The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has officially issued Plan No. 454/KH-UBND regarding the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan in Vietnam for the 2026–2030 and 2031–2035 periods.
The initiative aims to realize the priorities of the AEC while closely aligning the regional integration process with the city’s socio-economic development goals.
The city identifies the effective utilization of free trade agreements between ASEAN and its partners, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as one of its core tasks. To achieve this, the city will focus on developing an integrated regional logistics ecosystem and enhancing connectivity in infrastructure, services, and digital platforms. These efforts are designed to reduce trade costs and support ASEAN enterprises in participating more deeply in regional supply chains.
Simultaneously, the city will promote cross-border e-commerce within the bloc by harmonizing regulations and standards while enhancing the digital transformation capacity of businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Strengthening the connection and sharing of intra-regional trade data is also identified as a vital solution. This includes the integration of data regarding customs, certificates of origin, and technical regulations, which will facilitate businesses in leveraging tariff preferences and complying with rules of origin.
Beyond economic objectives, the city will bolster its international profile through global media channels. The city's Department of Culture and Sports has been tasked with leading promotional campaigns on major networks such as CNN, BBC, and CNBC, while managing external information activities related to ASEAN.
Meanwhile, the city's Department of Foreign Affairs will spearhead the organization of seminars and forums on ASEAN cooperation and explore opportunities to host ASEAN diplomatic events in the city, focusing on areas of mutual interest and shared benefit.
The plan encourages the active participation of the business community, industry associations, socio-professional organizations, and the general public in the ASEAN integration process. The Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies has been assigned to lead efforts in mobilizing support and collaboration from these stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the strategic roadmap.
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