The council is tasked with setting development strategies, roadmaps, and plans for the International Financial Center.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on December 18 signed Decision 2755/QD-TTg on establishing the Executive Council of Vietnam’s International Financial Center, headed by Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh.

Under the decision, the council is tasked with setting development strategies, roadmaps, and plans for the International Financial Centre, based on the current conditions and potential of Ho Chi Minh City and central Da Nang city, where the center is headquartered.

It will issue operating regulations, coordinate between the two cities, and advise on appointments of the center’ executive heads.

An advisory council comprising domestic and international financial and legal experts will also be formed to support policy design and development.

The Executive Council will regularly monitor the construction, operation and development of the International Financial Center to ensure its efficiency, contributing to raising its position in the global financial system.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Sơn

Questions regarding transparency and data acquisition count among the issues to be addressed as QR payments grow in popularity.

The shift towards merchant-based QR payment codes (QR payments) has become an inexorable trend but certain issues remain. These range from the absence of consumer-protection mechanisms and difficulties in transaction tracing to potential tax losses and the inability to link with international payment systems. According to analysts, such a transition will not only enhance transparency across financial flows and provide critical data for tax administration and market oversight but also create space for fintech companies to develop new value added services.

Behind the boom in QR payments

On November 19 in Hanoi, under the direction of the Payment Department at the State Bank of Vietnam, Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy, in partnership with the National Payment Corporation of Vietnam (NAPAS), convened a conference entitled “QR Code Payments: Transparency and Unlimited Experiences”, where experts noted that while personal QR codes offer clear advantages - speed, zero fees, and ease of use - their widespread adoption has exposed significant risks.

“QR payments have become so common in Vietnam that everything from a glass of water to a bag of vegetables can be paid for using a QR code,” said Mr. Pham Tien Dung, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV). “But the question is: Are QR payments truly transparent, and in what way?”

QR codes help users reduce the steps required to enter account numbers when making transfers, he explained, but that does not automatically mean transactions become more transparent. Most QR transactions today are simply money transfers between accounts. They do not reflect the commercial nature of the transaction and are not integrated with accounting systems or invoicing tools.

He noted that the surge in QR transactions stems from their simplicity and accessibility. Any shop-owner can adopt the method quickly by opening a bank account, generating a personal QR code, and placing it at the counter. The model requires no contracts, no specialized equipment, and, crucially, incurs no transaction fees.

However, from the perspective of payment management and infrastructure, using personal QR codes for transfers is not considered a true payment acceptance point. In essence, these are personal codes linked to individual accounts rather than to businesses or commercial entities. As a result, it becomes difficult to determine the real nature of a transaction: is it a payment for goods, a personal transfer, or a loan? This ambiguity introduces major risks regarding transparency and dispute resolution.

In reality, many shops still ask customers to transfer money to employees’ personal accounts. This practice erases the commercial trail of transactions, complicating complaints, reconciliation, and tax compliance.

Mr. Dung emphasized that any roadmap to move from QR transfers to QR payments must consider real-world conditions to ensure balance and avoid abrupt or excessive changes. For example, small market vendors selling vegetables often lack point-of-sale (POS) software or e-invoicing tools. For them, QR transfers remain practical, especially as banks have added useful features such as audio notifications for incoming funds.

By contrast, adopting true QR payments require merchants to meet much higher system requirements: order management, payment connectivity, invoicing, and, most importantly, automated posting into accounting systems. This level of integration demands seamless coordination between the seller’s systems, the buyer, banks, and payment intermediaries. Not every merchant has the capacity to fully implement QR payments.

He pointed to electricity bill payments as an example of successful integration. Banks connect directly with the electricity sector to retrieve billing data. Once payments are completed, the system automatically updates records, preventing duplicate payments. Invoicing and accounting entries are also automated. But such automation is only possible because the electricity sector has a centralized, standardized, and data-ready system.

QR codes are also proving effective in cross-border payments. “When I was in Laos, I simply used my Vietnamese mobile banking app to scan a merchant’s QR code and paid immediately,” Mr. Dung said. “No card, no currency exchange. It was seamless, cost-effective, and convenient for both myself and the seller.”

He called on experts, banks, and payment intermediaries to actively contribute ideas and clarify the tangible economic benefits that QR payments can deliver. At the same time, he urged the development of a suitable roadmap that avoids disruption or undue pressure on merchants. He also underlined the importance of identifying bottlenecks in the transition process and proposing feasible, sustainable solutions to promote a more transparent, comprehensive, and synchronized digital payment ecosystem in the future.

Cost of convenience

Experts at the conference warned that using personal QR codes for money transfers instead of official payment QR codes could lead to serious consequences, especially when it comes to transaction tracing, refunds, or dispute resolution in cases of payment errors.

A common point emphasized was the need to clearly distinguish between QR transfers and QR payments. QR transfers are typically linked to a personal bank account and lack control mechanisms, whereas QR payments are a one-time authenticated transaction with built-in security and complaint-handling capabilities. This distinction is crucial for protecting consumer rights. With QR payments, customers can request support for tracing or refunding in the event of an error, while QR transfer transactions are completed instantly, leaving users to bear all the risk.

Beyond consumer protection, QR payments also support tax authorities, and State management agencies more broadly, in monitoring money flows across the economy, generating accurate data for supervision and policy-making.

The importance of shifting from QR transfers to QR payments becomes even more evident as Vietnam expands cross-border payment links. “Chinese consumers cannot be allowed to transfer funds directly into a merchant’s personal bank account in Vietnam,” Mr. Dung emphasized. “That is invalid and not permitted.”

His comments underscore that QR payments are not only the operationally-optimal option but also a mandatory requirement for Vietnam to integrate into the global payment ecosystem and comply with international regulatory standards.

However, the transition is not straightforward. One major barrier is transaction fees. QR transfers remain free for users, while QR payments may carry a fee based on the transaction value. This gap has made many merchants hesitant or unwilling to adopt QR payments, despite the long-term benefits in transparency and operational control.

The market is also facing the threat of fee undercutting. Some banks are offering QR payment services to merchants completely free of charge to win market share, distorting competition and hurting the sustainability of payment infrastructure, particularly security and system-operation costs.

In response, many experts proposed that the SBV and the Vietnam Banks Association consider implementing a minimum floor-price mechanism, similar to models used in developed markets, preventing members from offering services below a regulated baseline. This would help maintain stability, fairness, and long-term sustainability in the payment sector.

For specific sectors such as hospitals, schools, and public services, experts suggested applying lower preferential fees, in line with policies promoting cashless payments in the public sector and ensuring broader social accessibility.

As QR payments continue to develop, NAPAS is widely regarded as the key infrastructure provider - an enabler that remains neutral and does not compete with its member institutions. Experts stressed that NAPAS should focus on building shared infrastructure, ensuring independence and neutrality, and supporting holistic market development.

Ultimately, consumers will determine the trajectory of QR payments. According to discussions at the conference, once users clearly understand the actual benefits, from legal protection and transactional safety to convenience, they will naturally choose QR payments. And when consumer demand becomes evident, merchants will have no choice but to follow. At that point, QR payments will grow in a natural, sustainable way, aligned with modern market trends.

According to data from the State Bank of Vietnam, cashless payment transactions rose 43.32 per cent in volume and 24.23 per cent in value year-on-year in the first nine months of 2025. Notably, QR code transactions surged 61.63 per cent in volume and 150.67 per cent in value, making QR the fastest-growing method among all electronic payment channels.

For NAPAS, as of the end of September 2025 the network had processed more than 8.3 billion transactions with a total value of VND47,530 trillion ($1.828 trillion). On peak days, the system handled more than 42.5 million transactions daily, maintaining an availability rate of 99.997 per cent.

VET-Tung Thu

The forum will be chaired by the Prime Minister, with the participation of Government leaders, representatives from various ministries, sectors, and local authorities, as well as tech enterprises, research institutes, universities, experts, and international organizations.

The 3rd National Forum on the Development of Digital Economy and Digital Society themed "Comprehensive and Inclusive Development of the Digital Economy and Digital Society – Achieving Double-Digit GDP Growth Targets for the 2026–2030 Period" is set to take place on December 20. 

The forum will be chaired by the Prime Minister, with the participation of Government leaders, representatives from various ministries, sectors, and local authorities, as well as tech enterprises, research institutes, universities, experts, and international organizations.

As an annual event hosted by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the forum serves as a platform for policy dialogue, experience sharing, and the promotion of innovative initiatives within the national digital transformation process to drive socio-economic growth.

The year 2025 holds particular significance as it marks the conclusion of the 2021–2025 Five-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan. It is also the point at which the first five years of national digital transformation efforts are evaluated to draw lessons and define strategic directions for the next development cycle.

Against this backdrop, the 3rd forum is expected to provide a space for regulators, experts, businesses, and local authorities to engage in in-depth discussions on solutions for comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable digital development during the upcoming acceleration phase.

This year’s forum aims to provide a panoramic view of digital economy and society implementation from 2021–2025. From this overview, participants will identify bottlenecks, highlights, growth potential, new policy spaces, and breakthrough solutions for the subsequent period.

Discussions at the forum will focus on three key pillars: general assessment of Vietnam’s digital economy and society development during 2021–2025; sharing practical experiences and successful models of digital transformation from ministries, sectors, and localities; and in-depth discussions on the application of AI in developing the digital economy and digital society.

A major highlight of this year’s event will be the launch of the “Learning from Practical Work” program. This systematic initiative is based on the "Triple Helix" model of cooperation between the State, academia, and industry. It aims to bolster human resource development for the digital economy across the country’s key sectors and industries.

By identifying clear strengths and gaps, the forum seeks to ensure that trade and investment promotion activities remain highly targeted and responsive to market demands, ultimately enhancing national competitiveness.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

A total of 234 key projects broke ground or inaugurated simultaneously nationwide on December 19 to celebrate the 79th anniversary of the National Resistance Day (December 19, 1946 - December 19, 2025). the 11th National Emulation Congress and 14th National Party Congress.

Vietnamese leaders fanned out 79 venues across all the 34 provinces and cities nationwide to attended the inauguration and groundbreaking ceremonies for 234 key projects on December 19, according to a report from the Government News.

This large-scale event on the key projects aimed to create a strong impetus for infrastructure, economic and social development.

Taking place at 79 venues, it was a practical activity to celebrate the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam and the 79th anniversary of the National Resistance Day (December 19, 1946 - December 19, 2025).

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Tran Thanh Man separately attended the ground-breaking ceremony of Olympic sports urban area and the Red River Landscape Boulevard in Hanoi, respectively. The two flagship projects aim at transforming the capital's urban landscape.

The Olympic Sports Urban Area Project is implemented in 11 communes with a scale of 9,171 hectares and total preliminary investment estimated at VND925,651 billion (nearly $35.2 billion). According to the plan, the Sports Complex and Stadium will be completed in the second quarter of 2030; the entire project is expected to be completed in 2035.

The Red River Boulevard Project will be deployed along both banks of the river, stretching from Hong Ha Bridge to Me So Bridge across 16 communes and wards. The preliminary investment is approximately VND855 trillion ($32.4 billion).

Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh attended the inauguration ceremony of the expanded Terminal T2 at Noi Bai International Airport which marks a major step in the airport’s digital transformation and its effort to raise capacity as passenger demand continues to surge.

Earlier, at 8:30 a.m. on December 19, a wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft of Vietnam Airlines carrying Standing Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh and delegates, departed from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and landed at Long Thanh International Airport, as the inaugural flight to the new airport.

Long Thanh International Airport in southern Dong Nai Province, which reached a key milestone with its first official maiden landings by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet and Bamboo Airways. The new airport, located about 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City, is expected to become a major aviation hub for Southeast Asia.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha inaugurated the Can Tho – Hau Giang section and technically open the Hau Giang – Ca Mau section.

Stretching more than 110 km with a total investment of over VND27.5 trillion ($1.04 billion ), the project not only resolves long-standing traffic bottlenecks in the Mekong Delta, but also opens up new development opportunities for the entire region - especially Ca Mau, the last locality in the country to be directly connected to the eastern North–South expressway axis.

Travel between Can Tho city and the southernmost province of Ca Mau will take only about 1 hour 30 minutes instead of nearly three hours.

In northern Ninh Binh province, the first phase of Viet Duc and Bach Mai Hospitals, Facility 2 were inaugurated at the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long.

This is considered a step of strategic significance, demonstrating the proactive spirit and high political responsibility of Bach Mai Hospital in implementing the major policy of the Party and Government on reducing the burden on the upper level, while improving the quality of medical examination and treatment for people in the southern area of Hanoi and neighboring provinces.

In northern Lao Cai province, Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son attended the ground-breaking ceremony of the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong Railway project.

Spanning 419km with an estimated total investment of over VND203.2 trillion ($7.7 billion), it connects the Lao Cai International Border Gate to Lach Huyen Seaport in Hai Phong City, serving as the backbone for regional linkage and international integration. The project is expected to come into operation by late 2030.

In Quang Tri Province, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Central Dong Hoi Social Housing Project.

The project comprises two 15-storey apartment towers on a land area of approximately 8,750 square metres, with a construction footprint of 3,460 square metres. The total gross floor area is about 51,648 square metres, of which around 35,655 square metres are designated for social housing.

Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Youth Cultural Center Construction Project, in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Youth Cultural Center is a multi-functional complex comprising four basement levels and 21 above-ground floors, with a total gross floor area of 93,506.26 square metres and a total investment of over VND 2.2 trillion (nearly $83.6 million), classified as a Group-A public investment project.

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra attended the ground-breaking ceremony of the Phase 2 Project for Investment in and Development of Infrastructure of Que Vo II Industrial Park, in Phu Lang Commune, Bac Ninh Province.

The project is located in a strategic position with leading connectivity advantages in the northern region, situated along National Highway 18 and directly linked to the expressway network and key transport hubs. This creates an optimal logistics network, enabling enterprises investing in the industrial park to reduce costs, optimize supply chains, and enhance global competitiveness.

Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung attended the ground-breaking ceremony of the 125 kilometers of Quy Nhon - Pleiku Expressway with eight construction packages.

The Quy Nhon–Pleiku Expressway will extend about 125 km with four lanes, a 24.75-metre-wide roadbed and a design speed of 100 km/h. The project carries a total investment of VND 43,734 billion (about USD 1.82 billion) and is divided into three components. Components 1 and 3 are scheduled to break ground on December 19, while Component 2 is expected to start in March 2026.

In Mui Ne Ward, Lam Dong Province, the Air Defence–Air Force Service held the inauguration ceremony of Phan Thiet Military Airport, a key project of the Ministry of National Defence with special strategic significance for national defence and security as well as infrastructure development in the South Central region.

Politburo member and Minister of National Defence Phan Van Giang, together with leaders of central ministries, agencies and local authorities, attended the ceremony.

VGP-Khanh Chi

Vietnam Airlines’s flight, coded VN1 and operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, departed from Hanoi and landed at Long Thanh after more than two hours, as the inaugural flight to the new airport.

Vietnam Airlines on December 19 operated the first passenger flight to Long Thanh International Airport, marking the beginning of civil aviation operations at Vietnam’s newest and most modern airport.

The flight, coded VN1 and operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, departed from Hanoi and landed at Long Thanh after more than two hours. On board were Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh and nearly 100 passengers.

Long Thanh International Airport is among 234 key projects broke ground or inaugurated simultaneously nationwide on December 19 to celebrate the 11th National Emulation Congress and 14th National Party Congress.

A Vietnam Airlines representative was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as saying that the safe landing of the wide-body aircraft, following a successful technical verification flight on December 15, demonstrates the airport’s high level of readiness as well as strong coordination among relevant ministries, agencies, and service units. This flight is considered a significant milestone in the roadmap to officially put Long Thanh International Airport into full commercial operation.

Vietnam Airlines General Director Le Hong Ha, meanwhile, stated that the first commercial passenger flight to Long Thanh not only opens a new phase of operations for the national flag carrier but also contributes to accelerating the modernization of Vietnam’s aviation infrastructure, and enhancing domestic and international connectivity.

VNA-Khanh Van

For foreign investors, it serves as a vital tool to identify potential partners in Vietnam, thereby facilitating investment and cooperation.

The Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), has officially released the "Vietnam Electronics Value Chain Map" and the "Business Directory."

At the launch workshop held on December 18, Deputy Director of VIETRADE, Bui Quang Hung, pointed out that the current supply chain remains fragmented and lacks comprehensive information across various stages, from RD and components to testing and certification.

“The Value Chain Map is not merely a database; it is a strategic information infrastructure dedicated to trade promotion, investment attraction, industrial development, and the enhancement of national competitiveness,” Mr. Hung said.

According to Director of KOTRA Hanoi, Cho Sang Jae, these resources serve as a strategic information infrastructure built on analytical data from 742 enterprises across seven key electronics sectors. The map provides multi-dimensional value to all stakeholders involved.

For the Vietnamese government, the map acts as a "policy compass," identifying the specific types of enterprises needed to bolster global competitiveness. For foreign investors, it serves as a vital tool to identify potential partners in Vietnam, thereby facilitating investment and cooperation.

“The true value of this map and directory lies not just in the document itself, but in its future application as a foundational database for policy-making and investment attraction,” said the director of KOTRA Hanoi.

A representative from VIETRADE noted that amid intensifying global competition, regional peers such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia have invested heavily in Value Chain Maps to support businesses and attract capital. Developing a Value Chain Map for the electrical and electronics (EE) industry is more than a technical initiative; it is a strategic move for the sustainable development of Vietnam’s industrial sector.

The map provides full transparency of the supply chain by detailing what components businesses produce, their market segments, and their production capacity. This significantly narrows the information gap, which has long been a major barrier for stakeholders.

Furthermore, the map allows for the precise identification of missing links in the value chain, segments that require priority investment, and areas where Vietnamese enterprises can play a more significant role. This enables trade and investment promotion activities to be more targeted and timely.

FDI enterprises can now more easily locate suitable local suppliers, while Vietnamese firms benefit from being listed on an official "recognition map"—a visibility they have lacked for years. Once their capacity and position in the chain are clearly identified, Vietnamese businesses gain more opportunities for international cooperation, technology transfer, and participation in larger supply networks.

Additionally, Executive Board member and General Secretary of the Viet Nam Electronic Industries Association, Do Thi Thuy Huong, mentioned that Samsung currently needs thousands of local suppliers to achieve the target of a 60% localization rate by 2030, as committed by the Vietnamese and Korean governments.

"This is a historic opportunity for Vietnamese enterprises. With the Value Chain Map in hand, we can completely transform "broken supply segments" into "tightly connected segments," turning "FDI factories" into a truly Vietnamese electronics industry ecosystem," said Ms. Hương.

Vneconomy-Vũ Khuê

The river has faced pollution and landscape degradation for decades.

A project for the renovation, upgrading and revitalization of park corridors along both banks of the To Lich River in Hanoi’s Nghia Do Ward started on December 19.

It is among 234 key projects broke ground or inaugurated simultaneously nationwide on the day to celebrate the 11th National Emulation Congress and 14th National Party Congress.

The project is aimed at contributing to the revival of the historic river, while creating a new cultural symbol that blends the past and the present for the capital.

It is invested by Sun Group with an estimated investment capital of over VND4.66 trillion ($177 million).

The To Lich River has faced pollution and landscape degradation for decades. In recent years, Hanoi has made concerted efforts to implement a range of projects and decisive solutions to “revive” the river, including pollution treatment, dredging and water replenishment.

The implementation is expected to last from 2025 to 2028.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Bách

Between 2018 and 2025, the defendants exploited legal regulations to solicit and accept bribes in exchange for the appraisal and issuance of various permits.

The Supreme People's Procuracy has issued an indictment to prosecute 55 defendants involved in a bribery case at the Vietnam Food Administration (VFA) under the Ministry of Health.

Among the high-ranking officials indicted for "Receiving Bribes" are Nguyen Thanh Phong (former Director of the VFA), Tran Viet Nga (former Director of the VFA), and Nguyen Hung Long (former Deputy Director of the VFA). They are charged alongside 31 other defendants for the same offense, while the remaining 21 defendants face charges of "Giving Bribes."

According to the indictment, the VFA is a specialized agency under the Ministry of Health responsible for advising the minister on State management and law enforcement regarding food safety.

However, between 2018 and 2025, the defendants exploited legal regulations to solicit and accept bribes in exchange for the appraisal and issuance of various permits. These included "product registration certificates," "advertising content confirmations," "post-inspection appraisals," and "Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificates."

The investigation revealed that to expedite the processing of their dossiers, several service providers and businesses conspired with VFA officials to pay "unofficial fees." These payments averaged between VND5 million and 10 million ($190 - $380) per file, depending on the timeline and type of document.

The indictment further states that top leaders, including Nguyen Thanh Phong and Nguyen Hung Long, were aware of these activities and had approved the policy and the mechanism for distributing the illicit funds.

Accordingly, the total amount of bribes received by the defendants for issuing letters of receipt was more than VNS93.7 billion ($3.56 million); for issuing letters of confirmation was more than VND12.7 billion (nearly $483,000); and for issuing GMP certificates was more than VND1 billion ($38,000)

The Procuracy has held Nguyen Thanh Phong responsible for receiving a total of VND94.8 billion in bribes, from which he personally pocketed more than VND43.9 billion in his leadership role. Meanwhile, Nguyen Hung Long is held responsible for VND22.5 billion, and Tran Viet Nga for VND12.7 billion.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Mến

The opening marking an important step in the development of logistics infrastructure and cross-border trade between Vietnam and Cambodia.

The Tan Cang - Moc Bai inland container depot (ICD) (Phase 1) was officially put into operation at the Moc Bai Border Gate Economic Zone in the southern province of Tay Ninh on December 18, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

The Tan Cang - Moc Bai (ICD) was invested in by Tan Cang - Tay Ninh Joint Stock Company, a member of Saigon Newport Corporation (SNP).

The opening marks an important step in the development of logistics infrastructure and cross-border trade between Vietnam and Cambodia.

Located in the Moc Bai Border Gate Economic Zone in Ben Cau commune, and covering an area of more than 16 hectares, the ICD has a designed capacity of 247,000 TEUs per year.

The facility features an 82,600 sq.m container yard, CFS (Container Freight Station) warehouses, control zones, all supported by a container management and operation system.

Total investment for the project tops VND552 billion ($20.97 million), with over VND126 billion allocated to Phase 1 and more than VND426 billion to Phase 2.

In the 2026-2030 period, the SNP aims to develop the project into a leading cross-border logistics service centre in Tay Ninh and along the Vietnam-Cambodia international border gates. Phase 2 is scheduled for completion in 2028, expanding the logistics network and diversifying export goods such as cashew nuts, plastic pellets, limestone, lime-based products, and instant coffee to meet market demand in Cambodia.

Tay Ninh currently houses more than 1,950 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, with total registered capital exceeding $24.5 billion.

VNA-Khánh Vân

The service marking the first-ever nonstop air link between Vietnam and Northern Europe.

National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines on December 16 officially launched its first direct flight between Ho Chi Minh City and Danish capital, Copenhagen.

This move creates the only nonstop route currently available between the two countries, representing a significant milestone in Vietnam Airlines’ international expansion strategy and establishing a vital air bridge between Southeast Asia and Northern Europe.

The inaugural flight departed Tan Son Nhat International Airport at 22.45 on December 15 and landed safely at Copenhagen Airport after more than 12 hours of flight time. On the return leg, the flight departed Copenhagen at 22.50 local time on December 16 and arrived in HCM City later the same day.

The HCM City–Copenhagen service will operate three times a week. Flights depart HCM City on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, while return flights leave Copenhagen on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings.

The new route is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Vietnam and Denmark. It is also anticipated to support the continued growth of Nordic visitors to Vietnam, which has increased steadily in recent years.

VnEconomy-Đan Tiên

Currently, more than 70% of Vietnam's exports to South Korea consist of high-tech products, electronic components, and supporting products for the semiconductor industry.

With bilateral trade turnover reaching $81.5 billion in 2024 and total cumulative direct investment of approximately $92 billion, South Korea continues to solidify its position as one of Vietnam's leading economic partners.

These figures underscore the increasingly deep economic integration between the two nations. Amidst a robust restructuring of global supply chains, Vietnam-South Korea economic cooperation is clearly shifting from expanding in scale to enhancing quality, with a particular focus on high-tech industries, energy, and logistics.

Providing an overview of bilateral trade and investment, Mr. Nguyen Manh Dong from the Department of Foreign Markets (Ministry of Industry and Trade - MOIT) stated that South Korea is currently Vietnam's largest foreign investor. As of 2024, cumulative registered capital has reached $92 billion across more than 10,000 active projects.

In terms of trade, South Korea ranks as Vietnam's third-largest trading partner, trailing only China and the United States. It is also Vietnam's third-largest export market and its second-largest source of imports.

In 2024, total import-export turnover between the two countries hit $81.5 billion. Specifically, Vietnam’s exports to South Korea totaled $25.6 billion, while imports from South Korea reached $55.9 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $30.3 billion for Vietnam.

A standout feature of recent economic relations is the distinct qualitative shift in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Major conglomerates such as Samsung, LG, SK, Hanwha, and LS are expanding their footprints into high-value sectors including electronics, semiconductors, batteries, energy, data centers, new materials, and research and development (RD).

Speaking at the workshop "Promoting Vietnam’s Trade Cooperation with Japan and South Korea in the New Era," recently organized by MOIT in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr. Nguyen Duy Kien, also from the Department of Foreign Markets, highlighted this qualitative transformation in investment flows.

According to Mr. Kien, this shift is closely linked to the global supply chain restructuring strategies of South Korean enterprises. Vietnam is increasingly being chosen not just for its cost advantages, but for its stable investment environment and its ability to integrate deeper into the technological value chain.

Currently, more than 70% of Vietnam's exports to South Korea consist of high-tech products, electronic components, and supporting products for the semiconductor industry. This represents a significant transformation compared to 10–15 years ago, when Vietnam’s export structure was dominated by traditional goods such as textiles, footwear, and agricultural products.

“Major corporations like Samsung, SK, LG, Hanwha, and LS are not only investing on a large scale but are also focusing on cutting-edge fields. This includes electronics, semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence (AI), RD, energy, batteries, data centers, new materials, automation, and energy-saving solutions,” Mr. Kien said.

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

The event taking place on December 19 to celebrate the 11th National Emulation Congress and 14th National Party Congress.

A grand ceremony on the groundbreaking or inauguration of 234 key projects took place simultaneously nationwide at 9:00 AM on December 19 to celebrate the 11th National Emulation Congress and 14th National Party Congress, according to a report from the Government News.

There are 148 projects starting construction and 86 projects being inaugurated and technically cleared, including 38 projects from ministries and agencies, 39 from corporations and state-owned enterprises, and 157 managed by local administrations.

The total investment for these projects exceeds VND3.4 quadrillion ($129 billion), of which state funding amounts to over VND627 trillion, accounting for 18 per cent, while the remaining 82 per cent, approximately VND2.79 quadrillion is sourced from non-budget sources.

The ceremonies are organized both in person and online, with 79 locations nationwide, symbolizing the 79th anniversary of the National Resistance Day (December 19, 1946 - 2025).

Notable projects include the groundbreaking of the Olympic Sports Urban Area in Hanoi, the launch of the first flight under the first phase of the Long Thanh International Airport project; the groundbreaking of the first component of the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway project; and the groundbreaking of the Red River Landscape Boulevard in Hanoi.

These key projects span critical sectors such as transport infrastructure, energy, urban development, digital transformation, industry, agriculture, healthcare, and education. Many are large-scale, inter-regional projects that serve as growth engines, helping to connect economic hubs, reduce logistics costs, and improve productivity across the country.

A major contribution of the 234 key projects lies in strengthening national infrastructure. Flagship transport projects, including expressways, airports, seaports, and railways, are expected to improve connectivity between regions, facilitate trade and investment, and create new development corridors. This infrastructure upgrade will not only support domestic economic activities but also enhance Viet Nam’s integration into regional and global supply chains.

The projects also play an important role in promoting economic restructuring and innovation-driven growth. Investments in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, high-tech manufacturing, and smart urban development contribute to the transition towards a greener, more resilient, and more modern economy. By prioritizing innovation and sustainability, these projects align with Vietnam’s long-term development strategies and international commitments on climate change and green growth.

In addition, the 234 key projects generate strong spillover effects for social development. They create millions of jobs, improve access to public services, and help narrow development gaps between regions. Projects in healthcare, education, and social infrastructure contribute directly to improving people’s quality of life and strengthening social security.

The successful execution of the 234 key projects is expected to provide a powerful boost to economic recovery and long-term growth. More importantly, it will help lay a solid foundation for Vietnam to achieve its development goals, advance towards a high-income economy, and realize the aspiration of prosperous and sustainable national development.

VGP-Khanh Van

The southern city’s total GRDP this year is expected at VND3.03 quadrillion (nearly US$115 billion), accounting for 23.5% of the national GDP.

Ho Chi Minh City’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) is expected to grow 8.3% in 2025, according to the city’s latest socio-economic development report.

The city’s total GRDP this year is estimated at VND3.03 quadrillion (nearly $115 billion), accounting for 23.5% of the national GDP. Its GRDP per capita is projected to reach $8,944, about 1.7 times higher than the national average.

Its foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction in 2025 is estimated at $8.9 billion. In addition, the city saw the establishment of 59,750 new enterprises this year, with total registered and additional capital exceeding VND2 quadrillion ($76 billion).

Total retail sales of goods and consumer services are forecast to increase by 13.5% year-on-year, reflecting strong domestic demand. Meanwhile, the city’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is expected to rise by 8.3%.

Looking ahead, municipal authorities have set a target of achieving GRDP growth of 10% in 2026, with GRDP per capita projected to reach $9,800.

VnEconomy-Thanh Thủy

Mondelez Kinh Do outlines its strategy for sustainable growth in Vietnam, combining global scale, local insight, innovation, digitalization, and people-focused investment. Mr. Vaibhav Bhanchawat, Vice President and Managing Director of Mondelez Kinh Do Vietnam

Vietnam’s snacking industry is entering a transformative phase, driven by a young population, rapidly evolving consumer preferences, and a market that consistently rewards innovation. In this context, Mr. Vaibhav Bhanchawat, Vice President and Managing Director of Mondelez Kinh Do Vietnam, sees not only strong business opportunities but also a broader responsibility to contribute to Vietnam’s long-term, sustainable growth.

Leading the market with integrated strength

Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia’s most dynamic markets, not only because of its growth potential but also due to increasing diversity across sales channels, regions, and consumption occasions. As the market matures, growth is no longer determined by scale alone, but by how effectively companies execute across channels and deliver consistent value to consumers.

Against this backdrop, portfolio relevance, effective route-to-market execution, and the ability to respond quickly to shifting demand have become critical to sustaining growth. For Mondelez Kinh Do, these dynamics reinforce the importance of combining the scale and expertise of a global leader with the agility and local responsiveness of a strong domestic player.

“For a global organisation with extensive scale and expertise like Mondelēz International, this creates fertile ground to test, refine, and accelerate innovation. Combined with the resilience and problem-solving mindset of Vietnamese talent, Vietnam offers a powerful platform for the next phase of Mondelez Kinh Do’s growth.”, shared Mr. Vaibhav.

Mondelez Kinh Do’s evolution in Vietnam has been shaped by its ability to harmonise global standards with local heritage. Its portfolio includes iconic Vietnamese brands such as Kinh Do, Cosy, Solite, Slide, and AFC, alongside global names including Oreo, Ritz, LU, Cadbury, and Toblerone. This combination allows the company to preserve cultural relevance while expanding consumer choice through world-class snacking experiences.

While scale provides the foundation, execution ultimately drives growth. Beyond portfolio development, Mondelez Kinh Do continues to strengthen its go-to-market capabilities to ensure quality snacking products are accessible nationwide. Brands such as Solite demonstrate this strategy by successfully bridging urban and rural preferences, supported by a distribution network that reaches hundreds of thousands of retail points across Vietnam.

To further enhance execution at scale, the company is accelerating digital transformation through AI-enabled tools, retail intelligence, and digital sales enablement. These capabilities support improved on-shelf availability, optimized assortments by channel, and greater operational efficiency, helping Mondelez Kinh Do deliver consistent quality while remaining price competitive.

Innovating through deep consumer understanding

Guided by its purpose of “empowering people to snack right,” and anchored in deep consumer insights, Mondelez Kinh Do is shaping a strategic roadmap focused on portfolio relevance, innovation, and cultural connection.

“Our priority is to keep strengthening the brands that generations of Vietnamese have grown up with, while bringing in high-quality global products that meet evolving expectations.” Mr. Vaibhav added.

Vietnam’s snacking market offers exceptional potential, with 95% of consumers snacking at least once a day, according to the State of Snacking Report. While motivations such as nourishment, indulgence, and healthier choices are broadly shared across markets, Vietnam stands out for the specific moments and sensory experiences consumers value. This places greater emphasis on packaging, texture, flavour, aroma, and the overall sensory journey.

Mondelez Kinh Do owns brands that generations of Vietnamese have grown up with.

Translating these insights into meaningful innovation requires both global capability and local relevance. Mondelēz International supports this effort through its regional RD hub in Singapore, which combines advanced technologies with deep expertise in Asian consumer behaviour. One clear example is the mooncake portfolio, a category unique to Vietnam within the global Mondelez system, developed using global RD processes while remaining firmly rooted in cultural authenticity.

Digitalisation is also being accelerated, with AI-powered tools, retail intelligence, and digital sales enablement helping ensure the right products reach the right consumers at the right time.

“Vietnam represents a market where innovation and cultural understanding must go hand in hand. By combining our global RD and digitalization capabilities with deep local insights, we can create products that truly resonate with consumers while driving long-term growth”, Mr. Vaibhav emphasized.

Strategic investment for sustainable growth

Mondelez Kinh Do’s next chapter is defined by its long-term investment strategy. The company is strengthening its competitive advantage across multiple areas, including operational sustainability, brand building, and the development of a future-ready workforce.

“Long-term success requires more than operational excellence, it comes from investing in capabilities, in sustainability, in our brands, and in our people. When these elements move together, they create the momentum that drives enduring value for consumers, communities, and the broader market.”, Mr. Vaibhav emphasizes.

To operationalise this vision, Mondelez Kinh Do has modernised its operations, embedding sustainability across the value chain. In line with Mondelēz International’s 2030 goals, the company is advancing progress across four sustainability pillars: packaging, ingredients, climate, and social impact. It has achieved 100% recyclable packaging, increased the use of sustainably sourced ingredients such as cage-free eggs, and delivered measurable reductions in CO₂ emissions, water consumption, and food waste. Its inclusion in the Top 100 Most Sustainable Businesses under the Corporate Sustainability Index (CSI) program for the fourth time underscores this ongoing commitment.

Brand building remains a critical investment in Vietnam’s competitive and fast-evolving market. At the same time, Mondelez Kinh Do continues to strengthen its route-to-market capabilities and talent ecosystem, equipping teams, distributors, and retailers with new skills and digital tools to enhance execution excellence.

Mondelez Kinh Do has consistently invested in developing a diverse, capable, and future-ready workforce

At the core of these efforts is a people-first philosophy. Mondelez Kinh Do remains committed to cultivating a diverse, skilled, and future-ready workforce capable of driving meaningful transformation. This commitment has been recognised through honours such as the HR Asia Awards and Anphabe’s Best Places to Work in Vietnam, reinforcing the company’s position as one of Vietnam’s most admired employers.

By integrating innovation, operational efficiency, strong people practices, and environmental responsibility, Mondelez Kinh Do is laying a future-ready foundation for sustainable, long-term growth. This approach positions the company not only to navigate Vietnam’s evolving consumer landscape but also to play a defining role in shaping the next phase of sustainable development in the country’s snacking industry.

-

Protecting consumers equates to safeguarding the market and future generations, according to Associate Professor Dr. Pham Ngoc Linh.

In his welcoming speech at the launching ceremony for the Vietnam Consumer Program 2025 hosted by Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy on December 18, which  announced and honored trusted products and services, Associate Professor Dr. Pham Ngoc Linh, Vice President of the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA), highly praised the program.

The program has been initiated and organized by Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy Vietnam Economic Times since 2006. This year's edition  focused on gathering consumer opinions on product quality, brand identity, business ethics, and future consumer intentions through the publications of the Vietnam Economic Times Group. The program also included surveys, information dissemination, and communication activities across the magazine's publications and special issues, combined with in-depth seminars and discussions.

With the theme "True Quality – Real Trust," this year's program focused on high-quality products and services with unique identities and transparent information, aiming for a sustainable and responsible consumer market. As Vietnam's economy is rapidly transitioning towards digitalization, consumer protection has become a crucial pillar in building a transparent, humane, and sustainable economy.

"If we consider the market as a living organism, then consumers are the 'heart' that sustains its operation. All production, business, and service provision activities aim to meet consumer needs. Therefore, when consumer rights and interests are ensured, market trust is strengthened, and the economy operates more healthily and transparently," Dr. Linh stated.

In reality, markets with robust consumer protection mechanisms always have higher competitiveness indices. Enterprises therefore not only comply with the law but also view respecting consumers as a sustainable brand development strategy. In Vietnam, many businesses are also shifting towards publicizing product information, implementing traceability, establishing multi-channel customer care centers, and proactively recalling defective products. This not only helps strengthen customer trust but also creates long-term competitive advantages, according to Dr. Linh.

Challenges always come with opportunities. The Ministry of Industry and Trade's 2026-2030 plan emphasizes the application of information technology, big data, and artificial intelligence in consumer protection and monitoring. When a national database is built and connected, detecting and early warning of violations or monitoring business behavior will become more transparent and accurate.

At the final but most crucial link is the consumer, where every choice carries a mission. "If there are no buyers, counterfeit goods will automatically disappear. Being vigilant in every transaction, decisively choosing products with clear origins, saying 'no' to suspicious transactions, and being ready to report violations not only protect personal rights but also strongly support legitimate businesses, contributing to market purification," Dr. Linh emphasized.

Therefore, protecting consumers also means protecting the market and future generations, he noted, adding that  when all parties act together, a "transparent consumer culture" will gradually form – the foundation for Vietnam's economy to develop more sustainably, responsibly, and humanely.

Commending the Vietnam Economic Times Group for maintaining and successfully implementing the Vietnam Consumer Program for 19 years,  Dr. Pham Ngoc Linh said he believed that in the future, the program will continue to excel, further solidifying the retail business community, promoting two-way and multi-dimensional information exchange between producers, distribution channels, and consumers, thereby contributing to market stabilization, increasing purchasing power, and stimulating consumption.

vneconomy-Minh Anh

As Thu Thiem expands eastward, projects such as The Privé highlight Nam Rach Chiec’s rising role in Ho Chi Minh City’s property market. With numerous advantages, real estate in South Rach Chiec is attracting the attention of investors and customers.

Waterfront properties are widely regarded as a rare commodity. Developments that combine a compound model with a riverside location in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City are even scarcer. As a result, projects situated along a “golden land strip” adjacent to the Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center are increasingly viewed as exceptional within the urban real estate market.

New residential magnet

As Ho Chi Minh City continues its transformation into a megacity, it is gradually adopting a multi-center, multi-polar development model similar to that of many major global cities. Within this structure, Thu Thiem is positioned as the “center of the center,” where international financial institutions, strategic infrastructure corridors, and long-term investment capital are expected to converge for years to come. As this core area expands eastward, Nam Rach Chiec has emerged as a direct beneficiary, becoming one of the few remaining “golden land strips” adjacent to Thu Thiem that can be developed in line with new urban standards.

The appeal of real estate in Nam Rach Chiec extends beyond location to include rapidly advancing infrastructure. Key transport projects - such as the Ho Chi Minh City-Long Thanh-Dau Giay Expressway expansion, Ring Road 3, Hanoi Highway-Mai Chi Tho Avenue, the metro system, and the North-South high-speed railway - are gradually being completed. Together, these networks are improving connectivity across the eastern area and strengthening links within the broader region.

This synchronized infrastructure development is laying the foundation for a more sustainable growth cycle, offering development potential that compares favorably with older central districts. At the same time, the market is experiencing a clear shift in population patterns. Since 2021, high-income residents, particularly foreign experts and knowledge workers, have increasingly moved from southern districts to the east, attracted by a newer ecosystem of amenities and convenient access to the Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center in Thu Thiem. Competitive rental levels and relative market stability have further contributed to the area’s appeal among affluent residents in recent years.

These trends are supporting the formation of a more refined residential community in Nam Rach Chiec, often compared to the early development of Thao Dien, but with more synchronized planning and a more stable living environment. As land supply in the urban core becomes increasingly constrained and central real estate prices continue to rise, projects in Nam Rach Chiec, including The Privé, are gradually becoming limited assets attracting sustained market interest.

Three layers of real value: rare - beautiful - sustainable

With its location bordered by a river on three sides and a compound model situated in the new city center, The Privé creates sustainable value.

One of the core factors behind the appeal of The Privé is its scarcity. Riverside land in the inner areas of Ho Chi Minh City has nearly reached its limit, leaving few opportunities for new developments. In a market where supply is not expanding, properties that combine riverside locations with compound-style planning tend to see value appreciation over time. For this reason, centrally located riverside real estate is often regarded as an asset class with long-term accumulation potential.

The project’s value is also linked to its accessibility. From the site, future residents can reach key business, education, and entertainment districts of Ho Chi Minh City within approximately 30 minutes, an increasingly important travel radius for urban lifestyles. Once the Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center becomes fully operational, the surrounding area is expected to serve as a hub for sectors such as finance, insurance, and technology, offering proximity to a high-quality employment ecosystem.

Beyond location, The Privé emphasizes what developers describe as comprehensive “aesthetic quality,” from its riverside setting that follows the natural flow of the river to its carefully coordinated planning. Riverside environments are associated with distinct microclimate benefits, including moderated temperatures, higher natural humidity, and generally more comfortable living conditions, contributing to a calmer residential atmosphere.

Architects and environmental specialists note that riverside residential areas often benefit from higher concentrations of negative ions, which may help improve air quality and support well-being. Water surfaces can also act as a natural buffer, reducing noise and limiting dust from surrounding urban activity. The interaction between architecture, landscape, and natural elements is intended to create a balanced environment that supports both physical and mental relaxation.

In the longer term, the sustainability of The Privé is closely linked to the pace of development in Thu Thiem, as well as the growth of technology clusters and inflows of foreign direct investment. These factors are driving demand for high-end housing, particularly among international professionals who prioritize privacy, security, and quality living environments. This demand underpins both residential stability and long-term leasing potential.

The Privé, with its riverside compound model, has shaped a new lifestyle in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

The project also seeks to balance privacy with accessibility, offering a secluded riverside compound while remaining only minutes from major economic, commercial, and cultural centers. This combination of seclusion and connectivity is often cited as a key factor supporting long-term value for both residents and investors.

“Land in the suburban areas can still be expanded, but land in the city center cannot.” The limited availability of riverside land in the urban core continues to shape the market for distinctive developments. As one of the few projects featuring a riverside compound model in central Ho Chi Minh City, The Privé is positioned as a rare asset, valued not only for its lifestyle attributes but also for its long-term and generational investment potential.

Further details on the project’s design and positioning are available on the official website: https://theprive.vn

-

The Ministry of Home Affairs recently issued a formal response to petitions from voters in Quang Ngai province regarding specific and flexible mechanisms to attract and employ talented individuals.

In the coming time, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) will continue to review, amend, and supplement relevant regulations to develop breakthrough and superior mechanisms for the assignment, utilization, and remuneration of officials, civil servants, and public employees, with a specific focus on high-quality human resources, according to an announcement from the MoHA.

MoHA recently issued a formal response to petitions from voters in Quang Ngai province, submitted prior to the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly, regarding specific and flexible mechanisms to attract and employ talented individuals.

According to the ministry's report, voters requested that MoHA research and advise the Government on issuing specialized policies to attract and utilize talent. Additionally, voters asked for enhanced training and development of local human resources to meet the requirements of State agencies in disadvantaged, mountainous, and remote areas.

The ultimate goal of these efforts is to build a contingent of officials, civil servants, and public employees who possess both the capacity and integrity to complete their tasks excellently while remaining committed to long-term service in their respective localities.

Providing further details on this matter, MoHA stated that it has institutionalized the Party's guidelines on attracting and utilizing talent within public service. The ministry advised the Government on submitting the Law on Cadres and Civil Servants to the National Assembly for approval [during the 9th session of the 15th National Assembly in June, 2025], which now includes specific provisions on mechanisms for attracting high-quality human resources and policies for talented individuals in public service.

There are two primary focuses for these efforts: attracting experts, scientists, legal professionals, prominent entrepreneurs, top-tier graduates, and other high-quality human resources to work within agencies and organizations across the political system.

The Law also clearly defines "talented individuals in public service" to ensure worthy remuneration policies are in place to retain personnel with high qualifications and professional capacity.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong pledged to prioritizing the upgrading of the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) network into a greener and smarter model.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong,  during their phones talks on December 18, agreed to continue prioritizing the upgrading of the Vietnam–Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) network into a second-generation model that is greener, smarter, more inclusive, and more comprehensive, with a view to building 30 VSIPs before 2030. 

They noted positive development steps in the bilateral relations following the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership earlier this year, and committed to rolling out the 2025-2030 Action Plan.

PM Chinh welcomed progress on feasibility studies for exporting Vietnam’s offshore wind power to Singapore and proposed collaboration on small modular nuclear reactors. He also urged the early launch of joint projects in carbon credits and food security.

The Vietnamese PM encouraged Singapore's involvement in Vietnam's planned international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang city, along with continued support for workforce development. He expressed hope that Vietnam-Singapore ties could serve as a regional exemplar of unity, cooperation and dialogue.

Prime Minister Wong emphasized that amid complex regional developments, Singapore expects to work closely with Vietnam to substantively realize the newly established comprehensive strategic partnership, making it a "beacon" within ASEAN for win-win and mutually beneficial cooperation.

VnEconomy-Minh Hiếu

The program is hosted by Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy with the theme "True Quality – Real Trust."

The Vietnam Consumer Program 2025, hosted by Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy, was launched in Hanoi on December 18 afternoon, with the participation of representatives from state agencies, industry leaders, and a large number of businesses.

In the opening remarks of the event, Journalist Dao Quang Binh, Vice Chairman of the magazine's Editorial Board, and General Managing Editor, and Head of the Progam's Organizing Committee, stated that in the context of the digital economy that has become a new growth driver, transparency in information is playing an increasingly important role in market management, combating commercial fraud, and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese enterprises.

According to Mr. Binh,  promoting sustainable consumption and environmental protection is one of the five key tasks of the retail sector in 2025. This, he said, includes developing a fast and sustainable retail system primarily aiming at  promoting digital transformation and developing modern retail models, enhancing consumer experience, and optimizing supply chain management.

In this context, transparency in traceability is not only a condition to gain customer trust but also a mandatory legal requirement as new management frameworks are gradually forming.

The National Assembly on June 18, 2025, passed the amended Law on Product and Goods Quality, which includes the addition of the concept of a "digital passport" for products. According to the roadmap, from January 1, 2026, all products circulating in the market must comply with regulations on traceability and information transparency.

"This is both an opportunity and a challenge for businesses. Those who proactively invest in and take the lead will have a superior advantage in building trust, optimizing supply chains, and enhancing competitiveness in both domestic and international markets," Mr. Bính emphasized.

Furthermore, transparency should not stop at merely complying with regulations but should also be strategically communicated. Therefore, businesses need to proactively communicate about transparency, helping customers understand the quality control process, business philosophy, and efforts to protect consumer rights, thereby establishing a sustainable and two-way relationship with the market.

On the consumer side, according to a survey by Nielsen IQ Vietnam, conscious consumption will be the key in the coming period. Future consumers will choose products and brands based on values they resonate with, not only in terms of quality but also sustainability, health, and social responsibility. These will be the values shaping the market in 2026 and beyond.

The central theme of the Vietnam Consumer Program 2025 is "True Quality – Real Trust." Accordingly, the program particularly honors products and services of good quality, with unique characteristics, while actively and proactively digitizing, ensuring transparency of information, and ensuring sustainable and responsible business activities.

Mr. Dao Quang Binh stated that the current period is a "purification" phase, marking a turning point for the Vietnamese retail market. Only by saying "no" to low-quality goods right from the supply source can we build a healthy market, protect consumer rights, and promote sustainable economic development.

Therefore, consumers need to be guided on how to check traceability codes. Retailers need to require fully certified sources of goods. Especially, businesses must consider product quality and information transparency as an indispensable part of their sustainable development strategy.

Throughout 19 years of implementing the program, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam/Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy has always strived to expand information channels connecting businesses with businesses, and businesses with consumers.

"With the year 2025 coming to an end  and  the new year 2026 approaching, we hope that businesses and brands will actively and proactively anticipate trends, leverage technology, and innovate to meet the increasingly high demands of consumers. This will contribute to increasing purchasing power, stabilizing the market, and boosting revenue growth," Mr. Bính emphasized.

vneconomy-Minh Anh

According to national surveys conducted by the National Statistics Office with ILO support, the proportion of children got involved in economic activities declined sharply from 9.1 percent in 2018 to 3.5 percent in 2023.

VGP - Over the past 25 years, Viet Nam has made significant progress in preventing and eliminating child labor, including its worst forms.

The International Labor Organization (ILO), in coordination with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) jointly hosted a ceremony on December 17 in Hanoi to mark the 25th anniversary of Vietnam’s ratification of ILO Convention No.182 on the worst forms of child labor, according to a report from the Government News.

Since ratifying the Convention in 2000, Vietnam has made significant progress in preventing and reducing child labor through legal reforms, national programs and strengthened inter-agency coordination.

According to national surveys conducted by the National Statistics Office with ILO support, the proportion of children got involved in economic activities declined sharply from 9.1 percent in 2018 to 3.5 percent in 2023.

However, an estimated 94,300 children are still engaged in hazardous work, and nearly 12 out of every 100 children in child labor face health-related risks, highlighting the need for sustained and targeted interventions.

Ms. Sinwon Park, Director of ILO Country Office for Vietnam, said the achievements of the past 25 years were the outcomes of persistent efforts by the Government, employers' and workers' organizations, and development partners. She noted that ILO-supported initiatives, including the Project on Technical Support for Enhancing the National Capacity to Prevent and Reduce Child Labor in Vietnam (Enhance Project), have strengthened national systems for prevention, identification, referral and remediation of child labor cases.

Ending child labor is not only about protecting children's rights, but also about investing in Vietnam's future workforce and inclusive economic growth, Ms. Park said, stressing that keeping children in school and ensuring decent work for adults generates long-term benefits for families, businesses and the wider economy.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Nga, Deputy Director of the Department of Mother and Child Affairs under the Ministry of Health, said child protection is a shared responsibility involving families, communities, state agencies, workers, employers and businesses, stressing that no single actor can eliminate child labor alone.

As the country deepens its integration into global supply chains and advances digital transformation, she said, new risks, including online exploitation of children, are emerging alongside traditional vulnerabilities such as poverty, migration and informal employment. This requires child protection systems capable of responding effectively in both online and offline environments, grounded in prevention, education and strong law enforcement.

To achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth, Viet Nam must continue to place the protection of children's fundamental rights at the center of integrated policy approaches, including education and social protection, Ms. Nga stated.

At the ceremony, representatives of the ILO, UNICEF and other United Nations agencies in Vietnam reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the country in implementing national programs and strengthening labor law enforcement and social protection systems. As Vietnam prepares its national program on the prevention and reduction of child labor for 2026–2030, the 25-year milestone was seen as an opportunity to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 8.7 on ending child labor in all its forms.

-