[11] Some 400 exhibitors from many countries and territories attending the event. Tóm tắt

The Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam 2025 opened in Ho Chi Minh City on April 24,  with 500 booths showcased by  400 domestic and foreign exhibitors.

In addition to domestic participants, foreign exhibitors  mainly came from India, Hong Kong (China), Bangladesh, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea (RoK), and the Netherlands.

During the three-day event, which has been co-organized by VINEXAD and Global Sources of Hong Kong (China), nearly 30,000 export-standard products are displayed, covering key sectors including fashion and accessories, home decor and gifts, and consumer electronics.

The fair is expected to welcome over 10,000 buyers, sourcing agents, and retailers from major markets such as the US, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, the UK, the Middle East, the UAE, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea.

 

 

-Vân Nguyễn

The province has set an ambitious target of completing at least 13,787 apartments between 2021 and 2030.

In 2025,  the central province of Thanh Hoa is set to finalize investment policy approvals, launch bidding processes to select investors, and begin implementing eight new projects as part of its broader social housing initiative.

The province has set an ambitious target of completing at least 13,787 apartments between 2021 and 2030, including approximately 6,287 units in the 2021–2025 phase and around 7,500 units in the 2026–2030 phase.

To date, the Provincial People's Committee has listed 27 social housing projects, of which 13 are currently under construction, while 14 still require investor selection.

To facilitate investment, the Provincial People's Council has issued a resolution identifying 14 social housing land plots requiring competitive bidding for land-use investment projects. It is expected that in 2025, investment policy approvals will be completed, with bidding processes launched to select investors for eight out of the 14 projects.

Most recently, the Provincial People's Committee approved the investment policy for a Social Housing Project in Quang Thanh Ward, Thanh Hoa City, through an investor bidding process.

This project, with a total investment of over VND1.4 trillion ($53.76 million), will span approximately 6,342 sq.m and provide 734 apartments, accommodating an estimated 2,000 residents.

-Nguyễn Thuấn

Total tourism revenue in Q1 reached over $506 million, reflecting a 28% growth year-over-year.

Quang Ninh province has set an ambitious goal of welcoming 5.3 million visitors and generating over VND14.72 trillion (over $565 million) in tourism revenue in the second quarter of 2025.

In the first quarter of the year, the province recorded nearly 5.7 million visitors, a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The number of international visitors reached 1.17 million, while overnight stays totaled 1.18 million, marking a 22% rise. Total tourism revenue in Q1 reached VND13.18 trillion (over $506 million), reflecting a 28% growth year-over-year.

This tourism season, Quang Ninh is capitalizing on its strengths in marine and island tourism, particularly catering to the high-end tourist segment exploring Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Currently, approximately 500 licensed tourist boats operate in the bays, well-equipped to accommodate marine and island tourists, who account for about 20% of the province’s total visitors—a number that continues to grow annually.

In addition to hosting large-scale tourism events, Quang Ninh is actively implementing measures to ensure safety for visitors.

At key tourist destinations such as Ha Long, Uong Bi, Van Don, Co To, and Mong Cai, local authorities have tightened regulations on product origin and food safety, ensuring hygienic standards are met. Additionally, market management teams have stepped up inspections to enforce price transparency at business and service establishments.

Hotels, guesthouses, and other service providers have signed commitments to publicly list and adhere to their pricing policies. Dedicated 24/7 market management teams are in place to receive and respond to tourist feedback, ensuring prompt resolution of violations.

-Trương Quốc Cường

The projected double-track railway is planned to span approximately 1,541 km, with a design speed of 350 km/h and an axle load of 22.5 tons.

The Government has directed ministries, sectors, and localities to finalize institutional frameworks and expedite key tasks to ensure the groundbreaking of the North-South high-speed railway project by December 31, 2026.

This directive is outlined in a newly-issued resolution, detailing the implementation plan for the National Assembly’s Resolution No. 172/2024/QH15, approving the project's investment policy.

The projected double-track railway is planned to span approximately 1,541 km from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with a design speed of 350 km/h and an axle load of 22.5 tons.

The project will include 23 passenger stations and 5 freight stations, along with investment in vehicles and equipment for passenger transport. It will be designed to meet dual-use requirements for national defense and security, while also allowing for freight transport when needed.

As a national key project, the North-South high-speed railway is Vietnam’s first large-scale high-speed rail initiative, requiring advanced technology and rapid implementation. Given its urgency, the National Assembly approved the application of special mechanisms and policies to streamline the project's development.

In terms of transit-oriented development (TOD), the Government has urged localities to collaborate with the Ministry of Construction to review and adjust urban planning around high-speed railway stations. This includes modifying planning indicators, architectural designs, technical and social infrastructure, if necessary, to support land fund exploitation projects aligned with TOD principles.

Additionally, local authorities are tasked with developing and approving TOD-based land fund projects, allocating budget resources for compensation, resettlement, and land fund creation for auction, to facilitate sustainable urban development around railway hubs.

-Thanh Thủy

AIA Vietnam was honored at the Golden Dragon Awards 2025 for its health-focused insurance, reaffirming its commitment to customer wellness.

AIA (Vietnam) Life Insurance Company Limited ("AIA Vietnam") is proud to be honored at the Golden Dragon Awards 2025 with the title of Leading Life Insurance Health-Focused Product. This marks the 11th time AIA Vietnam has received this prestigious recognition, affirming the company’s strong focus on products and services that enhance public health and drive sustainable development.

The Golden Dragon Awards is an annual initiative organized by Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy / Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam in coordination with ministries and local authorities to honor outstanding foreign-invested enterprises (FDIs) that have demonstrated innovation, improved service quality, and contributed significantly to Vietnam’s socio-economic development.

Pioneering health and wellness with comprehensive products and services

AIA Vietnam is one of the leading life insurance companies, pioneering the development of a health-focused ecosystem that supports customers’ physical, mental, and financial well-being. One of the key initiatives is AIA Vitality, a program encouraging customers to maintain healthy lifestyles through regular exercise, balanced diets, and routine health check-ups.

Additionally, AIA Vietnam collaborates with Teladoc Health, a global leader in telemedicine, to offer the Medical Companion Service, supporting customers throughout the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and critical illnesses.

AIA Vietnam also introduced Bung Gia Luc, a comprehensive health insurance solution designed for families to meet the rising demand for healthcare protection. The plan covers maternity, inpatient and day-case treatment, emergency care, and cancer treatment. Optional outpatient and dental care benefits are also available.

To further optimize the health insurance experience, AIA Vietnam launched its Digital Health Services (DHS) – a strategic initiative to enhance the claims experience and proactively care for health insurance policyholders. After nearly one year of implementation, AIA Vietnam has established a network of over 410 medical partners offering cashless hospitalization. This network will continue to expand to meet increasing customer needs.

In line with its commitment, AIA Vietnam continues to strengthen its solid financial foundation through efficient business operations and sustainable investment strategies, ensuring lasting value and financial protection for customers.

A 25-year journey of building financial strength

Throughout its 25-year journey in Vietnam, AIA Vietnam has placed customers at the center and committed to long-term partnerships. As of the end of March 2025, the company serves more than 1.6 million policyholders through a nationwide network of over 200 offices. AIA Vietnam has disbursed more than VND15 trillion ($600 million) in policy benefits and claims to date. Between 2022 and 2024 alone, AIA Vietnam settled more than 630,000 life insurance claims, disbursing nearly VND6 trillion ($240 million) — averaging over 200,000 claims and almost VND2 trillion ($80 million) in benefits per year.

With a current solvency margin ratio of 191 per cent and total assets of VND67.557 trillion ($2.7 billion), AIA Vietnam maintains a strong financial position to fulfill its commitments and ensure customer financial security.

Enhancing customer experience with digital innovation

Recognizing the importance of technology in enhancing customer experience, AIA Vietnam has invested heavily in digital solutions to develop a customer-centric digital ecosystem. One notable innovation is the AIA+ app, which allows customers to easily manage policies, monitor benefits, and update their information.

AIA Vietnam is among the top insurance companies to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its claims assessment process. Today, 100 per cent of AIA Vietnam customers can submit claims online through iClaim on the AIA+ app. Customers can complete claims in as little as five minutes with just an internet-connected device.

Despite ongoing market challenges, AIA Vietnam remains steadfast in its mission: to protect customers, inspire healthier lives, and build sustainable financial futures. This is the journey of Healthier, Longer, Better Lives that AIA proudly champions.

-Diep Linh

Total investment capital estimated at mỏe than VND55 trillion (over $2.1 billion).

Authorities of central Thanh Hoa province have announced a decision to reopen bidding for the Nghi Son LNG-fired power plant project, with a total investment capital estimated at more than VND55 trillion (over $2.1 billion).

The bidding invitation documents are issued from April 8 to June 10 this year.

Earlier this year, the province had to cancel the bidding due to updated legal frameworks.

Nghi Son LNG-fired power plant has a capacity of 1,500 MW.

Located to the south of Nghi Son port in Thanh Hoa province, the project will cover 68 ha, featuring the power plant, a warehouse, a regasification system, a wharf, and a ship anchoring zone.

Commercial operation is scheduled to begin prior to 2030.

Currently, there are five bidders, including a joint venture between Japan’s JERA Co Inc. and Vietnam’s Sovico Group; a consortium of the Korea Southern Power Company (KOSPO), the Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS), the Daewoo Engineering Construction Group (Daewoo EC), and the Anh Phat Construction and Trading Investment JSC (APT); Thailand’s Gulf Energy Development Public Co Ltd; South Korea’s SK Es Co Ltd; and a joint venture between the Vietnam Oil and Gas Power Corporation (PV Power) and the TT Group JSC (TT Group).

 

-Thiên Anh

The rankings are based primarily on compound annual revenue growth, alongside indicators of corporate social responsibility.

The 2025 FAST500, a list of Vietnam’s 500 fastest-growing enterprises, was announced in Hanoi on April 24 by Vietnam Report JSC and VietNamNet newspaper, according to a report from  the Vietnam News Agency.

It honors businesses that are thriving and making strong contributions to Vietnam’s economic development.

The rankings are based primarily on compound annual revenue growth, alongside indicators of corporate social responsibility.

The top 10 in the list are prominent names such as Ngan Tin Investment Group JSC, FPT Long Chau Pharmaceutical JSC, Nam A Information Technology JSC, Stellapharm J.V. JSC, Taseco Real Estate Investment JSC, Binh Thuan Plastics Group JSC, Petro Times JSC, Vitadairy Vietnam JSC, Searefico Engineering and Construction JSC, and Viet Thanh Plastic Trading and Manufacturing JSC.

Organisers also announced the FAST RISING 100, recognizing a group of “rising star” enterprises with high potential for breakthrough growth. These include businesses with sustainable growth, rapid expansion, or outstanding recovery performance.

 

 

-Vân Nguyễn

Vietcombank will arrange finance for the airline for prepayments and long-term loans during the 2026-2032 period.

National flag-carrier Vietnam Airlines on April 23 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with State-owned commercial bank Vietcombank to purchase 50 narrow-body aircraft. 

Under the MoU, Vietcombank will arrange finance for Vietnam Airlines for prepayments and long-term loans during the 2026-2032 period.

The agreement is part of Vietnam Airlines fleet building strategy over the next decade with the aim of significantly bolstering its operational capabilities for 2040.

Vietcombank’s investment will allow the airline to expand its short and medium-haul network domestically and regionally (in Southeast and Northeast Asia). 

The cooperation is expected to contribute to promoting transport infrastructure development and enhancing Vietnam’s connection with the region and the world.

 

-Đan Tiên

The digital economy is projected to account for at least 30% of the national GDP.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 24 launched a national emulation movement on innovation and digital transformation.

Addressing the launching ceremony, PM Chinh stressed that Vietnam must strongly develop and apply science and technology, and proactively promote innovation and digital transformation to create fresh momentum and open up new development spaces.

To successfully achieve the goal of becoming upper middle-income country with a modern industrial base by 2030, and high-income developed one by 2045, Vietnam must demonstrate greater determination and take more decisive actions in this work, he said.

Vietnam targets to achieve advanced capacity in science, technology, and innovation across key sectors, ranking among the leading upper-middle-income countries, according to the PM.

The digital economy is projected to account for at least 30% of the national GDP. More than 80% of citizens and businesses are expected to use online public services; and digital infrastructure will be advanced, high-capacity, and ultra-broadband, comparable to that of developed nations.

-Bạch Dương

Electricity demand in 2025 is forecast to grow 12.2% year-on-year.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 23 signed a dispatch on implementing drastic, concerted and effective solutions to ensure the supply of electricity during the peak period of 2025 and the coming years.

The PM requested the Minister of Industry and Trade to urgently organize the implementation of the revised National Power Development Plan for 2021 - 2030 with a vision to 2050 (PDP8) . The minister is responsible to the Government and the Prime Minister for ensuring an adequate electricity supply to serve production, business activities, and the daily life of the people.

The PM asked relevant ministries, agencies and localities to ensure water storage and adequate coal and gas supply for hydroelectric plants, coal-fired thermal power plants, and gas-fired thermal power plants.

He also encouraged the exploitation of solar and wind power plants, as well as required to speed up the implementation of power projects, particularly the Nhon Trach 3 and 4 Thermal Power Plants in the southern province of Dong Nai, with a combined capacity of 1,624 MW. 

The electricity demand in 2025 is forecast to grow by up to 12.2% year-on-year, higher than the 10.1% increase recorded in 2024. The national peak load is expected to reach 54,510 MW, up 11.3% year-on-year. 

 

-Thi Nguyễn

Exports to certain other markets, including the Netherlands and Japan, experienced growth, reflecting initial success in diversifying export markets.

In the first quarter of 2025, the United States, the Netherlands, and China remained the top three markets for Vietnamese cashew exports, holding market shares of 22.7%, 11.2%, and 9.8%, respectively.

Compared to the same period last year, cashew exports to the US declined by 14.5%, while shipments to China fell by 25.6% in volume and 16% in value.

In contrast, exports to certain other markets, including the Netherlands and Japan, experienced growth, reflecting initial success in diversifying export markets. Particularly notable was the 43.5% increase in cashew export value to the Netherlands.

Despite the sharp decline in Q1 exports, industry experts and businesses remain optimistic, expecting a recovery in the coming quarters as the new harvest season begins and consumer demand picks up.

Looking at national markets, the US remains Vietnam’s largest cashew importer, accounting for $1.1 billion, or 25.1% of total export value. China ranks second, with value of $687.84 million. Additionally, Vietnam’s cashew industry continues to effectively tap into the EU market, with exports to the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain showing positive growth.

"Over the past decade, the US has consistently been Vietnam’s top market for cashew exports, accounting for around 25–27% of the latter's total export turnover, followed by China with 20%, and the EU at approximately 17–18%. If the US imposes higher tariffs on cashew nuts, export volumes to this market will undoubtedly decline. In that scenario, the US may no longer be an attractive destination for Vietnamese businesses," said Mr. Tran Van Hiep, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS).

"Beyond the US, our cashew exporters also serve other markets. While higher tariffs pose immediate challenges, especially for businesses heavily dependent on the US market, this situation also creates opportunities for diversification and expansion," Mr. Hiep added.

According to Mr. Hiep, the Middle East is emerging as a promising market, with rising demand for cashews. Over the past two years, the region has become a key growth driver for Vietnam’s cashew industry. With a strong market strategy, Vietnam can potentially offset losses from the US market.

"The Vietnam Cashew Association has set an export revenue target of $4.5 billion for 2025. To achieve this goal, cashew processors must focus on three key pillars: improving product quality, diversifying markets, and strengthening trade promotion," said Mr. Nguyen Minh Hoa, Vice Chairman of VINACAS.

-Chu Khôi

Under the new proposal, more goods and services such as information technology, coke, oil and gas are subject to VAT reduction policy.

The Government on April 23 proposed the National Assembly to further extend the current value-added tax (VAT) cut policy until next year's end in support of businesses, the Government News has reported.

The Government also asked the legislative body to expand VAT reduction policy to cover other goods and services such as information technology, coke, oil and gas.

Earlier, the National Assembly had decided to reduce VAT to 8% from 10% on certain types of goods and services, applicable from 2022 to July 1, 2025, except for the following groups of goods and services:

- Telecommunications, financial activities, banking, securities, insurance, real estate business, metals and prefabricated metal products, mining products (excluding coal mining), coke, refined petroleum, chemical products.

- Goods and services subject to special consumption tax.

- Information technology according to the law on information technology.

 

 

-Vân Nguyễn

LOTTE Vietnam Shopping Joint Stock Company (LOTTE Mart) was listed among the Top 10 Sustainable Development Foreign-Invested Enterprises (FIEs) at the Golden Dragon Awards 2025 ceremony. Mr. Shin JuBack, General Director of LOTTE Mart Vietnam, represented the company in receiving the Top 10 Sustainable Development FIEs in Vietnam 2024–2025 award.  

As part of the Golden Dragon Awards 2025, Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy / Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam recently named LOTTE Mart among the Top 10 Sustainable Development FIEs in Vietnam for 2024–2025. The award honors businesses for their commitment to sustainable development, outstanding operational performance, and meaningful contributions to the country’s economy.

Prestigious award

LOTTE Mart Vietnam’s representative shared: “With a commitment to sustainable growth and building a green-clean-beautiful Vietnam, over the years, we have continuously implemented environmental initiatives and encouraged partners and customers to join us. The Golden Dragon Award 2025 recognizes our efforts in transforming consumer habits and advancing positive business development in the Vietnamese market.”

For over 23 consecutive years, the Golden Dragon Awards have surveyed, evaluated, and honored thousands of FDI enterprises that operate efficiently, pioneer innovation, lead new trends, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of both localities and Vietnam as a whole.

Honored enterprises are those demonstrating effective operations, innovation, and strong efforts in digital transformation, green growth, and sustainable development.  

LOTTE Mart opened its first supermarket branch in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, in 2008. Since then, the Korean retailer has played a pioneering role in bringing modern shopping experiences to Vietnamese consumers by continuously upgrading shopping spaces, expanding multi-channel services, and improving product and service quality. Currently, LOTTE Mart operates a chain of 15 shopping centers in major cities across the country, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Can Tho, and Vinh. All LOTTE Mart supermarkets are invested with luxurious, modern shopping spaces, becoming popular destinations for shopping, entertainment, and leisure.

Efforts for sustainability

Creating sustainable value for the community and society has always been one of LOTTE Mart’s core operating principles in Vietnam. The company has continuously promoted a humanitarian spirit through various meaningful initiatives, contributing to improved quality of life and the shared goal of building a prosperous, sustainably developing Vietnam.

Currently, LOTTE Mart is implementing several environmental protection programs. Notably, the “Small Action – Big Change” program encourages consumers to use reusable bags by offering incentives such as free eco-bags or bonus points for eligible LOTTE Mart members.

LOTTE Mart is striving to change consumer behavior toward a greener lifestyle.  

An exemplary initiative is the adoption of electronic invoices. Instead of receiving paper invoices, members can easily access and review their purchase history via the LOTTE Mart Online application. This not only enhances the digital shopping experience but also reinforces the company’s commitment to environmental protection and achieving sustainable development goals in Vietnam.

Beyond serving millions of customers and contributing to the economy, LOTTE Mart views community responsibility as a long-term mission. In times of national need, the company consistently delivers timely and meaningful contributions. A notable example is when LOTTE Mart, alongside the LOTTE Group, donated over VND7 billion ($280,000) through the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee to hospitals and localities during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2024, LOTTE Mart and 18 other LOTTE Group member companies contributed an additional VND3 billion ($120,000) to support communities affected by Typhoon No. 3.

-Diep Linh

The project spans nearly four hectares, with a designed capacity of 140 MW and approximately 10,000 racks.

The Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group on April 23 commenced construction of a high-tech data center and research development hub  which spans 4 ha at Tan Phu Trung Industrial Park, in Cu Chi district, Ho Chi Minh City.

With a designed power capacity of 140 MW and approximately 10,000 racks, this data center becomes the first data center with a power capacity exceeding 100MW in Vietnam and is ranked among top 10 in Southeast Asia in terms of capacity.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Vice Chairman of the City People’s Committee Vo Van Hoan emphasized that the facility—combining data storage services and high-tech research development—is one of the largest projects of its kind in the region.

“The launch of this super-scale data center in Cu Chi is not only a strategic milestone for Viettel but also a significant driving force for the city in developing digital infrastructure, smart urban systems, and digital governance,” Mr. Hoan stated.

“The center will accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, 5G networks, cloud computing, IoT, blockchain, cybersecurity, and Big Data. Furthermore, it will contribute to innovation ecosystem development, enhance digital workforce quality, and create high-value jobs to support the city's digital and social economy."

Major General Tao Duc Thang, Chairman and CEO of Viettel Group, highlighted that the super-scale data center at Tan Phu Trung Industrial Park is a strategic component in Viettel’s broader digital infrastructure landscape.

Alongside Viettel’s 15 existing data centers in Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Binh Duong, this facility is part of a comprehensive ecosystem where data is securely stored, transmitted, processed, and protected.

-Minh Hà

The average primary price was recorded at VND79 million ($3,038) per sq.m.

The primary apartment market in Hanoi continued its upward pricing trend in the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest report by consultancy Savills Vietnam.

The average primary price was recorded at VND79 million ($3,038) per sq.m, up 5% quarter-on-quarter and a significant year-on-year increase of 32%.

Over the past five years, the average annual growth rate for Hanoi's primary apartment prices has been an impressive 22%, highlighting the strong capital appreciation potential of the capital city’s real estate market, the report shows. By area, Dong Anh district saw the most substantial growth, with an average price increase of 42%, followed by Tay Ho district with an annual growth rate of 40%.

However, the average secondary apartment price in the first quarter was VND60 million ($2,307) per sq.m, slightly down 1% quarter-on-quarter.

The report also shows that in the first three months of the year, Hanoi’s new apartment market recorded a significant decline in supply, reaching 7,940 units, down 39% quarter-on-quarter.

The outlook for Hanoi's  apartment market in the 2025–2026 period reveals notable prospects for new supply. In 2025, the market is projected to welcome approximately 7,400 newly launched apartments.

 

 

 

 

-Phan Dương

SYRE plans to establish major recycling complexes in key global regions, with Vietnam identified as a strategic location.

At a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 23, Ms. Susanna Campbell, Chairwoman of Sweden-based SYRE Group, announced that the company plans to invest approximately $1 billion in a textile recycling complex in South-central Binh Dinh province.

A subsidiary of fashion retailer HM Group and tech investment firm Vaảga, SYRE specializes in recycling textile waste and aims to build a global circular textile ecosystem through large-scale, high-tech recycling hubs powered by renewable energy.

The planned polyester textile recycling complex is designed with an annual capacity of up to 250,000 tons. The project is scheduled to begin operations by the end of 2028, with the ambition of making Vietnam the world’s first high-tech, circular textile hub that meets both U.S. and EU standards.

According to Ms. Campbell, SYRE plans to establish major recycling complexes in key global regions, with Vietnam identified as a strategic location.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh praised the project for its alignment with green and clean production principles and its focus on recycling textile waste, contributing positively to environmental protection. He emphasized that SYRE's investment fits with Vietnam’s broader development orientation of diversifying markets, products, and supply chains to adapt to evolving global challenges.

The Prime Minister noted that Binh Dinh offers an excellent investment environment, already established as a center for clean energy—including wind and solar power—and equipped with well-developed infrastructure, including expressways, an international airport, and a deep-sea port. The province also benefits from favorable climate and environmental conditions.

He requested close cooperation between SYRE, Binh Dinh authorities, and relevant ministries throughout the project's implementation. He also instructed the Ministries of Finance, Industry and Trade, and Agriculture and Environment to provide procedural guidance and assist the local government in resolving any issues faced by the investor.

Prime Minister Chinh further urged SYRE to prioritize using domestic green materials such as lotus fiber and jute, and to explore the use of fabric scraps and discarded clothing generated within Vietnam as input materials for production.

In response, Ms. Campbell and SYRE executives expressed strong confidence in Vietnam’s potential to become a global leader in circular economy development. They stated that Vietnam was selected as a strategic investment destination due to its growing green energy sector and strong textile industry. SYRE committed to maximizing the use of local materials and strengthening domestic supply chains and production.

Also at the meeting, Swedish Ambassador Johan Ndisi affirmed that Swedish companies are eager to build long-term partnerships in Vietnam. He proposed enhanced cooperation in green transition initiatives and suggested that Sweden and Vietnam elevate their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership focused on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

-Viet An

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attending a high-stakes virtual summit on climate action on April 23.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed that Vietnam considers climate change response a top priority and green transition is an inevitable trend, a strategic choice, and a breakthrough driver while addressing high-stakes virtual summit on climate action on April 23.

His attendance was made at the invitation of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The goal of the summit was to accelerate global climate ambition ahead of COP30, which will be hosted in Brazil.

People should be at the center of this process to promote rapid and sustainable development in the coming period, PM Chinh said, stressing environmental protection must not be sacrificed for mere economic growth.

Vietnam is urgently implementing climate actions in a harmonious and comprehensive manner, with clear roadmaps and plans in place, according to the PM.

The country remains firmly committed to its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, he said, calling on international partners to provide financial support, share advanced technologies, and assist in human resources training, and institutional improvement and green governance to effectively implement the country’s commitments.

 

-Tùng Dương

Both negotiation leaders agreed to maintain regular exchanges at both senior and technical levels to accelerate discussions on specific negotiation topics.

On the evening of April 23 (Hanoi time), Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien, who leads the Government’s negotiation team, held a phone call with Jamieson L. Greer, the US Trade Representative, to officially kick off bilateral economic and trade negotiations between Vietnam and the United States.

This critical discussion focused on outlining the principles, scope, and negotiation roadmap. The call was attended by members of the Vietnamese negotiation team and technical representatives from relevant ministries.

During the conversation, Minister Dien reaffirmed Vietnam's commitment to strengthening its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the United States and expressed a desire to foster abalanced, stable, sustainable, and effective economic and trade relationship between the two countries. He emphasized that Vietnamese ministries are prepared to negotiate and address concerns raised by the US, working together to find mutually beneficial solutions based on the principles of harmonized interests and shared risks.

For his part, the US Trade Representative Greer welcomed the agreement between both nations to engage in bilateral trade negotiations. He expressed confidence that Vietnam and the US would soon reach appropriate solutions to advance a stable and mutually beneficial economic partnership.

At the conclusion of the meeting,  both negotiation leaders agreed  to maintain regular exchanges at both senior and technical levels to accelerate discussions on specific negotiation topics.

-Huyền Vy

Construction scheduled to start in Q1 in 2026.

Central Hue city plans to build an urban area in Thuan Hoa and Phu Vang districts with an estimated investment capital of over VND19.7 trillion ($757 million).

The projected 150-ha urban area will feature 2,700 houses, services centers, schools, parks and other education, healthcare and entertainment facilities for a population of nearly 10,000 people.

Construction is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2026 and complete in the first quarter of 2034.

A bid is expected to be held in the second quarter of the year to choose investor for the project. The investor is required to spend at least 20% of land fund to build social houses.

 

-Nguyễn Thuấn

The city aims to strengthen State management capacity to ensure cybersecurity, protect personal and organizational data, and uphold national sovereignty in cyberspace.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has issued a development plan for the sharing economy, covering the period from 2025 to 2030.

While recognized as an emerging business model, the sharing economy is not classified as a separate economic sector. Therefore, the plan affirms that no distinct support policies are required for businesses operating within this model.

Under the plan, the city will continue reviewing and eliminating outdated business regulations that hinder traditional enterprises, ensuring uniform application across both conventional businesses and sharing economy initiatives.

Additionally, amendments and improvements to the current legal framework will be proposed to better align with sharing economy activities, particularly in clarifying roles and responsibilities among stakeholders and regulatory agencies.

At the same time, the city aims to strengthen State management capacity to ensure cybersecurity, protect personal and organizational data, and uphold national sovereignty in cyberspace. Measures will also be implemented to safeguard consumer rights, prevent tax losses, and address potential legal liabilities arising from the sharing economy model.

To support its development, the city will invest in digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet, cashless payment systems (Fintech), cybersecurity enhancements, and improved connectivity between various sharing economy services through API-based integration.

The city also plans to expand physical infrastructure, such as public transport connections and real estate rental spaces, including co-working offices and short-term accommodations, to foster growth within the sector.

-Hồng Minh