Shopee continues to hold a dominant position with a 56.04% market share in 2025, despite showing signs of slowing growth.

Total revenue from Vietnam’s four major e-commerce platforms—Shopee, TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Tiki—is estimated to reach VND429.66 trillion (nearly $16.5 billion) in 2025, a 34.75% increase compared to 2024, according to the latest data from e-commerce analytics platform Metric.vn.

The fourth quarter of 2025 alone is expected to record VND123.73 trillion ($4.7 billion) in revenue, up 35.74% year-on-year and 19.43% over the previous quarter, making it the primary driver of the year’s overall growth.

Total sales volume for 2025 is projected to reach nearly 3.94 billion items, a 15.23% increase. However, the number of active shops generating revenue is expected to decline to 601,800, representing a 7.43% decrease.

In Q4 2025 specifically, over 20,700 shops that recorded sales in the first nine months are projected to generate zero revenue, signaling an intensifying market consolidation and filtering process.

Shopee continues to hold a dominant position with a 56.04% market share in 2025, despite showing signs of slowing growth. Meanwhile, TikTok Shop has emerged as a powerhouse, expanding its market share to 41.31%. Lazada continues to maintain a stable market presence.

The trend toward "Mall-ification" (official branded stores) is becoming increasingly prominent. Despite accounting for only 2.12% of the total number of sellers on Shopee and TikTok Shop, official "Mall" stores contribute a staggering 32.6% of total revenue.

Notably, TikTok Shop’s Mall segment saw a massive 99.14% surge in revenue despite only a 1.14% increase in the number of official stores. Shopee maintained a more balanced growth trajectory, with its Mall store count rising by 11.81% and revenue increasing by 63.54%.

Beauty, Home Living, and Women's Fashion remain the largest sectors by revenue. However, the "bright spots" in terms of growth rate include Health (+46.89%), Kids' Fashion (+80.46%), and Stationery (+54.76%), all of which recorded exceptional year-on-year performance.

In the first quarter of 2026, Vietnam’s e-commerce revenue is forecasted by the data platform Metric.vn to reach approximately VND134.6 trillion (over $5 billion). Total sales volume is estimated at 1.036 billion items, representing a year-on-year increase of 32.74% in value and 9% in volume compared to the same period in 2025

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Environmental inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the Law on Inspection, except for unscheduled environmental inspections, which may be carried out without prior notice when necessary.

The Government has promulgated Decree No. 48/2026/NĐ-CP, which amends and supplements certain provisions of Decree No. 08/2022/NĐ-CP dated January 10, 2022, detailing the implementation of several articles of the Law on Environmental Protection, as amended and supplemented by Decree No. 05/2025/NĐ-CP dated January 6, 2025.

Under this new decree, Articles 18, 19, and 26 of Decree No. 08 are revised to reassign responsibilities among authorities for developing and issuing plans to handle, rehabilitate, and restore areas of severely polluted soil; for preparing and appraising projects to establish and recognize natural heritage sites; and for appraising environmental impact assessment reports. In addition, Clauses 2 and 3 of Article 30 are amended regarding the renewal, adjustment, reissuance, and revocation of environmental permits.

According to the amendments, project owners and facilities must adjust their environmental permits within the remaining validity period of the permit when falling into one of the following cases:

First, changes under Point a, Clause 2, Article 44 of the Law on Environmental Protection that do not fall under Clauses 4 and 5 of the same Article, except in cases of reduced permit content or changes in the volume/type of hazardous waste generated.

If the permit content is reduced, adjustments are made upon request of the project owner/facility.

If hazardous waste volume/type changes, the project owner/facility must report the change in their periodic environmental protection report.

Second, projects, facilities, industrial parks, business/service zones, or clusters that increase scale, production capacity, or change production technology as specified in Clauses 3 and 4 of Article 27 of this Decree, leading to changes in permit content, except as provided in Point b, Clause 5 of the same Article.

Third, addition of wastewater transfer or reception plans for treatment as stipulated in Clause 4, Article 74 of this Decree; or addition of wastewater reuse plans as stipulated in Clause 6, Article 74.

Fourth, other changes as specified in Clause 2, Article 27 of this Decree, except as provided in Clause 5 of the same Article.

Adjustments to environmental permits must be carried out electronically via the full-process online public service system of the permitting authority or the authorized agency. Project owners/facilities subject to permit adjustments must submit applications before implementing changes and may only proceed after receiving the adjusted permit.

Applicants may choose to submit their applications electronically via the online public service system, directly in person, or by postal mail.

Notably, the new decree also amends Article 162 on environmental protection inspections. Environmental inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the Law on Inspection, except for unscheduled environmental inspections, which may be carried out without prior notice when necessary, following specific regulations in the field of environmental protection.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Phong

The efforts aimed at completing at least 5,000 km of expressway by 2030.

During the 23rd meeting of the State Steering Committee for Key Transport Projects held in Hanoi on January 30, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called on ministries, agencies and local authorities to accelerate implementation of nationally important transport projects.

Highlighting strategic priorities, the Prime Minister stressed the need to fast-track expressway development across the Mekong Delta, northern mountainous provinces, the Central Highlands, and key international corridors linking Vietnam with China, Laos and Cambodia.

The Government leader directed the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Construction to work closely in identifying priority projects for inclusion in the medium-term public investment plan, aiming to ensure that Vietnam completes at least 5,000 km of expressways by 2030.

He emphasized that expressway development in the Mekong Delta should be fast-tracked, with 600 km completed by the end of 2026 and an additional 600 km by 2030.

The Prime Minister also urged faster progress on airport investment and expansion, citing projects such as Long Thanh, Ca Mau, Quang Tri, Gia Binh, Phu Cat, Phu Quoc and Con Dao.

Attention was also drawn to seaport infrastructure, with the PM calling for accelerated investment and expansion at major hubs including Cai Mep-Thi Vai, Lach Huyen, Hon Khoai and Lien Chieu. He highlighted the importance of developing airport and aviation-related economic ecosystems to support wider economic growth.

VnEconomy-Minh Kiệt

Over 3.9 million tons of cassava were shipped abroad.

Vietnam exported more than 3.9 million tons of cassava in 2025, generating approximately $1.26 billion in revenue and ranking as the world’s third-largest cassava exporter, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

China remained the dominant market, accounting for 94.1% of export volume and 92.6% of total value. Other notable destinations included Taiwan (China), Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Cassava is cultivated on over 500,000 hectares nationwide, with average yields of around 20.5 tons per hectare.

At a conference held in Hanoi on January 28 under the theme “Vietnam’s cassava supply chain: Current situation and challenges,” participants highlighted the need to increase added value through deeper processing as a key long-term solution. This would involve gradually reducing exports of dried cassava chips and low-processed starch, while promoting investment in higher-value products such as modified starch and cassava-based inputs for the food, pharmaceutical, industrial, and bioenergy sectors. Such a shift would help improve efficiency, sustainability, and resilience to raw material price fluctuations.

Experts also stressed the importance of restructuring the supply chain, tightening control over production and land use, formalising informal activities, and improving transparency to meet increasingly strict traceability requirements in export markets.

VnEconomy-Chu Khôi

Vietnam boasts the natural environment needed to benefit from the potential blue carbon efforts offer.

APEC is an economic alliance of economies surrounding the Pacific Ocean, comprising countries and territories with coastlines facing or located within the Pacific. Their combined marine area spans more than 165.2 million sq km, compared with about 62.62 million sq km of land. In other words, the region’s ocean surface is nearly 2.7-times larger than its landmass, offering significant potential for emission reductions, often far greater than what is achievable on land.

Professor Pham Thu Thuy from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, noted that the Asia-Pacific region accounts for 30 per cent of global nature-based carbon credits, 70 per cent of net global carbon loss stored in mangroves over the past 25 years, and 77 per cent of the world’s coral reefs. APEC economies contribute 60 per cent of global GDP and 70 per cent of greenhouse-gas emissions, highlighting their scale and influence in driving the green transition.

Blue carbon treasure

Regarding blue carbon market policies, the Professor said integration levels differ widely across APEC economies, from compulsory programs in Australia to voluntary frameworks in Singapore and Thailand. Some economies adopt global standards, such as Indonesia, while others prioritize regional cooperation. Many are also advancing blue economy management, coastal-zone planning, and APEC regional frameworks, while updating strategies in food systems, tourism, and transport to seize opportunities from emerging blue carbon markets.

At COP30, APEC countries refined their domestic strategies with a focus on managing, conserving, and restoring coastal and marine ecosystems; marine spatial planning; establishing climate-adaptive marine protected areas; and promoting sustainable fisheries for long-term food security. A Green Solutions Package proposed among member states features five areas for cross-sector breakthroughs: marine conservation, aquaculture feed, ocean renewable energy, coastal transport, and coastal tourism.

COP30 offered a moment for review and orientation, but substantive progress requires sustained commitment beyond COP31. “Cooperation between countries is essential to advancing blue carbon markets and supporting a sustainable green transition,” Professor Thuy stressed, adding that while forestry-based carbon credit generation has advanced rapidly worldwide, ocean-based emission reductions remain undervalued. “The movement of carbon from land to ocean is often overlooked, leading to miscalculations in carbon accumulation, as studies by Regnier (2022) and Grasset (2025) show,” she said.

Conserving mangrove forests

Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, seaweeds, and coral reefs all demonstrate considerable carbon storage capacity. According to Professor Thuy, blue carbon efforts in APEC economies largely concentrate on mangrove carbon projects, ranging from 42 ha in Senegal to 350,000 ha in Pakistan. Indonesia, Myanmar, and Vietnam lead the way, accounting for 60 per cent of global projects.

Yet only 15 out of 74 projects meet standards and been registered under VCS (Verified Carbon Standard), Plan Vivo, or CAR (Climate Action Reserve) systems as of October 2024, and only three have sold credits. Seagrass projects remain at an early stage, while seaweed cultivation shows promise, with farms ranging from 1 to 15,000 ha, but has so far been commercialized mainly in countries such as Japan. Other coastal ecosystems receive limited attention, except in Australia, the US, and South Korea.

In her presentation at the “Navigating global Vietnam’s carbon market: Post-COP30 insights and the way forward” seminar, Professor Thuy introduced Indonesia’s standards and methodologies for certifying mangrove blue carbon projects. She said advanced technologies and AI could reduce project costs, improve accuracy, support carbon pricing, and expand access to reliable data. Improving emissions reduction and carbon removal data, particularly for mangroves, remains vital.

She also shared findings from a mangrove restoration project in which 100 ha previously converted into aquaculture ponds had yielded low production. A private organization sought to restore the site through a multi-year mangrove recovery initiative aimed at boosting carbon storage, ecosystem resilience, and shoreline protection.

Research found that CO₂ emissions from converting mangroves into aquaculture over a decade were 53-times higher than emissions from seagrass loss. Restoration reversed the emissions trend, turning the area into a carbon sink; however, it could not fully compensate for losses from mangrove destruction during 2016-2024. She recommended prioritizing policies that prevent mangrove conversion, particularly in the Mekong Delta, and treating seagrass protection as a complementary approach.

Marine-based emissions reduction

Discussing Vietnam’s capacity for green carbon from forest and marine ecosystems, Mr. Nguyen Khac Pho, Director of Con Dao National Park, said Con Dao Island is not only a major tourist destination but also a natural reserve of significant ecological value. It includes more than 6,462 ha of forests and forestry land, nearly 93 per cent of which are natural forests.

With an average timber reserve exceeding 130 cu m per ha, Con Dao’s forests form a large carbon reservoir storing nearly 430,000 tons of carbon. The surrounding marine areas can also store more than 300 tons, with a further 15 tons from seagrass beds.

To maximize this potential, Con Dao is strengthening forest protection and curbing the illegal extraction of forest and marine resources; promoting afforestation; and restoring marine ecosystems, especially seagrass, which can store far more carbon than terrestrial forests. Seagrass restoration also protects coastlines, prevents erosion, enhances marine biodiversity, improves water quality, and supports local livelihoods.

Accurate assessments of carbon credit potential, Mr. Pho said, are critical to developing a circular economy model that can position Con Dao as an example of green development and contribute to Vietnam’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Vietnam’s marine emissions reduction potential also extends to seaweed. According to Mr. Dinh Xuan Lap, Deputy Director of the International Collaborating Centre for Aquaculture and Fisheries Sustainability (ICAFIS), Vietnam is home to more than 887 species of seaweed, including 90 with economic value. “Seaweed is a natural material that absorbs atmospheric carbon and helps neutralize ocean acidity,” Mr. Lap explained. “It is increasingly seen as a promising solution for environmental restoration. Each sq km of seaweed can store up to 1,500 tons of greenhouse gases.”

Growth rates are 30-60 times faster than those of terrestrial plants, enabling it to absorb CO₂ at 2.4-times the rate of trees. Seaweed can also be integrated easily with aquaculture systems such as oysters, marine fish, and lobsters, helping create stable ecosystems and improve productivity. In Vietnam, the “Blue Ocean - Blue Foods” program is fostering responsible participation in climate mitigation, marine environment improvements, and community livelihood enhancement.

A key focus of the program is linking businesses across the aquaculture value chain with seaweed farming, helping form a circular economy of investment, cultivation, processing, and consumption. Experts say that if a carbon credit mechanism for seaweed is established, its economic value would rise significantly, opening new development pathways for the blue economy.

VET-Chu Khoi

The Cai Mep Ha General and Container Port is designated as a gateway port and an international transshipment hub, serving cargo handling for long-haul international shipping routes.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on January 30 issued a decision approving the investment policy and officially selecting  investors for the Cai Mep Ha General and Container Port project, according to a report from Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

The project involves a consortium of three major investors: Geleximco Group JSC, International Transportation and Trading JSC (ITC), and the State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC).

According to the decision, the project will cover a total land area of approximately 351.2 ha. Within this area, the container port will occupy 229.4 ha—which includes 121 ha of sea reclamation—and will feature a modern wharf system stretching nearly 7.5 km in total length.

The berths are designed to accommodate ultra-large container vessels of up to 250,000 DWT (equivalent to 24,000 TEUs), as well as 120,000 DWT container ships, feeder vessels, and a dedicated barge system for coastal and inland waterway transport.

Furthermore, the project includes synchronized investment in container yards, specialized warehouses (including cold storage, cool storage, and CFS warehouses), an irradiation center, and various auxiliary works and technical infrastructure to ensure seamless operations. The port’s total designed throughput capacity is expected to reach 10.8 million TEUs per year.

The project will be implemented in three phases, with operations expected to commence in Q4/2028, Q1/2035, and Q1/2045, respectively.

The total investment for the project is VND50.82 trillion ($1.97 billion). Of this amount, the investors' equity contribution is VND7.62 trillion (15%), while the remaining will be raised through mobilized capital. The project's operational term is set for 50 years, starting from the date the competent authorities issue decisions on land allocation, land lease, or permission for land-use conversion.

The Cai Mep Ha General and Container Port is designated as a gateway port and an international transshipment hub, serving cargo handling for long-haul international shipping routes. The project aligns with the national seaport development master plan and Vietnam’s marine economy development strategy toward 2030, with a vision to 2045.

VOV-Pham Long

It also highlights Aqua’s ambition to expand production capacity and enhance product quality to serve both domestic and international consumers.

Aqua Vietnam has announced a significant milestone in its long-term growth strategy by extending its operation license at Bien Hoa 2 Industrial Park in southern Dong Nai province until 2045, backed by a total investment of more than VND1.5 trillion (nearly $60 million).

The investment extension through 2045 reaffirms the brand’s long-term commitment to the Vietnamese market, said General Director of Aqua Vietnam, Mr. Fan Guofeng, at an event marking the company’s 30th anniversary in Vietnam on January 28.

It also highlights Aqua’s ambition to expand production capacity and enhance product quality to serve both domestic and international consumers.

“This initiative is an integral part of Aqua Vietnam’s strategic vision through 2045. The company plans to increase the total annual capacity of its three factories to approximately 1.6 million units, with washing machines and refrigerators each accounting for 800,000 units. This move demonstrates that Aqua Vietnam is well-prepared to meet the rising demands of the market, catering not only to domestic needs but also to exports across Asia and Europe,” said Mr.  Guofeng.

According to data from GfK, Aqua holds a 27% market share in washing machines in Vietnam by sales volume, successfully maintaining its status as one of the most preferred brands in the market.

Vneconomy-Minh Hà

The Action Program sets out specific targets for 2026. Among them, the agricultural sector’s GDP growth rate is expected to reach 3.7%; export turnover of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products is projected at USD 73–74 billion.

Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang has signed and issued the Action Program to implement Government Resolutions No. 01/NQ-CP and 02/NQ-CP on key tasks and solutions for carrying out the 2026 socio-economic development plan, the state budget estimates, and improving the business environment and national competitiveness.

The Action Program sets out the overall goal of developing agriculture rapidly, sustainably, effectively, and responsibly under the orientation of “ecological agriculture, modern countryside, civilized farmers.”

The agricultural sector will continue to shift strongly from a production mindset to an agricultural economy mindset, developing agricultural, forestry, and fishery production with integrated multi-value commodities, based on the advantages of each region and locality, applying science and technology to improve productivity, quality, and competitiveness.

One major focus is to firmly ensure national food security and nutrition security, while improving farmers’ income, quality of life, role, and position. The sector will promote non-agricultural job creation, diversify livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable poverty reduction in rural areas, especially among ethnic minority communities.

Agricultural development will be closely linked with building modern, green, and sustainable new rural areas. Cooperative economies and value chain linkages will continue to be strengthened; new-style agricultural cooperatives and production–processing–consumption linkages will be expanded, creating a foundation for large-scale commodity production with traceable origins, meeting the increasingly high demands of domestic and international markets.

The Action Program sets out specific targets for 2026. Among them, the agricultural sector’s GDP growth rate is expected to reach 3.7%; export turnover of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products is projected at USD 73–74 billion. The multidimensional poverty rate is expected to decrease by 1–1.5%; among ethnic minorities, the reduction is about 3%.

Institutional reform, improved business environment 

A key highlight of the Action Program is institutional reform and improvement of the investment and business environment. The Ministry  aims in 2026 to cut and simplify 100% of unnecessary, conflicting, overlapping, or unclear business investment conditions; abolish all business investment conditions for industries and sectors not on the conditional list under the Investment Law.

The sector also sets targets to improve international rankings, including raising the Property Rights Index (IPRI) by at least 3 places; achieving an average Public Administration Reform Index (PAR Index) of 84.7%; and reaching 86% in the Satisfaction Index of Public Administration Services (SIPAS).

The Action Program emphasizes the pivotal role of digital transformation. The sector will focus on building digital infrastructure, digital platforms, and centralized, unified, and secure data systems; connecting and sharing data with the National Data Center, turning data into a resource for management and development.

Several major databases will be completed, such as the national land database, agricultural market data, waste source data, water resources, and biodiversity. Disaster prevention management, reservoir operations, and support for local governments at two levels will increasingly rely on digital data and modern technology.

Alongside economic development, the sector identifies environmental protection and proactive climate change adaptation as consistent requirements. Solutions will be implemented vigorously, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, piloting the carbon market, tackling air pollution in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, addressing river pollution, conserving wetlands, and biodiversity. Disaster prevention and response—especially for flash floods, landslides, and extreme weather—will continue to be enhanced in forecasting and preparedness capacity.

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

The group has built a comprehensive textile manufacturing ecosystem at the Hai Ha Industrial Park in Vietnam's northern Quang Ninh province.

During a meeting with Mr. Hong Tianzhu, Chairman of China's  Texhong Group  in Hanoi on January 30, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh proposed the Chinese textile firm to deepen its investment in Vietnam and expand into new sectors, including the organisation of international-standard fashion shows in the country.

He welcomed the group’s plans to expand investment into new areas, particularly data infrastructure and clean energy.

For his part, Mr. Tianzhu said that Texhong Group of China is interested in expanding investment in cross-border industrial parks in northern Quang Ninh province of Vietnam.

The group also wants to invest in energy projects, data centers, digital technology and artificial intelligence, as well as aluminium industry development in Vietnam, he said.

Texhong has invested nearly $2 billion in Vietnam's Quang Ninh and Dong Nai provinces. It has also built a comprehensive textile manufacturing ecosystem at the Hai Ha Industrial Park in Quang Ninh, which has become an important link in the global textile supply chain.

VnEconomy-Hà Lê

Dr. Can Van Luc argued that the roadmap for the center’s formation must be clearly defined across specific milestones in 2030, 2035, and 2045.

While acknowledging positive steps regarding product offerings and partnerships, experts argue that the draft strategy for the Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center (IFC) requires a clearer long-term vision, specific goals for the 2035–2045 period, and a more detailed implementation roadmap.

Providing feedback on the draft strategy, Mr. Nguyen Hong Son, former Deputy Head of the Central Strategy and Policy Department, highlighted two significant positive aspects.

First, the draft is built upon international experience while carefully analyzing Vietnam's practical context to provide proposals and strategic directions for the medium term. Second, it clearly defines core pillars, product groups, and their respective implementation schedules, while proposing an organizational structure and a specific action plan for 2026.

According to Mr. Son, the draft currently functions as a medium-term plan accompanied by a 2026 action program. However, he noted that the strategy would be more effective if its pillars and product groups were adjusted to align more closely with the development strategy of the Da Nang Financial Center. Such synergy would facilitate future proposals and refinements in the next stages of development.

Regarding sensitive sectors such as stablecoins, digital assets, and foreign exchange (FX), Mr. Son advised against prioritizing them in the initial phase. Instead, these should be linked to the completion of comprehensive legal frameworks for anti-money laundering (AML), licensing authority, supervision, and risk prevention. Consequently, these areas should only be considered toward the end of Phase 1 or the beginning of Phase 2, once the legal system and management capabilities are fully established.

Regarding international cooperation, Mr. Son emphasized the need to categorize partners into specific groups, such as market infrastructure, financial technology (fintech), capital and asset management, and professional service providers. This clear classification would serve as the foundation for building optimal engagement strategies for each stakeholder group.

Contending that the current draft lacks sufficient clarity, Dr. Can Van Luc—Chief Economist and Director of the BIDV Training and Research Institute, and a member of the National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council—emphasized that the development of the HCMC IFC must be viewed as a long-term strategic priority rather than a mere pilot project.

Dr. Luc argued that the roadmap for the center’s formation must be clearly defined across specific milestones in 2030, 2035, and 2045. He noted that Vietnam is currently ranked approximately 91st–92nd in international financial rankings and questioned whether the country should set a concrete goal to break into the global Top 50 by 2045, as well as the feasibility of such an ambition.

According to Dr. Luc, the draft fails to clearly outline the critical stages of the strategy. He proposed four core areas that must be supplemented:

First, the strategy must clarify both international and domestic contexts, particularly regarding the evolution of the banking and financial sectors.

Second,  it is essential to define the development trajectory of Ho Chi Minh City and its surrounding regions for the 2035 and 2045 milestones.

Third, the mission, vision, and long-term objectives must be fully and clearly established.

Fourth, the strategy needs to identify key tasks, with a particular focus on finalizing the legal framework, charter, and operational procedures for the Center by the first or second quarter of 2026.

Regarding the development of products and services, Dr. Luc noted that the four product groups proposed by the advisory team are generally appropriate. However, he emphasized the need to clearly categorize products ready for immediate implementation—specifically traditional financial services such as banking, securities, investment funds, and insurance. He also called for a more detailed plan to consolidate these existing activities into the IFC.

Addressing the regulation requiring a minimum charter capital of VND3 trillion (approximately $116 million) to establish a subsidiary bank, Dr. Luc noted that this poses a significant challenge for small and medium-sized banks. He suggested implementing a phased capital roadmap rather than requiring the full amount upfront.

In terms of emerging sectors such as venture capital, innovation financing, and startup funding, Dr. Luc pointed out that Vietnam currently faces a severe capital shortage. He argued that commercial banks cannot fulfill this role due to the high-risk nature of these investments. Consequently, he recommended developing specialized investment funds and capital markets supported by tailored incentive mechanisms.

On the topic of green finance, Dr. Luc called for a more aggressive push. While green credit has already been introduced, the issuance of green bonds and green equities remains very limited. Therefore, the IFC needs to establish specific mechanisms to encourage these financial instruments.

Furthermore, Dr. Luc proposed boosting financing for the logistics sector, supply chains, and free trade zones. He also suggested leveraging Decree 330/2025/ND-CP to upgrade the Mercantile Exchange, which would allow for the pilot trading of petroleum and gas derivatives. Finally, he stressed the importance of defining a clear developmental direction for both the carbon and gold markets within the IFC framework.

In response to the feedback, Mr. Truong Minh Huy Vu, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies (HIDS) and a representative of the HCMC IFC Project Drafting Committee, noted that suggestions regarding supply chain products, import-export support, the Free Trade Zone at Cai Mep Ha, green finance, green bonds, innovative startups, and venture capital funds align closely with the project’s strategic direction. He stated that these contributions reinforce the drafting committee's confidence that the project's financial product offerings are on the right track.

Regarding the timeline, Mr. Vu confirmed that the operational regulations for the IFC have been finalized and submitted to the Ministry of Finance for approval before February 9, 2026.

Addressing legal concerns regarding planning, functional boundaries, and alignment with national and regional strategies, Mr. Vu noted that while a national-level project exists, there is currently no formal strategy for an international financial center of ASEAN caliber. Consequently, the city must proactively establish its own roadmap that complements Da Nang’s development while ensuring consistency with the overall national direction.

Emphasizing the long-term objectives, Mr. Vu asserted: "Our vision must be far-reaching, but we must offer practical products from the outset to build partner confidence. The Asset Management Center (AMC) will not only serve as a hub for testing new initiatives but will provide tangible value, ensuring that businesses and investors can confidently commit to long-term cooperation."

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

The figure marks a 23.3% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

Total revenue for the science and technology sector reached an estimated VND464.1 trillion (nearly $18 billion) in January, marking a 23.3% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

These figures were released during the regular press conference of the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) held on January 29.

The sector currently employs an estimated 2,381,940 people, of which 207,838 are specialized in scientific research and technological development (RD).

Regarding upcoming priorities, Deputy Minister Bui Hoang Phuong stated that in February, the ministry will finalize and submit several guiding documents to the Government and the Prime Minister.

These documents are essential for the implementation of the Law on Artificial Intelligence (AI Law), the amended Law on Intellectual Property, and the Law on Technology Transfer. The legislative package includes three Decrees, two Decisions, and two Circulars, all proceeding according to the established schedule.

In line with the PartySecretariat's directive to ensure a joyful, healthy, safe, and economical Lunar New Year 2026, the Ministry has instructed telecommunications enterprises to implement measures to guarantee network safety and seamless communication.

Key measures include: increasing domestic and international bandwidth and transmission capacity to prevent network congestion during peak usage periods; deploying mobile base stations to high-density areas such as public squares, parks, flower gardens, walking streets, festival sites, and fireworks display locations to handle surges in traffic;  and  coordinating mutual rescue plans between telecom providers, including roaming and infrastructure sharing, to maintain service quality and communication links in all situations.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Once operational, the expanded hydropower plant will enhance the power supply capacity for the Southern region.

Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and the DEC-ENTEC-TTP Joint Venture—comprising Dongfang Electric International Corporation, ENTEC Energy Engineering Joint Stock Company, and Tam Thanh Phat Energy Engineering Joint Stock Company— on January 29 officially signed a contract for Package TB01-TAMR, which covers the supply of mechanical and electrical equipment for the Tri An Hydropower Plant Expansion Project in southern Dong Nai Province.

This is the project's primary equipment procurement package. Its scope includes the supply, inspection, and factory testing, as well as the transportation and on-site delivery of integrated core systems, including: hydraulic turbines, generators, excitation systems, governors, auxiliary mechanical and electrical equipment, main transformers, 220kV connection equipment, and related technical services.

The contract was awarded through an international open bidding process. The DEC-ENTEC-TTP Joint Venture was selected as the winning bidder based on their qualifications and experience, with a contract value of nearly VND1.113 trillion (nearly $43 million). The execution period for this package is 26 months.

The Tri An Hydropower Plant Expansion Project was approved by the Prime Minister under the Revised Power Development Plan VIII. 

The project represents a total investment of VND3.965 billion (around $152 million), funded by 30% owner’s equity and 70% commercial loans. The entire project is slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2027.

Once operational, the expanded Tri An Hydropower Plant  will enhance the power supply capacity for the Southern region.

Vneconomy-Mạnh Đức

Selling price for SJC-branded gold bars exceeding VND190 million ($7,224) per tael.

Gold prices in Vietnam surged to new record levels on January 29, with SJC-branded gold bars trading at VND190.3 million ($7,235) per tael for selling and VND187.3 million per tael for buying.

A tael equals 37.5 grams (about 1.2 ounces).

The increase represented a jump of VND6.1 million ($231) per tael for selling and VND5.6 million per tael for buying compared with the previous session.

Gold ring prices also climbed sharply, rising by between VND6.1 million and VND8.5 million per tael from the day before, depending on the retailer.

Global gold prices extended their rally for a ninth straight day, reaching around $5,560 per ounce. At current rates, domestic gold prices in Vietnam remain approximately VND13.85 million ($526) per tael above international levels.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi

The project will include a 1,500 MW gas-fired power plant and an LNG terminal with a capacity of 1 to 1.2 million tons per year.

Under a recent decision of the People’s Committee of Khanh Hoa Province in  South central Vietnam, an investor has been selected for the Ca Na LNG Power Plant project.

Accordingly, the Trung Nam - Sideros Rive Joint Venture has been awarded the investment and construction contract with a total capital of over VND57.384 trillion (over $2.2 billion), funded directly by the investor.

The Ca Na LNG Power Plant will be constructed in Ca Na Commune, spanning an area of approximately 265 ha.

The project’s primary objective is the commercial generation of electricity. Specifically, it will include a 1,500 MW gas-fired power plant and an LNG terminal with a capacity of 1 to 1.2 million tons per year, alongside other auxiliary facilities to ensure national energy security.

In addition, the project involves the construction of an LNG import port, a 2,400-meter-long eastern breakwater, and various supporting infrastructure works for the import terminal.

The project is scheduled to be completed and operational by December 31, 2030. The operational lifespan of the project is 50 years, starting from the date the investor is granted land allocation, land lease, or permission for land-use conversion by the competent authorities.

The plant is situated adjacent to Phase 1 of the Ca Na Industrial Zone (a 378-hectare site developed by the Trung Nam Ca Na Industrial Zone Infrastructure Investment Joint Stock Company) and the Ca Na General Seaport. This project cluster is expected to attract investment toward green energy usage and selective manufacturing activities that meet green and sustainable criteria.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

Trade fairs and exhibitions of high-quality Vietnamese and Lao products will be organized annually in populated border areas.

The Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee and the Lao Front for National Construction Central Committee jointly organized the "International Conference on Building a Vietnam-Laos Border of Peace, Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Development 2026" on January 29 in central Vietnam's Nghe An Province.

At the conference, both sides reached a consensus on the directions and tasks for coordinating the construction of the Vietnam-Laos border for the 2026–2028 period, focusing on several key and practical areas.

A major focus remains the promotion of extensive education and communication to raise awareness among all strata of the population—especially the youth and students of both countries—regarding the long-standing history of the exemplary, loyal, and pure relationship between the two nations. This aims to foster pride and a sense of responsibility in preserving and promoting this special bond.

The Front Committees of nine Vietnamese provinces and ten Lao provinces sharing the border will continue to strengthen coordination in mobilizing citizens to actively participate in economic development, improve material and spiritual living standards, stabilize their lives, and achieve sustainable poverty reduction.

Both sides also emphasized the importance of education, ensuring that all school-aged children receive a full education and preventing school dropouts. Simultaneously, attention will be given to healthcare, creating conditions for residents in border areas to access medical services and timely treatment.

To boost the economy, both sides will continue to encourage and act as a bridge for Vietnamese and Lao businesses to invest in infrastructure, economic zones, and trade centers at border gates and openings, as well as other socio-economic development projects in border regions.

Both sides also agreed to step up the development and promotion of tourism products, effectively exploiting tourism routes between the two countries' border localities. Trade fairs and exhibitions of high-quality Vietnamese and Lao products will be organized annually in populated border areas.

Finally, the delivery of essential and high-quality goods from both countries to border regions to serve the people and ensure community health was identified as a vital and regular mission.

Vneconomy-Như Nguyệt

State President Luong Cuong suggested making science, technology, and innovation a new pillar of cooperation…

Vietnam and the EU have upgraded relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to develop an action plan to effectively implement the Joint Statement in the coming time.

The official upgrade of Vietnam-EU relations was announced during a press briefing on January 29, co-chaired by State President Luong Cuong and European Council President António Costa following their high-level talks in Hanoi.

The European Council President paid an official visit to Vietnam at the invitation of President Cuong from January 28 to 29.

The Vietnamese State leader affirmed that the visit opens a new chapter in Vietnam-EU relations. The decision to upgrade ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects an increasingly high level of political trust and the substantive development of bilateral relations after 35 years of diplomatic ties.

Highly valuing the EU’s role and position as a leading global political, economic, scientific-technological, and cultural hub, the President affirmed that Vietnam always considers the EU one of its top priority partners in its foreign policy. He expressed a desire to develop deep, wide-ranging, and comprehensive relations with the EU while continuously strengthening friendship and cooperation with EU member states.

Informing the European Council President of the key outcomes of the 14th National Party Congress, President Cuong outlined Vietnam’s two "centenary goals": to become a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030, and a developed, high-income country by 2045, when the 100th anniversaries of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam) will be celebrated, respectively.

He affirmed that Vietnam is determined to build a new growth model based on science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and green transition. He identified these as core tasks in the new development phase and areas with significant potential for cooperation with the EU.

On this basis, President Cuong proposed that both sides coordinate closely to implement the Joint Statement on the Vietnam-EU relationship upgrade across six key orientations. These include: strengthening political trust through the exchange of high-level delegations and contacts; effectively implementing existing cooperation mechanisms while expanding new frameworks; and identifying economic cooperation as a vital driver of bilateral ties.

The President suggested making science, technology, and innovation a new pillar of cooperation and promoting respect for international law and multilateralism. He also requested that the EU enhance maritime economic cooperation, support Vietnam in building sustainable fisheries, and soon lift the "yellow card" regarding Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing for Vietnamese seafood.

President Luong Cuong reaffirmed that Vietnam supports the promotion of ASEAN-EU relations and stands ready to serve as a bridge to make these ties more substantive, looking toward the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-EU diplomatic relations in 2027.

For his part, Mr. António Costa affirmed that the EU considers Vietnam a key partner within the ASEAN region and the Indo-Pacific Strategy. He noted that both sides share many similarities, including a respect for international law and support for free trade and freedom of navigation.

According to President Costa, the visit holds historical significance as Vietnam becomes the EU’s first Comprehensive Strategic Partner in ASEAN. This milestone reflects a 35-year journey of cooperation and a shared strategic vision amidst a volatile global landscape.

The European Council President emphasized the vast potential for cooperation in trade, sustainable development, innovation, maritime economy, governance, security, and people-to-people exchanges. He expressed a desire to strengthen collaboration in traditional sectors such as trade-investment, agriculture, and climate change response, while expanding into emerging fields including the green and digital transitions, the Just Energy Transition, infrastructure, and transport connectivity.

During their talks, both sides also agreed to promote cooperation in science, technology, and innovation; effectively implement the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA); and work toward the early ratification of the Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). Furthermore, they committed to maintaining the Vietnam-EU Defense and Security Dialogue mechanism and enhancing cooperation in UN peacekeeping, maritime security, cybersecurity, and crisis management.

Vneconomy-Dũng Hiếu

The expressway is operating beyond its designed capacity, leading to frequent congestion, heightened safety risks, and rising logistics costs.

The Ministry of Construction has approved a plan to study the expansion of the Hanoi–Bac Giang Expressway from six lanes to eight to meet rising transport demand along this key corridor.

Two expansion options are under consideration. The first would widen the section from the National Highway 31 interchange to the end of the expressway, covering a total length of 45.2 km. The second  involves expanding the stretch from the National Highway 31 interchange to the junction with the Hanoi–Thai Nguyen Expressway, with a total length of 39.5 km.

According to the national road network plan for the 2021–2030 period with a vision to 2050, approved by the Prime Minister, the Hanoi–Bac Giang–Lang Son Expressway has a total planned length of 153 km, designed with six lanes. The route comprises three sections: Hanoi–Bac Giang (46 km), Bac Giang–Lang Son (64 km), and Lang Son  - Huu Nghi (43 km).

Currently, the Hanoi–Bac Giang section is operating beyond its designed capacity, leading to frequent congestion, heightened safety risks, and rising logistics costs. The expressway has been in operation since 2016.

VnEconomy-Đan Tiên

Southern An Giang province tasked with implementing 21 projects serving APEC 2027 events, including Phu Quoc International Airport expansion project.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on January 28 inspected key works and projects serving APEC 2027 in the Phu Quoc special zone (Phu Quoc Island) in southern An Giang province.

Visiting the Phu Quoc International Airport expansion project, PM Chinh asked contractors to mobilise additional manpower, equipment and machinery, engage more subcontractors, and organise round-the-clock construction, including during holidays and the Lunar New Year, to speed up progress. At the same time, he stressed that technical and aesthetic standards, quality, safety and environmental hygiene must be strictly ensured.

Inspecting construction works on Provincial Road DT.975, which connects the strategic development corridor with Phu Quoc International Airport, PM Chinh called for faster site clearance and construction progress matching actual ground conditions to ensure the overall project timeline.

On the same day, the PM chaired a working session with relevant ministries, sectors, local authorities, and investors to address difficulties and bottlenecks to accelerate the implementation of APEC-related projects.

He also attended the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Bai Dat Do (Ruby Beach) mixed-use urban area and the Ong Quan Mountain mixed-use eco-tourism and urban area. They are two of the 21 APEC-related projects.

An Giang province has been tasked with implementing 21 projects, including 10 public investment projects and 11 projects under public – private partnership (PPP) and business – investment models. All 10 public investment projects have had investor and contractor selection completed, with disbursement in 2025 exceeding VND2.6 trillion ($98.8 million), equivalent to 64.2% of the plan.

VnEconomy-Minh Kiệt

The country ranking as the second largest footwear exporter worldwide.

Vietnam earned nearly $29 billion from footwear exports in 2025, up 5% year-on-year, according to the Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (Lefaso).

The foreign-invested (FDI) sector remained the main growth driver, contributing $22.82 billion, or 80% of total export value, representing a sharp 17% increase compared to the previous year.

With these results, Vietnam ranked as the world’s third-largest footwear producer and the second-largest exporter.

The United States continued to be Vietnam’s biggest footwear market, importing products worth $11.01 billion. It was followed by the European Union with $6.88 billion, China with $1.78 billion, Japan with $1.61 billion, and the Republic of Korea with $776 million.

The sector now comprises nearly 3,000 enterprises and employs about 1.5 million workers, with an annual production capacity of approximately 1.3–1.4 billion pairs of shoes.

VnEconomy-Song Hà

The move aiming to streamline organizational structure and improve the efficiency of investment and construction management in the transportation sector.

Under a decision of the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, a Management Board for Investment and Construction of Transportation Projects (referred to as the Transportation Board) has been established.

The unit is formed through the merger, consolidation and transfer of functions from several project management boards, with the aim of streamlining organizational structure and improving the efficiency of investment and construction management in the transportation sector.

According to the decision, the board will act as the investor for urban traffic construction projects using budget capital, state capital outside the budget, and other projects assigned by the City People's Committee.

In addition, the unit provides project management services, project management consultancy, construction supervision and may participate in investment through social sources or public–private partnerships (PPP) when eligible.

VnEconomy-Thanh Thủy