid-sized deals, foreign partners are focusing on large-scale transactions, especially in the high-end residential segment, integrated urban developments, and strategically significant industrial real estate.

Figures from global real estate consultants Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) show that for disclosed MA transactions during the first eleven months of 2025, cumulative deal value reached $2.4 billion and is significantly higher including undisclosed transactions observed by JLL.

Notably, the residential real estate sector dominated, accounting for more than 70 per cent of total MA value. Commercial real estate and hospitality followed, with 17.7 per cent and 5.3 per cent, respectively. Data centers also emerged as a promising niche, representing 3.3 per cent of total MA activity.

Ms. Le Thi Huyen Trang, Country Head Head of Research and Consulting at JLL Vietnam, said the marked disparity reflects strong investor demand for “land banking.” This trend has become increasingly important as clean land supply tightens and legal procedures are enforced with greater transparency.

In particular, policies allowing negotiated land use rights for non-residential land to develop commercial housing from April 2025 have opened significant opportunities for land use conversion from industrial and agricultural purposes. This is expected to further spur MA activity in the residential segment, which continues to face prolonged supply shortages alongside high absorption rates.

Meanwhile, the office segment shows clear divergence. Ho Chi Minh City is grappling with severe supply shortages, high occupancy rates, and sharply rising rents, while Hanoi is witnessing a strong wave of FDI from international investors. In the hospitality sector, expected investment yields are estimated at 8-9 per cent this year, with total MA transaction value projected at $125 million.

Beyond these segments, JLL reported cumulative MA transaction value in industrial real estate of $74 million during the first eleven months of the year. Rather than leasing land to develop from scratch, investors are increasingly favoring the acquisition of industrial parks with existing infrastructure, followed by phased expansions. This approach shortens development timelines, ensures infrastructure quality, and mitigates legal risks. “The emergence of investment products such as industrial land banks, ready-built factories, and specialized assets like cold storage facilities and data centers is creating a diverse range of MA opportunities,” Ms. Trang emphasized.

Key drivers

Experts point to legal and policy reform as the primary driver, particularly the issuance of National Assembly Resolution No. 171/2024/QH15, which ushered in a new era for the market from April 2025 by allowing investors greater flexibility in converting non-agricultural land into commercial housing projects. At the same time, Politburo Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW has laid a solid foundation for private sector growth, while the government continues to refine the legal framework and innovate capital mobilization mechanisms.

Corporate restructuring needs represent the second critical factor. Many domestic companies are facing liquidity pressures and accumulated bad debts stemming from the 2020-2022 growth boom, prompting them to pursue MA solutions to reorganize finances and complete project legalities.

Another factor is a stable monetary policy environment, with average lending rates at 7-9 per cent, lower than in recent years, creating favorable conditions for capital access. These preferential rates not only help level the playing field between domestic and international investors but also encourage long-term capital inflows into the market.

Nevertheless, experts note that international investors, particularly from South Korea, Singapore, Japan, and the US, are applying two clear priority criteria when evaluating MA opportunities in Vietnam.

Legal transparency has become a non-negotiable factor in all investment decisions. These investors are especially focused on projects with complete legal documentation and immediate deployability, and are even willing to move faster on “clean” assets in exchange for legal certainty and shorter investment timelines.

At the same time, sustainability and environmental considerations are increasingly prioritized, particularly by European and North American funds that adhere strictly to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Against the backdrop of Vietnam’s strong commitment to net-zero emissions targets, these investors are seeking projects with climate resilience, energy efficiency, and compliance with international green standards.

Recommendations for enterprises

JLL recommends that Vietnamese companies focus on four key elements to effectively attract investors. First, ensure full legal compliance of assets, particularly land use rights and related permits, while preparing detailed legal due diligence reports. Second, conduct professional valuations aligned with international standards and update them regularly to accurately reflect market value; a critical factor in negotiations. Third, maintain flexibility in deal structures. Fourth, build a transparent financial system with internationally-audited reports and clear corporate governance. Enterprises should invest in standardizing financial reporting systems and establishing robust internal governance processes to ensure success in future MA transactions.

From a personal perspective, Dr. Su Ngoc Khuong, Senior Director of Investment at Savills Vietnam, observed that foreign investors have been particularly active in MA deals in Vietnam, attracted by competitive costs, a large workforce, a strategic position in global supply chains, and a markedly improved legal framework.

He noted that the biggest opportunity lies in access to international capital and advanced project development technologies, which can help local companies enhance their competitiveness. However, risks remain in areas such as asset valuation and post-merger management, as companies may lose operational control or face deeper-than-expected restructuring pressures without careful control. To maximize benefits, domestic enterprises must prepare thoroughly and select partners that share a long-term vision and development commitment.

According to Mr. Vo Huynh Tuan Kiet, Residential Project Marketing at CBRE Vietnam, today’s MA landscape belongs to investors with long-term vision, clear strategy, and genuine operational capabilities. The market is shifting from opportunistic deals to strategic MA transactions, where every square meter of land is optimally leveraged through layered models of joint ventures, partnerships, and multi-tiered cooperation.

VET-Hoang Bach

These include rural laborers, women, people with disabilities, individuals whose agricultural or business land has been reclaimed, and those who have completed prison sentences.

The Hanoi People’s Committee has officially issued a plan for elementary-level vocational training and short-term courses (under three months) across the city for the year 2026.

According to the plan, the city aims to provide short-term training for 8,890 individuals in non-agricultural sectors and 8,190 in agricultural fields.

Out of the total participants, 16,345 trainees will be drawn from specific priority groups as outlined by Government decrees. These include rural laborers, women, people with disabilities, individuals whose agricultural or business land has been reclaimed, and those who have completed prison sentences.

An additional 735 slots are reserved for youth who have completed their military or police service, volunteers who have finished tasks in socio-economic development projects, and employees currently working in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The primary objective of the initiative is to equip laborers with essential knowledge and vocational skills, thereby creating opportunities for job placement and career transitions that meet the evolving demands of the labor market. This effort is part of a broader strategy to increase the ratio of trained workers and link vocational training directly to local employment solutions.

Furthermore, the plan aims to facilitate the restructuring of the labor force and economy to meet the requirements of international integration, technological application, and digital transformation. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of human resources, ensure stable employment, and increase income for the workforce.

The training programs will give top priority to people with disabilities, individuals recognized for their meritorious service to the revolution, ethnic communities, and members of poor or near-poor households. Special attention will also be given to households affected by land reclamation, female laborers who have lost their jobs, and fishermen.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

The projected complex will feature a commercial and service building reaching a maximum height of 27 stories, with a building density of 35%.

The Ninh Binh Provincial People’s Committee in northern Vietnam has issued Decision No. 478, officially leasing land to Muong Thanh Group JSC for the implementation of the "North Hong Phu Bridge Commercial and Service Area" project.

The project is situated on a prime plot of land covering more than 12,500 sq.m. It boasts a strategic location, bordered by Le Hoan Street (National Highway 1A) to the east, Ngo Quyen Street to the west, the Hong Phu Bridge access road to the south, and existing residential traffic routes to the north. This area is considered a vital transportation hub with high potential for commercial and service growth.

According to the approved plan, the project has a total estimated investment of over VND575 billion (nearly $22 milion). The development will feature a commercial and service building reaching a maximum height of 27 stories, with a building density of 35%. The project will also include a synchronized and modern technical infrastructure system.

Previously, the starting auction price for the land use rights was set at nearly VND585 billion. The Ninh Binh Asset Auction Service Center had announced the second auction for this project in late 2024 to find a qualified investor.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The central province’s export value for February is estimated at $509.2 million, up 14.3% year-on-year, while import value reached $792.5 million, down 11.9%.

In the first two months of 2026, Thanh Hoa province in central Vietnam recorded many positive signals as industrial production, trade-services, and budget revenue all grew compared to the same period last year, creating strong momentum to achieve the year’s development goals.

In the import-export sector, Thanh Hoa’s export value for February is estimated at $509.2 million, up 14.3% year-on-year, while import value reached $792.5 million, down 11.9%. Cumulatively for the first two months, export value exceeded $1.1 billion, a 16.7% increase, and import value reached over $1.6 billion, up 0.5% compared to the same period in 2025.

Total retail sales of goods and services in February were estimated at VND23.4 trillion ($895 million), a 39.3% increase year-on-year. For the first two months of the year, this figure reached approximately VND43.9 trillion (nearly $1.7 billion), up 20.1%, reflecting sustained positive purchasing power in the market.

In February 2026, industrial production in the province continued to maintain steady growth. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose by 2.06% compared to February 2025. Overall, for the first two months of 2026, the IIP surged by 16.07% year-on-year, indicating a clear recovery and expansion within the industrial sector.

Out of 19 major industrial products, 13 recorded increases compared to the same period last year. Significant growth was seen in several items, including iron and steel (up 11.7%), animal feed (up 8.5%), construction bricks (up 6.7%), electricity generation (up 6.8%), paraffin wax (up 23.6%), and benzene (up 12.1%). These key product groups play a vital role in the industrial and construction supply chains, contributing to the province's overall growth.

Additionally, the power supply remained stable, meeting both production and domestic needs. Commercial power output in February was estimated at 586.8 million kWh, a 7% increase compared to the same month last year.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The initiative aims to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and strengthen state management discipline over land resources.

Under Decision No. 633/QD-BNNMT recently-issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, a hotline has been established to receive reports of land violations.

According to the Decision, the hotline will receive and process information from organizations and individuals concerning legal violations in land administration. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and strengthen state management discipline over land resources.

Specifically, reports will be received via telephone at 0243.629.0196 during office hours (8am – 12pm and 1pm – 5pm on weekdays). Additionally, organizations and individuals may submit reports in writing or via post to the following address: No. 10 Ton That Thuyet Street, Cau Giay Ward, Hanoi.

Submissions must include all required information, including: the full name, address, and phone number of the reporter, along with any confidentiality requests (if any); the name and address of the individual or organization allegedly committing the violation; the location of the land plot involved; the nature of the violation; and any relevant documents or evidence collected (if any).

Regarding the processing procedure, the handling of reported information will comply with the Law on Citizen Reception, the Law on Complaints, the Law on Denunciations, the Law on Inspection, the Land Law, and other relevant legal regulations.

The Decision also specifies that the hotline will handle land management violations as defined under Article 109 of Decree No. 102/2024/ND-CP, as well as land-related violations committed by land users or entities assigned land for management (as stipulated in the 2024 Land Law and Decree No. 123/2024/ND-CP).

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Encouraging overseas Vietnamese experts to return and attracting international professionals is part of a new strategy to facilitate Vietnam’s development.

As global competition over technology and supply chains intensifies, many Asian economies are shifting their focus from attracting capital to attracting people. High-quality human resources are emerging as a decisive factor in long-term competitiveness and are no less important than tax incentives or manufacturing infrastructure. After years of relying on cost advantages and macro-economic stability to attract foreign investment, Vietnam is now looking to add a new pillar to its development strategy: attracting and retaining talent, including overseas Vietnamese experts and highly skilled international professionals.

Party General Secretary To Lam has underscored the need to design special incentive policies, such as salaries beyond standard pay scales, housing, and supportive working environments, to attract “at least 100 top experts to return and work in Vietnam.” He has also called for the development of a comprehensive database of intellectuals at home and abroad, including overseas Vietnamese active in science and technology, to support high-quality workforce policymaking.

Breakthrough incentives

Vietnam’s talent attraction strategy is being gradually institutionalized through national policies, particularly as the country designates certain high-tech industries, including semiconductors, as priority sectors. Under this strategy, Vietnam aims to encourage overseas Vietnamese experts to return and contribute to domestic development.

Mr. Nguyen Anh Tuan from the Department of Information Technology Industry at the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) said one of the top priorities of the national strategy is human resources development. The semiconductor development strategy identifies talent as the core factor and Vietnam’s greatest competitive advantage amid increasingly intense global competition.

In this context, the Law on Digital Technology Industry, passed by the National Assembly on June 14, 2025, and effective from January 1, 2026, for the first time introduces a range of breakthrough incentive mechanisms aimed at attracting and retaining talent. These measures particularly target overseas Vietnamese professionals returning to Vietnam to work while also widening access for highly-skilled international workers.

One notable policy, Mr. Tuan added, is the exemption from work permit requirements for high-quality human resources in the digital technology industry, including semiconductors. Previously, such exemptions applied only to special cases such as investors or diplomatic staff, but they have now been expanded to facilitate long-term employment for top experts, including overseas Vietnamese.

Vietnam is also introducing long-term visas of up to five years for high-quality talent, with eligibility extended to spouses and children under 18, whose visas will match the duration of the associated work permit. “This is a significant step forward,” he said. “For the first time, Vietnam is implementing such a broad, long-term visa policy, helping provide stability and peace of mind for experts considering returning to or coming to Vietnam to work.”

Another standout incentive is a five-year personal income tax exemption for high-quality workers in the digital technology industry, particularly semiconductors. This policy is designed to enhance the overall compensation package and strengthen Vietnam’s competitiveness in the regional race for talent.

The Law also allows for more flexible personnel mobility between the public sector and enterprises in digital technology and semiconductors. Under this framework, high-quality professionals can move between government agencies and private companies, enabling the State to attract top experts from the private sector while promoting the transfer of knowledge and experience across sectors.

Beyond central-level policies, local authorities have been granted greater autonomy to design their own resolutions providing additional support for talent, such as financial assistance, working conditions, housing, and transportation. Cities such as Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City have already begun issuing tailored policies to attract high-quality human resources, helping create favorable ecosystems to draw and retain experts, including overseas Vietnamese scientists and engineers.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Vinh, a semiconductor expert with more than 40 years of experience at leading US tech companies, said one effective approach would be to invite retired overseas Vietnamese experts to return to Vietnam for three to five years. “They could pass on their knowledge and experience to the younger generation,” he said. “To attract them, however, the government needs to ensure conditions such as housing, healthcare, and a good working environment.”

Encouraging returnees

Vietnam also needs a strategy to send young engineers abroad to study and work to gain experience, “but more importantly, it must have policies to bring them back,” Mr. Vinh stressed. “Overall, the government needs policies that encourage Vietnamese participation throughout the entire pipeline, from training and overseas placement to creating favorable conditions to return and contribute. If 100 engineers are sent abroad, just 10 to 15 returning with practical experience would be enough to lay the foundation for the semiconductor industry. They would become the nucleus for training the next generation. The key is to adopt long-term policies not only to attract them but also to retain them.”

China is often cited as a country that achieved notable success with such an approach, having sent talent abroad in the 1970s and 1980s before later attracting them back through large-scale programs such as the Thousand Talents Plan.

According to Professor Raymond Kai-yu Tong from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, attracting talent should begin by encouraging young people to study abroad to access advanced knowledge, technology, and experience, and then creating conditions for them to return and apply those skills at home.

The next step is to design comprehensive attraction packages, not only for individual experts but also for their families, such as housing support, preferential mortgage programs, and assurances of a high-quality education system so their children can study in Vietnam. “When experts have stable living arrangements and their children can pursue long-term education in Vietnam, they are more likely to develop a strong sense of attachment and remain committed to contributing to national development,” he said.

Creating an open environment

Professor Tong also noted that shifts in global supply chains have prompted many factories and production facilities to relocate from mainland China to Vietnam, creating significant opportunities for the economy. In this context, Vietnam’s increased investment in science and technology is, in his view, the right approach. He recommended that Vietnam remain steadfast in this strategy to better capture new investment waves and gradually build domestic manufacturing networks closely linked to science, technology, and innovation.

Alongside appropriate compensation and flexible policy mechanisms, modern research infrastructure and stable financial resources are seen as critical factors. According to Associate Professor Luu Anh Tuan from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and Executive Director of the VinUni Center for AI Research in Hanoi, income is not the most important consideration for many scientists. “What matters more is the research environment - an open space with academic freedom that allows experimentation and accepts trial and error,” he explained. “Science does not always deliver results on the first attempt, so there must be room to experiment, accept failure, and learn from it.”

Speaking at a policy workshop on solutions to promote Vietnam’s semiconductor industry, Mr. Nguyen Khac Lich, Director General of the Authority of ICT Industry and Communications at MoST, emphasized the need for more concrete and substantive support policies for high-quality experts. “Local authorities need to be bolder in designing policies and truly know how to value and utilize talent,” he believes. “Valuing talent should not stop at salaries or financial support. More importantly, experts must be entrusted with major challenges - tasks that are significant and demanding enough for them to fully apply their capabilities and remain committed over the long term. Without strategic missions and creative space, even generous compensation will struggle to retain talent.”

He also proposed clearly classifying experts, suggesting that alongside general policies, Vietnam should develop special mechanisms with stronger incentives for a truly elite group - those with outstanding contributions, multiple patents, or leadership roles at major technology corporations - rather than applying uniform policies across all groups.

VET-Huyen Thuong

The project, linking Provincial Road 391 (DT.391) with Provincial Road 390 (DT.390), is also expected to create fresh momentum for the city’s socio-economic development.

The Hai Phong Traffic Construction Investment Project Management Board has been tasked with coordinating with the northern city’s Agriculture and Rural Development Construction Investment Project Management Board to review and finalise the pre-feasibility report for a project linking Provincial Road 391 (DT.391) with Provincial Road 390 (DT.390).

The project aims to gradually complete Ring Road No. 1 in the city’s western urban area in line with the approved master plan, ease congestion on National Highway 5, and enhance connectivity among neighbouring wards and communes as well as the regional road network. It is also expected to create fresh momentum for the city’s socio-economic development.

The planned road will stretch 5.38km and require approximately 24.6 hectares of land in Nam Dong and Ai Quoc wards in western Hai Phong.

The total investment is estimated at more than VND1,000 billion (approximately $38.8 million), sourced from the municipal budget. Implementation is scheduled for 2026–2028.

VnEconomy-Đỗ Hoàng

Vietnamese citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, especially to crowded areas, sensitive events, areas around diplomatic missions, military bases, key installations and major shopping malls during periods of security alerts.

Vietnamese embassies in the Middle East have issued urgent advisory notices for Vietnamese nationals amid rising tensions in the Middle East, according to a report from the Government News.

Specifically, the Vietnamese Embassy in Qatar urged Vietnamese citizens living, studying and working there to remain vigilant, proactively take measures to ensure their personal safety, closely follow instructions from Qatari authorities and monitor further announcements from the embassy.

The embassy advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, especially to crowded areas, sensitive events, areas around diplomatic missions, military bases, key installations and major shopping malls during periods of security alerts.

Vietnamese citizens have been advised to  prepare for possible 'shelter-in-place' situations if necessary and identify a safe location, stock up on essential supplies such as drinking water, dry food, personal medication, backup batteries and flashlights, according to the embassy.

They must closely follow updates from Qatari authorities including the Ministry of Interior and local security forces, official media outlets and the embassy's communication channels.

They have also been asked to promptly inform relevant parties of any change of residence or movement away from their registered address while checking, keeping copies of identification documents and recording emergency contact details of employers/sponsors and family members.

In case Qatari authorities issue 'shelter-in-place' guidance or travel restrictions, Vietnamese citizens are urged to strictly comply and avoid going outside until further notice.

For emergency protection and assistance, Vietnamese nationals in Qatar can contact the embassy's citizen protection hotline at +974 77088920 or via email at vietnamembassy.doha@gmail.com.

The same day, the Vietnamese Embassy in the UAE issued a similar advisory notice to Vietnamese nationals living, studying and working in the UAE, particularly in the capital Abu Dhabi, urging them to proactively ensure their safety and closely follow official information from UAE authorities and further updates from the embassy.

The embassy requested citizens to avoid non-essential travel, prepare personal protection plans at safe locations at home or workplaces and closely monitor updates from UAE authorities, official media and the embassy's channels; and keep communication devices operational at all times.

Should UAE authorities issue safety guidance or movement restrictions, the embassy urged citizens to strictly comply until further notice.

For emergency assistance, Vietnamese nationals in the UAE may contact the embassy via the citizen protection hotline at +971 50 129 9789 or email vnemb1@emirates.net.ae@gmail.com.

The embassy's address is Villa 147, Salama Bint Butti Street (Street 23), Al Mushrif Area, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The embassy also called on the Vietnamese community in the UAE to remain calm, proactively ensure their safety and regularly update themselves on further announcements.

The Vietnamese Embassy in Kuwait also issued similar notice, urging Vietnamese nationals there to follow official Kuwaiti media channels for updates, keep mobile phones operational and maintain contact with family and friends to report their situation and follow the embassy's communication channels for new announcements.

For emergency assistance, Vietnamese nationals can contact the embassy via the citizen protection hotline at +965 9975 8155 or +965 2531 1450.

The Vietnamese Embassy in Saudi Arabia advised Vietnamese citizens living, studying and working in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and Yemen to take precautionary measures, including avoiding security-sensitive areas, especially crowded places.

They must regularly update information via reliable official channels, always carry identification documents such as passports, visas and other important papers, keep electronic copies for use when necessary and maintain regular contact with family, colleagues and friends for mutual support in case of emergencies.

In case of emergency, citizens are advised to immediately contact the embassy at +966114547887 or +966 595731500, or via email at vnemb.sa@mofa.gov.vn.

VGP-Pham Long

This marks a major stride in modernizing urban management, enabling the city to maximize the potential of data for informed decision-making and policymaking.

Under a decision signed by Chairman of the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang on February 26, the capital city's Steering Committee for Data has been established.

The Steering Committee is led by Chairman Vu Dai Thang, with Vice Chairman of the Municipal People’s Committee Truong Viet Dung serving as the Deputy Head, and leaders of various municipal departments, boards, and agencies as members.

This is a significant step aimed at promoting the management and exploitation of data throughout the city.

Its primary goal is to create an effective interdisciplinary coordination mechanism.

The primary mission of the Steering Committee is to advise, coordinate, and support the Municipal People’s Committee in implementing data-related strategies and policies. This includes the development of national and specialized databases, as well as ensuring the efficient integration, synchronization, storage, sharing, and exploitation of data.

Furthermore, the body is responsible for researching and proposing solutions to address issues arising during the implementation of data-related guidelines and strategies.

The Steering Committee will also assist the Municipal People’s Committee in directing departments, agencies, and local authorities (at ward and commune levels) to achieve data-related objectives. It will also coordinate the execution of interdisciplinary programs and projects.

The establishment of this committee is intended not only to improve data management but also to create a synchronized and efficient data system that contributes to Hanoi’s sustainable development. This marks a major stride in modernizing urban management, enabling the city to maximize the potential of data for informed decision-making and policymaking.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

The airline is closely monitoring updates from relevant authorities and will notify passengers immediately of any schedule adjustments or itinerary changes that may arise.

Vietnam Airlines’ flights between Vietnam and Europe continue to operate normally despite widespread airspace closures across parts of the Middle East triggered by recent airstrikes targeting Iran, a representative of the national carrier was quoted by  the Vietnam News Agency  as affirming.

 The airline is closely monitoring updates from relevant authorities and will notify passengers immediately of any schedule adjustments or itinerary changes that may arise.

Other Vietnamese carriers, including Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines and Sun PhuQuoc Airways, currently do not serve routes to Europe and have no flight paths crossing the airspace of Israel or Iran.

Amid airstrikes targeting capital Tehran and other cities across Iran on February 28, along with retaliatory actions against Israel, a number of Middle Eastern nations tightened aviation activities and announced temporary airspace closures.

VNA-Van Nguyen

Businesses are warned of possible increase in global prices for fuel, crude oil and consumer goods, indirectly affecting Vietnam’s production, import-export activities.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade on March 2 urged associations and businesses operarating in the import-export and logistics sectors to take proactive measures amid escalating tensions in the Middle East that threaten to disrupt transport routes and drive up logistics costs.

The ministry advised businesses to diversify markets and sources of supply, while actively seeking alternative destinations with similar demand structures to minimise the potential impact of disruptions to exports to Israel, Iran and other Middle Eastern markets. Enterprises were also encouraged to develop long-term contingency plans.

During contract negotiations, firms were told to pay close attention to logistics, delivery and insurance clauses. Transport agreements should clearly define force majeure provisions, liability responsibilities and cost-sharing arrangements in the event of unforeseen risks. Adequate insurance coverage is essential to limit potential losses if incidents occur in import markets.

The ministry also called on associations and enterprises to maintain regular communication and coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies to analyse trade data and stay updated on geopolitical developments, freight rates, surcharges and transport costs. This would enable timely and coordinated response measures.

In addition, industry groups and businesses were instructed to establish preventive and adaptive strategies to mitigate risks in international trade and transportation, while preparing rapid response mechanisms to safeguard supply chains.

They were also encouraged to strengthen cooperation with State agencies to identify alternative orders and explore potential substitute markets.

The ministry warned that global prices for fuel, crude oil and consumer goods could rise in the near term, indirectly affecting Vietnam’s production, import-export activities and trade relations with partners in the region.

Higher fuel costs are expected to push up sea freight and air cargo rates, directly impacting shipping routes to the Gulf. Transport through the Strait of Hormuz has reportedly been severely disrupted following airstrikes targeting Iran, heightening concerns over supply chain stability.

VnEconomy-Nguyệt Hà