This partnership opens a new direction for the field of next-generation transportation, specifically regarding Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), drones, and their related ecosystems.

The Vietnam Low Altitude Economic Partnership (LAEP) on December 15 signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Japan UAS Industrial Development Association (JUIDA).

This partnership opens a new direction for the field of next-generation transportation, specifically regarding Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), drones, and their related ecosystems.

The event marks a significant milestone in the development of UAV technology in Vietnam while simultaneously strengthening technological cooperation between Vietnam and Japan.

The cooperation agreement focuses on three key pillars:

First, the two parties will coordinate to share experiences in building institutions, regulatory frameworks, and international standards for the UAV and smart transportation sectors. LAEP aims to learn from the management and operational models that have been effectively implemented in Japan.

Second, the agreement will promote business connectivity, creating conditions for enterprises from both countries to network, seek business cooperation opportunities, develop products, and expand their markets.

Third, the two sides will collaborate on training and human resource development, particularly in UAV operation and coordination, new technologies, and management based on international standards. Through this initiative, Japan will transfer its systematic training experiences and processes to Vietnam.

LAEP Chairman Nguyen Van Khoa emphasized the desire for increased information exchange and mutual support in establishing legal frameworks and standards for the UAV industry in Vietnam. He noted that Vietnam possesses a significant advantage with its young, dynamic workforce that quickly adapts to new technology, while Japan holds strengths in standards, processes, and practical implementation experience.

"This combination will contribute to enhancing national competitiveness, promoting the next-generation transportation ecosystem, and deepening Vietnam-Japan technological cooperation in the future," Mr. Khoa said.

Representing JUIDA, Chairman Shinji Suzuki noted that the association, established in 2014, is a pioneering organization for UAVs and drones in Japan. JUIDA has been deeply involved in the process of building institutions, standards, and drone operation guidelines, and has developed a network of over 200 training schools across Japan and other regions.

Vneconomy-Hồng Quang

The Hanoi City Job Information Portal serves as an efficient, smart, and rapid digital bridge connecting workers with businesses and employers.

The Hanoi Employment Service Center officially inaugurated the Hanoi City Job Information Portal and hosted a specialized job fair dedicated to the Information Technology on December 16.

The Portal, accessible at congvieclam.hanoi.gov.vn, serves as an efficient, smart, and rapid digital bridge connecting workers with businesses and employers. The platform establishes an online transaction environment that utilizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) to collect, process, and analyze labor market data.

According to Mr. Nguyen Tay Nam, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Home Affairs, the system provides comprehensive support for career counseling, job placement, labor supply, and workforce trend forecasting. It is expected to enhance the operational efficiency of local job exchanges and significantly increase the success rate of labor supply-and-demand matching throughout 2025 and the years to follow.

The portal facilitates real-time online connectivity between the main exchange hub at 215 Trung Kinh Street and 14 satellite job exchanges located across various communes and wards, including: Ha Dong, Thien Loc, Vat Lai, Thach That, Viet Hung, Thuong Tin, Phu Xuyen, Dan Phượng, Soc Son, Gia Lam, Tu Liem, Quang Minh, Hoai Duc, and Van Dinh.

As a proactive and direct solution to boost labor connectivity, the portal is entirely free of charge for all organizations, individuals, and job seekers. It aims to ensure that employment information is accessed in a transparent, fair, and convenient manner.

Regarding the future direction of the labor market, Mr. Nam emphasized that the application of information technology is a primary driver for progress. By transitioning from manual to modern, data-driven management models, Hanoi is building a solid foundation for the sustainable development of the capital’s labor market.

Vneconomy-Bảo Châu

Speaking at the high-level plenary session of the Vietnam Economy in 2025 and Prospects in 2026 Forum (VEPF) in Hanoi on December 16, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed that Vietnam has clearly identified the dual green transition and digital transformation as an objective necessity, a strategic choice and a top priority.

Addressing the high-level plenary session of the Vietnam Economy in 2025 and Prospects in 2026 Forum (VEPF), co-hosted by the Government and the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Policies and Strategies on December 16, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed that Vietnam has clearly identified the dual green transition and digital transformation as an objective necessity, a strategic choice and a top priority.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (C) speaks at the high-level plenary session of the Vietnam Economy in 2025 and Prospects in 2026 Forum (VEPF) in Hanoi on December 16. - (Photo: VGP)

It serves as both foundation and key driving force for rapid and sustainable development, the PM was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as saying.

According to the PM, Vietnam’s goal of rapid and sustainable development based on green and digital transformation has solid foundations, ample potential and strong feasibility.

PM Chinh noted that the Party and State have issued numerous guidelines, mechanisms and policies to promote this orientation. The Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress highlights fast and sustainable development; accelerating national digital transformation and developing the digital economy based on science, technology and innovation; and building a green, circular and environmentally friendly economy.

The Politburo has also issued major strategic resolutions in key pillar sectors, particularly Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, which identifies the development of science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation as the most important breakthrough.

PM Chinh said Vietnam is reforming its growth model, taking science, technology, innovation, digital transformation and green transition as the main drivers across all sectors, especially in key areas of the economy.

Looking ahead, Vietnam will focus on strategic priorities, including promoting rapid and sustainable growth based on the dual transition, striving for double-digit growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability, controlling inflation and ensuring major economic balances. The country will also enhance forecasting and analysis capacity to proactively and flexibly respond to external fluctuations, he noted.

The Government leader added that Vietnam will continue implementing the three strategic breakthroughs in institutions, infrastructure and human resources; introduce sandbox mechanisms to support digital, green and circular economy; and develop groundbreaking scientific research programs in 11 groups of strategic technologies.

The PM also highlighted the importance of exploiting new development spaces, including the marine economy, underground resources and space technology; promoting new economic models, free trade zones and international financial centers; diversifying resource mobilization; prioritizing high-quality FDI in high-tech, green and circular production linked with domestic investment; and restructuring exports alongside economic restructuring.

Speaking at the high-level plenary session, Ms. Mariam J. Sherman, World Bank Country Director for Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, recommended the country to continue strengthening the private economic sector, invest in people and technology, develop sustainable infrastructure and green growth, ensure equitable distribution of development gains, and advance institutional modernization.

Meanwhile, Mr. Nguyen Duc Hien, Vice Chairman of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Policies and Strategies, emphasized that maintaining inflation at around 4% per year is a key condition for achieving growth targets.

Mr. Tim Evans, CEO of HSBC Vietnam, for his part,  noted that the nation has maintained high growth in recent years and has taken a pioneering role in climate change mitigation. To achieve green and sustainable development, Vietnam should improve transparent governance, apply the best international practices, and accelerate the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance value creation.

HSBC stands ready to continue supporting Vietnam in overcoming challenges and advancing on its development journey,  Mr. Evans stressed.

VNA-Khanh Van

Experts at the Forum agreed that green transformation and the circular economy represent the only viable path for Vietnam to achieve high growth in tandem with sustainable development in the digital era

The Vietnam Economy in 2025 and Prospects in 2026 Forum (VEPF) was held  in Hanoi on December 16, with the Government and the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Policies and Strategies acting as co-host.

In his opening speech, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Nghi,  member of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Party Central Committee's Commission for Policy and Strategy, stated that the VEPF is an important annual event that attracts the participation of policy-making agencies, the business community, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and research institutes.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Nghi,  member of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Party Central Committee's Commission for Policy and Strategy, is delivering the opening speech at the VEPF 2025, (Photo: Tri Phong)

The event this year  attracted more than 500 delegates in person and over 1,000 online participants from all the 34 cities and provinces nationwide.

During the thematic session on finance and banking, discussions focused on solutions for financial resources and economic growth targets in the 2026-2030 period, with effective mobilization of financial resources identified as a key prerequisite for the country to realize its target of double-digit economic growth during the period.

In his remarks, Mr. Pham Thanh Ha, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Vietnam, said  that the Party and the State have set a target of achieving at least 8% economic growth in 2025 and moving towards double-digit growth in the 2026–2030 period.

This will provide a crucial foundation for Vietnam to join the group of upper-middle-income countries by 2030 and progress towards becoming a high-income country by 2045, according to Mr. Ha.

He noted that one of the decisive challenges for achieving high growth is ensuring sufficiently large capital resources for the economy, while using them efficiently to promote a growth model driven by science and innovation.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Finance Do Thanh Trung affirmed that while mobilizing sufficient capital is a major task, allocating it to the right priorities and ensuring effective use to generate high added value must be given top priority.

Dr Can Van Luc, Chief Economist of BIDV and a member of the National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council, for his part,  presented a paper on breakthrough solutions to mobilize financial resources for high growth in the 2026–2030 period. He noted that the development model in the coming phase needs to shift from one that is heavily dependent on capital and labor to one driven more by science, technology, innovation, and productivity.

Participants reached a common agreement that the capital market needs to be developed as the primary channel for mobilizing medium- and long-term resources for the economy, easing pressure on the banking credit system. Strengthening coordination between fiscal and monetary policies is crucial to maintaining macroeconomic stability, controlling inflation and supporting high growth amid rising risks. In addition, significant improvements in the investment and business environment, together with institutional reform and the development of a stable legal framework, were identified as solutions to attract and retain long-term, high-quality financial resources.

At the session on the circular economy, Mr. Pham Dai Duong, Deputy Head of the Party Central Committee's Commission for Policies and Strategies, stressed that to realize strategic development goals, Vietnam needs a strong push to innovate its growth model. He said the new model must be sustainable, comprehensive and inclusive, focusing not only on speed but also on quality, efficiency and competitiveness. Its core lies in transformative shifts, including digital transformation to build a digital economy and digital society, and green transformation to ensure harmonious development with nature, adapt to climate change, and fulfill international commitments, particularly the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

He affirmed that digital and green transitions are objective requirements of development. These two processes are closely interconnected and mutually reinforcing, forming a “dual transition” that will serve as a global growth driver for decades to come. He also highlighted that the circular economy, as a key driver of green transformation in the digital era and closely linked with science, technology, innovation and digital transformation, has been identified as a strategic pillar of the new growth model.

Meanwhile,  Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh said Vietnam has established a relatively comprehensive orientation framework and legal corridor for the development of the green and circular economy. The merger of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment reflects a shift towards integrated management thinking based on ecological space, closely linking resources and climate, and creating an important foundation for promoting sustainable green economic development.

However, he noted that Vietnam’s green transition still faces numerous challenges, as many enterprises, cooperatives, and farmers continue to rely on traditional practices and face constraints in capital, technology, and governance capacity. Meanwhile, emerging markets such as carbon and biodiversity credit markets have yet to operate in a synchronized manner.

 Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, for her part,  said international forecasts indicate that the circular economy could help Vietnam reduce 30–34% of urban waste and cut 40–70% of greenhouse gas emissions during the 2030–2060 period, while creating jobs and reducing dependence on imported raw materials. She added that UNDP recommends implementing the circular economy through pilot models to quantify risks and benefits before scaling up.

Experts at the Forum agreed that green transformation and the circular economy represent the only viable path for Vietnam to achieve high growth in tandem with sustainable development in the digital era.

The potential and measures for advancing the circular economy were also the focus at a panel discussion of the forum.

A representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as saying that Vietnam still has substantial room to improve resource efficiency, cut waste, and promote industries that create green value. The consumer plastics sector, for example, generates large volumes of plastic waste but has yet to fully utilize these materials, while the country continues to import significant quantities of scrap each year. Better use of domestic waste streams could considerably accelerate the development of the circular economy.

Vietnam generates around 25 million tones of solid waste annually, while agricultural by-products alone reach about 150 million tones—six times the volume of solid waste. If left unrecycled, these by-products represent a major economic loss. A similar problem could be seen in construction materials or industrial wastewater, according to the UNDP representative.

A representative of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) said the organization has supported the transformation of six eco-industrial parks in Hai Phong, Dong Nai, Da Nang, Tay Ninh, and Bac Ninh, with both State-owned and foreign-invested enterprises participating in. The industrial symbiosis model offers strong potential as companies within the same zones can use each other’s waste as production inputs.

Early implementation faced challenges in terms of persuading businesses to engage in, reviewing legal frameworks, and assessing economic efficiency. Over time, however, understanding improved and tangible results emerged, the  UNIDO representative stated.

Representing the domestic business sector, Mr. Ngo Minh Hai of TH Group said the company has pursued sustainable development from the outset as a core value aligned with public health and environmental protection. TH’s investments focus on high and green technologies, with closed-loop chains in dairy processing. The group has replaced fossil fuels with biomass boilers and expanded the use of solar power to support clean energy.

Investment in the circular economy, Mr. Hai noted, helps lower costs by optimizing material inputs.

Mr. Hoang Manh Cam, head of strategy at the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group, said weaker consumer demand has reduced per-capita consumption, pushing the industry to shift towards higher-value niches and extend product life cycles, including in the second-hand market. The firm is also upgrading older machinery to extend equipment life and achieve cost savings.

Mr. Le Thanh Tung of the Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (VietinBank) said the bank has expanded green financial products by simplifying lending procedures, digitalizing access to credit, and integrating green criteria into credit decisions. Businesses meeting sustainability standards are prioritized, particularly in green agriculture.

VietinBank has also launched a green deposit program worth around VND10 trillion  ($379.6 million)  and pledged long-term support for enterprises undergoing a green transition, according to him.

-Khanh Chi

The event seeks to further promote Vietnamese brands, assist domestic enterprises in linking supply with demand, and stimulate the consumption of Vietnamese products through e-commerce and online platforms.

The Made in Vietnam Fair, slated for December 18–22, is expected to bring together around 150 booths representing major groups, local manufacturing enterprises and Vietnamese brands from provinces and cities across the country,  according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

The fair will showcase a wide range of products, including industrial and consumer goods, processed foods, agricultural produce and handicrafts, with the participation of distribution systems, e-commerce platforms, digital platforms and digital financial solution providers operating in Vietnam.

The event seeks to further promote Vietnamese brands, assist domestic enterprises in linking supply with demand, and stimulate the consumption of Vietnamese products through e-commerce and online platforms.

It also forms part of efforts to advance the “Vietnamese people prioritize using Vietnamese goods” campaign, which has been widely promoted in recent years.

As part of the program, the Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy under the Ministry of Industry and Trade will organize the Supply–Demand Connectivity Conference and related activities on December 19, aiming to strengthen cooperation with e-commerce platforms, digital platforms, logistics providers and financial institutions to support product promotion and consumption via modern distribution channels.

VNA-Khanh Van

In 2025, market capitalisation exceeded VND9.68 quadrillion ($368 billion), equivalent to 84.1% of estimated GDP in 2024.

Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi has asked the State Securities Commission (SSC) to further improve the legal framework to facilitate the stock market’s development, maintain current rankings and move the market towards higher standard.

Addressing a conference held by the commission on December 15 to review the SSC’s performance in 2025 and outlined key tasks for 2026, Mr. Chi also called for the development of new products, improvements in investor quality, enhanced training and communications, and broader international cooperation.

SSC Chairwoman Vu Thi Chan Phuong said 2026 would be pivotal for the sector’s next development stage. The SSC is committed to ensuring the market operates safely and stably, develops in line with higher-ranking standards, and continues to serve as a key medium- and long-term capital mobilisation channel for the economy.

In 2025, the VN-Index rose 38% from the end of the previous year, with average trading value reaching nearly VND29.44 trillion ($1.11 billion) per session. Market capitalisation exceeded VND9.68 quadrillion ($368 billion), equivalent to 84.1% of estimated GDP in 2024.

VnEconomy-Thu Minh

SJC-branded gold bars were sold at VND155.6 million ($5,916) per tael on December 16, down VND1.6 million ($60.8) from the previous day.

Gold prices in Vietnam fell sharply on December 16 after hitting a historic high of more than VND157 million ($5,969) per tael in the previous session.

SJC-branded gold bars were sold at VND155.6 million ($5,916) per tael, down VND1.6 million ($60.8) from the day before, while buying prices also declined by the same amount to VND153.6 million ($5,000) per tael.

One tael equals 37.5 grams, or about 1.2 ounces.

Gold ring prices followed the downward trend, falling by up to VND1.7 million per tael to VND149.9 million per tael for buying and VND152.7 million per tael for selling.

On the global market, gold prices slipped 0.4% to $4,285.5 per ounce. Despite the decline, domestic gold prices remain approximately VND17.81 million ($677) per tael higher than international levels.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi

The strategy aims to develop the Vietnamese intellectual workforce as a driving force for the development of modern productive forces, leading digital transformation, innovation, and international integration.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 2711/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung on December 15, 2025, the National Strategy for Intellectual Workforce Development during the period of accelerated industrialization and modernization to 2030, with a vision to 2045, has been approved.

The strategy aims to develop the Vietnamese intellectual workforce as a driving force for the development of modern productive forces, leading digital transformation, innovation, and international integration, according to the Government News.

It is intended to serve as a key impetus for Vietnam to achieve its goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income status by 2030, and a developed, high-income country by 2045, while also contributing to addressing global and regional challenges.

By 2030, the strategy targets to increase the full-time workforce engaged in scientific research, technological development, and innovation to 12 persons per 10,000 people, making it an especially important productive force. The proportion of learners in basic sciences, engineering, and technology is expected to reach at least 35 per cent, including at least 6,000 doctoral candidates and 20,000 individuals enrolled in talent programs.

The strategy also aims to raise the rate of the intellectual workforce in high-tech industries and strategic industries to 25 per cent. At least 40 per cent of participants in employment, research, teaching, and leadership positions in the fields of science, technology, and innovation are to be women and individuals from minority groups.

The strategy targets to attract 1,000 outstanding overseas Vietnamese intellectuals to participate in scholar exchanges, research cooperation, training, and technology transfer in the country through flexible working arrangements.

By 2045, Vietnam will strive to have a strong, high-quality, and well-structured intellectual workforce that ranks among the leading groups in the region and approaches the level of developed countries. This workforce is expected to pioneer in digital transformation, innovation and international integration, serving as a decisive driver of Vietnam's development into a high-income country and contributing to global progress and civilization. A national intellectual ecosystem is envisioned, closely linking the public and private sectors, as well as the domestic and overseas Vietnamese intellectual communities.

Ministries, ministerial-level agencies, sectors, and localities, the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA) and the Vietnam Union of Literature and Arts Associations (VULAA), are responsible for formulating action plans and implementing tasks, solutions, and targets for intellectual workforce development under their management and in accordance with the assignments set out in the National Strategy in Q1, 2026.

The Ministry of Science and Technology shall take the lead in developing a set of criteria to assess the effectiveness of intellectual workforce development, to be completed by the third quarter of 2026. It shall also develop the Vietnam Intellectual Workforce Data System by the second quarter of 2026 and regularly update the database by sector and field.

The Ministry of Public Security shall take the lead, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant ministries and sectors, in studying, reviewing, and proposing amendments to and improvements of regulations, as well as simplifying administrative procedures related to entry and exit, visa issuance, and residence, with a view to facilitating the attraction of Vietnamese intellectuals, high-caliber international scientists and experts, and their families to work and live in Vietnam.

VGP-Khanh Van

The latest amendments to the Law on Investment must not only resolve long-term issues surrounding FDI but also promote Vietnamese investment abroad.

Over the course of nearly 40 years, Vietnam’s legal framework on investment has continually adapted to both domestic and global circumstances, with seven amendments made in total. In this new period of development, however, the latest draft amendment to the Law on Investment is not only tasked with addressing long-standing overlaps and inconsistencies but also with reshaping the country’s strategy for selective FDI attraction and, for the first time, advancing Vietnamese investment abroad.

Evolving process

The Law on Foreign Investment 1987 was the first law of Vietnam’s “Doi Moi” (Economic Renewal) process, built on the principles of a market economy. The Law regulated not only issues related to the form, sector, and location of investment as well as incentives and support for foreign investment but also provisions on the establishment, management, and operation of enterprises with FDI.

From 1987 to present, seven amendments of varying degrees were made in 1990, 1992, 1996, 2000, 2005, 2014, and 2020. The most notable was in 2005, when the Law on Foreign Investment was merged with the Law on Enterprises 1999 to form the Law on Investment 2005, which has seen significant progress in building and refining Vietnam legal framework on investment.

Additionally, on August 20, 2019, the Politburo issued Resolution No. 50-NQ/TW on the orientation for completing institutions and policies, enhancing the quality and efficiency of foreign investment cooperation to 2030, with the following key guiding principles.

First, recognizing foreign investment as an important component of Vietnam’s economy, to be encouraged and facilitated for long-term development.

Second, proactively attracting and cooperating in selective foreign investment, using quality, efficiency, technology, and environmental protection as the primary evaluation criteria.

Third, diversifying and multi-lateralizing partners, ensuring national defense and security and social order, and enhancing the economy’s autonomy and independence. Resolution No. 50 demonstrated the Party and State’s close guidance on investment in general and FDI attraction in particular, and has been continually updated to align with domestic and international contexts. However, despite improvements in the quality of investment legislation, overlaps remain between related legal documents, failing to fully meet the country’s socio-economic development needs.

The current draft Law on Investment (amended) is a timely policy decision in this new era of national development. From a general investment research perspective, particularly regarding foreign investment, Resolution No. 50 remains the main orientation for attracting FDI and continues to serve as the most important legal basis for amending the existing Law. In addition, several issues require careful consideration and appropriate adjustment, drawing lessons from previous amendments and supplements to the Law on Investment.

The process of developing Vietnam’s legal framework on investment reflects the Party and State’s determination to refine the framework in line with each stage of the country’s development, while responding effectively to the evolving and complex geopolitical landscape.

Fourth, applying the Law on Investment 2014 highlighted the need to further adjust certain provisions, as the Law still does not ensure consistency and coherence within the system of related investment and business laws. Clear delineation is needed regarding the scope and principles of applying the Law in conjunction with other related laws, such as the Law on Construction, the Law on Public Investment, and the Law on the Management and Utilization of State Capital, among others. Provisions on prohibited sectors and businesses are still not closely aligned with actual production and business conditions. Investment forms remain outdated and not fully adapted to development needs.

Fifth, implementing the Law on Investment 2020 (Law No. 61/2020/QH14), effective from January 1, 2021, created significant “openness” in attracting investors to Vietnam. Its new provisions regarding beneficiaries of investment incentives focus more on high-tech sectors and innovative startup projects. These changes are positive in clarifying and supplementing Vietnam’s reasonable policies for attracting FDI. However, the implementation of the Law on Investment 2020 still generated difficulties and inadequacies, directly affecting business investment, production, and operations as well as the State management of investment.

Optimizing investment frameworks

In practice, creating a legal environment to attract foreign investment is not limited to merely amending and improving the Law on Investment. A notable success for Vietnam is that it has simultaneously expanded and refined its bilateral and multilateral legal framework on foreign investment by signing numerous investment promotion and protection agreements with countries, regions, and territories.

Alongside this, several important laws related to investment activities have been continually supplemented and perfected, such as the Land Law, the Commercial Law, the Labor Code, the Law on Construction, the Law on Real Estate Business, the Law on Housing, and the Law on Credit Institutions.

However, gaps remain in reviewing and ensuring the quality of legal documents, with conflicts and overlaps persisting. Adjustments therefore play a crucial role in completing Vietnam’s legal framework on investment. This is precisely the objective of the current draft amendments to the Law. Several issues need careful consideration and adjustment.

First, the number of legal documents related to investment is quite large, scattered across various laws and sub-legal documents. Notably, some provisions have been issued but remain inconsistent, overlapping, or contradictory, reducing each other’s effectiveness.

Second, the quality of certain legal documents is inadequate. Many regulations lack practical applicability, causing difficulties and complications for citizens and businesses in production and business activities.

Third, investment-related legal documents are unstable due to continuous changes in tax incentives, land incentives, and administrative procedures, making it difficult for businesses to forecast medium and long-term business outcomes.

Fourth, in the context of digital economic development, new business models linked to digital technology have been recognized by the business community but State support measures remain slow and financial capacity and high-quality human resources are still insufficient. Consequently, regulations and systems still rely heavily on paper-based processes, and the transition to digital or online solutions has been slow and limited.

In addition to the above issues, two more points require attention in implementing the draft Law on Investment (amended). The investment forms of foreign investors in Vietnam, with 100 per cent foreign-owned investment currently representing a very large share of FDI, especially as Vietnam’s economy has made encouraging progress, require a focused effort to promote joint ventures and diversify investment forms. Additionally, Vietnam’s outward investment to emerging markets that accept investment and “Made in Vietnam” products needs to be strengthened. The country should continue to build on the successes of leading enterprises that have already invested abroad, such as Viettel and the Vietnam Rubber Group, to name just two.

Matters to address

Given the above context, to complete the legal framework for attracting foreign investment into Vietnam and promoting Vietnamese investment abroad, the amended Law on Investment should focus on clarifying the following points.

Firstly, improve regulations on investment policy approval and the decentralization of authority, and implement a management decentralization mechanism between the central and local governments based on ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of State management.

Second, reconsider and clarify regulations on investment forms. Specific provisions should encourage joint ventures or business cooperation contracts, which are essential for high-tech transfer and adoption, environmental protection, and given digital transformation and green investment - trends that have become inevitable in the global economy.

Third, regarding outward Vietnamese investment, it is time for Vietnam to adopt a “two-pronged” approach, including receiving FDI (currently the main source of foreign investment in Vietnam) and also promoting direct investment by Vietnamese enterprises abroad, or overseas FDI (OFDI). For OFDI, it is recommended that reforms are made to administrative procedures, compliance time and costs cut, and consideration given to adding clear reporting requirements to support post-approval monitoring.

Additionally, the implementation of the amended Law on Investment should urgently focus on improving institutions and laws to immediately address identified shortcomings, such as a lack of systematization and the overlaps and inconsistencies between codes. Implementing detailed guiding documents for legal enforcement would make regulations easier for investors to understand and follow. Procedures and investment conditions for foreign investors should be clearly and easily applicable, facilitating investment while ensuring effective State management. The stability of FDI policies should be maintained, as investors legitimately expect.

(*) Dr. Phan Huu Thang from the Institute of International Investment (ISC) is the former Director of the Foreign Investment Agency at the Ministry of Planning and Investment, now the Ministry of Finance.

VET-Dr. Phan Huu Thang (*)

The project, spanning 74ha in central Quang Tri province, has a designed capacity of 1,500MW.

The People’s Committee of central Quang Tri province has approved the investment policy of  the Quang Trach III LNG Power Plant project.

Developed by the Vietnam Electricity (EVN), the project spans 74 hetares in Phu Trach commune, including nearly 55 ha of land and more than 19 ha of water surface, with  a designed capacity of 1,500MW.

The project requires an estimated investment capital of VND41.8 trillion ($1.6 billion), comprising 20% equity from EVN and 80% domestic commercial loans.

The project is part of the Quang Trach Power Center which includes the Quang Trach I Thermal Power Plant, the Quang Trach II LNG Power Plant and the Quang Trach III LNG Power Plant. Once operational, each plant is expected to supply around 9.1 billion kWh per year to the national power grid.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The central city is actively attracting investment in smart urban development, technical infrastructure, urban renovation and expansion, urban transport, and tourism services.

In its vision to become a green and smart heritage city in central Vietnam, Hue is stepping up dialogue with major infrastructure corporations, including China's Pacific Construction Group (CPGC), to explore suitable cooperation opportunities.

Speaking at a recent meeting with a delegation from the Group, Chairman of the Hue City People's Committee Nguyen Khac Toan spoke highly of the Group’s capacity, reputation, and international experience in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects. The city leadership considers these to be crucial factors that align well with Hue's current development needs.

Mr. Toan noted that Hue is one among the country's six centrally-run cities and Vietnam's first heritage urban area. It serves as a key cultural and tourism hub, renowned for its eight UNESCO World Heritage titles and signature Festival activities. Hue's future development direction focuses on being a "heritage, cultural, ecological, scenic, and smart" city.

Accordingly, the city is actively attracting investment in smart urban development, technical infrastructure, urban renovation and expansion, urban transport, and tourism services. Hue gives special priority to capable investors who apply advanced technologies and possess extensive experience in developing synchronized, modern, and environmentally friendly infrastructure.

"Hue always welcomes strategic investors. We look forward to cooperating with Pacific Construction Group to research and propose projects that align with our vision for green, smart, and sustainable urban development," the city chairman told the delegation led by Mr. Yan Jiehe, the founder of CPCG and Chairman of the Zhuangyan Research Institute.

At the same time, the city pledged maximum support within the legal framework, creating favorable conditions for the Group to implement effective, stable, and long-term cooperation and investment activities in Hue, said Mr. Toan.

He expressed his hope that the Group’s representative would continue to act as a bridge, introducing more Chinese enterprises to explore investment opportunities in Hue, while also supporting local businesses in expanding exports to the Chinese market.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The project aligns with sustainable development orientations and contributes to improving the Capital's central urban area.

Hanoi plans to construct the Red River Landscape Boulevard Axis with a total capital of VND855 trillion (nearly $32.5 billion), spanning 19 communes and wards.

The project covers an area of approximately 11,000 ha, featuring an 80km transport boulevard, a system of landscape parks and entertainment areas covering 3,300 ha, and 2,100 ha to be designated for site clearance to serve urban reconstruction.

According to Mr. Duong Duc Tuan, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, the project aims to develop and complete the transport infrastructure system, promote urban space development along both riverbanks, and create a modern, synchronized urban space on both sides of the Red River.

The project aligns with sustainable development orientations and contributes to improving the Capital's central urban area. It is also consistent with the directives of  Party General Secretary To Lam given during working sessions between the Politburo and the Hanoi Party Committee, as well as the Politburo Resolutions.

On this basis, the City Appraisal Council, established under Decision No. 6137/QĐ-UBND by the Chairman of the City People's Committee, has organized the appraisal of the project proposal.

The Council has also issued an appraisal report to be submitted to the City People's Council for consideration of the investment policy. Simultaneously, the latter will also review the initial component sub-project, a park in Phu Thuong ward, in preparation for the groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2025.

Vneconomy-Hoàng Bách

Japan's $1.5 million financial support aims to bolster emergency relief and early recovery efforts following natural disasters in Vietnam.

The Government of Japan has announced a grant of $1.5 million through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), according to the Embassy of Japan, the IOM, and the UNICEF in Vietnam.

This funding aims to bolster emergency relief and early recovery efforts following recent natural disasters, as Vietnam grapples with the severe impacts of a series of tropical depressions, typhoons, and prolonged flooding in 2025.

Of the total aid, $1 million will be allocated to IOM Vietnam to provide essential non-food items to over 32,000 people in the provinces of Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Khanh Hoa, and Lam Dong. Additionally, the funds will enhance the search and rescue capabilities of 20 local rescue teams, aiming to support approximately 4,000 residents.

The remaining $500,000 will be deployed through UNICEF Vietnam to implement essential Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services. This includes repairing sanitation facilities, improving lighting systems in schools, and promoting safety for women and girls, benefiting 20,000 affected individuals, including 14,000 children.

Speaking on the decision, Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki stated that the Government of Japan highly appreciates Vietnam's efforts in overcoming the consequences of the natural disasters.

Ambassador Ito Naoki added that Japan hopes this timely support from the Government and people of Japan will reach the Vietnamese people affected by storms and floods as soon as possible, thereby contributing to mitigating losses and supporting the recovery process.

In the near future, he added, Japan will consider promoting technical cooperation through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), focusing on water resource management and infrastructure development, particularly in the Central region.

Meanwhile, in recent days, numerous organizations, businesses, and individuals in Brazil have responded to the Brazil–Vietnam Chamber of Commerce's appeal to support Vietnam's disaster recovery efforts, according to a report by the Government News.

JBS Group, one of Brazil's largest food processing companies, spearheaded the initiative with a donation of $20,000, along with 1,000 sets of blankets, sheets, and mattresses. This contribution aims to provide timely assistance to families in flood-hit areas.

Additionally, the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC), under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed a willingness to share expertise in disaster management, flood response, and post-disaster reconstruction—areas where Brazil has gained significant practical experience in recent years.

Several Brazilian companies in the logistics, agriculture, and supply chain sectors are also actively exploring ways to cover transport costs and donate relief supplies to Vietnam.

Vneconomy + Government News-Dũng Hiếu

This marking a key milestone ahead of the airport's official opening scheduled for December 19.

The first technical test flight landed at Long Thanh International Airport in southern Dong Nai province on December 15, marking a key milestone ahead of its official opening scheduled for December 19.

A Boeing 787, operated by national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, departed from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City at 3:20pm and landed at Long Thanh International Airport at 4pm the same day.

The test flight evaluated critical flight-operation infrastructure at Long Thanh, including navigation and communication systems, air traffic control coordination, aircraft handling procedures, and lighting systems for the runway, taxiways and apron. Coordination among airport operators, security forces and air traffic controllers was also assessed under real operating conditions.

Following the successful technical inspection, three official flights operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways are scheduled to land at Long Thanh on December 19, when the new airport is inaugurated.

Long Thanh airport spans 5,000 hectares in Long Thanh commune, Dong Nai province, and is being developed in three phases.

Phase 1 includes an air traffic control tower, a 4,000m by 75m runway, a passenger terminal with a capacity of 25 million passengers per year, cargo facilities handling up to 1.2 million tons annually, and supporting infrastructure. The total investment for this phase exceeds VND99 trillion ($3.76 billion).

VnEconomy-Đan Tiên

Processed rubber products continue to drive growth, with an estimated export value of $5.3 billion.

The Vietnamese rubber industry is projected to achieve an export turnover of approximately $11 billion in 2025, according to the Vietnam Rubber Association (VRA).

In the first 11 months of 2025, Vietnam exported around 1.7 million tons of rubber, valued at $2.89 billion, marking a decrease of 6.8% in volume and 2.4% in value year-on-year.

However, the VRA notes that this figure primarily reflects the export of natural rubber latex. When considering the entire value chain, including deeply processed rubber products (such as tires, gloves, and technical components) and rubberwood, the total export turnover for the industry in 2025 is estimated to reach  $11 billion, representing a 3% increase from 2024.

Notably, processed rubber products continue to drive growth, with an estimated export value of $5.3 billion. Rubberwood exports exceed $3.1 billion, while natural rubber maintains a level above $3.2 billion. This structure indicates a positive shift towards increasing value and reducing reliance on raw material exports.

The VRA anticipates that the 2026–2030 period will present new opportunities for the industry. Demand for rubber and rubber products in the Middle East, India, and Africa is expected to continue growing. The reduction of tariffs under the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that Vietnam has signed and is implementing also creates additional room for businesses to expand exports. Additionally, the ongoing shift in supply chains in the Asia-Pacific region offers opportunities to attract investment, expand production, and deepen participation in the global value chain for Vietnam's rubber industry.

VnEconomy-Chu Khôi

CapitaLand Development Vietnam capped 2025 with regional honours, winning Best Sustainable Developer Asia and multiple awards at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. CLD Vietnam is proudly recognized as Asia’s Best Sustainable Developer at the APA Grand Final 2025.

CapitaLand Development (CLD) Vietnam has been named Best Sustainable Developer (Asia) and received five additional accolades at the 20th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (APA) Grand Final 2025, held on 12 December.

The latest recognition marks the fourth consecutive year CLD Vietnam has been honoured at the regional awards, which celebrate leading developers and real estate projects across Asia.

In addition to the sustainability title, CLD Vietnam’s developments were recognised across multiple residential categories. Orchard Mansion, the newest phase of the Sycamore master development in Ho Chi Minh City, co-developed with United Overseas Australia (UOA), was awarded Best Housing/Landed Development (Asia), the highest regional honour in the category.

Best Completed Housing/Landed Development (Asia) is awarded to Sycamore’s first phase, The Orchard.

Other phases of the Sycamore development, including The Orchard and Orchard Grand, also received top regional awards. Meanwhile, The Fullton in Hung Yen province in Greater Hanoi, co-developed with Far East Organization, was recognised across categories including Best Completed Housing/Landed Development (Asia), Best High-End Condo Development (Asia), Best Luxury Housing/Landed Development (Asia), and Best Housing/Landed Landscape Design (Asia).

Mr. Tan Wee Hsien, CEO of CLD Vietnam and International, said: “At CLD, sustainability is central to our business strategy and guides how we design and develop every project. Being named Best Sustainable Developer and receiving multiple top honours at the APA Grand Final 2025 recognises our focus on innovation, quality, and environmentally responsible spaces for the community. As a trusted developer of choice, we will continue to drive excellence as we shape the real estate landscape in Vietnam.”

Orchard Mansion is conferred Best Housing/Landed Development (Asia), underscoring its leadership in the sector.

CLD Vietnam said its sustainability credentials are reflected across its portfolio, with 14 developments certified under internationally recognised green standards, including Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority Green Mark, EDGE, LEED, and WELL.

Sycamore, located in Binh Duong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is an EDGE-certified master development incorporating energy-efficient design, rainwater harvesting systems, and extensive communal green spaces. The project also features electric vehicle charging stations on every plot, positioning it as the ward’s first EV-ready residential community.

In northern Vietnam, The Fullton luxury low-rise development is designed as a low-density, nature-oriented residential enclave, with a focus on community wellness and sustainable living.

The Fullton is recognized at the regional level for excellence in luxury housing and landscape design.

The latest awards underscore CLD Vietnam’s growing regional profile, highlighting the market appeal, design quality, and sustainability focus of its developments, and reinforcing its position as a trusted developer in Vietnam and across Asia.

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The achievement represents a historic milestone in the port’s over-150-year development.

Hai Phong Port JSC on December 14 held a ceremony at container berths No. 3 and 4 of the Hai Phong International Container Terminal (HICT) to mark its handling of the 2 millionth TEU in 2025, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

The achievement represents a historic milestone in the port’s over-150-year development, and makes Hai Phong Port the first seaport in northern Vietnam to record container throughput surpassing 2 million TEUs.

In recent years, Hai Phong Port has steadfastly implemented a strategy to expand capacity in a modern and sustainable direction. A notable milestone has been the construction and operation of container berths No. 3 and 4 at Lach Huyen Port since early 2025, a breakthrough that has strengthened the port’s ability to receive large vessels, improved operational efficiency, and broadened its service portfolio.

Along with new infrastructure investment, the port has carried out comprehensive upgrades of facilities, equipment and technology systems at Hoang Dieu–Chua Ve Port, Tan Vu Port, Dinh Vu Port and the TIL Hai Phong International Terminal. It has also accelerated digital transformation in management and operations, while standardising processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Vietnam News Agency-Khánh Vân

The awards aim to spotlight outstanding Vietnamese designers whose work advances greener living, sustainable consumption, and climate-smart development.

The Delegation of the European Union to Vietnam hosted the Awards Ceremony of the EU-Vietnam Sustainable Design Awards (EVSDA) 2025 on December 12 in Hanoi.

This event marked a major milestone in the joint EU-Vietnam effort to advance sustainable development through creativity, culture, and innovation.

Building on the momentum of the EVSDA launch in May – where the EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Vietnam’s transition toward sustainability – the Awards Ceremony will recognize 20 outstanding groups of designers whose work exemplifies how creativity can drive environmental responsibility, resilience, and long-term value.

The ceremony gathered EU leadership, cultural institutions, international and Vietnamese design experts, and emerging creative leaders. A curated mini-exhibition has presented the 79 shortlisted works across these categories: Architecture, Product Design, Communication Design, and Innovation. 

Speaking on the significance of the event, H.E. Julien Guerrier, Ambassador of the European Union to Vietnam said: “Through our Global Gateway strategy, the EU is deeply committed to partnering with Vietnam in its green transition — not only in energy, infrastructure, or policy, but also in cultural and creative sectors. Because sustainability is not just a technological challenge. It is a societal transformation. It requires people who rethink habits, reimagine spaces, redesign products, and reshape the way we live.”

“In this sense, the Vietnamese design community is evolving in extraordinary ways. We see more environmentally friendly approaches, more circular thinking, more bold experimentation with local materials, and a clear willingness to address climate and social challenges through design. This year’s entries — from architecture to product design, communication design, and innovation — show that sustainability is no longer an added component. It is becoming a mindset. A foundation. A shared value,” he added.

The EU-Vietnam Sustainable Design Awards is an initiative under the EU Strategic Communication Public Diplomacy Project (SCPD). EVSDA was created to spotlight outstanding Vietnamese designers whose work advances greener living, sustainable consumption, and climate-smart development. By combining expert evaluation, public engagement, and international collaboration, the EVSDA 2025 Awards position creativity as a meaningful driver of Vietnam’s sustainable development and as a bridge connecting European and Vietnamese values while shining a spotlight on the ideas and innovators shaping a more sustainable future in Vietnam. 

VnEconomy-Anh Hoang

The figure up 31% year-on-year.

The total value of corporate bonds successfully issued in the first 11 months of 2025 was estimated at more than VND511.26 trillion ($17.5 billion), representing a year-on-year increase of 31%, according to the Vietnam Bond Market Association (VBMA).

Of the total, public bond issuances accounted for over VND50.58 trillion ($1.92 billion), while value of privately placed bonds reached more than VND460.67 trillion.

In November alone, the total value of corporate bond issuances exceeded VND19.6 trillion, down 70.7% from the previous month.

The month also saw a surge in early bond redemptions, with companies buying back more than VND11.1 trillion ($423 million) worth of bonds, up 2% year-on-year.

Looking ahead, around VND28 trillion ($1.06 billion) worth of corporate bonds are set to mature by the end of 2025.

Meanwhile, during the January–November period, the State Treasury raised more than VND306.9 trillion through Government bond auctions, equivalent to 61.4% of the annual plan.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Sơn

As many as 23 commercial banks have registered to join the program.

As many as 23 commercial banks have registered to join a large-scale credit program worth up to VND500 trillion ($19 billion) to support investments in power infrastructure, transport and strategic technology projects, according to the State Bank of Vietnam.

The program will run until the end of 2030 or until the full lending target is reached.

Participating banks have committed to offering preferential loans with interest rates at least 1–1.5 percentage points per year lower than prevailing market averages.

The credit package will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, from 2025 to 2026, commercial banks are expected to disburse about VND100 trillion, equivalent to roughly 20% of the total package, to eligible projects. During the second phase, from 2027 to 2030, the remaining capital will be gradually released, ensuring that lending does not exceed each bank’s committed quota.

Eligible borrowers are enterprises seeking long-term loans to invest in nationally important and key projects in the power, transport and strategic technology sectors. Project lists will be provided by relevant ministries.

VnEconomy-Kỳ Phong