The country is estimated to have handled 21.5 million foreign arrivals and served 135.5 million domestic trips, while total tourism revenue surpassed VND1 quadrillion ($40 billion) for the first time.

Vietnam targets to lure 25 million foreign visitors in 2026, the Government News quoted the National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) as reporting  on December 26.

The tourism sector plans to increase the number of domestic tourists to 150 million  and tourism revenue to around VND1.125 quadrillion ($45 billion).

These targets are aligned with the sector's strategic mission to strengthen its position as a spearhead economic industry, contributing more substantially to national growth and global integration.

To realize the 2026 goals, VNAT will focus on removing policy bottlenecks; accelerating digital transformation in tourism governance and services; expanding global market outreach, enhancing competitiveness of Vietnamese destinations and promoting sustainable and high-value tourism models.

With a fast-expanding visitor base and rising revenue capacity, Vietnam is well positioned to enter a new growth phase—from recovery to acceleration, aiming not just for higher numbers, but improved value, resilience, and global recognition, VNAT said.

2025 - historic breakthrough year

In 2025, Vietnam's tourism industry achieved a landmark "triple growth" across its three core pillars—international visitors, domestic travel, and revenue, according to VNAT.

The country is estimated to have handled 21.5 million foreign arrivals and served 135.5 million domestic trips, while total tourism revenue surpassed VND1 quadrillion ($40 million) for the first time.

Globally, tourism continued to recover gradually, but Vietnam stood out as a regional frontrunner. International arrivals to the country in 2025 increased by 22 per cent year-on-year, far exceeding the global average growth rate by around 5 per cent and the Asia–Pacific average by 8 per cent.

VNAT Chairman Nguyen Trung Khanh described the record figure in 2025 as a defining milestone in the sector's 65-year development journey. He attributed the achievements to effective state management, timely policy advisory, and the strategic direction of VNAT, amid continued volatility in global tourism markets.

VGP-Van Nguyen

There are currently nearly 6.5 million Vietnamese people living in over 130 countries and territories.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed relevant ministries and agencies to continue improvement of institutions, policies and laws relating to overseas Vietnamese (OVs) and related affairs, while creating more favorable conditions for them to participate in the country’s political, socio-economic life, and ensuring their legitimate rights, interests and aspirations.

He made the instruction while chairing the national conference held in Hanoi on December 25 to review the implementation of the Politburo's Resolution No. 36-NQ/TW of March 26, 2004 (Resolution 36), on OV affairs.

The conference was connected online to 98 Vietnamese missions abroad.

Resolution 36 is the Party’s first document giving comprehensive strategic guidance on OV affairs in the context of deeper international integration. 

PM Chinh reaffirmed that overseas Vietnamese are an inseparable part of the Vietnamese nation and an important source of national strength. He spoke highly of contributions by the Vietnamese community abroad to the national construction and development.

The Government leader emphasized the need to continuously innovate OV-related affairs in the new context through creative and effective approaches, develop modern digital communication channels to connect them with the homeland, create the most favourable working environment and preferential policies to attract Vietnamese intellectuals and experts, and promote their role in connecting and attracting investments to the country.

Relevant agencies must continue to effectively carry out citizen protection, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Vietnamese communities overseas, especially in difficult areas or conflict and disaster zones, the PM said.

There are currently nearly 6.5 million Vietnamese people living in over 130 countries and territories.

VnEconomy-Việt An

Over 11 million seats were scheduled in 2025, surging 4% year-on-year and 8% above 2019 levels.

Vietnam’s largest domestic route between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is the fourth busiest route in the world, the Government News quoted  the UK-based global travel data provider OAG as reporting. 

Over 11 million seats were scheduled in 2025, surging 4% year-on-year and 8% above 2019 levels. This route is highly competitive with six carriers operating in 2025.

Airfares on this route have decreased by 11% year-on-year with the average one-way ticket costing $67.

This 1,000-km corridor connects the nation's two largest cities, underpinning the growth of Vietnam's aviation industry.

The two-hour flight is often dubbed the "golden line" by insiders—a title well earned by its staggering passenger numbers and strategic importance.

The popularity of the Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City route reflects several intertwined factors. Vietnam's economic growth, regional connectivity, and population density fuel demand for quick and efficient travel between the two cities. While Vietnam's railway infrastructure is growing, air travel remains the fastest and most practical option for many.

Economic drivers in both cities further amplify the demand. Hanoi, the country's political heart, serves as a hub for government and education, while Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's commercial powerhouse. Frequent business travelers, families visiting relatives, and an increasing number of tourists keep the route consistently busy.

VGP- Vân Nguyễn

The figure representing a year-on-year rise of 24.2%.

Ho Chi Minh City attracted an estimated $8.37 billion in FDI capital in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 24.2%, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

Specifically, the city granted investment certificates to 1,865 new FDI projects with a combined registered capital of more than $1.6 billion, while 432 existing projects adding their capital by $2.9 billion.

In addition, foreign investors completed 2,700 transactions to contribute capital, purchase shares or acquire stakes in domestic enterprises, with a total registered value of $3.7 billion.

Total registered FDI capital in Ho Chi Minh City in 2025 is estimated at nearly $8.37 billion, up 24.2% from 2024, reflecting the continued appeal of the southern metropolis to foreign investors.

Investors from 89 countries and territories have invested in the city this year. Singapore topped the list with $2.1 billion, accounting for 25% of total registered capital, followed by the Republic of Korea with $635.2 million, and Hong Kong (China) with $482.2 million. 

The information was announced at a press conference on the city’s socio-economic situation held on December 25.

Cumulatively, as of December 31, Ho Chi Minh City is expected to continue leading the nation in valid FDI capital and project numbers, with total registered capital standing at $141.9 billion across 20,310 projects.

By sector, manufacturing and processing continues to account for the largest share of registered FDI capital, with 5,829 projects and total capital exceeding $75.4 billion, or 53.3% of the total. Real estate ranks second with $28.5 billion, followed by wholesale and retail trade and vehicle repair with $7.5 billion.

VNA-Vân Nguyễn

A draft resolution submitted to the National Assembly to address issues identified in the implementation of the Land Law 2024.

More than a year after the Land Law 2024 and its guiding documents took effect, several new policies have begun delivering results, helping unlock land resources for socio-economic development. But new issues have also emerged in practice, prompting the need for a National Assembly (NA) resolution to further institutionalize the Party’s directions and resolve difficulties in legal enforcement.

On the afternoon of November 18, Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang presented to the NA a submission on a draft resolution outlining mechanisms and policies to address obstacles in implementing the Land Law. According to the submission, the resolution aims to fully and promptly reflect the Party and State’s views on land policy; remove emerging bottlenecks; and support socio-economic development goals. It also seeks to strengthen the effectiveness of land management and create momentum for Vietnam to move towards high-income, developed-country status.

Reworking the rules

The draft resolution proposes adding three cases in which the State may reclaim land for socio-economic development in the national or public interest. The first involves projects to develop free-trade zones or International Financial Centers, while the second applies to projects that require agreements on land-use rights but fail to complete negotiations by the legal or extended deadline, and the third allows the State to create a land fund for payment under build-transfer (BT) contracts or to lease land for continued operations by organizations whose land is being reclaimed.

The draft also details the legal basis for land reclamation tied to a project’s implementation schedule or to the progress of compensation, support, and resettlement. Compensation and resettlement prices would be calculated using a land price table and adjustment coefficients. Land-use fees, land rents, and compensation values would also be based on the price table, the adjustment coefficient, and applicable rates for each type of land.

To address bottlenecks highlighted in Notice No. 08-TB/BCDTW, the draft adds a provision allowing land reclamation for national defense and security purposes, establishing drug rehabilitation facilities managed by the armed forces.

The draft sets a ten-day public disclosure period for compensation and resettlement plans, and a 30-day deadline for holding dialogue with people who may not agree with such plans.

It also clarifies conditions for investor selection through bidding for land-use projects - urban and rural residential projects must have an approved zoning plan or general plan where detailed plans are not required. The land price table would be used to calculate land-use fees, land rents, land repurposing fees, recognition of land-use rights, and land-use extensions.

Notably, the draft does not require parcel separation when only part of a land parcel is being repurposed. When parcels are merged, they are not required to share the same land-use purpose, land-use form, or land-use term.

Resetting the approach

To further ease obstacles in enforcing the Land Law, the draft resolution outlines a series of targeted fixes.

On land reclamation, compensation, and resettlement, the draft addresses the deduction of advance payments made by investors; timelines for reclamation notices; cases where land compensation does not apply; compensation for asset losses; and transitional measures to close implementation gaps.

On land allocation, leasing, and land-use conversion, it proposes clearer conditions for allocating or leasing land and approving land-use changes. It also adds situations where land may be allocated or leased without auctions or investor bidding, and allows land-use terms to be adjusted to match project timelines when new investors take over dissolved, bankrupt, or transferred projects.

On land finance and pricing, the draft seeks to clarify how land-use fees and land rents are calculated, when input data should be selected, and how land price tables, adjustment coefficients, valuation councils, and fee exemptions should be revised.

Mr. Phan Van Mai, Chairman of the NA’s Economic and Financial Committee, said most NA delegates view expanded land reclamation powers as a way to unlock stalled socio-economic projects that depend on negotiated land-use rights. The mechanism would help investors who have secured most of the required land but are unable to complete site clearance.

However, the Committee called for clearer justification of the proposed 75 per cent consent thresholds and for a more detailed mechanism to handle remaining land in a way that protects constitutional rights and minimizes disputes.

The Committee agreed with the government’s approach to calculating land-use fees, land rents, and compensation, but emphasized that using the land price table in place of project-specific valuations must ensure fairness, transparency, and avoid placing extra burdens on citizens and businesses.

It also questioned whether land price tables and adjustment coefficients can adequately reflect market conditions, noting that while adjustment coefficients are simple to apply, their basis remains unclear.

On land valuation principles and methods, the Committee underscored the need for a market-based approach but said implementation must be cautious and backed by stronger data and independent oversight.

Regarding land price tables and adjustment coefficients, the Committee supported the State’s role in setting land prices but urged a review of transitional rules and clearer guidance on determining adjustment coefficients to prevent future bottlenecks.

Aligning interests

NA Deputy Tran Van Khai from northern Ninh Binh province said multiple problems have surfaced more than a year into the implementation of the Land Law 2024, with land valuation emerging as a major bottleneck. He expects the draft resolution’s valuation reforms to ease many of these obstacles. A more market-aligned land price table would boost State revenue and ensure fairer compensation, reducing grievances and helping stabilize livelihoods after land is reclaimed. Investors would benefit from faster, clearer pricing procedures, while a more transparent land-pricing system would, over time, curb rent-seeking and speculation.

A key provision of the draft allows the State to reclaim remaining land when investors have secured agreements with more than 75 per cent of the land area and affected land-users, a measure seen as crucial to unblocking long-delayed projects hindered by a small number of holdouts.

NA Deputy Nguyen Van Huy from northern Hung Yen province said the mechanism would help resolve persistent bottlenecks and avoid wasting resources, especially in infrastructure and urban redevelopment projects. He proposed safeguards to ensure that compensation for the reclaimed portion is not lower than the average negotiated price or a separate market benchmark.

Some lawmakers urged the drafting committee to carefully calibrate valuation rules to protect residents’ rights. Deputy Tran Thi Kim Nhung from northern Quang Ninh province called for clearer justification for the proposed 75 per cent threshold and for a transparent mechanism to handle the remaining land while safeguarding constitutional rights and limiting disputes. She also stressed the need for compensation rules that fairly balance interests, noting that applying land price tables and adjustment coefficients could leave some residents with payouts below average negotiated levels.

Several deputies also asked the government to assess the broader impacts of reclaiming land under this mechanism, warning that because the measure directly affects citizens’ property rights, it must be approached with caution.

-

The Mekong Delta city's growth in 2025 estimated at 7.23%.

The Mekong Delta city of Can Tho has set a target of achieving GRDP growth of over 10% in 2026, according to the provincial Department of Finance.

In 2025, the city’s economic growth is estimated at 7.23%, lower than the projected growth of 8.3%. Of which, the agro-forestry and seafood sector rose 3.79%, and the industry-construction sector increased by 8.01%.

In order to fulfill the 2026 targets, Mr. Truong Canh Tuyen, Chairman of the city’s People's Committee, said the city will focus on implementing resolutely and synchronously various solutions for economic growth; promoting disbursement of public investment capital; accelerating the progress of key transportation projects; and mobilizing resources for the development of socio-economic infrastructure.

He required departments, sectors, and localities in the city to focus on removing difficulties and building development plans suitable for their fields.

VnEconomy-Thiên Ân

The UAVs have a cruising speed of up to 60 kph and an operational range of 15 km.

Duc Giang General Hospital in Hanoi, in collaboration with Vietnam Post, launched a pilot program using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to transport biological samples, medicines and medical supplies, on December 25.

This marks the first time in the healthcare sector of Vietnam that a model combining postal services with low-altitude aviation technology has been successfully deployed. 

Under the pilot scheme, Vietnam Post operates small UAVs specifically designed for medical transport, meeting all safety and legal requirements for flight approval within a radius of about 10 km. Each route is expected to operate two flights per day.

In case of urgent or unexpected demand from medical facilities, and subject to approval by state authorities, Vietnam Post will increase the number of drones and flight frequency to meet the demand.

The UAVs have a cruising speed of up to 60 kph and an operational range of 15 km. They are equipped with real-time flight monitoring cameras and specialized compartments that meet strict standards for transporting medical specimens, medicines and medical supplies.

In the future, the experimental drone model will be further upgraded, aiming for a flight range of approximately 20km and a payload suitable for medical transport of around 10kg.

VnEconomy-Hằng Anh

The fund is designed to serve as a critical instrument for developing high-quality human resources and drawing in specialists for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Ho Chi Minh City is moving forward with a plan to establish a non-budget fund aimed at mobilizing financial resources to attract high-level experts and nurture talent, with the total scale projected to reach approximately VND350 billion (about $13.3 million) by 2030.

During a meeting on December 24, Permanent Vice Chairman of the City People’s Committee, Mr. Nguyen Loc Ha, reviewed the draft proposal for the initiative, which seeks to create a sustainable financial tool to supplement the city's human resource development.

According to a representative from the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in HCM City (HCMC C4IR), the fund is designed to serve as a critical instrument for developing high-quality human resources and drawing in specialists for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation. The draft project outlines a strategy to build an effective network of overseas Vietnamese and international experts, including chief engineers and chief architects, to lead key research and development (RD) and innovation projects between 2025 and 2027.

Beyond attracting international expertise, the initiative places a strong emphasis on the early discovery and nurturing of domestic talent, particularly in STEM fields and strategic industries. This focus aims to build a workforce with deep scientific mindsets and the research capacity to master intellectual property, ensuring the city's long-term sustainable development.

The project has set specific annual targets, including the recruitment of at least five experts from overseas or domestic sources and the support of three to five research projects focused on technology commercialization to produce new patents and high-tech startups.

The project also aims to grant five to ten scholarships annually for degree programs ranging from bachelor’s to doctoral levels, both within Vietnam and abroad. Additionally, the city plans to build a comprehensive talent database containing at least 500 expert profiles while promoting a collaborative model between the state, academia, businesses, and scientists.

The fund will be financed through "socialized" sources, including aid and sponsorships from domestic and international individuals, organizations, enterprises, and research institutes. The initial scale of the fund is expected to reach between VND100 billion ($3.8 million) and VND150 billion ($5.7 million) by 2026, with the goal of expanding the total pool to approximately VND350 billion by the end of the decade.

Vneconomy-Thi Nguyễn

If the proposal is approved in the first quarter of 2026, construction of the $335-million road is expected to commence in the third quarter of the same year and to be completed by late 2028.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction has submitted a pre-feasibility study proposal to the City People's Committee for an inter-port road project connecting Cat Lai and Phu Huu ports to the HCMC – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway and the city's Ring Road 3.

The project is expected to create a synchronized traffic axis, significantly easing congestion pressure at the city’s largest seaport gateway.

Under the proposal, the inter-port road will span approximately 5.9 km with a 60-meter-wide cross-section.

The route begins at the intersection with Nguyen Thi Dinh Street and terminates at the junction of the HCMC – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway and the city's Ring Road 3.

Key infrastructure includes the construction of the 10-lane Ba Cua Bridge. Notably, the segment from Phu Huu Port to the expressway and Ring Road 3 interchange will feature a four-lane viaduct, integrated with three ramps connecting to the ground-level road system.

The project is slated to be funded by the state budget with a total investment of nearly VND8.8 trillion (nearly $335 million). If the proposal is approved in the first quarter of 2026, construction is expected to commence in the third quarter of the same year and to be completed by late 2028.

According to the Department of Construction, the Cat Lai – Phu Huu port cluster along the Dong Nai River is a critical hub, playing a vital role in the import-export activities of both the city and the Southern Key Economic Zone. However, vehicles currently entering and exiting these ports must rely on existing routes such as Nguyen Duy Trinh, Nguyen Thi Dinh, Vo Chi Cong, Dong Van Cong, and Mai Chi Tho to connect to the Hanoi Highway and the HCMC – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway.

These current routes are frequently overloaded, resulting in severe and widespread gridlock. Prolonged traffic jams not only hamper port operations but also drive up logistics costs and reduce the competitiveness of Vietnamese goods. Furthermore, the congestion poses safety risks and negatively impacts the daily lives of local residents as well as the city’s broader socio-economic development.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

New supply increasing by 50% compared to 2024.

The real estate market in 2025 has witnessed a noticeable growth trend, with new supply increasing by about 50% compared to 2024, according to the latest report from the Ministry of Construction.

There are 3,297 projects nationwide, including commercial housing, social housing, and land plots, with a total of 5.9 million units. Total investment is estimated at VND7.42 quadrillion ($281.91 billion).

Commercial housing and urban areas played a key role with 2,358 projects, supplying 5.2 million units with total investment capital of VND6.74 quadrillion.

The absorbent rate of new projects reached over 60%.

Regarding prices, in recent years, apartment units, townhouses, villas, and residential land have recorded high price hikes, with some periods seeing increases of up to 30%.

VnEconomy-Thanh Xuân

In 2026, experts suggest that if businesses continue to diversify into the CPTPP, EU, and Middle East markets while prioritizing value-added products, Vietnam’s shrimp industry can still maintain growth despite a challenging global landscape.

With sustained growth momentum over the first 11 months of the year, Vietnam’s shrimp export turnover for the full year 2025 is projected to reach $4.6 billion, marking an all-time historic high.

According to data from Vietnam Customs, cumulative shrimp exports from the beginning of the year through November 2025 reached $4.3 billion, a 21% increase compared to the same period last year.

The performance over the past 11 months reflects a clear recovery in global consumer demand, particularly for processed shrimp and premium segments. In a context where many other industries still face significant hurdles, Vietnam’s shrimp industry has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt quickly to market fluctuations, trade policies, and shifting consumer trends.

Mainland China and Hong Kong (China) remain the largest destinations for Vietnamese shrimp. In the first 11 months of 2025, export turnover to these markets reached $1.2 billion, accounting for more than 28% of Vietnam's total shrimp exports and surging by 59% year-on-year.

However, competition in these markets is intensifying. While Ecuador and India maintain an edge in the low-cost segment, Thailand and Vietnam are competing directly in the premium and processed product categories. Furthermore, stringent requirements regarding traceability, border controls, and changes in Chinese customs policies continue to pose significant challenges for Vietnamese exporters.

The CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) bloc remains a bright spot, with export turnover reaching $1.2 billion in the first 11 months, a 32% increase. Japan maintains its role as a key market with $535 million, up 13%, driven largely by processed products destined for retail channels. Steady growth in Australia, the UK, and Canada has helped the CPTPP region become a vital "buffer" for the industry amidst high volatility in the US and EU markets.

In the first 11 months of 2025, shrimp exports to the US reached $754 million, a 7% year-on-year increase. However, November figures saw a 7% dip to $52 million, attributed to the impact of trade defense measures.

Conversely, the EU market has recorded a significant recovery. Turnover reached $540 million in the first 11 months, up 21% over the same period last year, with Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands leading the growth.

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) estimates that total shrimp exports for 2025 will certainly surpass $4.5 billion and could reach the $4.6 billion milestone—the highest level ever recorded.

Looking toward 2026, the outlook is more cautious due to tariff pressures from the US, fierce competition in China, and high domestic production costs. Nevertheless, experts suggest that if businesses continue to diversify into the CPTPP, EU, and Middle East markets while prioritizing value-added products, Vietnam’s shrimp industry can still maintain growth despite a challenging global landscape.

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

Trade surplus estimated at around $21.2 billion, marking the 10th consecutive year Vietnam has recorded a trade surplus.

Vietnam Customs held a ceremony on December 25 to mark the country’s total import-export turnover surpassing the $900 billion mark, the highest level ever recorded.

The agency estimated that total trade in 2025 will reach about $920 billion, a year-on-year increase of 16.9%.

Of the total, exports contributed $470.59 billion, up 15.9% year-on-year, while imports reached $449.41 billion, soaring 18% year-on-year.

As a result, trade surplus is estimated at around $21.2 billion, marking the 10th consecutive year Vietnam has recorded a trade surplus.

Notably, total trade value of the FDI sector is forecast to surpass $600 billion for the first time, reaching a record high of $663 billion this year, skyrocketing 25% year-on-year, and accounting for 72% of the country’s total foreign trade revenue.

According to customs data, Vietnam’s total import-export value during the 2015-2024 period reached $5.52 trillion. Trade turnover rose from about $328 billion in 2015 to $786 billion in 2024, an increase of 2.4 times over a decade.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Sơn

The positive results reaffirming their role as a leading growth driver and a catalyst for the capital’s transition towards modern and high-tech industry.

Hanoi’s high-tech parks and Industrial zones (IZs) attracted $660 million in investment in 2025, exceeding the target by 24.5%, heard a conference held on December 24 at the Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park.

The event was held to discuss solutions to boost production and business activities, and promote on-site investment for enterprises and investors in the capital city’s high-tech parks and IZs.

Their 2025 total revenue is estimated at $12.14 billion, contributing about 19.12% to the city’s GRDP, and export turnover amounted to $7.42 billion. The results reaffirmed their role as a leading growth driver and a catalyst for the capital’s transition towards modern and high-tech industry.

At the conference, the Hanoi Hi-tech and Industrial Park Management Board pledged to work closely with relevant agencies to remove bottlenecks, implement breakthrough policies, and support businesses and investors.

The management board will absorb feedback from practice to help refine policies and step up practical on-site investment promotion, encouraging existing investors to increase capital, scale up operations, upgrade technology and develop new products, contributing to stronger productivity and competitiveness in Hanoi’s high-tech parks and IZs, according to Mr. Vu Xuan Hung, head of the management board.

VnEconomy-Thanh Xuân

Vietnam remained Singapore’s 10th largest trading partner during the period.

Two-way trade turnover between Vietnam and Singapore in the first 11 months of 2025 reached nearly SGD36 billion ($27.89 billion), marking the highest bilateral trade value ever recorded between the two economies, according to the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore.

The figure represents a 25.7% increase, compared the 11-month period of last year, and 13.56% higher than the total trade value recorded for the whole of 2024, which stood at SGD31.67 billion.

Of the total, Singapore’s exports to Vietnam reached SGD24.5 billion, up 17.7%, while imports from Vietnam rose 47.2% to SGD11.5 billion.

Machinery and electrical equipment and parts, along with mineral fuels, oils and related products, remained Singapore’s two largest export groups to Vietnam, with a combined value of SGD16.5 billion, accounting for 67.5% of total exports.

On the import side, machinery and electrical equipment also led Singapore’s imports from Vietnam, reaching nearly SGD5.9 billion, more than doubling year-on-year.

Vietnam remained Singapore’s 10th largest trading partner during the period. 

VnEconomy-Vũ Khuê

Valid duration of visa and temporary residence card for foreign investors, experts, scientists, managers and skilled workers working at entities headquartered in Vietnam’s IFC and their family members will exceed 10 years.

The Government has issued Decree No. 327/2025/ND-CP on entry, exit and residence policy for foreigners working at the International Financial Center (IFC) in Vietnam, according to a report from the Government News.

The Decree provides for issuance of visa and temporary residence card for foreign investors, experts, scientists, managers and skilled workers working at entities headquartered in the IFC and their family members, with valid duration exceeding 10 years.

The time required for issuing visa and temporary residence card shall not exceed three working days since the date of valid dossiers.

Conditions for permanent residence

Major investors, experts, scientists, special talents, and senior managers working at the IFC shall be considered for permanent residence in Vietnam if the following conditions are satisfied:

- Applicants must have papers proving long-term employment at agency/organization located in the IFC and have worked at such agency/organization for at least three consecutive years; and

- Applicants shall need to acquire approval from Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Ministerial-level Agencies or Governmental Bodies, or Chairpersons of the Municipal People's Committees of Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, where the IFC is headquartered.

Application dossiers

Application dossiers shall include the following papers:

- Application form for permanent residence;

- Judicial record issued by competent authority of applicant's country;

- Diplomatic note issued by diplomatic mission of the applicant's country;

- Certified copy of applicant's passport; and

- Written request and papers proving the applicant meets required conditions.

Within 02 months since the date of receiving valid dossiers, the Minister of Public Security shall consider and decide to grant permanent residence to the foreign applicant.

In case the dossiers require further verification, the additional time shall not exceed one month.

Within 02 months since the date of receiving the notification regarding the grant of permanent residence from the Ministry of Public Security, the applicant shall need to come to immigration agency to take the permanent residence card.

Every ten years, the applicant needs to show up at the immigration agency to renew his/her permanent residence card.

VGP-Pham Long

SJC-branded gold bars were sold at VND158.8 million ($6,038) per tael.

Gold prices in the domestic market plunged on December 25 after rising for four consecutive days.

SJC-branded gold bars were sold at VND158.8 million ($6,038) per tael, down VND400,000 ($15.2) from the previous session.

One tael equals 37.5 grams, or about 1.2 ounces.

Buying prices of the bullion also fell by VND400,000 to VND156.8 million ($5,961) per tael.

Meanwhile, gold ring prices remained unchanged at VND152.6 million per tael for buying and VND155.6 million per tael for selling.

On the global market, gold prices edged down 0.08% to $4,480.8 per ounce. At this level, domestic gold prices remain approximately VND14.79 million ($562) per tael higher than international prices.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi

Ambassador of Argentina to Vietnam, H.E. Marcos Antonio Bednarski, spoke with Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s Phuong Hoa about the relationship between Vietnam and Argentina and the significant opportunities to expand cooperation in promising economic sectors over the years to come.

How would you evaluate the development of the relationship between Vietnam and Argentina in the 50 years since bilateral relations were established in 1973?

Bilateral trade has consistently grown robustly and steadily since Vietnam and Argentina established diplomatic ties. Within the Asian region alone, Vietnam is now Argentina’s third-largest trading partner and ranks eighth globally. This demonstrates that cooperation between the two countries has been continually strengthened and has come to play a strategically important role.

However, to fully unlock the cooperative potential, I believe Vietnam and Argentina need to make greater efforts in diversifying their export structures in each other’s markets. Argentina’s export structure to Vietnam remains relatively narrow, with more than 90 per cent consisting of animal feed products. Both sides therefore need to proactively identify sectors of high potential and explore more effective negotiation mechanisms to boost market access and facilitate the smoother entry of goods into one another’s markets.

In addition, one of the major challenges Argentine products face when entering the Vietnamese market is the relatively high import tariffs imposed compared to those on countries enjoying preferences under Vietnam’s free trade agreements (FTAs). For this reason, Vietnam and Argentina, along with other members of the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR), are actively advancing negotiations towards reaching an FTA between Vietnam and the trade bloc. This would establish a more comprehensive cooperative framework, reduce trade barriers, and create new momentum for economic and commercial exchanges in the years ahead.

Vietnam is one of six countries selected by Argentina to host its Agro-Industrial Attaché Office. What policies or incentives is the Argentine Government offering to support Vietnamese enterprises in accessing the Argentine market?

Argentina officially inaugurated its Agro-Industrial Attaché Office in Vietnam on July 1 this year. This is one of six such Offices Argentina has established worldwide, reflecting the importance the country places on Vietnam within the bilateral relationship as well as Vietnam’s strategic role in the sector’s development.

When Argentina elected a new president in 2023, the Argentine Government introduced a series of new economic policies, including removing unreasonable requirements for businesses, opening its international trade market, stabilizing the macro-economy, and providing special incentives for many sectors, particularly agriculture.

In 2023, Argentina faced severe drought, which significantly affected agricultural production. However, the situation had improved by 2024; production had stabilized and output returned to levels comparable to pre-drought periods. Agricultural output is expected to continue rising strongly in 2025 and 2026, contributing to the sector’s sustainable development.

Previously, Argentina’s agricultural sector faced various restrictions, such as export limitations and mandatory domestic reserve requirements. With the new policies, many of these constraints have been considerably eased, and certain import-export bans have even been removed. This has created additional incentives and new opportunities for Argentine agricultural products, while expanding the potential for cooperation with Vietnamese enterprises in the Argentine market.

How do you view Argentina’s investment in Vietnam in recent years?

Overall, Argentina’s investment in Vietnam, as well as the presence of Argentine enterprises in the Vietnamese market, remains relatively limited and does not yet reflect the full potential of cooperation between the two countries. However, we are actively exploring economic sectors that can enhance the presence of Argentine businesses in Vietnam and promote bilateral economic cooperation in the coming period.

Specifically, at the 8th Meeting of the Vietnam-Argentina Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade and Scientific-Technological Cooperation, held in October, both sides agreed to implement a series of pillars and priorities within the bilateral cooperation agenda. Within this framework, Argentina will continue to promote collaboration in several key sectors with Vietnam, particularly agricultural projects such as rice cultivation, increasing soybean production, and dairy processing.

In addition, the energy sector is considered a field with very high potential for cooperation between the two countries. Argentina is endowed with abundant energy resources, making this a priority and promising area for strategic cooperation in the near future. Furthermore, both countries are seeking to expand cooperation into other sectors of potential.

Argentina is currently negotiating a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Vietnam. Once concluded, this agreement will facilitate smoother exchanges of goods and services between the two countries in the years to come.

Vietnam is actively advancing its national digital transformation, while Argentina possesses notable strengths in technology. Could this be a promising area for deeper bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the near future?

The potential for cooperation between Vietnam and Argentina in digital transformation is indeed significant. I have been closely monitoring Vietnam’s policies on digital transformation, and I must say that in Latin America, Argentina is one of the leading countries in this field.

Notably, at the 8th Meeting of the Vietnam-Argentina Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade and Scientific-Technological Cooperation, we also proposed supporting Vietnam in implementing a digital plant quarantine certificate. This reflects practical experience from Argentina’s successful digital initiatives, which we are eager to share with Vietnam.

Moreover, Argentina is among countries with a high Human Development Index in Latin America and is seriously investing in training and developing a digital workforce. These foundations create favorable conditions for both countries to expand cooperation.

Therefore, I am confident that digital transformation can become an important area of bilateral cooperation. What is needed now is for both sides to identify specific, feasible, and suitable projects that can be implemented effectively and pragmatically in the near future.

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Total investment capital for the project is estimated at VND6.7 trillion ($254 million).

The People’s Committee of central Khanh Hoa Province has approved Component Project No.1 on site clearance and resettlement to support the construction of the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant.

The componet project has a total estimated investment of VND6.7 trillion ($254 million), including VND5.28 trillion allocated for compensation and land clearance, more than VND1 trillion for construction of infrastructure in resettlement areas, and the remainder for other related costs.

The Component Project No.1 will be implemented in Phuoc Dinh Commune, with the Khanh Hoa provincial Project Management Board acting as the investor. The implementation period is scheduled from 2025 to 2030.

Completion of the resettlement and site clearance work is considered a critical step in advancing the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant project. 

The Ninh Thuan 1 and Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear power projects, each with a planned capacity of 2,000–3,000 MW, are expected to become operational during the 2030–2035 period.

VnEconomy-Bích Hằng

The northern port city posting a growth of 11.81% in 2025.

The northern port city of Hai Phong will strive for economic growth of 13% in 2026, following robust growth of 11.81% recorded in 2025.

Other key targets include per capita income of $7,944.5, an increase in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) of 15.5–16%, and foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction of $3.8–4.3 billion.

In 2025, the city’s IIP is estimated to rise 12.5%, while FDI inflows are projected at $3.8 billion.

Total export revenue is expected to reach $52 billion in 2026, up from an estimated $50.14 billion in 2025.

The city also aims to welcome 16 million tourists next year, an increase of 11.4% year-on-year.

To support growth, Hai Phong plans to commence construction of 10 key public projects in 2026, with total investment capital exceeding VND26.2 trillion ($996 million).

VnEconomy-Nam Khánh

Credit growth continues positive trajectory with total oustanding loans reaching over VND5 quadrillion ($190 billion).

Credit institutions in Ho Chi Minh City mobilized capital worth over VND5.17 quadrillion ($196 billion) in 2025, up nearly 12% year-on-year, according to the State Bank of Vietnam’s Regional Branch 2.

Credit to priority sectors continued to expand steadily, with loans for agriculture and rural development reaching VND520 trillion ($19.77 billion), export credit VND169 trillion, small and medium-sized enterprises VND1.59 quadrillion, industries VND81 trillion, and loans to high-tech enterprises VND5.29 trillion.

Under the VND185 trillion credit package for enterprises engaged in agricultural, forestry and fishery production and processing, launched by the State Bank of Vietnam in 2023,  VND2.32 trillion has been disbursed in Ho Chi Minh City this year. 

Notably, the bank–business connectivity program in the city reached an unprecedented scale. In 2025, 18 banks registered to join a credit package worth VND517.06 trillion. Total disbursement under the program reached over VND881.2 trillion to 223,253 borrowers in 2025.

VnEconomy-Thiên Di