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Updated: 27 min 48 sec ago

HCM Ciy sets up management board for transportation projects

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 14:12
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

Spring Fair 2026 to be opened soon

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 10:40
It is expected to feature about 3,000 standard booths, alongside dedicated zones for cuisine, cultural performances, and interactive experiences.

Under the direction of the Prime Minister, the Spring Fair 2026 will officially take place from February 2 to 13, 2026 at the Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) in Hanoi.

Centered on the theme "Connecting Prosperity – Welcoming a Brilliant Spring," this national-level trade promotion event is hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in coordination with various ministries, sectors, localities, and relevant agencies.

Spring Fair 2026 is expected to become a premier early-year trading hub, creating positive momentum for production and business activities. The event aims to stimulate consumer demand, expand distribution networks, boost domestic trade, and spread the traditional spirit of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet).

The Government’s decision to hold the fair immediately on the eve of the Tet holiday demonstrates a strong commitment to maximizing domestic trade—one of the three key pillars of economic growth, alongside exports and investment. The event is designed to stabilize the market, drive growth in the first quarter, and foster a spirit of innovation and international integration.

This year’s fair boasts a massive scale, covering a total exhibition area of approximately 145,000 sq.m, including 10 indoor halls and an outdoor space of over 45,000 sq.m. It is expected to feature about 3,000 standard booths, alongside dedicated zones for cuisine, cultural performances, and interactive experiences.

More than just a venue for product displays and brand introductions, Spring Fair 2026 offers a "Spring Journey across Vietnam." With eight highlight zones that blend commerce, agriculture, industry, and culture, the fair will take visitors on a discovery of the country’s unique cultural and economic regions.

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

Dong Nai to break ground on and technically open five key infrastructure projects

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 10:10
Over the past five months, the southern province has organized four rounds of simultaneous groundbreaking, foundation-laying, technical traffic openings, and inaugurations for more than 30 large-scale projects and works

Dong Nai province in southern Vietnam is set to commence construction, open technical traffic, and kick off five projects with a total investment of nearly VND33 trillion (nearly $1.27 billion) on February 3.

Among them, the Provincial People’s Committee will organize technical traffic openings and groundbreaking ceremonies for four projects funded by the state budget.

Technical traffic opening will be held for two projects: Ring Road 1 (in the province's former Long Khanh city) with an investment of VND1,315 billion (nearly $50.5 million), and Thong Nhat Bridge in Tran Bien Ward with an investment of VND479 billion ($18.36 million).

Groundbreaking for two projects including Cai Riverside Road in Tran Bien Ward with an investment of VND574 billion, and Tin Nghia Primary School in Binh Loc Ward with an investment of VND72 billion.

On the same day, the Provincial People’s Committee, in collaboration with relevant units and localities, will hold a ceremony to launch the High-Tech Livestock Farming Zone project in Thuan Loi Commune (part of former Binh Phuoc province). This is the largest high-tech agricultural investment project ever in Dong Nai, with a total capital of VND30.5 trillion.

Over the past five months, Dong Nai has organized four rounds of simultaneous groundbreaking, foundation-laying, technical traffic openings, and inaugurations for more than 30 large-scale projects and works.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

Potential from forests for green finance

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 10:00
As Vietnam prepares to operate a carbon market by 2029, the potential its forests hold in the green finance space grows in importance.

Forest carbon credits are generated from the volume of carbon reduced or absorbed through projects that prevent deforestation and forest degradation, promote sustainable forest resource management, and conserve or enhance carbon stocks. In Vietnam, forest carbon absorption and storage services were codified in the Law on Forestry 2017, making them one of the five recognized forest environmental services.

The country is now accelerating efforts to finalize the legal framework needed to operate a carbon trading exchange by 2029. This represents an important step towards linking the country’s forest potential with the rapidly-growing global stream of carbon finance, while creating significant space for the development of a domestic forest carbon market.

Path forward

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’s “State of Finance for Forests 2025” report, global capital flowing into forest development projects and nature-based climate solutions doubled during 2020-2024 compared with the previous five-year period. Approximately $23.5 billion a year is being invested in protecting and restoring forests worldwide, up significantly from less than $12 billion annually in the preceding period. This surge underscores why forest carbon credits are increasingly viewed as a promising “green finance channel” within the global carbon market.

Vietnam’s carbon trading exchange is yet to be officially launched, but the country has already achieved an important milestone in successfully selling 10.3 million forest carbon credits internationally through the World Bank at $5 per credit, generating $51.5 million. With its substantial forest area and ongoing sustainable forestry initiatives, this deal is seen as a landmark transaction that helps define Vietnam’s capacity to supply forest carbon credits. It also signals strong prospects for future market activity.

Experts estimate that with 15 million ha of forest, Vietnam could generate $50-100 million annually from forest carbon credits. To develop the market and unlock this potential, Ms. Nghiem Phuong Thuy from the Forestry and Forest Protection Department at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, said the Ministry is building four central policy directions to institutionalize forest carbon absorption and storage services and to establish the foundations for a transparent, effective and sustainable forest carbon market.

The first direction focuses on completing the legal framework for forest carbon absorption and storage services. This framework must also ensure compliance with Vietnam’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), preventing the issuance or sale of credits beyond the country’s emission reductions commitments. In parallel, the government is drafting decrees related to managing the domestic carbon exchange, including provisions for a compliance market, trading mechanisms, and monitoring systems.

The second direction involves building technical frameworks and standards for the forest carbon market. This includes developing a national forest carbon standard that will serve as a foundation for project registration and validation under a unified domestic system, rather than relying entirely on international standards. Pilot projects aligned with the national standard during the carbon market’s trial phase (ending in 2028) will help refine measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) methods and test their applicability, providing a basis for future expansion.

Ms. Thuy stressed that allocating NDC quotas to individual projects will be crucial to avoid overselling beyond national commitments, and Vietnam will also need a national registry system for carbon quotas and credits to issue, track, and store credits before they are traded.

The third direction centers on mobilizing resources. Alongside international financing and private sector investment, Vietnam is working to effectively channel funding from local budgets and national programs to support forest carbon initiatives.

The fourth direction emphasizes communication, training, and capacity building. “Developing a forest carbon market is a new endeavor that requires consistent understanding across government agencies, local authorities, forest owners, businesses and civil society organizations,” Ms. Thuy said. Training in carbon market mechanisms, technical standards, MRV methodologies, credit trading, and risk management will help ensure that all participants can operate projects efficiently and transparently.

Role of financial institutions

To build a viable forest carbon market, experts recommend that Vietnam strengthen its institutional and legal frameworks, diversify financial resources, and expand access to carbon finance and blended finance models. They also highlight the importance of international cooperation and proactive engagement with global funding programs.

At the same time, simplifying administrative procedures and improving implementation guidelines will be essential to attract investment and enhance stakeholder readiness. Financial institutions are also expected to play an increasingly critical role in scaling both forest carbon projects and the broader market.

According to Ms. Tran Hong Nhung from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, limited State budget capacity and constraints in domestic enterprises mean commercial banks, insurance companies, investment funds, guarantee funds, and local financial mechanisms will become key providers of capital, technical assistance, and confidence building for green forestry projects. “These institutions not only provide credit but also offer flexible and diversified financial mechanisms, from loan guarantees to equity investment and public-private partnerships - helping businesses leverage capital more effectively to implement forest carbon projects,” Ms. Nhung said.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often face procedural barriers and high collateral requirements, could benefit significantly from financial products tailored to reduce administrative burdens and offer more flexible terms. Financial institutions can also support project preparation, risk assessment and documentation, enabling enterprises to meet MRV requirements and secure project verification; an essential step before credits can be commercialized.

Regarding the potential role of financial institutions, Ms. Nhung outlined three principal functions. First, they can supply capital, both directly or indirectly, for carbon project implementation, forest management and protection, reforestation, and investment in technical MRV infrastructure. Second, they can provide advisory support and develop specialized financial instruments such as green loans, carbon bonds, credit guarantees, and profit-sharing models. And third, financial institutions also play a vital role in helping businesses connect with international standards and markets, ensuring higher value and more tradable carbon credits.

With Vietnam’s net-zero commitments to 2050, rich biodiversity, and the significant potential of its forest carbon market, the opportunities to mobilize resources for forest carbon services are substantial. However, experts emphasize that turning this potential into reality will require collective action from all levels of government, development partners, researchers and the private sector to create additional value for forests and effectively mobilize resources for conservation and sustainable forestry development.

VET-Bao Tram

Vietnam unveils first-ever locally owned chip packaging and testing facility

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 09:58
As the first facility of its kind to be owned and operated by a Vietnamese entity, this factory plays a crucial role in completing the national semiconductor ecosystem.

FPT Group officially announced the establishment of an advanced semiconductor testing and packaging factory on January 28. 

As the first facility of its kind to be owned and operated by a Vietnamese entity, this factory plays a crucial role in completing the national semiconductor ecosystem. It covers the full industrial spectrum—from research, design, and manufacturing to training, testing, packaging, and commercialization—marking a significant milestone in Vietnam's journey toward global supply chain integration.

During its first phase (2026–2027), the facility will be located in the Yen Phong II-C Industrial Park, Bac Ninh Province. Spanning 1,600 sq.m, the plant features six functional test lines equipped with ATE (Automated Test Equipment) testers and handlers. Additionally, it houses a dedicated zone for reliability and durability testing, including specialized Burn-in systems, Reliability Test systems, and Failure Analysis (FA) Test systems.

All equipment and processes strictly adhere to international quality management standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and IATF 16949. Furthermore, the facility complies with specialized semiconductor technical standards such as JEDEC, AEC-Q100, and AEC-Q101, ensuring the highest levels of quality, stability, and reliability throughout the entire product lifecycle.

In phase 2 (2028–2030), the factory’s footprint is expected to expand to approximately 6,000 sq.m. During this stage, FPT plans to invest in 18 additional functional testing lines and three new reliability and durability testing areas. The expansion will also see the introduction of traditional packaging lines (such as QFN, QFP, and DFN), Chip Scale Package (CSP) and Wafer Level Package (WLP) lines, as well as advanced IC packaging solutions. These strategic upgrades are projected to scale the factory’s annual production capacity to billions of units.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui Hoang Phuong emphasized that "Vietnam possesses a strong advantage in human resources, attracting numerous chip design firms to invest and employ local engineers, which in turn creates a foundation for the rise of domestic design companies. In the global supply chain, Vietnam is playing an increasingly vital role in the packaging and testing stages; however, these operations remain largely foreign-owned."

"FPT’s investment in this advanced testing and packaging factory demonstrates a commitment through a concrete project, contributing to the realization of the ambition to bring Vietnamese intelligence to the world and establish a more prominent footprint for Vietnam on the global semiconductor map,” said Mr. Phuong.

Mr. Truong Gia Binh, Chairman of FPT Corporation, stated: "To make the country prosperous, there is no other way than mastering chip technology." The Advanced Semiconductor Chip Testing and Packaging Plant by FPT is expected to become a leading testing and packaging unit in the region. In phase 1 (2026–2027), the plant is located in Yen Phong II-C Industrial Park, Bac Ninh province, with an area of 1,600 m2, featuring 6 functional testing lines (ATE tester handler) and an area with multiple specialized reliability and durability testing systems (Burn-in system, Reliability Test system, Failure Analysis Test system).

FPT chairman, Truong Gia Binh, asserted: “To become a wealthy and powerful nation, there is no other path than mastering chip technology.”

According to Mr. Binh, when considering the Vietnamese diaspora globally, Vietnam possesses a significant competitive advantage in the semiconductor industry.

“Our greatest challenge is to connect these resources and build our own ecosystem. With today’s event, we have taken a major step toward closing the loop of Vietnam's semiconductor ecosystem,” he said.

“We will collaborate closely with Viettel and other domestic partners: wherever production happens, FPT will provide the packaging and testing services, ensuring that Vietnamese-engineered chips can soon be integrated into daily life,” Mr. Binh said.

Vneconomy-Hoàng Anh

Thai Nguyen says no to investment projects posing major environmental threats

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 07:00
The province will resolutely refuse or cease the attraction of projects with high pollution risks or those belonging to sectors categorized by the Government as having a high potential for environmental degradation.

Thai Nguyen province in northern Vietnam prioritizes attracting projects that utilize advanced, modern, and high technologies with low emissions and environmental friendliness, while resolutely refusing or halting those with high pollution risks.

This is the key content of the Document No. 617/UBND-CNNXD newly-signed by Permanent Vice Chairman of the Thai Nguyen Provincial People's Committee, Mr. Bui Van Luong, to strengthen State management of environmental protection within industrial parks and industrial clusters across the province.

Driven by the requirements for sustainable development and the need to balance economic growth with environmental preservation, and in accordance with the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection (amended in 2025), the Provincial People's Committee has directed provincial departments, agencies, local authorities, and relevant units to focus on the serious and effective implementation of several key directives.

Specifically, based on their legal functions and mandates, provincial agencies are tasked with appraising and attracting secondary investment projects that strictly align with sectoral planning and approved establishment or expansion decisions for industrial parks and clusters.

The People's Committee's directive places a strong emphasis on prioritizing projects that utilize advanced, modern, and high-tech solutions, as well as those characterized by low emissions, fossil fuel efficiency, and environmental friendliness. Conversely, the province will resolutely refuse or cease the attraction of projects with high pollution risks or those belonging to sectors categorized by the Government as having a high potential for environmental degradation.

Notably, the appraisal of production and waste treatment technologies must be conducted rigorously and effectively to ensure that pollution prevention is prioritized right from the initial investment attraction phase.

The provincial departments of Industry and Trade, Construction, and Agriculture and Environment, acting on their mandates and Decision No. 13/2024/QD-TTg of the Prime Minister, to review and guide facilities subject to greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories within industrial zones to develop and implement emission reduction plans. At the same time, these departments are instructed to strengthen inspections and supervision to ensure compliance with these regulations.

Vneconomy-Nhĩ Anh

Vietnam, UK bolster cooperation in digital healthcare transformation

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 06:30
Both nations are facing familiar challenges: an aging population, rising healthcare demands, workforce pressures, and the urgent need to shift from a curative to a preventative model of care.

Representatives from the Vietnamese Ministry of Health and   the British Government recently attended a workshop on UK-Vietnam digital health transformation, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation in digitalizing and modernizing healthcare systems.

The event brought together over 25 leading experts from the UK Department of Health and Social Care, the National Health Service (NHS), HealthcareUK, Invest Northern Ireland, Liverpool City Council, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Moorfields Eye Hospital, the University of Liverpool’s Public Health Innovation Lab, the University of Nottingham, Modality Partnership, alongside seven leading UK health-tech enterprises.

With the participation of more than 250 delegates, including policymakers, specialists, physicians, researchers, and business leaders from across Vietnam, the workshop served as a major forum for both sides to exchange expertise on health system digitalization, medical data interoperability and governance, as well as the application of digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.

The event is a focal activity within the framework of the Vietnam-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while simultaneously supporting Ho Chi Minh City’s ambition to become a regional healthcare hub for ASEAN.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ms. Alexandra Smith, British Consul General in HCM City, highlighted that the UK and Vietnam are long-standing partners in the health sector. Their collaboration spans public health surveillance and prevention, medical training, clinical research, pharmaceuticals, digital health, and health system capacity building.

Both nations are facing familiar challenges: an aging population, rising healthcare demands, workforce pressures, and the urgent need to shift from a curative to a preventative model of care.

According to Ms. Smith, while digital health is not a “silver bullet,” it remains one of the most powerful tools available to address these challenges if designed and implemented correctly. She emphasized that digital health transformation is not merely a story of technology, but fundamentally about people, systems, and long-term partnerships.

Vneconomy-Phúc Minh

Thanh Hoa, Sumitomo deepen investment cooperation

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 17:25
In Vietnam, the group has a history of nearly 70 years, investing in critical sectors such as industrial park development, urban infrastructure, energy, logistics, and real estate.

Thanh Hoa Province will continue to accompany Sumitomo Group to promote and expand cooperation in the near future, leveraging local advantages to attract more Japanese investors and other potential partners.

This strategic collaboration aims at sustainable development, enhanced industrial linkages, and elevating Thanh Hoa’s standing in attracting Japanese capital, thereby contributing to the consolidation of the Vietnam-Japan friendship.

Secretary of the Thanh Hoa Provincial Party Committee, Nguyen Doan Anh, affirmed these goals during a recent working session with Mr. Shigeo Fukuda, a representative of Sumitomo Group.

Established in 1919, Sumitomo is one of Japan's leading multi-sector trading and investment giants, with a global footprint of 131 offices across 66 countries. In Vietnam, the group has a history of nearly 70 years, investing in critical sectors such as industrial park development, urban infrastructure, energy, logistics, and real estate.

In Thanh Hoa, Sumitomo is currently implementing Phase 1 of the  Thang Long Thanh Hoa Industrial Park (IP) infrastructure project, located within the Western Thanh Hoa IP zone. The project is invested by Thang Long Thanh Hoa Industrial Park Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Sumitomo Group.

The project covers 167 ha, including 51 ha in Dong Quang Ward and 116 ha in Dong Tien Commune. It has a total registered investment capital of VND2.917 trillion (over $111 million).

According to the investor, basic procedures have been completed, and the project is currently in the final stages of basic design. Sumitomo Group plans to hold the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Thang Long Thanh Hoa Industrial Park on March 11, 2026.

During the meeting, Mr. Shigeo Fukuda expressed his hope that Mr. Anh and provincial leaders would continue to provide support during the project's implementation. He emphasized that the industrial park aims to create jobs for local workers and make significant contributions to the province’s economic growth in the coming years.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Vietnam-Singapore trade hits record high as seafood exports leap forward

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 16:55
After overtaking China in the first quarter of 2025 to claim the 4th spot, Vietnam officially secured its 3rd place position by the end of the year.

According to data from Enterprise Singapore, bilateral trade relations between Vietnam and Singapore in 2025 witnessed a remarkable resurgence. Total import-export turnover between the two countries reached nearly SGD40 billion (nearly $32 billion), a 26.2% increase compared to 2024, officially shattering the previous record of SGD31.67 billion ($25 billion).

Notably, the growth rate of Singapore's imports from Vietnam significantly outpaced the reverse flow. While Singapore’s exports to Vietnam rose by 16.1% (reaching 26.8 billion SGD), imports from Vietnam to Singapore surged by 53.2% to hit 13.1 billion SGD. This performance firmly secured Vietnam's position as Singapore's 10th largest trading partner.

When considering only goods of domestic origin (excluding re-exports), Vietnam recorded a trade surplus of over 5.8 billion SGD with Singapore. This achievement is the result of persistent efforts in implementing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and continuous trade promotion activities over many years.

The most impressive highlight of the 2025 export landscape was the spectacular rise of the seafood industry. Vaulting from 6th place in previous years, Vietnamese seafood made a "quantum leap" to become Singapore's third-largest supplier, trailing only Malaysia and Indonesia.

With a total export value of 125.5 million SGD in 2025, a 10.7% year-on-year increase, Vietnam now holds a 10.3% share of Singapore’s total seafood import market. After overtaking China in the first quarter of 2025 to claim the 4th spot, Vietnam officially secured its 3rd place position by the end of the year.

The key products driving Vietnam's dominance in this market are fish fillets and chilled/frozen fish meat. Export turnover for this group reached 63 million SGD, up 4.8%, accounting for 29.7% of the market share in Singapore and maintaining absolute dominance. Furthermore, other categories recorded stellar growth: mollusks surged by 35.8%, while crustaceans rose by 25.4%.

Vneconomy-Song Hà

UK, HCMC deepen cooperation on digital health transformation

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 16:18
Two memoranda of understanding signed mark tangible progress in bilateral health cooperation.

Two memoranda of understanding (MOUs) were signed between Ho Chi Minh City and the UK bodies during the the UK–Vietnam Digital Health Transformation Conference, held in the city on January 27, marking tangible progress in bilateral health cooperation.

The first MOU, signed between The Phoenix Partnership (TPP) and the Vietnam Medical Informatics Association, focuses on cooperation in the development and implementation of electronic medical records (EMR) in Vietnam for the 2026–2031 period.

The second MOU was signed between the Civic Health Innovation Labs at the University of Liverpool and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at HCM City, aiming to strengthen cooperation in scientific research, knowledge exchange, and medical training. This collaboration is also one of the flagship healthcare initiatives under the Liverpool–Ho Chi Minh City City-to-City partnership.

Speaking to VnEconomy/Vietnam Economic Times, Professor Iain Buchan, Vice-Chancellor for Innovation and Director of the Human Health Innovation Lab at the University of Liverpool, outlined the vision for collaboration between the University of Liverpool and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at HCM City.

According to Professor Buchan, the partnership aims to develop AI solutions that genuinely serve people’s healthcare needs by connecting data, data scientists, AI engineers, healthcare professionals, and the communities that generate and use health data. He stressed that AI must function in everyday life, not only in clinical settings.

Citing the UK’s experience, Professor Buchan noted that between one-third and one-half of medicines prescribed by the National Health Service are not used as intended, highlighting gaps in understanding real-world patient behaviour. He emphasised the need for AI systems that can interact with people in their daily lives to better capture what happens beyond the clinic.

He also underlined the importance of transforming medical education. “The two universitiesaim to train a new generation of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists who will work alongside AI as part of integrated care teams,” he said. This requires updated training models and clinicians who are not only users of AI, but also contributors to its development, with knowledge spanning data science, AI, medicine, and pharmacy.

Professor Buchan highlighted Vietnam’s strong potential, noting progress in primary healthcare development and the move toward more connected health systems in an AI-enabled data environment. However, he stressed that future training should focus not only on adopting technology but also on shaping and governing it.

Addressing the challenge of population ageing, he observed that both countries face increasing care complexity as people live longer with multiple conditions. This challenge extends beyond healthcare to social care and community-based support. He called for new care models that operate outside traditional clinical settings and emphasised the role of “civic health innovation,” which integrates healthcare, communities, and shared information.

Vneconomy-Nhu Quynh

Hanoi shapes a multi-polar urban model with a 100-year master plan

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 14:25
The plan identifies a "multi-polar, multi-center, multi-layered, and multi-tiered" urban development model as the core solution to alleviate overcrowding in the city center.

The Hanoi People’s Council officially approved a Resolution on the Capital’s Master Plan during its 31st session on January 27, establishing a strategic 100-year vision for the city’s development.

The plan identifies a "multi-polar, multi-center, multi-layered, and multi-tiered" urban development model as the core solution to alleviate overcrowding in the city center. This model aims to ensure the rational distribution of population, infrastructure, and socio-economic activities while creating a sustainable development space for the long term.

A central pillar of the Master Plan is the establishment of nine growth poles, which will serve as the primary drivers for the Capital’s spatial and economic transformation: the Central Urban Area (right bank of the Red River); the Northern Pole (Dong Anh – Me Linh – Sóc Son); the Eastern Pole (Gia Lam – Long Bien); the Southern Pole – Central Urban (Thuong Tin – Phu Xuyen); the Southern Van Dinh – Dai Nghia Pole; the Southwestern Pole (Xuan Mai – Chuong My); the Western Pole (Hoa Lac); the Northwestern Pole (Son Tay – Ba Vi); and the Red River Pole.

In parallel with the growth poles, the Master Plan establishes nine major urban centers based on their scale, characteristics, and competitive advantages.

These centers include: the Southern Red River Urban Center; the Northern Red River Urban Center; the Eastern Urban Center; the Olympic Urban Center; the Phu Xuyen Urban Center; the Van Dinh – Dai Nghia Urban Center; the Xuan Mai Urban Center; the Hoa Lac Urban Center; and the Son Tay Urban Center.

Each center is assigned distinct functions—ranging from political-administrative and economic activities to logistics, science, technology, education, healthcare, culture, tourism, and ecology—to form a balanced and mutually supportive development network.

Regarding dynamic development axes, the plan establishes nine spatial axes and economic-urban corridors following major traffic arteries. Notably, the Nhat Tan – Noi Bai / Bac Thang Long – Noi Bai axis will serve as the backbone for the development of the northern gateway urban area, utilizing an "Airport City" model.

The West Lake – Co Loa – Gia Binh Airport axis will connect the city center with the new northeastern economic region, driving the development of creative, financial, and high-tech urban zones. Meanwhile, the National Highway 5 / Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway axis is designated as a smart service, commercial, and logistics corridor connecting the Capital to the sea.

Other key corridors, including National Highway 1A / Phap Van – Cau Gie, National Highway 21B – 21C, National Highway 6, Thang Long – Ba Vi Boulevard, National Highway 32 – Tay Thang Long, and the Red River Landscape Boulevard, will play vital roles in spatial connectivity, fostering economic, cultural, and tourism growth while forming sustainable development corridors.

The Resolution also sets out a system of specific development indicators to serve as a foundation for the long-term implementation of the Master Plan.

Regarding land use,  by 2045, urban construction land will account for approximately 45–50% of the total natural land area. This figure is projected to reach 55–60% by 2065 and may increase to a maximum of 70% by 2100, depending on the context and practical requirements.

Hanoi’s population is projected to reach 15–16 million by 2045 and 17–19 million by 2065. By 2100, the population is expected to stabilize at under 20 million to remain consistent with land-use standards and alleviate urban pressure.

Vneconomy-Minh Hiếu

Vietnam needs $700 bln for green transition by 2050

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 14:10
This enormous demand necessitates the diversification of capital mobilization channels, with a particular emphasis on increasing private sector participation, developing capital markets, and ensuring the efficient allocation of financial resources.

A new interdisciplinary cooperation initiative aimed at promoting sustainable finance and supporting Vietnam's green transition roadmap was officially launched in Hanoi on January 27.

The project, titled “Shifting Investment Towards Green Transformation” (SHIFT), is being implemented through a partnership between Vietnamese government agencies and six domestic and international organizations. The initiative underscores a collective commitment to accelerating green investment and finance in support of Vietnam’s energy transition.

SHIFT is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the Federal Republic of Germany and is funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV).

As a collaborative effort, SHIFT aims to promote the deployment of green and climate-friendly technologies and solutions, contributing to Vietnam's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The project focuses on capacity building and knowledge enhancement for both public and private sector stakeholders, particularly in the fields of green finance and energy transition.

Speaking at the launch, Ms. Pham Thi Thanh Tung, Deputy Director  of the Department of Credit for Economic Sectors under the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), highlighted the massive scale of the challenge. Vietnam’s capital requirement for its green transition is estimated to be between $670 billion and $700 billion.

This enormous demand necessitates the diversification of capital mobilization channels, with a particular emphasis on increasing private sector participation, developing capital markets, and ensuring the efficient allocation of financial resources.

Ms. Tung also stressed the importance of further enhancing the banking system's capacity to implement green finance through synchronized coordination and support from relevant agencies and organizations.

To meet these requirements, she emphasized that the SHIFT Project will contribute to the effective mobilization of medium and long-term capital for the nation’s green transition goals in general, and supports the banking system in enhancing capacity and developing green credit products in particular.

The SBV and participating commercial banks will focus on the effective implementation of technical assistance activities. These efforts aim to strengthen policy-making and green credit execution, develop green financial and credit products, and gradually implement climate-related financial disclosures in accordance with international practices, specifically the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

In tandem, the SBV will collaborate closely with the Ministry of Finance and relevant agencies to research and propose sustainable financial instruments, such as green bonds, sustainable bonds, and financial products linked to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices. This will expand medium and long-term capital mobilization channels to effectively serve the country’s green transition objectives, in alignment with global green finance trends.

According to a representative from the Ministry of Finance, the launch of the SHIFT project serves as a "policy push," helping to foster an enabling environment for green investment, green finance, and energy transition in Vietnam. It also acts as a platform for policy and technical cooperation, helping Vietnam gradually align with international practices and global standards regarding green finance, carbon markets, and sustainable investment.

“Promoting green finance and clean energy is a complex journey that requires a synchronized policy framework, financial capacity, and specialized technical expertise. By combining the strengths of all parties, SHIFT will drive substantive cooperation and create a ripple effect in support of Vietnam’s development and climate goals,” said Ms. Alexandra Westwood, Attaché for Economic Affairs and Development Cooperation at the German Embassy  in Hanoi.

Vneconomy-Hoàng Anh

Construction of a new energy battery plant in Hue starts

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 11:10
The BYD battery manufacturing plant project has a total investment of $130 million.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the BYD battery manufacturing plant in central Vietnam’s Hue city was held on January 27.

The new energy battery plant, with a total investment capital of $130 million,  is built at KIM LONG MOTOR Automotive Manufacturing and Assembly Industrial Park in the central city.

China’s BYD will provide its new plant in Hue with comprehensive technical and technological support and transfer.

The plant will produce battery lines for trucks, buses, minivans, minibuses, and other vehicles for the Vietnamese market, and for export to other countries.

KIM LONG MOTOR will apply modern battery technology from BYD Group for its 34-seat EV sleeper bus model. This is the first new-energy interprovincial sleeper bus serving the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian markets, marking an important breakthrough in promoting the development of green and sustainable transportation in the central region and in Vietnam as a whole.

In the first phase, a  4.4-hectare roofed factory area is designed to become one of the leading electric vehicle battery manufacturing plants, with a capacity of 3 GWh per year and high technology—not only in Vietnam but also across Asia.

In the second phase, Kim Long MOTOR will develop battery lines for passenger cars, with a roofed factory area of 10 hectares, raising the total capacity to 6 GWh per year.

Once completed and put into operation, the BYD battery manufacturing plant will help the company realize its goal of achieving a localization rate of over 80% by the second quarter of 2026, and gradually form a regional-scale battery and electric vehicle manufacturing hub, according to Mr. Dao Viet Anh, General Director of KIM LONG MOTOR.

vneconomy-Nguyen Thuan

Hanoi’s ambitious plan for metro line projects

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 10:30
Hanoi has grand plans to extend it metro line network and create new growth poles around the capital.

Hanoi has completed a comprehensive master plan for its urban railway network over recent years, outlining clear implementation phases. Vietnam’s capital aims to complete 96.8 km of Metro Lines 2, 3.1, and 5 by 2030, while preparing investment for another 301 km spanning Metro Line 1, the extended Metro Line 2A, and Metro Lines 4, 6, 7, and 8, as well as the Son Tay - Hoa Lac - Xuan Mai corridor. Between 2030 and 2035, it expects to complete an additional 301 km, followed by 200.7 km in the 2036-2045 period. If achieved as planned, the city will ultimately operate more than 619 km of urban rail.

Modest progress

In practice, progress has been far more modest to date. Hanoi has so far brought only two segments into commercial operation with a combined length of 21.5 km: Metro Line 2A, Cat Linh - Ha Dong, and the elevated portion of Metro Line 3.1, Nhon - Hanoi Station. Together, they account for just 3.5 per cent of the planned network.

At the construction site of the Nhon - Hanoi Station line, the TBM1 tunneling machine completed its passage through four underground stations on December 1, 2025. The Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board hailed the milestone as a “significant turning point for the project,” crediting the achievement to close coordination between contractors. Representatives from the contractor consortium said the complex geological conditions in Hanoi’s inner districts required strict adherence to safety standards.

Yet when placed against the nearly 620-km target, what has been completed remains only a fraction, underscoring the sizeable gap between ambition and reality. That gap carries heavy implications for resource allocation, project management, and the choice of financing models suitable for a system of such scale and complexity.

Hanoi’s renewed push to expand its urban rail network signals not only momentum towards a high-capacity public transport backbone but also a rising set of demands involving capital, planning, and execution. These pressures are magnified by the city’s long-term vision: a multi-center urban structure linking the core districts with satellite towns and unlocking new corridors of economic growth.

New pressures

The most immediate challenge is the sheer volume of financial resources required. According to Mr. Le Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Finance, more than 400 km of urban rail, including 100 km of underground sections, must be completed before 2035. The estimated investment stands at $53 billion, or roughly VND1,400 trillion.

Between 2026 and 2030 alone, the city needs $12 billion, equivalent to about VND500 trillion. “In 2025, Hanoi’s State budget revenue is estimated at VND517 trillion ($19.88 billion), with the city retaining just over VND100 trillion ($3.84 billion),” Mr. Hieu noted. “Comparing these figures shows that relying solely on public investment would create a substantial shortfall. Hanoi needs a different structure and different sources of capital to meet its project timelines.”

Capital is not the only constraint. Ensuring consistency across layers of planning is now more critical than ever. As metro lines extend outwards, the alignment of routes, station locations, technical corridors, and emerging development poles will determine how effectively Hanoi can implement Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Experts warn that if these components are not aligned and advanced in parallel, preparation phases could drag on and overall costs could climb due to repeated adjustments.

Execution capacity is an equally pressing issue. The involvement of numerous municipal departments and international consultants requires a unified coordination mechanism to keep procedures and timelines on track. The establishment of dedicated coordination units is a meaningful step, but effectiveness will depend on standardized workflows, particularly regarding land clearance, technical appraisals, and land value capture strategies.

Land availability and social infrastructure preparation also play a foundational role. Lines extending from the city center to suburban districts require substantial land for depots, underground and elevated stations, and resettlement sites. Without early and proactive preparation, projects risk delays. The technical complexity of urban rail, especially when tunneling through dense existing neighborhoods, demands thorough site readiness and risk forecasting.

Most importantly, Hanoi faces rising expectations regarding technological readiness and operational capacity. The adoption of advanced methods such as tunnel boring machines requires a highly-skilled workforce and rigorous oversight. As more complex phases commence, ensuring quality and safety will be inseparable from maintaining project momentum.

New urban landscape

As Hanoi works towards completing hundreds of kilometers of metro lines over the next three decades, its ambitions extend beyond higher public transport capacity: it is also preparing for a fundamental shift in its development model.

Each metro line, each station, and each depot will function as a new nucleus in the city’s spatial structure, supporting a transition toward multi-center development and reducing long-standing pressure on the urban core. These transit nodes will create fresh growth areas and help expand the city’s footprint in a more balanced manner.

Planned investments in 2025-2030 reflect a decisive shift towards suburban districts, which offer greater land availability and are better suited for modern TOD. Once connected by a full metro network, they could evolve into dynamic growth poles with flexible, well-linked spatial structures.

Such a transformation brings new demands in urban management. As metro lines become the backbone of mobility, clusters of commercial activity, services, and employment are expected to form around major stations. This could give rise to semi self-contained urban districts and reduce cross-city travel demand, easing pressure on already congested roads. A well-executed “city within a city” model could help Hanoi distribute growth more evenly.

Simultaneously, the city is strengthening its multi-center planning approach and positioning TOD as a key investment strategy. This was underscored by Standing Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Duong Duc Tuan in recent meetings with international partners, where he emphasized that cooperation must deliver “substantive progress and contribute directly to Hanoi’s transport infrastructure goals.” Ensuring adequate resettlement land and social infrastructure is therefore vital for creating vibrant, integrated living-working-service environments that attract infrastructure, technology, and real estate investors.

At a broader level, new metro lines will reshape real estate dynamics, employment patterns, and Hanoi’s overall growth model. International experience, including that of Seoul, South Korea, reinforce this trend.

According to Mr. Eun Lee from the Asian Development Bank, major cities have successfully captured part of the land value uplift generated by station area redevelopment, helping fund metro projects and catalyze new urban centers. As Hanoi advances its network, shifts in land value, capital flows, and socio-economic activity will require close monitoring to ensure balanced benefits and long-term sustainability.

In this complex interplay of infrastructure, planning, and development, the metro network is not merely a transport system; it is an instrument for reorganizing urban space - the foundation upon which Hanoi’s next chapter will be built.

VET-Huynh Dung

Vietnam Economic Times January 26, 2026

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 10:00
Vietnam Economic Times Issue 441 | Monday, January 26, 2026

Dear readers,

Since its 4th National Congress in 1976, after national unification, and under its Charter, the Communist Party of Vietnam has held its National Congress once every five years. The 14th National Party Congress took place from January 19-23, 2026, with the participation of 1,586 delegates representing more than 5.6 million Party members.

A new Party Central Committee (PCC), comprising 180 official members and 20 alternate members, was elected. The 14th PCC, during its first plenum on January 23, elected a 19-member Politburo - the most powerful body of the Party - then elected Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the 13th PCC and Member of the 14th Politburo, as General Secretary of the 14th PCC. Meanwhile three members of the 14th PCC were elected as new members of the PCC’s Secretariat, which consists of 13 members, including Party General Secretary To Lam and nine other Politburo members assigned by the Politburo as members of the Secretariat.

The Congress unanimously adopted its Resolution, reaffirming core assessments of the implementation of the 13th Congress Resolution, the review of key theoretical and practical issues arising from 40 years of socialist-oriented renewal in Vietnam, and the 15-year enforcement of the Party Charter (2011-2025), as presented in documents submitted to the Congress by the 13th PCC.

Looking ahead, the Resolution sets out a vision centered on firmly maintaining peace and stability; pursuing rapid and sustainable development while safeguarding national defense; comprehensively improving people's living standards; strengthening strategic autonomy and self-resilience and confidence; and resolutely advancing into a new era of national development. It targets Vietnam becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle incomes by 2030 and a high-income developed nation by 2045.

Key targets for the 2026-2030 period include average annual GDP growth of at least 10 per cent; GDP per capita of $8,500 by 2030; manufacturing and processing to account for roughly 28 per cent of GDP; the digital economy to contribute around 30 per cent of GDP; Total Factor Productivity to exceed 55 per cent of growth; annual workplace productivity growth of about 8.5 per cent; total asset accumulation of 35-36 per cent of GDP; average total social investment of around 40 per cent of GDP; social objectives to feature an HDI of approximately 0.8; average life expectancy to reach around 75.5 years, including at least 68 healthy years; 35-40 per cent of the workforce holding qualifications or certificates; and a sustained annual reduction of 1-1.5 percentage points in the multidimensional poverty rate. Vietnam also aims to rank among the world’s Top 40 countries in the happiness index.

The 14th National Party Congress was of great importance as it opened up a new era of national development - “The era of the nation’s rise”.

Speaking at an international press conference announcing the results of the 14th National Party Congress on the afternoon of January 23, Party General Secretary To Lam stressed that the Congress was held at a particularly pivotal and historical moment, in a new context that calls for a fresh vision - one that extends beyond the 14th term (2026-2031) towards 2045. “Vietnam’s development needs in this phase require fast, efficient, and proactive progress, making it necessary to build an appropriate development model,” the Party leader said. “Economically, Vietnam must adopt a model capable of delivering double-digit growth.”

Our Cover Story in this edition looks at the work ahead as Vietnam aims to post double-digit growth in 2026 and subsequent years in an ever-changing world, with recognition that a new growth driver is critical.

Warmest regards

Dr. CHU VAN LAM
CHAIRMAN OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD

-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy

Vietnam-Japan food cooperation promoted

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 08:10
According to Mr. Haruhiko Ozasa, chief representative of JETRO Hanoi, while "Wagyu" and "Matcha" are particularly famous, Japanese cuisine is far more diverse than just these well-known items.

To expand business cooperation opportunities between Vietnamese and Japanese enterprises in the food industry and to bring Japanese cuisine closer to Vietnamese consumers, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Hanoi recently collaborated with Lotus Group JSC to organize a Japanese food promotion program in Hanoi.

The event garnered significant attention with the participation of Japanese Chef Ariga. With over 30 years of experience, Chef Ariga is renowned for laying the foundation for and continuously elevating the quality of Japanese cuisine in Vietnam over the years.

During the event, Chef Ariga personally prepared and introduced six dishes using traditional ingredients imported from Japan. These included Hokkaido cheese, Ise lobster, sudachi Buri (yellowtail) from Tokushima Prefecture, Awaodori chicken, somen noodles, matcha, and a dessert featuring Japanese chestnuts.

Notably, Chef Ariga also introduced state-of-the-art technologies, such as advanced seafood freezing processes. These innovations ensure that products transported from Japan reach Vietnamese consumers while maintaining their peak freshness and quality.

Through each dish, diners experienced more than just flavor; they felt the Japanese culinary philosophy, which emphasizes sophistication, balance, and a profound respect for the natural quality of ingredients.

Mr. Haruhiko OZASA, chief representative of JETRO Hanoi, noted that as Vietnam's economy develops, Japanese food products are becoming increasingly popular in the Vietnamese market. According to him, while "Wagyu" and "Matcha" are particularly famous, Japanese cuisine is far more diverse than just these well-known items.

Although specific future plans have not yet been finalized, Mr. OZASA affirmed that JETRO will continue its efforts to expand and maintain similar promotional activities in Vietnam to further strengthen the presence of Japanese food in the market.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Ministry reviews HCMC-Ca Mau railway investment proposal

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 07:36
The route will pass through Ho Chi Minh City and 5 Mekong Delta localities, namely Dong Thap, Vinh Long, Can Tho, An Giang, and Ca Mau.

The Ministry of Construction is currently reviewing and appraising an investment proposal for a high-speed railway connecting Ho Chi Minh City with the southernmost province of Ca Mau. 

According to the proposal submitted by CT Group, the Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho – Ca Mau railway is planned as a double-track, electrified line using a standard gauge of 1,435 mm. The proposed design speed is 200–250 km/h, with further research being conducted into a 300–350 km/h variant.

The developer maintains that a speed of 200–250 km/h is optimal for the efficient transport of both passengers and freight along this vital regional corridor.

The railway is expected to start at Thu Thiem Station (HCMC), where it will connect with the projected North-South high-speed railway, and terminate at Dat Mui Station (Ca Mau). The route will pass through Ho Chi Minh City and 5 Mekong Delta localities, including Dong Thap, Vinh Long, Can Tho, An Giang, and Ca Mau.

Thu Thiem Station itself is designated to serve as a major intermodal hub for three major projected rail lines: the North-South high-speed railway, the Thu Thiem – Long Thanh railway, and Phase 2 of Metro Line No. 2 (Ben Thanh – Thu Thiem).

The Ministry of Construction noted that this is a newly constructed national railway project characterized by its massive scale and total investment. The project is divided into two main segments with specific implementation phases.

Currently, the Ministry has assigned the My Thuan Project Management Board to prepare the pre-feasibility study report. Initial research indicates that the total investment required for the entire line is substantial, necessitating the mobilization of resources from multiple sectors.

Regarding site clearance, approximately VND45.675 trillion (approx. $1.74 billion) is estimated to be required for compensation, support, and resettlement. 

The Ministry of Construction stated it is ready to coordinate with investors to clarify technical specifications and financial frameworks.

By 2030, Vietnam aims to develop 11 new railway lines, increasing the total national network length to approximately 3,207 km.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

Vietnam reports no Nipah virus cases to date

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 07:00
The Ministry of Health affirmed that it will continue to closely monitor the epidemic situation and coordinate with the World Health Organization (WHO) and foreign countries to provide timely guidance on appropriate and effective prevention measures.

As of January 26, Vietnam has not recorded any cases of infection caused by the Nipah virus, a Group A infectious disease transmitted from animals to humans or through contact with contaminated food and items, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH).

The MoH stated that according to information from the infectious disease surveillance system, between December 27, 2025, and January 26, 2026, India recorded five suspected cases of Nipah virus (including two laboratory-confirmed cases) at a hospital in West Bengal.

The Nipah virus was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia. By 2001, human cases of Nipah virus were first recorded in Bangladesh and subsequently in India.

According to WHO, Nipah virus cases have been recorded sporadically in small-scale outbreaks in several countries, but it has not yet formed large-scale epidemics. However, the case fatality rate among hospitalized patients is high, ranging from 40% to 75%. Currently, there are no specific vaccines or treatments available for either humans or animals.

The incubation period for the virus is typically between 4 to 14 days. Infected individuals may experience symptoms such as headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and a sore throat. These symptoms can progress to dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs indicative of acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

The MoH has directed local authorities to strengthen surveillance and disease prevention measures at border gates, healthcare facilities, and within the community, while remaining ready to deploy response measures.

The MoH affirmed that it will continue to closely monitor the epidemic situation and coordinate with the WHO and other nations to provide timely guidance on appropriate and effective prevention measures.

To proactively prevent the disease, the ministry recommends that citizens limit travel to areas with active Nipah virus outbreaks unless absolutely necessary.

Additionally, individuals are advised to monitor their health for 14 days after returning from an outbreak region. If symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, or seizures occur, they should immediately contact the nearest medical facility, limit contact with others, and clearly report their travel and epidemiological history to healthcare staff.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Decree on data exchange platform operations expected by Q2 2026

Tue, 01/27/2026 - 17:10
Ministries, sectors, and local authorities are urged to expedite the issuance of lists for master data, core data, open data, and shared data.

The Government Office has issued Notification No. 43/TB-VPCP dated January 26, detailing the conclusions from the inaugural meeting of the National Data Steering Committee.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Public Security has been assigned to research and submit several draft decrees to the Government. This includes a Decree regulating the operations of the Data Exchange Platform, to be completed by the second quarter of 2026, and a Decree outlining breakthrough development mechanisms for the Data Innovation and Exploitation Center under the National Data Center, which is expected by the first quarter of 2026.

Furthermore, the ministry is responsible for submitting a Decree on the identification, authentication, and traceability of products and goods by Q2 2026, as well as a regulatory Resolution on digital citizen development by Q1 2026.

The ministry will also lead the development of policies for the data economy and collaborate with relevant agencies to issue a comprehensive list of technical standards and regulations for data, both slated for completion in the second quarter of 2026.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance will preside over the creation of a legal framework for data valuation and the fee structures for exploiting data from the National Data Center. This framework, which will also incorporate tax incentives and capital support policies for businesses involved in data activities, is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026.

Ministries, sectors, and local authorities are urged to expedite the issuance of lists for master data, core data, open data, and shared data. These entities must also establish data governance processes and regulations, as well as technical standards for the structure of data messages exchanged between national and specialized databases and the National Integrated Database. The construction of data architecture is expected to be finalized within the first quarter of 2026. Additionally, these bodies are tasked with identifying and updating specialized master datasets to be integrated into the Common Data Dictionary System by the second quarter of 2026.

Finally, the Ministry of Home Affairs has been directed to accelerate the cleaning and cross-matching of 100% of the national database on cadres, civil servants, and public employees with the national population database by the first quarter of 2026. The ministry is also tasked with the urgent development of sub-databases for the social security system, ensuring that data from local levels is upgraded and integrated into the central system for official operation by the second quarter of 2026.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Japanese firms in Vietnam post 15-year profit high

Tue, 01/27/2026 - 17:00
JETRO’s 2025 Survey shows that 67.5% of Japanese firms in Vietnam expect to be profitable, up 3.4 percentage points from 2024 and the highest level since 2009.

Japanese businesses operating in Vietnam posted their highest profit outlook in 15 years in 2025, the Vietnam News Agency quoted a survey released on January 26 by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) as reporting.

JETRO’s 2025 Survey on the Business Conditions of Japanese Companies Investing Overseas shows that 67.5% of Japanese firms in Vietnam expect to be profitable, up 3.4 percentage points from 2024 and the highest level since 2009.

Notably, this is the first time in five years that Vietnam has outperformed the ASEAN average of 65.3%. Meanwhile, the proportion of firms forecasting losses fell to 17.6%, down 1.7 points year on year, marking a second consecutive year of improvement.

In the manufacturing sector, the profitability ratio reached 74.1%, up 3.9 points, while the loss-making ratio dropped sharply to 13%. Significant gains, exceeding 15 percentage points were recorded in industries such as paper, wood products and printing; electrical and electronic components; and iron, steel and non-ferrous metals.

In the non-manufacturing sector, 61.2% of firms reported profits, up 3.3 points, although the loss-making ratio edged up to 22%. Real estate leasing, education and healthcare saw profit improvements of more than 20 points, while transport equipment, mining, energy, tourism, entertainment, retail and food services continued to post profitability rates below 50%.

Looking ahead to 2026, 47.6% of surveyed firms expect improved profits, though more than 30% of transport equipment and parts manufacturers anticipate a deterioration in performance. Over the next one to two years, 56.9% of Japanese firms in Vietnam plan to expand operations, an increase of 0.8 points year on year, keeping Vietnam at the top of ASEAN for expansion intentions for the second consecutive year. Only 4.2% expect to scale down, and just 0.7% consider relocation or withdrawal.

VNA-Van Nguyen

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