VnEconomy - Vietnam Economic Times

For a more balanced and sustainable rental housing market

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Mr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARS), and Director of the Vietnam Institute for Real Estate Research (VARS IRE), tells Huyen Ngan about the need to build a more balanced and sustainable rental housing market.

Many observers argue that Vietnam’s real estate market has grown rapidly but lacks stability. How do you view this assessment?

The rapid growth of Vietnam’s real estate market over the past several years has contributed significantly to economic expansion, infrastructure investment, urban development, and the growth of related industries. However, behind this strong performance lies a major structural imbalance: supply is heavily concentrated in the high-end segment, while housing that is affordable for the majority of the population remains scarce.

Vietnam has developed a robust market for homes for sale but has yet to establish a professional, long-term rental housing system with clear State guidance. Today’s rental market remains largely fragmented, small-scale, and unplanned, often failing to provide stable and quality living conditions.

Traditionally, Vietnamese people have preferred homeownership over renting. Do you believe rental demand is strong enough to support a professional rental housing market?

According to the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, around 4.5-5 million workers are employed at industrial parks, most of whom rent accommodation, often with inadequate living conditions. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the number of renting households continues to rise, particularly among young people, migrant workers, and those at the beginning of their careers. Yet quality rental housing remains in short supply.

Hanoi is a clear example. As northern Vietnam’s largest education and employment hub, the capital attracts hundreds of thousands of students and young workers each year. Demand for rental housing rises sharply between June and September as students prepare for the new academic year.

At the same time, urban renewal and infrastructure projects are creating new waves of population displacement. According to the Hanoi People’s Committee, local authorities are currently carrying out land clearance for about 1,428 projects, including major developments such as the Hoang Cau - Voi Phuc section of Ring Road 1, Tu Lien Bridge, and Tran Hung Dao Bridge, directly affecting thousands of households.

Between 2026 and 2030, Hanoi plans to recover nearly 24,824 ha of land for more than 3,100 socio-economic development projects. This will continue to drive demand for temporary and rental housing during the resettlement process.

Current resettlement housing supply cannot immediately meet demand. Many affected households choose to rent homes near their former residences to maintain jobs, schooling, and social ties, placing additional pressure on the rental market.

Rental demand extends beyond students and displaced households. For many young professionals, workers, and young families, homeownership requires years of savings. Long-term renting therefore becomes the most practical option before they are financially ready to buy a home. This demand creates a strong foundation for developing a professional rental housing sector that supports social welfare, labor mobility, and sustainable urban growth.

Some argue that privately-built boarding houses can meet housing demand without large-scale participation from developers. What is your view?

Most workers still live in informal rental housing developed by individuals around industrial parks and suburban areas. These properties are often small, overcrowded, poorly equipped, and vulnerable to fire safety risks. Following several serious boarding-house fires in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in recent years, concerns over rental housing quality have become increasingly urgent.

In this context, rental housing with clear legal status, reliable quality, convenient connectivity, and reasonable pricing will become increasingly important. Such developments are not only an alternative for those unable to buy homes but also a way to create a healthier balance between housing demand and investment demand.

The recent surge in boarding house demand reflects a deeper issue: the growing shortage of entry-level housing. In the past, young people had access to affordable options such as small apartments, renovated collective housing, and reasonably-priced suburban developments. These products served as the first step toward homeownership.

Today, rising land prices and construction costs have made affordable housing increasingly difficult to develop. As a result, the market has become more polarized, with demand continuing to outpace supply.

The challenge is not simply a lack of social housing or affordable housing. Vietnam needs a broader “starter housing ecosystem” that allows young people to access suitable housing early in their careers before gradually progressing toward homeownership. Within that ecosystem, professional rental housing should be regarded as a key component alongside social housing and affordable commercial housing.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure access to quality housing at reasonable costs. This is why many developed countries view rental housing as a pillar of social welfare and urban stability.

How have other countries successfully developed rental housing, and what lessons can Vietnam learn?

Germany has a homeownership rate of only about 46 per cent - the lowest in Europe - yet it consistently ranks among the world’s best places to live. Its success stems from strong tenant protections, including the Mietspiegel system, a reference rent index published by local authorities to regulate rent increases. This allows residents to view rental housing as a stable long-term option.

Singapore has taken a different approach, with the State playing a central role in housing development. More than 80 per cent of the population lives in housing developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). Alongside its ownership model, Singapore maintains a heavily subsidized public rental housing system for low-income households. These developments are integrated with schools, healthcare, transportation and public amenities, creating high-quality communities.

South Korea has expanded long-term rental housing through the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH). The government directly develops or acquires apartments and leases them for 20-30 years to students, newly-married couples, and low-income households. Long-term financing from the National Housing and Urban Fund helps support the model.

International experience shows that the State’s role is decisive. Unlike homes for sale, rental housing projects often require 15-25 years to recover investment costs while generating relatively modest returns. Under normal market conditions, private developers have limited incentives to participate at scale.

If rental housing projects require such long payback periods, how can more developers be encouraged to participate?

The State must play a leading role in creating supportive policies and coordinating resources, particularly in planning, land allocation, financing, rent management and ensuring benefits reach the intended groups.

Authorities could allow developers to defer land-use fee payments, reduce financial obligations during the early years of operation, or link payments to project performance. This would ease initial capital pressure while preserving government revenues.

Vietnam could also explore flexible mechanisms allowing projects to shift between rental and for-sale models. Units converted for sale would fulfill all land-related obligations, while long-term rental units could continue benefiting from phased payment arrangements.

In addition, long-term financing tools such as housing savings funds, low-interest credit programs and tax incentives should be developed. Without a specially-designed institutional framework, it will be difficult to attract large-scale private investment.

International experience shows that success depends less on capping profits and more on providing access to long-term, low-cost capital. Returns should be determined through market-based mechanisms that reflect financing costs and project risks. This approach balances the interests of government, developers, and tenants while supporting a sustainable rental housing market.

Mr. Nguyen Van Dinh Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARS), and Director of the Vietnam Institute for Real Estate Research (VARS IRE)

Vietnam also needs a dedicated legal framework for rental housing to better protect tenants’ rights.

If the rental market expands significantly, could it reduce people’s desire to own property?

For many years, real estate has been viewed as a safe and important store of wealth in Vietnam. While this has supported market growth, investment demand has at times overshadowed genuine housing needs.

Global experience suggests that a sustainable housing market is one that offers a wide range of options suited to different income levels and needs. Those with sufficient resources can pursue homeownership, while lower-income groups should have access to quality rental housing at affordable costs.

This is the foundation for a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable real estate market in Vietnam. It is also consistent with the housing policy direction outlined by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam.

Expanding rental housing does not mean limiting legitimate ownership or investment aspirations. Rather, it helps create a more balanced market structure that better accommodates housing, ownership, investment and rental needs.

VET-Huyen Ngan

Hue city posts up to 9.5% GRDP growth in first half of 2026

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The growth is supported by an improved investment climate, stronger business activity and the continued expansion of key economic sectors.

Central Hue City is estimated to have achieved gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth of between 9% and 9.5% in the first six months of 2026, supported by an improved investment climate, stronger business activity and the continued expansion of key economic sectors, according to the local authorities.

The service sector, expanded by an estimated 9.2-9.7% year-on-year, remained the city's main growth engine, accounting for approximately 51.2% of GRDP. Tourism continued to perform strongly, with events under the Hue Festival 2026 attracting large numbers of domestic and international visitors. The city welcomed more than 4.3 million tourists in the first half of the year, up 29% from the same period of 2025.

Industrial production also maintained solid momentum, with the sector estimated to have grown by 10-11%. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose an estimated 10.3% year-on-year, while agriculture, forestry and fisheries expanded by around 4.5%, significantly outpacing growth recorded a year earlier.

External trade also improved. Export turnover reached an estimated $619.2 million during the first six months, up 8.4% year-on-year, while imports increased 18.2% to $833.9 million.

Hue also continued to improve its investment environment. The city currently has 201 active projects, with combined registered investment exceeding VND152.2 trillion (about $5.8 billion).

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Vietnam’s first carbon trading exchange is to launh soon

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 01:05:00 GMT

The domestic carbon trading exchange is organized and operated as regulated by the Government’s Decree 29/2026/ND-CP.

Vietnam’s first carbon trading exchange is scheduled for launching on June 29.

This will mark a significant milestone in the development of the country's carbon market, thus making contributions to fulfilling its international commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting green transition, fostering the development of a low-carbon economy, and providing businesses with an additional market-based instrument to support the achievement of their sustainable development goals.

Vietnam is actively developing a centrally managed domestic carbon market, with a pilot phase from late 2026 to 2028 and full implementation scheduled for 2029.

This development aims to achieve the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets by 2030 and ultimately reach an ambitious goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Earlier, the Vietnamese Government had approved pilot greenhouse gas emission quotas for key industrial sector in 2025 and 2026.

Under this pilot policy, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment had allocated greenhouse gas emission quotas to 110 facilities.

The ministry has also issued a circular regulating the management and operation of the national registry system for greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits, providing the foundation for managing and trading commodities on the carbon exchange.

In January this year, the Government promulgated Decree 29/2026/ND-CP, paving the way for setting up domestic carbon exchange. The Decree stipulates that the domestic carbon exchange is a comprehensive legal framework for the organization and operation of the carbon market in Vietnam.

VGP-Pham Long

Nghe An approves 484-ha industrial park to strengthen investment attraction

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

The multi-sector IP is expected to attract both domestic and foreign investors while fostering integrated manufacturing supply chains.

Authorities in central Nghe An Province have approved a zoning plan for the 484.4-ha Dien Quynh 1 Industrial Park, a major project expected to expand the province's industrial land bank and attract high-value manufacturing investment.

The project is designed as a modern industrial hub with synchronized infrastructure to accommodate manufacturing and business activities, supporting socio-economic development in the surrounding areas and across the province.

Once fully operational, Dien Quynh 1 Industrial Park is expected to create around 40,000 jobs, making it one of the largest industrial parks in the province's northern region.

The park will prioritize industries. with high added value, including electrical equipment, electronics, computers and components, automobiles and motorcycles, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage processing, light manufacturing, supporting industries, textiles and garments, construction materials, chemicals, logistics, warehousing, and transport support services.

Provincial authorities expect the multi-sector industrial park to attract both domestic and foreign investors while fostering integrated manufacturing supply chains. The project is also expected to enhance Nghe An's competitiveness as an investment destination and support the province's broader industrialization strategy.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Ha Tinh accelerates procedures for $2bln LNG power project

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 08:30:00 GMT

The Vung Ang III LNG-fired power plant has a planned capacity of 1,500 MW.

Authorities in the central province of Ha Tinh are stepping up efforts to remove administrative bottlenecks and expedite the implementation of the Vung Ang III LNG-fired power plant, a major energy project with a planned capacity of 1,500 MW and an estimated investment of VND51.43 trillion (about $2 billion).

At a working session on June 25, Vice Chairman of the Ha Tinh People's Committee Tran Bau Ha met with the project's investor consortium, comprising PetroVietnam Power Corporation (PV Power), Lilama Corporation and Thailand's B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, to discuss measures to accelerate the project's progress.

The project was officially approved by the provincial government on June 9. It will occupy approximately 51.7 hectares of land and 16 hectares of adjacent sea area in the Vung Ang Economic Zone.

According to the implementation schedule, the first generating unit is scheduled for completion in June 2030 and commercial operation in the first quarter of 2031, while the second is expected to be completed in December 2030 and enter commercial operation in the second quarter of 2032.

The investor consortium proposed the provincial government to facilitate land and sea allocation procedures, support the construction of a 500kV transmission line connecting the plant to the national grid, accelerate development of the LNG import terminal, and ensure an adequate supply of fill materials for construction.

Provincial leaders urged the consortium to complete all remaining procedures promptly while directing local agencies to provide maximum support to keep the project on schedule.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Construction ministry urges provinces to launch rental housing projects

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 07:12:00 GMT

Localities are required to break ground on at least one rental housing project.

The Minister of Construction has instructed all provinces and cities to break ground on at least one rental housing project by the end of June and begin implementing larger-scale rental housing developments over the following two quarters.

The directive, issued on June 23, calls on local authorities to accelerate rental housing development during 2026 and the 2026-2030 period, in line with the Government's long-term housing strategy.

The directive outlines nine priority tasks for local governments.

First, provinces are required to assess rental housing demand and finalize development plans by the end of June 2026. Second, they must promptly begin publicly funded rental housing projects, with implementation targeted for completion in the third quarter of this year. The ministry also called for accelerated development of worker accommodation to support industrial zones.

Local authorities have been instructed to reserve well-connected, infrastructure-ready land for rental housing and social housing projects while ensuring social housing construction targets are met. The ministry also encouraged policies that support individuals and households in developing rental properties.

In addition, cities and bprovinces are required to improve the management and utilization of publicly owned housing assets by July 2026 and undertake comprehensive administrative reforms to simplify investment procedures for rental and social housing projects.

The minister stressed that reducing administrative barriers and ensuring effective coordination among local agencies will be essential to accelerating project implementation and expanding the supply of affordable rental housing.

VnEconomy-Phan Nam

In need of a well-designed rental housing ecosystem

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMT

A well-designed rental housing ecosystem in Vietnam would ease pressure on home prices, unlock long-term capital, and support broader economic restructuring.

The recent directive from Party General Secretary and State President To Lam to prioritize the development of rental housing is opening a new pathway for Vietnam’s real estate market. At a time when housing prices are rising far faster than incomes, the issue extends beyond social welfare and touches directly upon urban competitiveness, the structure of the financial system, and the long-term sustainability of the property market.

Breaking away from the old model

For many years, Vietnam’s real estate market has largely operated under a build-to-sell model. Developers have focused on maximizing sales and accelerating capital recovery, while the rental segment has remained fragmented, undersupplied, and largely unsupported by dedicated financing mechanisms.

As housing prices move increasingly beyond the reach of young people and middle-income households, the limitations of this model are becoming more apparent. Home prices in many areas exceed 20-times annual household income, while affordable housing supply has nearly disappeared due to rising development costs, lengthy approval procedures, and the heavy reliance on short-term bank loans and corporate bonds to finance long-term property projects. This maturity mismatch creates risks not only for developers but also for lenders and, ultimately, the broader financial system.

Against this backdrop, expanding rental housing offers a practical solution already proven in many countries. A stronger rental sector can reduce pressure on homeownership, support labor mobility, and create a more resilient urban and financial structure.

International experience suggests that large-scale rental housing markets rarely emerge through market forces alone. In Singapore, the State plays a central role in land planning and housing provision through the Housing and Development Board (HDB). In countries such as Germany and Austria, meanwhile, governments support rental housing through public land allocations, tax incentives, and access to long-term capital.

For Vietnam, a “State-led, market-driven” model deserves consideration. Under this approach, the government would focus on planning, long-term financing mechanisms, and legal frameworks, while private enterprises would undertake construction, operations, and property management under transparent market principles.

At the center of this model would be a national housing corporation operating as a State-controlled institution with modern corporate governance. Rather than directly developing projects, it would function as a coordinating platform for the rental housing ecosystem. Its responsibilities could include managing public land reserves and recovered land from delayed projects, organizing competitive bidding for construction, and serving as a bridge between rental housing projects and long-term sources of capital.

Unlocking long-term capital

Rental housing projects typically require 15-25 years to recover investment costs. Yet most Vietnamese developers rely on short and medium-term financing from banks, corporate bonds, and homebuyer prepayments. This financing structure is poorly suited to rental housing.

In countries such as Japan, Singapore, and Australia, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) play a critical role. Once rental projects generate stable cash flow, developers can transfer these assets into REITs, recover capital, and reinvest in new projects. The REITs then attract long-term institutional investors through capital markets, transforming rental housing into a stable income-generating asset class.

Vietnam’s rental housing ecosystem should likewise be connected to long-term institutional capital sources with significantly lower funding costs than commercial bank loans. One proposal is to establish a national housing corporation as a State-owned enterprise or a joint stock company with majority State ownership. Initial capital could come from proceeds of State divestments and public land resources. Operating under market principles, the corporation would serve as a platform for infrastructure and financing while outsourcing construction and operations to private sector specialists.

A second pillar would be the issuance of long-term national housing bonds with maturities of 20-30 years and government-backed payment guarantees. Debt repayment would be supported by rental income and other project-related revenues. To reduce financial pressure during construction, interest payments could be deferred and capitalized during the first three years, while liquidity reserves could be established using proceeds from State asset divestments.

Over time, rental income from hundreds of thousands of households, combined with revenues from commercial services integrated into rental communities, could provide sufficient cash flow to service debt and support operations.

Third, regulatory reforms could allow institutions such as Vietnam Social Security, life insurers, and pension funds to allocate part of their portfolios to national housing bonds. Given their long-term liabilities, these institutions are natural investors in long-duration, government-backed instruments.

In the medium term, Vietnam could also explore pilot programs for tokenized long-term rental rights under a regulatory sandbox framework. Such instruments could broaden retail investor participation, encourage younger generations to accumulate housing access rights and create a new transparent, liquid financial product.

Creating the conditions for scale

A dedicated policy framework should therefore include streamlined administrative procedures and preferential land policies. Projects committed to long-term rental operations and regulated rental rates could receive exemptions or significant reductions in land-use fees for a fixed period, while a fast-track approval process would help reduce financing costs associated with delays.

Reducing project development costs is essential for rental housing to remain affordable. If developers continue to face commercial land-use fees and lengthy approval processes, rental prices will inevitably rise.

Technology should also play a role. Wider adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout design, construction, and operations could reduce material waste, shorten construction timelines, and lower long-term maintenance costs.

For the rental housing ecosystem to scale successfully, policies must encourage voluntary participation by major domestic developers. Rather than relying on administrative mandates, authorities could create incentive-based arrangements. For example, developers could be allowed to substitute their obligations to allocate 20 per cent of project land for social housing by contributing resources to large-scale rental housing developments coordinated by the national housing corporation.

The government could also adopt a “State creates, private sector builds” model, under which qualified developers construct projects that are later acquired by the national housing corporation using long-term capital, ensuring reasonable and predictable returns.

To improve commercial appeal, the corporation could auction rights to manage properties and operate commercial services within rental communities. Revenues from these activities would help private operators offset the relatively modest returns typically associated with affordable rental housing.

Ultimately, developing a professional rental housing ecosystem is not merely a short-term measure to stabilize the property market. It is a strategic component of broader economic restructuring.

A stable rental housing sector can help moderate housing prices, reduce the financial system’s dependence on mortgage lending, and improve labor mobility by enabling workers to move more easily to industrial and high-tech production centers.

If supported by coherent institutional reforms, long-term capital mechanisms, and modern infrastructure planning, rental housing can become a key driver in creating a more transparent, resilient and demand-driven real estate market for Vietnam’s next stage of development.

VET-Hong Ha

Vietnam launches first national semiconductor chip prototyping center

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The center will serve as a national hub connecting domestic chip designers with the global semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

Vietnam on June 26 officially launched its first national semiconductor chip prototyping center, marking a significant milestone in the country's ambition to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor value chain.

The Vietnam National Multi-Project Wafer Coordination Center (VNMPW/CC), established under the Ministry of Science and Technology, will serve as a national hub connecting domestic chip designers with the global semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

The center adopts the Multi-Project Wafer (MPW) model, which combines multiple chip designs into a single fabrication run, significantly reducing prototyping costs and shortening product development time. The approach is expected to accelerate the development of "Make in Vietnam" semiconductor products.

The center will provide shared infrastructure covering the entire chip development process, from design verification and prototyping to packaging, testing and commercialization.

It will also supply electronic design automation (EDA) tools, support design validation, and coordinate with international semiconductor foundries, packaging and testing companies, enabling Vietnamese universities, research institutes and technology firms to access advanced manufacturing services.

Following fabrication, the center will assist developers in evaluating chip performance and connecting with government support programs and investment funds to commercialize new products. A post-silicon laboratory for chip evaluation, testing and analysis is also planned.

The center's development roadmap will be implemented in three phases. During 2026-2027, the government will fully subsidize prototyping costs to encourage participation from universities, research institutes, startups and chip design companies while establishing domestic MPW operational capabilities. Between 2028 and 2030, the center will continue receiving partial government support as it expands its shared infrastructure, laboratories, design tools and technical services. Beyond 2030, it aims to become a leading semiconductor prototyping hub in Southeast Asia.

At the launch ceremony, the center signed memoranda of understanding with 19 domestic and international partners, including global semiconductor leaders Intel, Infineon, Amkor, Cadence, Synopsys, TSMC and GlobalFoundries, alongside major Vietnamese universities and technology companies such as Viettel, FPT and VSAP Lab.

The partnerships will focus on semiconductor research, workforce development, chip design, prototyping, packaging, testing, infrastructure sharing and stronger collaboration between government agencies, academia and industry.

VnEconomy-Bạch Dương

Ha Tinh terminates delayed projects, free up land resources for new developments

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:45:00 GMT

The move viewed as a necessary step to optimize land use, improve the investment environment and create opportunities for capable investors to develop new projects.

Authorities in central Ha Tinh Province have terminated eight delayed investment projects in the Vung Ang Economic Zone since the beginning of the year as part of efforts to improve investment efficiency and free up land resources for new developments.

According to the Ha Tinh Economic Zone Management Board, the projects include four domestically funded ventures with total registered capital exceeding VND497 billion ($18.89 million) and four foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with combined registered capital of more than $18.6 million.

Provincial authorities said many of the affected projects had encountered financial difficulties, undergone changes in business strategy, or were no longer able to proceed in line with their original investment commitments.

For projects that remain viable, authorities are focusing on removing obstacles, assisting investors with administrative procedures and accelerating implementation. However, projects deemed incapable of moving forward, found to be in breach of investment commitments, or leaving land unused for extended periods will be handled in accordance with regulations.

Officials stressed that the termination of so-called “suspended” projects does not undermine Ha Tinh’s investment attractiveness. Instead, it is viewed as a necessary step to optimize land use, improve the investment environment and create opportunities for capable investors to develop new projects.

The reclaimed land resources are expected to strengthen the province’s ability to attract high-tech, environmentally friendly and high-value-added investment projects in the future.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Hanoi establishes industrial cluster worth nearly $46 mln

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:40:00 GMT

The cluster is designed to primarily host industries including mechanical engineering, agricultural and forestry processing, textiles, and footwear.

Hanoi has officially approved the establishment of the Phung Xa Industrial Cluster in Tay Phuong Commune.

The Phung Xa Industrial Cluster will cover approximately 63 ha with a total estimated investment of nearly VND1.2 trillion (approx. $46 million). The cluster is designed to primarily host industries including mechanical engineering, agricultural and forestry processing, textiles, and footwear.

The technical infrastructure is scheduled to be completed within 18 months from the date of the establishment decision. The project has an operational term of 50 years.

Infrastructure developers and businesses operating within the cluster will be entitled to investment incentives in accordance with the Law on Investment, Government Decree No. 32/2024/ND-CP, and other relevant legal provisions.

According to the Hanoi Capital Master Plan with a 100-year vision, the city aims to become a national leader in high-tech industrial development. Hanoi intends to play a leading role in regional and inter-regional industrial corridors, participating effectively in global value chains and distribution networks.

The city is prioritizing the development of supporting industries—specifically the production of components and parts for the textile, footwear, aviation, and railway sectors—as well as new materials, digital technology, software, semiconductors, quantum technology, and biotechnology.

Moving forward, Hanoi will focus on attracting high value-added projects with large capital investment and high domestic revenue potential. Preference will be given to projects that require minimal industrial land, utilize labor efficiently, and practice energy conservation.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Hanoi unveils 100-year master plan through digital exhibition

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:10:00 GMT

Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

To bring the 100-year vision of the Capital Master Plan closer to its citizens, Hanoi will launch a large-scale exhibition at the Hanoi Museum, featuring advanced digital technology to illustrate the city's future growth.

According to a press conference held on June 25 regarding the conference to announce the Hanoi Capital Master Plan with a 100-Year Vision and Investment Promotion 2026, the exhibition will be spread across multiple floors of the museum. On the first floor, a circular scale model with a 7-meter diameter will be displayed, providing fully updated information on the latest planning boundaries.

The fourth floor, spanning 1,200 sq.m, has been designed as a "special experience space." In addition to large-scale panels detailing Hanoi’s development throughout history, visitors can witness a 3D Mapping model that visually demonstrates the city’s technical infrastructure and spatial orientation. Guests will also have the opportunity to view 3D documentaries and trial-test an urban planning information lookup system.

The Master Plan covers a natural area of over 3,359 sq.km. It establishes a development structure based on a "multi-tier, multi-layer, multi-polar, and multi-center" model, utilizing the Red River as the primary ecological and cultural landscape axis.

By 2045, Hanoi aims to reach a GRDP of approximately $640 billion, transforming into a global city with a high quality of life. To realize this vision, the city has identified 11 breakthrough solution groups, notably an urban railway system integrated with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and a commitment to "Net Zero" emissions.

Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

On this occasion, the city will officially debut a 360-degree digitized data management system for investment projects. This system, along with the digital experience zone, promises to provide a comprehensive overview of investment potential and local products.

As part of the program, Hanoi is expected to grant investment policy decisions and investment registration certificates to key projects, while signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with major global corporations.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Rental housing as a strategic pillar of Vietnam’s housing policy

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The government is positioning rental housing as a strategic pillar of Vietnam’s housing policy, aiming to boost supply, improve affordability, and support sustainable real estate market development.

At a recent real estate forum organized by the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Van Sinh said the development of rental housing has been identified by the government and the Prime Minister as a key priority to address the housing needs of citizens and workers. Under this approach, the State will play a leading role in shaping the market and mobilizing social resources to expand the rental housing segment.

He also emphasized the real estate market’s strategic role in the economy, noting its contribution to infrastructure development, housing provision, social welfare, urbanization, tourism, and economic growth. According to the Deputy Minister, Vietnam’s legal framework already provides for a range of rental housing models, including social housing, worker accommodation, official residences, commercial rental housing, and privately-developed rental properties, creating an important foundation for expanding rental housing supply in the years to come.

Market recovery gains momentum

As Vietnam pursues ambitious economic growth targets while maintaining macro-economic stability, the Party, National Assembly, government, and Prime Minister have introduced a series of policies aimed at fostering a stable, transparent, and sustainable real estate market.

Authorities have revised key laws governing investment, land use, planning, construction, housing, and real estate business activities, while also accelerating project approvals to increase housing supply. These reforms have improved consistency across the legal framework, streamlined administrative procedures, and helped remove longstanding obstacles facing investors and developers.

The government has continued to advance its program to build at least 1 million social housing units by 2030. To date, 781 projects totaling 720,055 units are under development, equivalent to 72 per cent of the target. Of these, 231 projects comprising 180,850 units have been completed, while 234 projects with 233,962 units are under construction and 316 projects with 305,243 units have received investment approval.

In 2025 alone, 102,633 social housing units were completed, exceeding the annual target of 100,275 units. During the first five months of 2026, construction began on an additional 34 projects comprising nearly 30,000 units.

The government has also stepped up efforts to resolve bottlenecks affecting real estate projects, particularly legal and administrative issues. According to the Ministry of Construction (MoC), obstacles have been removed at 3,289 land-related projects covering more than 70,000 ha, allowing them to resume development and move toward completion.

“With the decisive and coordinated implementation of these measures, the real estate market has shown encouraging signs,” Mr. Sinh said. “Major projects have broken ground, stalled developments have resumed, and both supply and liquidity have improved.” However, he also stressed that several structural challenges continue to constrain the market.

One of the most significant is the mismatch between supply and demand. While the high-end segment continues to attract investment, affordable housing remains in short supply, particularly in major urban centers.

The market also remains heavily focused on homes for sale, while the long-term rental housing segment has yet to develop at a scale capable of meeting actual housing needs.

Housing prices have risen much faster than incomes in recent years, making homeownership increasingly difficult for low and middle-income households. At the same time, existing policies have not been sufficiently attractive to encourage large-scale private sector investment in rental housing.

Another challenge is the incomplete integration of housing information systems and databases between central and local authorities, limiting transparency and complicating market oversight. “These are issues that have accumulated over time and cannot be resolved overnight, but they require immediate and coordinated action,” Mr. Sinh said.

Strategic focus

Against this backdrop, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and Prime Minister Le Minh Hung have outlined a new direction for housing and real estate development. At the heart of the strategy is a shift from a model focused primarily on commercial housing toward a more balanced approach that promotes commercial housing, social housing, and rental housing simultaneously.

Under this vision, rental housing is no longer viewed as a supplementary segment but as a strategic, long-term component of the national housing system. It is expected to serve workers, laborers, students, civil servants, public employees, and members of the armed forces.

The government also aims to develop housing through a market-oriented approach supported by effective State management. The State will act as a facilitator through planning, policy, and financial tools designed to ensure market transparency and sustainability while maintaining affordability for residents.

Housing development will also be more closely integrated with urban planning, land-use planning, industrial development, public transportation systems, labor market strategies, and population management policies. Priority will be given to Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects, urban renewal programs, industrial parks, economic zones, and major economic corridors.

Another key objective is to diversify funding sources. Rather than relying heavily on State budgets, authorities plan to mobilize greater private sector participation and attract long-term investment from financial institutions and investment funds. Public resources will be used strategically to guide market development and catalyze private investment.

The government also plans to address underutilized public housing assets, strengthen anti-waste measures, improve accountability among local authorities, and enhance transparency in housing support programs to prevent abuse and speculation.

Expanding rental housing supply

Based on these policy directions, the MoC has outlined a number of priorities for the time ahead. These include reviewing the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW, issued by the Secretariat in May 2024, and drafting a new directive aimed at strengthening Party leadership over housing and real estate development. The Ministry is also preparing amendments to the Law on Housing, the Law on Real Estate Business, the Land Law, and related legislation for submission to the National Assembly this October.

At the same time, authorities will seek to better balance housing supply by prioritizing social housing, reasonably-priced commercial housing, worker housing, housing for low-income groups, and rental housing projects that meet genuine market demand.

The State will take the lead in guiding the market, while local authorities must proactively accelerate rental housing projects to meet the rapidly-growing housing needs of citizens and worker.

Mr. Nguyen Van Sinh, Deputy Minister of Construction

Speaking specifically about rental housing, Mr. Sinh said the MoC is working with ministries, agencies, and local governments to amend the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business to create more favorable conditions for rental housing development.

The Ministry has urged local authorities to conduct detailed assessments of rental housing demand among different groups, including workers, students, public servants, and armed forces personnel, which will serve as the basis for investment planning and capital allocation.

City and provincial governments have also been asked to review local planning frameworks, allocate suitable land resources, and ensure adequate infrastructure for rental housing developments, particularly at industrial parks and in densely-populated urban areas.

In addition, local governments are being encouraged to invest directly in rental housing through local budget resources and to strengthen the role of local housing funds. Authorities have been instructed to reserve land for social rental housing projects and expand rental housing stock through the conversion of public assets and the acquisition of suitable housing from developers.

“The State will take the lead in guiding the market, while local authorities must proactively accelerate rental housing projects to meet the rapidly-growing housing needs of citizens and workers,” Mr. Sinh said.

He also called on city and provincial governments to accelerate social housing development, fast-track administrative procedures, remove obstacles facing delayed projects, improve market transparency, and speed up the development of housing and real estate databases.

The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that, with strong leadership from the Party and the State, close coordination between ministries and local governments, and active participation from businesses and industry stakeholders, Vietnam’s real estate market will continue to develop in a transparent, healthy, and sustainable manner.

He believes the sector will remain an important driver of economic growth, urban modernization, national competitiveness, and improved living standards while supporting the country’s broader long-term development goals.

VET- PHAN NAM

Dak Lak launches trade and investment promotion association

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

The goal is to attract investment across all key sectors, including agriculture, industry, aquaculture, and fishery processing, as well as infrastructure projects such as seaports, transportation, and logistics.

The Dak Lak Trade and Investment Promotion Association officially debuted in Tuy Hoa Ward on June 25.

The launch marks a significant milestone in connecting businesses, investors, and partners—both domestically and internationally—while fostering trade, investment, and sustainable economic development for the province.

For the 2026–2031 term, the association consists of 232 members, all of whom are leaders of enterprises operating across diverse sectors. These include agri-forestry-fishery processing, logistics, tourism, services, information technology, the electrical industry, machinery manufacturing, textiles, wood processing, and fertilizer production.

According to Mr. Tran Quoc Ha, a representative of the association, following the initial congress, the organization will collaborate with provincial departments, agencies, and member businesses to establish trade promotion delegations. These groups will focus on calling for investment and supporting the local business community to accelerate the localilty’s socio-economic growth in the coming years.

“We are implementing solutions by linking with major national associations and launching comprehensive promotion campaigns to attract investment. Notably, partners from China, Japan, South Korea, and the Arab region will continue to accompany us,” Mr. Ha affirmed.

He further emphasized that the association would continue to introduce and promote Dak Lak to both domestic and foreign enterprises. The goal is to attract investment across all key sectors, including agriculture, industry, aquaculture, and fishery processing, as well as infrastructure projects such as seaports, transportation, and logistics.

VOV-

Two Vietnamese startups secure places in incubation program in Singapore

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:40:00 GMT

The selected startups, Selfomy and Volterra, will gain access to BLOCK71's global network of mentors, investors and corporate partners under the startup ecosystem of the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Two Vietnamese startups have secured places in the incubation program at BLOCK71 Singapore after being selected among the top 10 teams at the UniVentures Global Launch Day 2026, held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 25.

(The selected startups, Selfomy and Volterra, will gain access to BLOCK71's global network of mentors, investors and corporate partners under the startup ecosystem of the National University of Singapore (NUS).

The announcement marked the conclusion of the inaugural UniVentures programme, launched by BLOCK71 Vietnam with support from Singapore's Temasek Foundation to nurture university-born startups. Over nearly one year, the program attracted almost 1,500 applications from more than 80 universities across Vietnam.

Most participating startups focused on emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), deep technology, clean energy, sustainable materials, education and healthcare.

Selfomy, founded by alumni of the University of London and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, provides AI-powered solutions that help language centres attract new learners and streamline operations. The startup currently serves more than 5,000 active users.

Volterra, established by a team of VinUniversity researchers, students and technology entrepreneurs, is developing smart electric vehicle charging infrastructure integrated with renewable energy, battery storage and AI-powered optimisation. The company aims to convert 30,000 conventional charging stations into green, intelligent charging hubs by 2030, supporting Vietnam's transition to electric mobility.

BLOCK71, the startup arm of NUS Enterprise, operates innovation and startup acceleration hubs across 11 cities worldwide. UniVentures is designed to help Vietnamese university entrepreneurs transform research and innovative ideas into commercially viable businesses capable of expanding into regional markets.

VnEconomy-Như Quỳnh

Vietnam urges US firms to expand high-tech investment

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 07:30:00 GMT

Vietnam aims to establish industrial ecosystems for semiconductors, electronics, and high technology in localities that possess advantages in industrial infrastructure, logistics, human resources, and supply chain connectivity.

Vietnam welcomes US enterprises to continue expanding their operations in the country, particularly in high-tech sectors and industries with high added value.

Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung emphasized this during a meeting with Mr. Jeff Place, Chief Supply Chain Officer of Coherent Corp. (US), on June 26, as part of the latter's working visit to Vietnam.

The Deputy PM was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as stating at the meeting that Vietnam prioritizes attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) projects characterized by high technological content, research and development (RD) capabilities, strong linkages with domestic firms, and human resource training. He added that the country seeks projects that allow for deep integration into global value chains.

Regarding the semiconductor industry, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, Vietnam is currently promoting the development of an ecosystem aimed at deeper participation in stages such as design, packaging, testing, and the production of materials, components, and equipment. Simultaneously, the country is focusing on training high-quality human resources and attracting strategic investors.

Furthermore, he said, Vietnam aims to establish industrial ecosystems for semiconductors, electronics, and high technology in localities that possess advantages in industrial infrastructure, logistics, human resources, and supply chain connectivity. This strategy includes developing supporting industries, enhancing the supply of materials and components, and gradually increasing localization rates within the high-tech value chain.

Mr. Dung also noted that Vietnam encourages the development of data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. These projects should utilize modern, energy-efficient technologies, ensure cybersecurity and data protection, and align with local technical infrastructure planning.

On behalf of Coherent Corp., Mr. Place expressed the group's desire to continue partnering with Vietnam and sharing the fruits of development through investment expansion, high-quality human resource training, and the growth of the semiconductor ecosystem.

Mr. Place highlighted that Coherent is a leader in mastering the entire supply chain—from raw materials and production equipment to finished systems and products for the global market. Consequently, the group aims to work with Vietnam to develop an ecosystem where all parties can benefit and achieve sustainable growth.

In addition to manufacturing, Coherent is placing a strong emphasis on technology RD. The group is currently collaborating with Vietnamese universities not only on human resource training but also on researching new technologies to drive innovation and enhance the overall capacity of the semiconductor industry.

TTXVN-Khanh Chi

A fundamental shift in housing strategy

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Vietnam is accelerating the development of a rental-led housing model, with new policies and projects aimed at expanding access to affordable housing.

At a working session with the government Party Committee and relevant ministries and agencies on the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW, issued by the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat on strengthening the Party’s leadership in social housing development under the new circumstances, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam stressed that housing policies in the new era must be designed with a new mindset and vision to ensure that everyone has access to housing. Housing, he added, should serve as a place to live rather than a vehicle for business or wealth accumulation.

“Vietnam’s housing development model in the new period is neither a subsidized housing model nor one that leaves everything to the market,” he continued. “The State will create land banks, develop planning frameworks, provide financial support, establish standards and regulations, and simplify administrative procedures. The market will participate in construction and operation while earning reasonable returns. Citizens will have access to stable, safe, and affordable housing suited to their needs. From now until 2030, housing for sale will remain necessary, but rental housing must be established as a strategic pillar, particularly in major cities, industrial parks, labor migration hubs, and areas where housing prices far exceed household incomes.”

Strategic pillar

Notice No. 64-TB/VPTW, issued by the Party Central Committee’s Office summarizing the conclusions of the Party General Secretary and State President, reaffirmed that future housing development, particularly social housing, should focus on several key priorities.

First, authorities must recognize that access to lawful housing is a fundamental right of citizens. Access to safe and affordable housing should be viewed as a measure of social progress, providing a foundation for stable and sustainable development while strengthening public confidence. Housing development should be integrated into urban and rural development strategies, contributing to social welfare, security, higher labor productivity, and the healthy development of the real estate market. The State should pursue housing policies aimed at ensuring that everyone has a place to live.

Second, housing development should follow a market-oriented model under effective State guidance and management. The State will not subsidize housing, but neither will it leave the market entirely to regulate itself. Instead, it will play a facilitating role through institutions, policies, and planning to promote a transparent and healthy market, allowing businesses to participate with reasonable profit expectations while ensuring citizens can access stable, safe, and affordable housing.

Third, alongside housing for sale, priority should be given to rental housing development, particularly apartment rental projects in major urban centers, industrial parks, economic zones, growth regions, and key economic corridors. Housing development should be aligned with urban planning, land-use planning, industrial park development, public transportation systems, labor markets, and population management.

The Notice also calls for a review of the current housing classification system and the development of a new framework consisting of four categories: commercial housing, rental housing, official residences, and policy-supported housing. This would allow the government to develop tailored policies for each segment, including State-supported pricing schemes and free housing provision for certain eligible groups.

Fourth, the government Party Committee has been tasked with developing appropriate land and credit policies to accelerate the affordable rental housing market and encourage greater private sector participation. Authorities are also required to establish standards for each housing category and streamline development procedures through a one-stop administrative mechanism.

Procedures related to investment, planning, land allocation, construction permits, and access to preferential financing should be shortened and made more transparent, with clearly-defined timelines and accountability.

Local authorities are instructed to review land resources and update planning frameworks. Housing development across all segments must be integrated with technical infrastructure, essential social services, cultural facilities, healthcare, and education, particularly in urban areas, economic zones, industrial parks, high-tech parks, and rapidly-urbanizing regions. They are also expected to proactively clear land and prepare serviced sites for rental housing projects while strengthening oversight to prevent abuse of housing support policies and speculative activity in the housing market. At the same time, greater use of digital technologies and data-driven management tools is encouraged in housing development and real estate operations.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam chairs the working session with the government Party Committee and relevant ministries and agencies on the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW.

Fifth, the government Party Committee has been assigned to develop a new housing policy framework aligned with the Constitution, Party policies, and public demand. It will also review the implementation of Directive No. 34 and propose a new directive from either the Secretariat or the Politburo, providing the basis for amendments to the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business, which are expected to be submitted to the National Assembly (NA) this year.

Turning plans into action

To accelerate the implementation of the Party General Secretary and State President’s directives, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung emphasized during meetings with local authorities that the development of affordable commercial housing and rental housing is a major policy priority of the Party and the State, reaffirmed through Directive No. 34 and Notice No. 64. “These are not issues that can be resolved overnight, but they require immediate and decisive action and cannot be delayed,” he said.

For Hanoi, the Prime Minister called for a pioneering approach, including assessments of housing demand, target groups, and investment mechanisms to develop large-scale rental housing projects for people living and working in the capital, including officials and civil servants from central government agencies.

Hanoi is expected to begin construction on several rental housing projects during June and make flexible use of social housing financial contributions, with the State investing and professional operators managing the projects.

The capital has also been tasked with preparing an investment, construction, and operational plan for rental housing projects and reporting the results to the Prime Minister in July. In addition, Hanoi should propose mechanisms to mobilize social resources and support investment in and the operation of rental housing projects through appropriate land allocation and land lease policies.

The Prime Minister issued similar instructions to the northern port city of Hai Phong and nearby Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, Ninh Binh, and Hung Yen provinces, requiring that each begin construction of at least one rental housing project this month and accelerate larger developments in the third and fourth quarters.

“The policy direction is already clear,” he continued. “Local authorities must take the initiative and not wait passively for central guidance. Any obstacles should be clearly identified so that institutions, mechanisms, and policies can be updated and improved accordingly.”

He stressed that the issue is urgent and requires the State to take the lead, using public resources as leverage to attract private investment. National and local housing funds should be used effectively to stimulate the market, while diverse funding sources, particularly private capital and long-term investment, should be mobilized rather than relying solely on the State budget.

Regarding planning, the Prime Minister instructed local authorities to review and adjust planning frameworks based on approved master plans and provincial plans, identifying specific locations and scales for rental housing development linked to key industrial parks and strategic growth areas. This work must be completed by the end of June.

Local governments are also required to assess rental housing demand and prepare rental housing development plans through 2030, including annual targets, priority project lists, anticipated funding sources, and implementation roadmaps. These plans must also be submitted to the Ministry of Construction (MoC) by the end of June.

The Prime Minister also assigned specific responsibilities to ministries and agencies. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the State Bank of Vietnam have been tasked with proposing financial, tax, and credit incentives for long-term rental housing projects, to attract private investors and long-term investment funds.

Meanwhile, the MoC has been instructed to continue implementing tasks outlined in Notice No. 262/TB-VPCP, review the implementation of Directive No. 34, and propose a new directive to replace the current one. The Ministry is also responsible for finalizing draft legal amendments for submission to the NA, issuing national technical standards for small and medium-scale rental housing projects, including mini apartment buildings and family-operated rental housing, and ensuring compliance with safety and fire prevention requirements.

In addition, the Ministry will consolidate policy proposals from local authorities and coordinate with the MoF to review mechanisms allowing businesses and cooperatives to acquire commercial and social housing solely for rental purposes.

Moving into action

To implement the new housing development strategy, the MoC is now reviewing and amending relevant policies, with rental housing identified as a strategic segment of the housing market. The approach aims to develop housing under a market-based framework with effective State oversight, while mobilizing diverse investment sources, reducing reliance on the State budget, and unlocking private capital for housing development.

At its May review meeting and June task deployment conference, the Ministry said the new housing development orientations have been incorporated into policy dossiers for amendments to the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business. Draft legislation is expected to be submitted to the NA for approval this October.

Under the proposed framework, housing policies will be organized into four categories: commercial housing, rental housing, official residences, and policy-supported housing. Long-term rental housing with affordable rates will be prioritized through incentives related to land, finance, taxation, and credit.

The Ministry is also developing separate standards and regulations for different housing types, particularly rental housing, worker accommodation, student housing, and housing for the elderly. The standards aim to ensure quality of life and building safety while promoting the professional management and operation of long-term rental housing projects.

To ensure rental housing development aligns with actual demand, the MoC has conducted nationwide assessments covering different population groups, localities, and development stages. It is also reviewing land availability in urban areas, industrial parks, economic zones, high-tech parks, and rapidly-urbanizing regions to create a pipeline of serviced land for future rental housing projects.

In addition, the Ministry has requested local authorities to assess rental housing demand and propose targets for rental housing stock funded by local housing funds in 2026 and the 2027-2030 period.

“Alongside accelerating social housing development, local authorities are actively implementing rental housing programs and projects, while many businesses have registered to participate as investors,” Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh told the 14th Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor for the 2026-2031 term. “Through State support policies, particularly in credit and interest rates, social housing and rental housing are expected to better meet the accommodation needs of low-income workers.”

Following directives from the Party and the government, local authorities have also moved quickly to implement the policy. Chairing a meeting on rental housing projects in Hanoi on May 27, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang said the capital would promptly study and implement new models in line with guidance from the central government. Hanoi aims to establish several pilot rental housing projects that can be rapidly developed and later replicated on a wider scale.

Authorities in the capital have instructed departments and agencies to develop attractive policies to encourage private sector participation and to urgently review urban planning, housing development plans, and land resources to allocate land for rental housing projects. Hanoi has also pledged to streamline administrative procedures and prioritize fast-track approvals.

In Ho Chi Minh City, meanwhile, the Department of Construction and the southern city’s Construction Science and Technology Association held a conference on June 9 to promote investment in rental housing development.

Officials said the city, with a population of around 14 million, faces significant housing demand from professionals, workers, students, and other residents. However, the rental housing market still lacks long-term mechanisms and incentives strong enough to attract investors.

The city aims to develop more than 181,000 social housing units between 2026 and 2030, including approximately 50,000 rental social housing units. It is also considering converting part of its unused resettlement housing stock and surplus State-owned housing into rental housing to improve the use of public assets.

At the conference, 13 companies - four State-owned enterprises and nine private companies - signed commitments to develop approximately 97,900 rental housing units.

“Ho Chi Minh City will provide maximum support and establish a green lane for social housing and rental housing projects,” Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc said. “We are reviewing rental housing demand and allocating land accordingly within the city’s housing master plan. With more than 97,000 rental housing units committed at this conference alone, I believe we have a solid foundation to successfully implement the city’s rental housing development strategy.”

In Quang Ninh, provincial leaders have also moved to accelerate implementation. At a meeting on June 11, Chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee Bui Van Khang described rental housing development as an important political task that would contribute to social welfare, improve living standards, attract and retain talent, and support the province’s sustainable growth objectives.

He called on authorities at all levels to fully implement the conclusions of Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and Prime Minister Hung, treating rental housing development as a key priority requiring decisive action and measurable outcomes.

The province plans to establish a steering committee for rental housing development, led by the provincial Chairman, along with an implementation task force headed by the director of the Department of Construction. Local authorities will be required to submit weekly or bi-weekly progress reports and will be held accountable for delays or failure to deliver results.

Provincial agencies have also been tasked with studying the creation of a major projects management board to oversee housing projects and reviewing planning documents to incorporate rental housing developments into provincial and urban plans for 2026-2030.

Quang Ninh has been instructed to ensure rental housing projects are located in convenient areas with adequate infrastructure and aligned with the needs of target groups. At least one State-funded housing project is expected to break ground in June, while privately-funded developments are scheduled to accelerate in the third and fourth quarters.

According to Prime Minister Hung, the government has directed ministries, agencies, and local authorities to develop and refine policies supporting the housing market. By the end of the year, the legal framework for rental housing development must be completed.

“If we can meet this demand, it will improve living standards, strengthen social welfare and public order, and provide a solid foundation for maintaining the workforce, attracting investment, and supporting rapid and sustainable economic growth,” he said. “If local authorities actively engage, they can not only meet housing demand but also reduce pressure on home ownership and help address many broader economic challenges.”

VET-Nam Huyen

HCM City establishes seven high-tech agricultural zones

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 02:17:00 GMT

The zones are designed to serve as centers for research, development and application of advanced technologies in agriculture.

Under a recent decision by the Ho Chi Minh People's Committee, seven High-Tech Agricultural Zones will be established with their operational framework approved, marking a significant step in advancing technology-driven and sustainable agricultural development.

The seven zones will cover more than 1,700 ha across key agricultural areas of the southern city. The zones include 2 facilities in Nhuan Duc commune (88.17 ha and 470 ha), and 5 others in Can Gio (89.74 ha), Cu Chi (23.3 ha), An Nhon Tay (470 ha), Binh Gia (383.22 ha), and Phuoc Hoa (203 ha).

The zones are designed to serve as centers for research, development and application of advanced technologies in crop cultivation, livestock farming, aquaculture, forestry, medicinal plants, biotechnology and post-harvest processing.

They will also function as hubs for testing, demonstrating and transferring new technologies, helping accelerate the modernization of agricultural production while improving efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Under the approved regulations, the zones will undertake a wide range of activities, including applied research, pilot production, controlled testing of new technologies and policy initiatives, technology exhibitions, and scientific and technical services. They will also provide agricultural quality testing services, support business incubation and innovation startups, and train highly skilled agricultural workers.

In addition, the zones are expected to attract domestic and international scientists, experts and investors to participate in the development of high-tech agriculture.

Each zone will focus on sectors suited to local conditions. Can Gio will specialize in high-tech aquaculture, Cu Chi will prioritize crop production and post-harvest technologies, An Nhon Tay will focus on high-tech livestock farming, while Binh Gia and Phuoc Hoa will develop crop cultivation, medicinal plants and forestry. Other zones will support a combination of agriculture, aquaculture and biotechnology-related activities.

VnEconomy-Thi Nguyễn

Hanoi assigned as lead agency for two national railway projects

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 01:30:00 GMT

The two projects proposed for the city’s management include the railway section from Phu Xuyen Station to Ngoc Hoi Station, and the Eastern Ring Railway connecting Hanoi with Hung Yen Province.

Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc chaired a meeting with the Ministry of Construction (MoC), the Hanoi People’s Committee, and various ministries and National Assembly committees on June 25, focusing on a proposal to designate Hanoi as the managing agency for several national railway projects within the city, reported the Government News.

The two projects proposed for the city’s management include the railway section from Phu Xuyen Station to Ngoc Hoi Station, and the Eastern Ring Railway connecting Hanoi with Hung Yen Province. The total investment for these projects is estimated at approximately VND40 trillion (approx. $1.5 billion).

These projects are of strategic importance as they facilitate the relocation of the existing national railway line out of the inner city. This will create the necessary space for urban planning, the expansion of National Highway 1A, and other key infrastructure developments. While standard procedures could see preparation and implementation take 4–5 years, the city aims to complete these projects within the 2027–2028 period.

Mr. Dang Sy Manh, Chairman of the Board of Vietnam Railways (VNR), affirmed that these two projects are prerequisites for the relocation and reorganization of the current Ngoc Hoi – Gia Lam railway section with Hanoi station standing centrally. VNR also recommended further detailed research on the organization of the central station system to ensure long-term operational efficiency.

Concluding the meeting, Permanent Deputy PM Tuc reached a consensus on applying the mechanisms and policies outlined in Resolution No. 258/2025/QH15 to implement the projects. He tasked relevant agencies to urgently finalize the necessary documentation and procedures to report to the Government for a final decision on assigning Hanoi as the lead agency for both the Phu Xuyen – Ngoc Hoi line and the Eastern Ring Railway.

VGP-Pham Long

A strategic shift in Vietnam’s foreign investment policy

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Politburo Resolution No. 10 marks a strategic shift in Vietnam’s foreign investment policy, moving beyond mere FDI attraction toward the development of a national investment platform.

Almost seven years ago, on August 20, 2019, the Politburo issued Resolution No. 50-NQ/TW on improving institutions and policies to enhance the quality and effectiveness of FDI cooperation through 2030. The Resolution called for the proactive and selective attraction of FDI, with quality, efficiency, technology, and environmental protection as the primary evaluation criteria. It marked a new direction in the attraction, utilization, and management of high-quality FDI in Vietnam.

Politburo Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW, on developing the foreign-invested economic sector, issued on June 8, 2026, builds on that foundation while reflecting Vietnam’s changing development realities. It marks a decisive shift from an FDI attraction mindset to one focused on building a national strategic investment platform. The emphasis has moved from competing for investment based on administrative boundaries to attracting investment through industrial clusters, value chains, and innovation ecosystems. Quality, efficiency, technology transfer, supply chain participation, and value creation have become the key criteria, while policy support is gradually shifting from input-based incentives, such as tax breaks and land rental preferences, to performance-based incentives tied to investment commitments.

New national context

Vietnam’s large-scale administrative restructuring last year, reducing the number of provinces and centrally-governed cities from 63 to 34 and establishing a two-tier government system, represents a transformative reform effort. These changes play a critical role in reshaping the investment environment and creating new momentum for economic growth.

The FDI landscape is expected to benefit significantly from the elimination of fragmented local interests. Larger provincial units with stronger economic capacity can support integrated transportation and logistics networks instead of the fragmented development model of the past. Compliance costs associated with investment, construction, and environmental procedures are being streamlined. Licensing processes for industrial park projects are expected to become considerably faster, reducing both opportunity cost and waiting times for foreign investors. Expanded planning space also enables the formation of seamless supply chains, making it easier for multinational corporations to secure land and establish integrated industrial ecosystems.

The administrative restructuring has also streamlined government operations and optimized resource allocation. The reduction in provincial-level administrative units and the elimination of district-level authorities are expected to save trillions of VND in budget expenditures. These resources can then be redirected toward critical infrastructure development, including airports, seaports, expressways, healthcare facilities, and education systems that improve workforce skills to support FDI activities.

The new two-tier governance model, consisting of provincial and commune-level authorities, eliminates intermediate administrative layers. At the same time, stronger decentralization empowers local governments to address bottlenecks related to land acquisition, site clearance, electricity and water supply, internet services, wastewater treatment, and waste management more efficiently, particularly in industrial parks and standalone investment projects. This helps unlock local resources and improve project implementation.

Raising RD spending

Politburo Resolution No. 10 positions the FDI sector as a critical link in Vietnam’s ambition to become a regional innovation and operations hub.

Global experience demonstrates that countries with higher RD expenditure as a share of GDP tend to achieve faster and more sustainable advances in economic development as well as science, technology, and innovation. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Israel and South Korea lead the world in this regard, with RD spending accounting for 6.3 per cent and 5.0 per cent of GDP, respectively.

Most of this investment comes from private enterprises, including foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) and high-tech companies. Other economies with high RD intensity include Taiwan (China), with 3.8 per cent of GDP, the US with 3.5 per cent, Japan with 3.4 per cent, Switzerland with 3.35 per cent, China with around 2.68 per cent, Singapore with approximately 2.0 per cent, and Thailand with 1.2 per cent. Vietnam’s ratio remains comparatively low, at roughly 0.4-0.53 per cent of GDP, ranking it 66th globally.

To achieve a breakthrough and avoid the middle-income trap, Vietnam should aim to raise RD spending to at least 2 per cent of GDP, comparable to Singapore’s current level, in the years ahead. Politburo Resolution No. 10 introduces several breakthrough mechanisms to directly and indirectly do so.

First, it prioritizes investment in core technologies. Vietnam will focus on attracting investors that possess foundational and source technologies, particularly in semiconductors, AI, and big data. These investors may include both large corporations and specialized small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that possess unique technological capabilities and strong RD capacity, enabling them to maintain competitiveness and integrate deeply into global value chains.

Second, the Resolution promotes the development of a global talent ecosystem. Administrative procedures should be simplified and accelerated, visa and residency requirements eased, and work permit regulations reviewed and reduced for high-tech experts, scientists, foreign entrepreneurs, and overseas Vietnamese with relevant qualifications, regardless of whether they retain Vietnamese citizenship.

Third, the Resolution seeks to strengthen technology transfer and domestic-foreign business links. A national supplier development program should be introduced to encourage Vietnamese enterprises to establish partnerships, joint ventures, and collaborations that enhance their ability to absorb technology from FIEs. This, in turn, would improve the RD capabilities of the domestic private sector.

Reforming investment promotion

Politburo Resolution No. 10 marks a major shift from a passive approach that waits for investors to arrive to a proactive strategy focused on cultivating, partnering with, and attracting strategic investors, often referred to as “eagles.”

This transformation is reflected in several key directions.

From broad promotion to targeted engagement: Mass investment promotion campaigns are being replaced by focused outreach, negotiation, and relationship-building with leading multinational corporations, major financial institutions, and large investment funds.

Data-driven investment promotion: The Resolution calls for the development of a comprehensive digital database of strategic investors and customized engagement strategies tailored to specific markets, countries, territories, and industry segments.

Strengthening on-site investment promotion: Greater emphasis is placed on supporting existing investors, resolving operational challenges, and encouraging high-quality expansion projects. Rather than repatriating profits after meeting tax obligations, investors are encouraged to reinvest earnings in Vietnam. This is regarded as one of the most effective ways to build confidence among global investors.

Establishing a dedicated Investment Promotion Agency (IPA): Following the enactment of the Law on Foreign Investment in 1987, the government established the State Committee for Cooperation and Investment (SCCI) in 1989 to manage and attract FDI.

However, after nearly four decades of attracting, managing, and utilizing foreign investment, Vietnam still lacks a true national investment promotion agency that meets international standards. Investment promotion activities have largely been carried out through Investment Promotion Centers (IPCs) under the former Ministry of Planning and Investment, now the Ministry of Finance, and various local agencies that often combine investment promotion with trade and tourism activities.

Under the government’s recent institutional restructuring, the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) and related investment management functions were transferred from the Ministry of Planning and Investment to the Ministry of Finance. As of 2026, the Ministry of Finance is responsible for developing, approving, and coordinating the National Investment Promotion Program.

The experience of Malaysia and Thailand, widely regarded as ASEAN’s most successful investment promotion models, demonstrates the value of a single national agency with strong authority and a business-oriented philosophy.

Malaysia’s investment promotion system is centered on the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), established in 1987 under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry. MIDA serves as the primary point of contact for investors and has authority over investment applications, approvals, and tax incentives.

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), meanwhile, operates under the Office of the Prime Minister, with the Prime Minister serving as its Chair. This gives the BOI substantial authority to overcome bureaucratic obstacles and coordinate effectively across ministries and local governments.

Against this backdrop, establishing a dedicated national IPA that operates independently and according to international standards is increasingly necessary for Vietnam. Such an agency would eliminate fragmentation between the Ministry of Finance and local authorities, serving as a single focal point for national investment attraction strategies during Vietnam’s next phase of development.

It would also professionalize investment marketing efforts, build teams of highly-skilled negotiators and market specialists, and target investors and projects that align with Vietnam’s development priorities. It could also coordinate solutions to issues in land clearance, tax incentives, investor disputes, industrial parks, free trade zones, and local authorities.

Defining roles

Politburo Resolution No. 10 redefines the relationship between different levels of government by assigning the central government responsibility for institutional design and digital governance while local governments focus on implementation. This framework applies across all FDI activities, including research, manufacturing, and services.

At the national level, authorities must strengthen efforts to combat transfer pricing, trade fraud, and environmental violations while withdrawing incentives from projects that fail to meet commitments on technology transfer, product standards, or environmental protection.

Local governments, meanwhile, should transition from a purely administrative role to that of a strategic partner for investors. Their responsibilities include licensing support, site clearance, infrastructure preparation, utility provision, environmental services, and workforce development to ensure investor needs are met efficiently.

Proactive local governance may take the form of “green lane” mechanisms, similar to expedited customs clearance channels, enabling major investment projects to obtain approvals within as little as 48 hours. Local authorities should also promote regional connectivity and facilitate the integration of domestic enterprises into the production and service networks of FIEs operating in their jurisdictions.

With the implementation of Politburo Resolution No. 10, attracting $200-$300 billion in registered foreign investment and disbursing $150-$200 billion in capital, equivalent to roughly $30-40 billion annually, appears both realistic and achievable during Vietnam’s next development phase from 2026 to 2030.

(*) Mr. Le Huu Quang Huy is Vice President of the Vietnam Industrial Park Finance Association, former Director of the Investment Promotion Center for Central Vietnam, and former Economic Counselor at the Embassy of Vietnam in Japan.

VET-Le Huu Quang Huy(*)

Societal shift and economic development

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Vietnam’s social structure is becoming increasingly differentiated as its economy expands and modernizes, presenting both opportunities and challenges for inclusive development.

Vietnam’s economy continues to post strong growth despite a volatile global environment. GDP expanded by an estimated 8.02 per cent in 2025, taking the economy to approximately $514 billion and lifting GDP per capita to around $5,026. Momentum carried into 2026, with first-quarter GDP rising 7.83 per cent year-on-year.

This rapid economic expansion, coupled with urbanization and digital transformation, is reshaping Vietnam’s social landscape. While poverty has declined and the middle class has grown, inequalities in income, assets, skills, geography, and social protection are becoming more visible, creating new policy and governance challenges.

Stratified social structure

According to the Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey 2024, conducted by the National Statistics Office at the Ministry of Finance, average monthly income per capita reached VND5.4 million ($208), up 9.1 per cent from 2023. Significant geographic disparities remain. Urban residents earned an average of VND6.9 million ($265) a month, or more than 1.5-times the VND4.5 million ($173) recorded in rural areas. Regionally, the Southeast ranked highest, at nearly VND7.1 million ($273) per person per month, while the Northern Midlands and Mountainous Region recorded the lowest average income at around VND3.8 million ($146).

The poverty rate continued to decline, falling to 2.3 per cent nationwide in 2024, down 1.1 percentage points from a year earlier. While this marks a significant achievement in poverty reduction, poverty is no longer the only concern. Within the multidimensional poverty framework, employment deprivation accounted for 40.3 per cent of total deprivation, followed by deficiencies in adult education attainment at 30.7 per cent and nutrition at 21.4 per cent.

Vietnam’s labor market has also improved, though structural challenges persist. In 2025, the workforce aged 15 and above reached approximately 53.5 million people, with 52.4 million employed. The average monthly income rose 8.9 per cent year-on-year to VND8.4 million ($323), before increasing further to VND9 million ($346) in the first quarter of 2026. The proportion of workers holding formal qualifications or certifications reached 29.6 per cent during the same period.

However, youth unemployment remains a concern. The unemployment rate among those aged 15 to 24 stood at 8.86 per cent; significantly higher than the overall working-age unemployment rate of 2.21 per cent. More fundamentally, decent work remains a major challenge. According to the International Labour Organization’s 2026 framework, informal employment accounted for 62.2 per cent of total employment in the first quarter of 2026, including 71.1 per cent in rural areas and 48.4 per cent in urban areas. A large share of Vietnamese workers therefore continue to lack stable contracts, social insurance coverage, and protection against economic shocks.

Against this backdrop, social stratification in Vietnam is not evolving into a broad-based divide between the very rich and the very poor. Rather, it is increasingly defined by five interrelated dimensions.

The first is income inequality. Though Vietnam’s income Gini coefficient stood at 0.372 in 2024, indicating a moderate level of inequality, the wealthiest 20 per cent of the population earned an average of VND11.8 million ($454) per person per month, or 7.4-times higher than the VND1.6 million ($62) earned by the poorest 20 per cent. Such disparities directly influence access to education, healthcare, housing, and skills development, increasing the risk of inequality being passed from one generation to the next.

The second dimension is asset inequality. The growing importance of real estate, land ownership, equity holdings, and business assets is widening social divides. Those with substantial assets enjoy advantages that differ markedly from younger generations who rely primarily on wage income. If property prices continue to rise faster than earnings, opportunities for upward mobility among young people and migrant workers could become increasingly constrained.

The third dimension is geographic inequality. Differences between urban and rural areas, as well as between regions, reflect unequal access to infrastructure, employment opportunities, and public services. Without stronger regional development policies, these disparities risk persisting across generations.

The fourth dimension is inequality in skills and job quality. While the share of trained workers has risen to 29.6 per cent, most employment remains informal. As Vietnam moves toward a higher-value-added economy, highly-skilled workers are likely to benefit from expanding opportunities, while lower-skilled workers face growing pressure from automation and technological change.

The fifth dimension concerns access to social protection. Though health insurance coverage reached 95.16 per cent in 2025 and social insurance coverage expanded to 45.1 per cent of the workforce, equivalent to 21.53 million people, significant gaps remain. As Vietnam continues its transition toward an aging society and could become an aged society by 2035, according to the World Bank, disparities between those with pensions and those without adequate social protection are expected to become increasingly pronounced.

Five social groups

Based on these patterns of differentiation, Vietnam’s social structure can be broadly grouped into five major strata.

The first comprises the wealthy and ultra-wealthy, whose status is largely derived from asset ownership. This group includes major business owners, investors, and individuals with substantial holdings in real estate, land, equities, financial assets, and businesses. They have been among the biggest beneficiaries of economic growth, urbanization, infrastructure development, financial market expansion, and the rise of the private sector. Their wealth is generated primarily through assets and investment rather than labor income.

The second group is the upper middle class, including professionals, managers, senior officials, entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled workers in sectors such as finance, technology, logistics, healthcare, education, professional services, and foreign-invested enterprises. While they generally enjoy comfortable incomes and the ability to invest in education, healthcare, and housing, they also face growing pressure from rising living costs, intense professional competition, and the need for continuous reskilling.

The third group consists of the mainstream middle class and lower middle class. It includes civil servants, office workers, skilled workers, small business owners, and households with stable incomes but relatively limited accumulated wealth. As one of the country’s largest social groups, it plays a vital role in domestic consumption and social stability. However, it remains vulnerable to employment disruptions, illness, education costs, mortgage obligations, and income shocks.

The fourth group comprises industrial, service-sector, and informal workers. This includes factory workers, construction workers, transport workers, delivery drivers, retail and hospitality employees, seasonal workers, freelancers, and those employed in household businesses. Though they contribute significantly to economic growth and urban economic activity, they typically face lower incomes, less stable employment, and limited social protection. As a result, they are particularly exposed to fluctuations in demand, automation, inflation, and economic downturns.

The fifth group includes the poor, near-poor, and other vulnerable populations. It encompasses ethnic minority communities, residents of remote areas, small-scale farmers, elderly people without pensions, people with disabilities, and households affected by natural disasters, climate change, or unstable livelihoods. Despite substantial progress in poverty reduction, many continue to experience multidimensional deprivation in employment, education, nutrition, healthcare, and market access.

Five transformative trends

Driven by sustained growth, urbanization, digital transformation, and international integration, Vietnam’s social structure is expected to undergo five transformative shifts.

First, the middle class will continue to expand as the service sector, digital economy, and private sector grow. However, rising healthcare, education, and housing costs may place increasing pressure on this group, potentially creating a segment of the “vulnerable middle class.”

Second, wealth inequality may emerge as the most significant axis of social stratification. Those who own property and equity assets are likely to strengthen their position, while younger generations and migrant workers dependent on wage income could find upward social mobility increasingly difficult if housing prices continue to rise rapidly.

Third, skills-based differentiation will accelerate under the influence of AI, automation, and the green economy. Society will become divided not only by wealth, but also by the ability to reskill, adapt to technological change, and remain competitive in evolving labor markets.

Fourth, population aging is creating a new form of social division between older people with pensions and accumulated assets and those who spent their working lives in informal employment and face the risk of relative poverty in retirement.

Fifth, climate change threatens to deepen regional disparities. According to World Bank estimates, climate-related losses could reach between 12 and 14.5 per cent of GDP annually by 2050 and push as many as 1 million people into extreme poverty by 2030. Farmers, fishermen, and informal workers are expected to bear the greatest risks.

Challenges for social stability

Changes in social structure are a natural consequence of economic development and can generate positive outcomes, including stronger consumption, greater innovation, and improved accountability in governance. However, if not managed effectively, these changes risk transforming natural differences into unequal opportunities, entrenching social stratification, and creating major challenges for governance and social stability.

Among the most significant challenges are growing pressure on social equity and public trust; increasing demands for interest representation and conflict management; the risk of vested interests distorting resource allocation in the absence of transparency and effective oversight; mounting pressure on urban management, migration, and public services; greater risks of localized social tensions arising from insecure employment and incomplete social protection coverage; widening digital divides; increasing fiscal pressure on the State; and the potential erosion of social cohesion if unequal opportunities persist across generations.

To manage social differentiation while ensuring inclusive development, policymakers must move beyond traditional poverty alleviation toward a broader framework focused on expanding opportunities. The objective should not simply be to reduce poverty, but to ensure that all citizens have access to quality education, employment, housing, social protection, and public services.

First, reducing inequality of opportunity must become the central focus of social policy. Second, wealth disparities should be addressed through transparent housing and land management policies.

Third, improving skills and job quality remains the most fundamental long-term solution to social stratification. Fourth, social insurance and social protection coverage should be expanded for informal workers.

Fifth, social governance should become more transparent, responsive, and data-driven.

And sixth, regional development and climate adaptation strategies should be pursued through a framework of climate justice and equitable transition.

(*) Associate Professor Phung The Dong is from the Ministry of Finance.

VET-Associate Professor Phung The Dong(*)

Indonesia market opens new horizons for Vietnamese food

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Indonesia’s middle class has reached approximately 47 million people, with over 60% of the total population within the working-age bracket, creating a young and vibrant consumer market.

With a population of over 285 million and surging food demand, Indonesia represents a highly promising market for Vietnamese food enterprises. However, to conquer ASEAN's largest economy, businesses must overcome strict technical barriers, Halal certification requirements, and implement a systematic market entry strategy.

At the workshop "Indonesia Market Trends and Opportunities for Vietnam's Food Industry," organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Investment and Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) on June 24, experts noted that Indonesia is more than just a potential export destination. The country could also serve as a new growth engine for Vietnamese firms amid the current volatility of global trade.

Deputy Director of ITPC Le Anh Hoang stated that with its massive population, Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia and one of the region’s biggest consumer markets.

"The rapid expansion of the middle class, combined with modern consumption trends, is driving an increasing demand for processed foods, convenience foods, health-conscious products, and items with natural origins," said Mr. Hoang.

Notably, the upcoming upgrade of Vietnam-Indonesia relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2025 is viewed as a vital foundation to further boost trade and investment cooperation between the two nations. Furthermore, bilateral trade turnover has maintained positive growth in recent years, providing a favorable environment for Vietnamese businesses to expand their presence in Indonesia, particularly in the food and consumer goods sectors.

Vietnam’s Trade Counselor in Indonesia Gian The Cuong advised that Vietnamese enterprises should look beyond the total population and instead identify key regional hubs and specific consumer characteristics.

"Java is currently home to about 160 million people—more than half of the national population—while Sumatra has over 60 million. These are the two largest economic and consumer hubs that Vietnamese businesses should focus on first," Mr. Cuong suggested.

In particular, Indonesia’s middle class has reached approximately 47 million people, with over 60% of the total population within the working-age bracket, creating a young and vibrant consumer market. This demographic is the primary target for processed foods, beverages, nutritional products, and modern consumer goods.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Indonesia, the country’s total food and beverage market value is currently among the largest in Southeast Asia.

However, Indonesia is not an easy market to penetrate. One of the most significant hurdles today is the requirement for Halal certification. As the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia is progressively refining and tightening regulations regarding Halal certification for food and consumer products.

“Businesses should not view Halal as merely an administrative procedure. In reality, it is a 'passport' that allows products to enter modern distribution systems and build trust with Indonesian consumers,” Mr. Cuong noted.

Beyond Halal requirements, regulations regarding product registration, labeling, and information disclosure are also strictly managed. The majority of imported food products must be registered with the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) before they can be introduced to the market.

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

Da Nang seeks to bolster multi-faceted ties with Indonesia

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

In 2025, Da Nang's export turnover to Indonesia reached approximately $15.5 million, while imports totaled $110.7 million. The two sides frequently organize trade and investment promotion activities and work to enhance tourism connectivity.

As Indonesia promotes digital technology cooperation with Vietnam, Da Nang aims to participate in bilateral programs regarding smart cities, digital transformation, and high technology

This was highlighted by Chairman of the Da Nang People's Committee Nguyen Manh Hung during a recent meeting with Indonesian Ambassador to Vietnam, H E. Mr. Adam M. Tugio, reported Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

The city leader expressed hope that the Indonesian Embassy would support the promotion and attraction of Indonesian investors to explore opportunities in Da Nang’s key projects. These include the Hi-Tech Park, seaports, urban infrastructure, tourism ports, the International Financial Center, and the Free Trade Zone.

Mr. Hung also requested the Embassy’s continued support in facilitating the establishment of official friendship and cooperation between Da Nang and Denpasar (Bali), moving toward the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the fields of tourism, culture, sports, and economics.

Ambassador Adam M. Tugio shared his desire to further strengthen connections and promote cooperation between Indonesia and Da Nang in trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges in the coming time.

Da Nang and Indonesia have maintained a steady cooperative relationship in trade, investment, and tourism. In 2025, Da Nang's export turnover to Indonesia reached approximately $15.5 million, while imports totaled $110.7 million. The two sides frequently organize trade and investment promotion activities and work to enhance tourism connectivity.

Notably, since March 2026, a direct flight route between Bali and Da Nang has been operational with four flights per week. In the first five months of 2026, Da Nang welcomed over 28,700 Indonesian visitors, contributing to the growth of exchange and bilateral cooperation.

VOV-

Attractive offerings from Vietnam's International Financial Center

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:30:00 GMT

As the International Financial Center in Vietnam comes into being, the task now at hand is shaping core product portfolios that appeal to investors.

As both the global and domestic economies undergo profound structural shifts, the need to develop breakthrough financial products for Vietnam’s International Financial Center (IFC), headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, has become increasingly urgent. Such products are expected to attract long-term capital, provide solutions to national-scale bottlenecks, and elevate the standing of Vietnam’s financial market.

Recent directives from the government have sent strong signals regarding a new wave of economic institutional reform. On June 2, 2026, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung chaired a meeting on IFC implementation, assigning ministries and agencies to coordinate with specialized bodies to urgently design flagship product portfolios for the IFC in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Ho Chi Minh City IFC

With contributions from a seven-member founding alliance comprising the Sovico Group, VinaCapital, Nasdaq, three major commercial banks (MB, TPBank, and SHB), and Son Kim Capital, the Ho Chi Minh City IFC (VIFC-HCMC) possesses an ideal platform for implementing sophisticated capital structures that combine financial and technological resources with underlying asset infrastructure to create transformative core products.

The first flagship product is a Digital Project and Sustainability Bond framework designed to mobilize and direct long-term capital from international institutions into strategic infrastructure megaprojects and key social housing and rental housing programs in the city, thereby easing budgetary pressures.

VIFC-HCMC could propose a Digital Bond issuance model under which issuers would include the Ho Chi Minh City Finance and Investment State-Owned Company (HFIC) or authorized State-owned corporations responsible for project implementation.

These bonds would not rely on State budget allocations for repayment. Principal and interest obligations would be secured by domestic revenue streams. For project and green infrastructure bonds, repayment sources would include future operating revenues, commercial and service exploitation rights, or land auction proceeds. For social housing and rental housing bonds, repayment would be supported by housing sales revenues or recurring rental income.

A portion of these VND-denominated revenues could be converted into USD through currency swap instruments provided by member commercial banks, thereby reducing exchange-rate risks associated with servicing USD-denominated bonds sold to international investors through the Nasdaq connectivity platform.

The Digital Bond model would operate under a two-tier structure.

Tier 1 - Private Placement and Initial Liquidity Creation: Project entities would issue VND-denominated Digital Bonds through private placements directly on the IFC’s technology platform. International investment funds and financial institutions within the IFC ecosystem would serve as anchor investors, committing to purchase 60-70 per cent of each issuance. The IFC platform, in coordination with founding commercial banks, would provide automated digital foreign-exchange conversion mechanisms, simplifying currency conversion procedures and enabling direct VND disbursement to projects without placing pressure on the State budget.

Tier 2 - International Public Distribution Through the VIFC-Nasdaq Connectivity Platform: The remaining bond volume would be listed in USD on a dedicated digital board operated by VIFC-HCMC. Through direct technological integration with Nasdaq, these Digital Bonds would be displayed simultaneously on both platforms, allowing international investors to place orders and trade in USD via Nasdaq’s infrastructure. Nasdaq’s system would automatically match orders against the underlying assets listed on VIFC-HCMC, ensuring real-time cross-border liquidity while complying with domestic monetary security requirements.

To enhance attractiveness, internationally-linked Digital Bonds issued within the IFC sandbox environment should be granted a zero-tax regime covering foreign contractor tax, dividend income tax, and capital gains tax. Foreign investors would also be guaranteed the right to freely convert currencies and repatriate capital and profits in USD. Administrative friction would be minimized through real-time RegTech (regulatory technology) monitoring systems integrating anti-money laundering (AML) controls and electronic Know-Your-Customer (eKYC) processes on blockchain-based infrastructure.

The second product is an international marketplace for fundraising and intellectual property (IP) tokenization. A major challenge in implementing the Law on Support for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises is that technology companies and innovative startups often possess valuable IP and patents but face difficulties accessing capital due to the challenges of valuing intangible assets and the banking sector’s concerns regarding collateral.

VIFC-HCMC could address this bottleneck by tokenizing IP assets, such as patents and software copyrights, into blockchain-based IP Tokens. Legal documentation, certification histories, and projected revenue streams would be embedded into smart contracts, ensuring transparency and immutability.

Once packaged, these IP Tokens could be listed on a dedicated digital board within VIFC-HCMC, utilizing technology infrastructure linked to Nasdaq’s digital asset and cross-border trading systems. Through this direct connection, international venture capital funds would gain access to the IP assets of Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Fund managers would serve as anchor investors supporting market liquidity, while the alliance of the three commercial banks would act as custodians of underlying assets and provide working-capital credit lines based on real-time token valuations.

The third product is a global tokenized agricultural commodities and carbon credit exchange. Each year, tens of billions of USD worth of key Vietnamese agricultural exports, including coffee, rice, and pepper, remain dependent on pricing mechanisms determined by overseas commodity exchanges.

Through its strategic relationship with Nasdaq, VIFC-HCMC should establish a tokenized agricultural commodities and carbon credit exchange. Combining international matching-engine technology, clearing and settlement capabilities from founding commercial banks, and the logistics networks of diversified corporate members would enable Vietnam to gain greater control over pricing for its agricultural products.

Farmers and businesses would benefit from transparent pricing and direct trading through digital certificates, reducing intermediary financial costs and retaining more value within domestic agricultural supply chains.

Da Nang IFC

While Ho Chi Minh City represents the depth of the corporate capital market, the 12 official members of VIFC Da Nang possess stronger financial technology capabilities. Based on this foundation, several core products could be developed.

The first product would be a Digital Bond framework supporting logistics infrastructure across central Vietnam. Similar to the VIFC-HCMC model, it would adopt a two-tier structure, with institutional placements at Tier 1 and retail distribution through Da Nang IFC’s International Digital Asset Exchange at Tier 2.

Bond repayment obligations would be supported by future revenues from port services, warehousing fees, and transportation services generated by pilot logistics networks across the region.

The second product is a dedicated offshore digital banking institution. To fully leverage the special mechanisms established under Resolution No. 259/2025/QH15, Da Nang should consider developing a dedicated offshore digital banking model to strengthen its competitiveness against regional financial centers such as Singapore and Hong Kong (China).

Under this framework, non-resident offshore accounts would operate in a zero-tax environment with unrestricted capital mobility. State-owned commercial banks, in collaboration with digital financial groups, would provide real-time payment services and specialized foreign exchange hedging infrastructure.

This would create a critical financial pipeline facilitating cross-border capital flows while reducing administrative friction costs for foreign trade activities by an estimated 1.5-2 per cent for FDI enterprises operating along the East-West Economic Corridor.

A key innovation of the model lies in replacing paper-based administrative controls with digital infrastructure. Cross-border eKYC procedures, AML compliance checks, and unusual transaction monitoring would be fully automated using decentralized technologies and AI operated by the IFC’s technology and legal alliance.

This smart governance framework could reduce operating costs by up to 60 per cent compared to traditional models while creating a secure environment for attracting foreign capital without undermining domestic monetary stability.

In conclusion, by designing a portfolio of flagship products closely aligned with the strengths of founding members and fully leveraging the institutional and technological advantages of the IFC to address practical national and local challenges, Vietnam can transform the IFC into national models of innovation.

These breakthrough products represent the strategic intersection between the government’s macro-economic management objectives, local aspirations for institutional reform, and the economic interests and development ambitions of participating members. They can serve as a launchpad for Vietnam’s financial market to navigate increasingly challenging global macro-economic conditions and contribute meaningfully to the country’s goal of rapid and sustainable development in the new era.

VET-Hong Ha

Quang Ninh to become smart coastal city and national maritime economic hub

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:45:00 GMT

The ultimate goal of the planning is to transform Quang Ninh into a modern, smart, green, and sustainable city that serves as a national growth pole and a driver for regional development.

The Prime Minister has issued Decision No. 1123/QD-TTg dated June 23, 2026, approving the General Urban Planning for northern Quang Ninh province through 2050, with a vision toward 2075.

The ultimate goal of the planning is to transform the province into a modern, smart, green, and sustainable city that serves as a national growth pole and a driver for regional development. The province aims to possess international competitiveness while maintaining a balance between economic growth, social welfare, and environmental protection.

The planning scope covers approximately 6,232.4 sq.km of land along with the sea area within the province's administrative boundaries. This timeline is divided into stages: short-term to 2040, long-term to 2050, and a vision extending to 2075.

The locality is directed to integrate its urban, maritime, border, and heritage components into a complete ecosystem, providing the spatial and infrastructural foundation for the development of services, the maritime economy, and high-tech industries. This development is to be closely linked with science and technology, innovation, and green and digital transformations.

The vision identifies Quang Ninh as an international gateway, a global service and tourism hub, and a national maritime economic center. It is envisioned as a civilized, modern coastal city with a high international standard of living, pioneering national innovation models while remaining human-centric and heritage-focused.

According to the development roadmap, by 2030, Quang Ninh will be an international tourism service center, a national trade gateway, and a hub for high-quality services and high-tech manufacturing.

By 2040, it will become a national maritime economic center and a modern coastal city that applies innovative models in economic development, social management, and infrastructure governance. By 2050, Quang Ninh is oriented to be an international heritage city and a leading maritime economic center for both the nation and Southeast Asia. It will serve as a key national economic locomotive and a model for green, smart, and sustainable urban governance that preserves local identity and adapts to climate change.

In terms of its urban character, Quang Ninh is defined as a modern national and international maritime economic center, positioned as a leader in Southeast Asia and a primary driver for the Red River Delta. It will function as a national and international tourism hub, as well as a center for modern industry, trade, and logistics featuring maritime economic sectors with high global competitiveness.

Furthermore, Quang Ninh will be a "green, smart, and climate-resilient" coastal-border-heritage city, serving as a vital national transport node that connects domestic and international economic corridors and acts as a regional and international hub for logistics and trade.

Vneconomy-Hà Lê

Official evaluation criteria for public service AI platforms released

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 08:50:00 GMT

This new framework serves as a benchmark for assessing the integration of AI across 14 ministries, three ministerial-level agencies, and 34 localities nationwide.

The Minister of Science and Technology has officially issued Decision No. 2847/QD-BKHCN, establishing a comprehensive set of criteria to evaluate national-level Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms designed to support public services.

This new framework serves as a benchmark for assessing the integration of AI across 14 ministries, three ministerial-level agencies, and 34 localities nationwide.

The evaluation framework operates on a 100-point scale divided into two primary groups. Group A, accounting for 35 points, assesses general criteria including legal compliance, source citation, data boundaries, AI security, personal data protection, and AI ethics. Group B, worth 65 points, evaluates specialized capabilities such as the platform’s ability to summarize, analyze, and provide professional guidance based on publicly available government documents and sector-specific regulations.

Under the new guidelines, a platform must achieve a total score of at least 70 points to be approved for official deployment. In addition to the total score, it must secure at least 50% of the maximum points in Group A and contain no "disqualifying" marks. Platforms scoring between 50 and 70 points will be permitted to enter a trial phase, provided they undergo upgrades and a re-evaluation within two months. Any platform scoring below 50 points will be deemed ineligible for testing.

A standout requirement of the criteria is the emphasis on technological autonomy. To qualify for trial participation, platforms must utilize Vietnamese Large Language Models (LLMs) developed and owned by domestic enterprises. Furthermore, the entire infrastructure for training, inference, and service provision must be physically located within Vietnam.

Beyond technical requirements, the ministry mandates that platforms must have robust protocols for reporting serious incidents and demonstrate high-load capacity. Specifically, these AI systems must be capable of serving at least 5,000 concurrent users during the trial phase and must scale to support a minimum of 50,000 concurrent users once officially implemented.

Vneconomy-Bạch Dương

Vietnam in early stages of quantum technology development

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 08:20:00 GMT

Delegates argued that quantum technology should be viewed not only as a technical field but also through the lenses of philosophy, epistemology, political economy, and developmental methodology.

Quantum technology is a new developmental frontier with the potential to create major breakthroughs in science and technology, profoundly transforming perceptions, production methods, social governance, and the way we reshape the world.

President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, Mr. Doan Minh Huan, made the remark at a scientific seminar titled "Quantum Technology in the New Era: International Trends, Opportunities, and Requirements for Vietnam," held in Hanoi on June 23.

As a strategic technology identified under the Politburo's Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, quantum technology offers significant room for both basic and applied research. Recognizing development trends early is vital for strengthening strategic autonomy and ensuring national interests. Furthermore, it bridges the gap between theoretical thinking, strategic personnel training, and modern scientific knowledge, according to Mr. Huan.

While quantum technology is a challenging field requiring comprehensive preparation—ranging from scientific foundations and research infrastructure to human resources and organizational models, Vietnam cannot remain an outsider, said President of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Prof. Tran Hong Thai. He described it as a strategic technology capable of reshaping the future development of nations.

Regarding the approach, Prof. Thai noted that Vietnam must be proactive without being hasty, avoiding a comprehensive "all-out" race while refusing to remain a mere observer.

In his report, "Current Status, Bottlenecks, and Requirements for Vietnam in Quantum Technology Development," Dr. Nguyen Quoc Hung, Director of the Quantum Technology Institute (Vietnam National University, Hanoi), stated that Vietnam is currently in the early stages of development. While some specialized research facilities are beginning to take shape, actual capacity and operational mechanisms are not yet fully ready.

The report identified key bottlenecks, including the lack of a national-level policy, the absence of an interdisciplinary coordination architecture, limited specialized infrastructure, and a shortage of highly specialized human resources. Furthermore, corporate participation remains low, and existing financial, procurement, and evaluation mechanisms are ill-suited for high-risk, long-cycle technologies.

Based on these findings, Dr. Hung proposed that Vietnam adopt a focused strategy, prioritizing information security, post-quantum cryptography, sensors, and human resource training.

During the seminar, delegates argued that quantum technology should be viewed not only as a technical field but also through the lenses of philosophy, epistemology, political economy, and developmental methodology. Quantum technology is essentially the "technologization" of the principles of quantum reality, making tangible what were once abstract elements such as wave-particle duality, fields, information, and the microscopic states of matter.

Moreover, this field is directly linked to strategic competition, the new international division of labor, the ability to master high-tech value chains, data security, and national digital sovereignty.

Consequently, Vietnam needs to adopt a "quantum ecosystem" mindset. This encompasses multidisciplinary quantum science, quantum philosophy, quantum thinking, human resources, research infrastructure, governance capacity, market mechanisms, and international cooperation. Such an approach will ensure autonomy not only in technology but also in thinking, theoretical foundations, developmental resources, and basic scientific methodologies.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Energy transition for economic development

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:35:00 GMT

The energy transition is a crucial pillar of Vietnam’s economic development targets and overall ambitions.

From its double-digit growth target to its aspiration of becoming a developed, high-income nation by 2045, Vietnam is facing the need to accelerate the development of new growth drivers. Politburo Resolution No. 70-NQ/TW, dated August 20, 2025, on ensuring national energy security to 2030, with a vision to 2045, has identified the importance of the energy sector for socio-economic development, national defense and security, and social welfare.

At the “Energy Transition - A Driving Force for Double-Digit Growth Targets” workshop, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) in coordination with relevant agencies on June 9, Associate Professor Ngo Tri Long, Economic Expert at the Vietnam Financial Consulting Association, said that in the current context, energy transition has become a global development trend, directly linked to energy security, national competitiveness, supply chain restructuring, export standards, investment flows, and a new growth model.

Securing the energy future

Over the years, Vietnam’s economic growth rate has consistently remained high compared to other countries in the region and around the world. Accordingly, the demand for energy in general and electricity in particular has also increased rapidly.

Regarding institutional reform, the MoIT advised the National Assembly (NA) to enact the amended Law on Electricity in November 2024, and simultaneously developed guiding documents under the Law. This is an important foundation for perfecting mechanisms and policies for the electricity and renewable energy sectors, especially offshore wind power.

Regarding electricity development planning, the MoIT has coordinated with ministries, sectors, and localities to implement the Project to Adjust the Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8), prioritizing the development of green and clean energy sources and efficiently exploiting domestic energy potential. The goal is to ensure electricity supply for socio-economic development, while reducing emissions and enhancing national energy self-reliance.

Regarding mechanisms to promote investment, the Ministry has advised the government to submit Resolution No. 253/2025/QH15 on mechanisms and policies for national energy development in the 2026-2030 period to the NA, aiming to remove institutional bottlenecks from the past, build mechanisms and policies to promote the development of power projects, and ensure energy security in the 2026-2030 period.

Specifically for 2026, Mr. Trinh Quoc Vu, Deputy Director General of the Electricity Department at MoIT, said the Ministry has developed three scenarios. The baseline scenario forecasts a 5.5 per cent increase in load compared to 2025. The operational scenario forecasts a load increase of up to 11.7 per cent, and the contingency scenario forecasts a load increase of up to 14.1 per cent compared to 2025.

He added that the Resolution of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam sets a target of economic growth of 10 per cent or more a year during the 2026-2030 period, so ensuring sufficient electricity supply for socio-economic development plays an extremely important role. “Under the guidance and direction of the government and various ministries, departments, and localities, we have basically ensured sufficient electricity and energy supply for the country’s economic development in the past,” he said.

In the time to come, the MoIT will continue to research and review amendments to certain articles of the Law on Electricity and issue detailed guiding documents to institutionalize the new and important policies of the Party in Politburo Resolution No. 70, which is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly for promulgation this year.

Range of challenges

Vietnam’s energy transition process still has many limitations. The existing power grid is severely overloaded and lacks synchronization. As of the end of 2025, the total national power generation capacity was expected to have reached approximately 87,600-95,000 MW, of which renewable energy (excluding large hydropower) is expected to account for 27-28 per cent, equivalent to more than 24,000 MW. Many provinces in the central and southern regions, such as Khanh Hoa and Lam Dong, frequently have to reduce renewable energy output by 20-30 per cent or even up to 50-60 per cent during certain hours or when the weather changes suddenly.

This creates a paradox, according to Dr. Nguyen Xuan Quang from the Institute of Energy Technology at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. “Vietnam has clean energy sources but cannot transmit all of them to the grid, leading to wasted resources and reduced investor confidence,” he said.

In addition, the policy mechanisms are unstable and inconsistent. According to the Institute, the initial success of the preferential electricity purchase price mechanism with the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) pricing system contributed to the boom in solar and wind power. However, this rapid development has also revealed many shortcomings. The power system has not had time to prepare in terms of grid and dispatching, leading to many projects having to reduce output despite having completed investment. After the FIT mechanism ended, many transitional projects continued to face difficulties in determining electricity selling prices.

Financial challenges are fundamental issues determining the success of the energy transition process. According to the revised PDP8, the total investment capital required for power generation and transmission grids in the 2026-2030 period is estimated at $136-150 billion. On average, the power sector needs to mobilize $27-30 billion annually, equivalent to about 6-7 per cent of Vietnam’s current GDP. This capital must be invested in the development of renewable energy sources.

Meanwhile, Mr. Quang said, the commitment under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), worth $15.5 billion, is progressing slowly, with only a small portion disbursed. High domestic borrowing interest rates, exchange rate risks, and production cuts are making many projects less attractive. Foreign investors often require that power purchase agreements (PPAs) meet conditions that facilitate access to funding from international financial institutions. Furthermore, the trend of reduced financing for fossil fuels from international financial institutions is putting significant pressure on coal and natural gas power projects.

Under the guidance and direction of the government and various ministries, departments, and localities, we have basically ensured sufficient electricity and energy supply for the country’s economic development in the past.

Mr. Trinh Quoc Vu, Deputy Director General of the Electricity Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Proposed solutions

Vietnam’s energy transition is at a critical stage. To effectively implement the set goals and meet the growth needs for socio-economic development of the country, Mr. Vu said several important solutions are needed, including continuing to improve mechanisms and policies to create a favorable environment for the implementation of power projects; regularly urging localities to support and facilitate investors in implementing projects within their areas, ensuring the set deadlines are met; diversifying capital sources and forms of capital mobilization, effectively attracting domestic and foreign capital; and encouraging all economic sectors to participate in investing in the power sector.

“With these comprehensive solutions, from the legal framework for power development to project investment implementation, I believe that investors will have sufficient legal framework to implement power projects in general, and renewable energy projects in particular, to realize Vietnam’s sustainable energy development strategy,” he added.

Mr. Quang also proposed accelerating investment in the power grid and energy storage systems, perfecting the electricity market mechanism, promoting the implementation of the JETP, and developing flexible power sources. At the same time, it is necessary to enhance energy efficiency, synchronously plan electricity and transportation, reform electricity pricing, and focus on training human resources for a just energy transition.

“With its abundant potential and favorable geographical location, Vietnam can absolutely become a renewable energy hub in Southeast Asia,” he said. “The energy transition is not only a responsibility to the environment but also a crucial opportunity for sustainable economic development and ensuring long-term energy security for the country.”

On the other hand, Mr. Long pointed out that energy transition must be based on science, markets, technology, infrastructure, institutions, and social consensus. In this new phase, the content of Vietnam’s energy transition must be understood more broadly: not just electricity, but also petroleum, biofuels like E10, green transportation, energy efficiency, carbon markets, energy prices, storage infrastructure, smart grids, and the consumption behavior of the entire society.

“If done correctly, energy transition will not be a cost burden,” he believes. “On the contrary, it will be a driving force for Vietnam to upgrade its growth model, reduce dependence on imported fuels, increase the competitiveness of businesses, attract green investment, expand new industries, and ensure national energy security.”

VET- Linh Ngoc

HCMC develops megacity-scale flood control strategy through 2060

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 23:50:00 GMT

A notable highlight of the project is the development of growth scenarios that account for population increases, rapid urbanization, climate change, sea-level rise, and land subsidence.

Ho Chi Minh City is drafting a comprehensive master plan for flood control and wastewater treatment for the 2026–2060 period, alongside a detailed implementation plan for 2026–2036. For the first time, urban water management will be studied based on river basins rather than restricted by administrative boundaries.

According to the city Department of Construction, this basin-based approach allows for a more accurate identification of water flows, the relationship between upstream, downstream, and estuaries, hydraulic bottlenecks, and areas affected by the ripple effects of flooding. Furthermore, the project sets out an integrated approach combining flood control, drainage, wastewater treatment, urban water management, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation.

As an initial step, the project will review the entire legal framework, existing urban planning, and previous programs related to drainage and wastewater. This includes evaluating the continuity of past initiatives, such as "Project 299," which has already been implemented in the city.

In parallel, the city will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current state of flooding, drainage systems, tidal control, and wastewater collection across all districts post-merger. This effort will include the creation of a digital GIS (Geographic Information System) database mapping flood points, drainage works, tidal control structures, and wastewater treatment systems.

A notable highlight of the project is the development of growth scenarios that account for population increases, rapid urbanization, climate change, sea-level rise, and land subsidence. Based on these scenarios, technical analyses and flood-risk modeling will be conducted to identify priority basins for intervention and create a flood-risk zoning map for the entire city.

The draft outline also specifies that the city will establish a set of quantitative indicators for various sectors, including flood reduction, drainage capacity, wastewater collection and treatment rates, operational efficiency, resilience, and water reuse.

Beyond traditional "gray infrastructure"—such as sewers, dikes, pumping stations, tidal control gates, and treatment plants—the plan places heavy emphasis on integrating "green" and "blue" infrastructure alongside nature-based solutions.

Detention basins, water storage spaces, permeable surfaces, canal systems, ecological wetlands, and aquatic landscapes are viewed as vital components to enhance water regulation and reduce pressure on the city's technical infrastructure.

Vneconomy-Thiên Ân

Da Nang launches pilot Digital Twin Project to advance smart city ambitions

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The initiative is an integrated digital environment that combines data on urban planning, land use, technical infrastructure, buildings, the environment, transportation and other specialized sectors onto a unified platform.

Central Da Nang city authorities have approved a pilot Digital Twin project, marking a significant step in its efforts to become a smart city, an innovation hub and an “AI City” in the coming years.

The Digital Twin initiative will be implemented on a pilot basis from 2026 to 2028, initially focusing on urban planning management in selected priority areas.

A Digital Twin is more than a three-dimensional model of a city. It is an integrated digital environment that combines data on urban planning, land use, technical infrastructure, buildings, the environment, transportation and other specialized sectors onto a unified platform. The system enables authorities to visualize real-world conditions, monitor developments, conduct analysis, run simulations, generate forecasts and support data-driven decision-making.

The pilot project will focus on building a Digital Twin platform, standardizing and digitizing data from multiple sources, and integrating them into a centralized system. Key components include the development of 2D and 3D visualization models, the application of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), geographic information systems (GIS), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data modeling and analytics.

The city also plans to establish governance and operational frameworks to ensure the secure, efficient management and utilization of data.

According to city authorities, the project reflects Da Nang’s commitment to modernizing urban governance by treating data as a strategic resource and technology as a catalyst for innovation. Improving services for residents and businesses will remain a central objective.

The Digital Twin initiative is expected to lay the foundation for a modern digital city capable of forecasting trends, adapting to emerging challenges and supporting sustainable development in the years ahead.

VnEconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

No more approval of fire safety compliance from police required for construction projects

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:25:00 GMT

The new policy takes effects from June 20, as regulated by the Government's Resolution No. 66.18/2026/NQ-CP.

Under the Government's Resolution No. 66.18/2026/NQ-CP, since June 20, 2026, construction projects shall no longer be required to apply for police authorities' approval of fire safety compliance, according to a report from the Government News.

According to the new policy, investors of such projects shall be permitted to self-inspect and approve fire safety compliance before putting construction projects and transport vehicles into operation, rather than waiting for police inspections as previously required.

This is part of the Government's efforts to further streamline administrative procedures and business conditions in the field of fire prevention, fighting, and rescue.

Police authorities have ceased accepting applications for this procedures starting June 20. Applications received before this date will continue to be processed with results returned by June 30.

With the abolition of this procedure, police authorities shall only handle the following procedures in the field of fire prevention, fighting, and rescue:

(i) Fire safety design appraisal;

(ii) Fire safety design approval for cases involving design adjustments during the construction of projects that have already been granted an approval certificate; and

(iii) Issuance of traffic/circulation permits.

VGP-Pham Long

Five national highways proposed for inclusion in expressway network plan

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:20:00 GMT

The Department for Roads of Vietnam has proposed the inclusion of five national highways to be developed to expressway standards, comprising Beltway 1, Beltway 2, the Ha Tinh - Cau Treo Expressway, the Hue - A Luoi Expressway, and the Phan Thiet - Bao Loc - Gia Nghia Expressway.

The Department for Roads of Vietnam has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Construction for the appraisal of an adjusted road network plan for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision toward 2050.

Notably, the department has proposed the inclusion of five national highways to be developed to expressway standards, comprising Beltway 1, Beltway 2, the Ha Tinh - Cau Treo route, the Hue - A Luoi route, and the Phan Thiet - Bao Loc - Gia Nghia route.

Beltway 1 is planned to be approximately 315 km long with four lanes, starting at the junction with the Dong Dang - Tra Linh Expressway in That Khe (northern mountainous Lang Son proovince) and ending at the junction with the Hanoi - Hoa Binh - Son La - Dien Bien Expressway in Muong E (northern mountainous Son La province). Traversing the provinces of Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, and Son La, the project is slated for investment after 2030.

Meanwhile, Beltway 2 will span roughly 378 km with four lanes, connecting Hoang Van Thu (northern mountainous Lang Son proovince) to Mai Son (northern mountainous Son La province). While the overall route is proposed for development after 2030, the section between Lang Son and Thai Nguyen may be researched and implemented both before and after that milestone.

The Ha Tinh - Cau Treo route is designed to be 85 km long with four to six lanes, running largely parallel to National Highway 8. It begins at the intersection with the eastern North-South Expressway in Truong Luu (central Ha Tinh province) and terminates at the province's Cau Treo International Border Gate. Proposed for investment throughout the pre- and post-2030 phases, this route is expected to form a high-speed transport axis connecting the border gate with the national transport system, seaports, and logistics centers, while simultaneously easing traffic pressure on National Highway 8.

In Central Vietnam, the Hue - A Luoi route will cover 45 km with four lanes, running parallel to National Highway 49. Scheduled for investment after 2030, the route will enhance connectivity between western Hue and the Hong Van and A Dot border gates.

Finally, the Phan Thiet - Bao Loc - Gia Nghia route is proposed to span 194 km with four lanes, with investment planned for both the pre- and post-2030 periods. This route is envisioned as a vital East-West economic corridor, strengthening links between the Southern Central Highlands, the South Central Coast, and the Southern Key Economic Region.

Vneconomy-Phương Nhi

Nghe An approves $84mln industrial park project

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The project covering over 174ha within the central province's Southeast Economic Zone.

Authorities in Nghe An Province, central Vietnam, have approved an investment policy and selected investors for the development of infrastructure at Zone B of Tho Loc Industrial Park, located within the province's Southeast Economic Zone.

The project will cover approximately 174.65 hectares and require a total investment of more than VND2.1 trillion (about $84 million). Investor equity will account for over VND320 billion, while the remaining capital will be mobilized from other lawful funding sources.

The approved investors are Pacific Group Joint Stock Company and Japan Construction Management Joint Stock Company.

The project is designed to develop and operate industrial park infrastructure and will have an operational term of 50 years from the date the land is first allocated or leased by the State.

Development will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, covering 100 hectares, is scheduled to begin site clearance in 2027, with construction completed and operations commencing in 2028. The second phase, spanning 74.65 hectares, is expected to undergo land clearance between 2028 and 2029 before becoming operational in 2030.

The Tho Loc IP expansion is expected to strengthen the industrial infrastructure network within the Southeast Economic Zone and provide additional ready-to-use industrial land for manufacturing and processing projects. Provincial authorities believe the project will help attract new investment, create jobs, support economic growth and enhance Nghe An’s competitiveness as an investment destination.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Vietnamese education makes its mark at APEF 2026

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:18:00 GMT

Vietnamese education gains international recognition at the Asia–Pacific Economic Forum 2026 in Beijing, China.

Van Hien University and the Institute for Research and Development of Comprehensive Education are among several Vietnamese educational institutions which received recognition at the 5th Asia–Pacific Economic Forum 2026, held in Beijing, China, from May 30 to June 2.

The recognition reflects these institutions' ongoing efforts to internationalise their curricula, expand global partnerships and contribute to the broader education community.

Beyond institutional achievements, the forum also acknowledged the leadership and strategic vision of Vietnamese educators. Individual honourees included Ms. Pham Thi Minh Nguyet, Vice Chairwoman of Van Hien University; Dr. Nguyen Thi Hong Loan, Director of the Institute for Research and Development of Comprehensive Education; and Dr. Nguyen Vinh Hanh, Chairman of the School Council of Nguyen Sieu Primary School.

However, beyond the awards and recognition, a broader issue attracting increasing attention among education experts is how schools can effectively balance national curricula with international standards, particularly at the primary level. As a foundational stage for language acquisition and character development, primary education requires global programmes to be carefully balanced with the preservation of local cultural values.

Speaking to VnEconomy/Vietnam Economic Times on the sidelines of the forum, Dr. Nguyen Vinh Hanh, who was honoured in the "Outstanding Leader of the New Era" category, said that after more than a decade of implementing the Cambridge programme, Nguyen Sieu Primary School has developed an integrated model combining the curriculum of Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training with international programmes by selecting complementary content and eliminating overlaps. "The Ministry of Education and Training's curriculum remains the core foundation. Building on that, students are introduced to modern learning approaches, open-minded thinking and global competencies," Dr. Hanh said.

According to Dr. Hanh, the biggest challenge of a bilingual education model is not the simultaneous implementation of multiple programmes, but rather designing an appropriate learning pathway that avoids placing excessive pressure on students.

Rather than requiring students to learn "double the content", the integrated curriculum is designed to reduce duplication and ensure subjects complement one another. In addition to academic knowledge, students are encouraged to develop self-learning skills, independent thinking, collaboration and problem-solving abilities through project-based activities conducted in both Vietnamese and English.

One concern frequently raised about international education models is the potential erosion of local cultural identity. Dr. Hanh argued that internationalisation should not come at the expense of traditional values. "Primary education is a crucial stage for shaping children's character, values and cultural identity. Alongside global competencies, students need to develop a strong understanding of Vietnamese culture and core moral values," Dr. Hanh said.

From a governance perspective, Dr. Hanh argued that the success of an educational model should not be measured solely by awards or accolades, but by the overall development of each student. In his view, the goal of primary education extends beyond academic achievement to nurturing future citizens who embrace lifelong learning, respect diversity and are prepared to adapt to an increasingly interconnected world.

As more schools in Vietnam adopt international programmes, striking a balance between global integration and preserving cultural identity is becoming an increasingly important priority for education leaders.

vneconomy-Nhu Quynh

Nghe An launches $720 mln climate change adaptation project

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

This includes roughly $595 million in loans from the World Bank (WB) and approximately $125 million in local counterpart funding.

Nghe An is set to launch a $720 million climate change adaptation and eco-tourism infrastructure project in the province's western region. This includes roughly $595 million in loans from the World Bank (WB) and approximately $125 million from local counterpart funding.

According to the proposal, the project is divided into four components. Among them, the component on developing Vinh’s urban infrastructure to adapt to climate change is the largest, with a total estimated capital of about $415 million.

The funds will be used to upgrade urban infrastructure by integrating stormwater drainage and transportation systems at a cost of around $258 million; expand the wastewater collection and treatment system with about $65 million; and strengthen the drainage capacity of major rivers and canals with about $60 million.

Additionally, a component dedicated to strengthening solid waste management through a circular economy approach has a projected investment of $50 million. This segment focuses on improving waste management efficiency, developing material recovery facilities, and promoting circular economy models.

Another notable feature of the project is the $170 million component dedicated to upgrading infrastructure to drive tourism development in Western Nghe An. Under this plan, the province will prioritize the construction of roads connecting to tourist sites along National Highway 7A, upgrade technical infrastructure at central hubs, and support local villages in developing community-based tourism.

Furthermore, between $78 million and $85 million has been allocated for technical assistance and capacity building to ensure the effective management and implementation of all investment items.

During a working session on June 19 between the Provincial People’s Committee and the World Bank Vietnam to consult on the adjusted investment list and conduct a preliminary investment screening for the project, World Bank representatives stated that their task force had previously conducted several field surveys and held specialized meetings with local authorities and relevant agencies to assess the current situation, identify investment needs, and finalize the project proposals.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Construction of five urban metro lines in Hanoi starts

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 08:30:00 GMT

The five new urban railway projects have a total length of more than 300 kilometers and investment capital preliminarily estimated at over VND1.3 quadrillion (around $52 billion).

A groundbreaking ceremony of Hanoi's five metro lines was held on June 22 with the attendance of Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, among other senior officials.

The five new urban railway projects, with a total length of more than 300 kilometers and investment capital preliminarily estimated at over VND1.3 quadrillion (around $52 billion), include:

- Metro line No.1: Thuong Tin- Tam Hung- Thuong Phuc- Dan Hoa- Ngoc Hoi – Hanoi railway Station – Yen Vien- Noi Bai International Airport, with the length of 81 kilometers;

- Metro line No. 2: Noi Bai International Airport – Tran Hung Dao – Thuong Dinh – Thuong Tin – Tam Hung – Thuong Phuc – Dan Hoa, with the length of 56.5 kilometers;

- Metro line No. 8: Hoa Lac – Son Dong - Mai Dich – Ring Road No.3 – Linh Nam – Duong Xa, with the length of 91 kilometers;

- Metro line No. 10: Dong Anh – Vo Chi Cong – Ring Road No. 3 – Ring Road No. 2.5 - Times City – Dong Anh, with the length of 43 kilometers; and

- Metro line No. 14: Thang Long Bridge – Hong Ha - Gia Lam, with the length of 27 kilometers.

The Vinhomes–VinSpeed consortium has been appointed as the EPC contractor (engineering, procurement and construction) for all five projects. The city aims to substantially complete the lines by 2030.

Under its master plan for 2021–2030, Hanoi intends to develop 18 urban rail lines with a total length of approximately 979km. The city aims to complete around 500km of urban rail by 2035, with the remainder to be invested in the 2035–2045 period.

vneconomy -Gia Huy

HCM City allocates $620 mln for major urban renovation projects

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The primary goals are to improve local living conditions and gradually resolve the issues of decaying and overloaded infrastructure in these long-standing residential pockets in the center of the southern.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Council has officially approved a investment policy for projects to renovate Ma Lang and Cho Ga - Gao urban areas.

The projects will be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with a Build-Transfer (BT) contract, carrying a preliminary total investment of over VND16.3 trillion (approximately $620 million).

According to the proposal by the City People's Committee, the projects are scheduled for implementation between 2026 and 2029. The primary goals are to improve local living conditions and gradually resolve the issues of decaying and overloaded infrastructure in these long-standing residential pockets in the city center.

Located in Cau Ong Lanh Ward, the Ma Lang area spans approximately 37,740 sq.m, bordered by Nguyen Trai, Tran Dinh Xu, and Nguyen Cu Trinh streets.

The City People's Committee describes Ma Lang as a high-density residential area that has evolved through various stages of urban development. Most housing in the area was built long ago, featuring small floor areas and cramped structures. Many buildings have significantly deteriorated and no longer meet modern standards for technical infrastructure, environmental quality, or urban safety.

Furthermore, the local systems for transportation, drainage, lighting, greenery, and social infrastructure remain severely limited. Numerous narrow alleys restrict access for fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue services, posing significant safety risks.

Preliminary reviews indicate that the Ma Lang renovation will affect approximately 1,070 land and house cases, involving 1,459 households and nearly 4,700 residents. The project will also impact several existing public facilities, including schools and community centers.

Situated in Ben Thanh Ward, the Cho Ga - Gao area covers approximately 4,350 sq.m, bounded by Nguyen Thai Hoc, Vo Van Kiet, Yersin, and Alley 3 Yersin.

As a long-established residential hub, the area is characterized by high population density and a concentration of small-scale commercial and service businesses. Rapid urbanization has exposed major inadequacies in both technical and social infrastructure. The internal traffic system is narrow, and many housing units have fallen into disrepair.

The area faces restricted access for emergency services, and current evacuation routes do not meet safety requirements, creating high-risk conditions in the event of an emergency.

Initial surveys show that the project will affect approximately 252 houses, involving 192 households and 744 residents.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

$6.5bln raised through G-bond auctions as of June 15

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The figure equivalent to 33.7% of the 2026 target.

Vietnam’s State Treasury has raised VND168.5 trillion (approximately $6.5 billion) through government bond issuance as of June 15, fulfilling about 33.7% of its 2026 fundraising target, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Under the ministry’s plan, the State Treasury is tasked with issuing a total of VND500 trillion in government bonds this year to support state budget financing and fiscal balance.

In the second quarter alone, the Treasury conducted 11 bond auctions, raising VND88.4 trillion. All bonds were issued through competitive auctions, with maturities ranging from three to 30 years.

Issuance yields have continued to trend higher compared with last year. By mid-June, the average bond yield had reached 4.09% per annum, up 0.83 percentage points from the average level recorded in 2025.

The State Treasury said it has maintained a flexible approach to interest-rate management, closely monitoring market developments and aligning its issuance strategy with the monetary policy orientation of the State Bank of Vietnam.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi

Dong Nai focuses resources to complete 8,000 social housing units in 2026

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Government has tasked Dong Nai city with completing a minimum of 65,000 social housing units during the 2025–2030 period.

Faced with the growing housing demand from workers, laborers, and low-income earners, authorities in the southern city of Dong Nai have urged developers to accelerate social housing projects, aiming to bring over 8,000 units into use by 2026.

Permanent Vice Chairman of the Dong Nai People’s Committee Nguyen Kim Long chaired a recent meeting with relevant departments, sectors, local authorities, and project developers, focusing on reviewing progress, resolving existing bottlenecks, and expediting key tasks for 2026.

According to the local Department of Construction, the central Government has tasked the city with completing a minimum of 65,000 social housing units during the 2025–2030 period. For 2026 alone, the locality is required to deliver over 8,000 apartments. This is considered a top priority in the province’s social security strategy to meet the rising demand for accommodation among workers and low-income groups.

At the meeting, developers reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with the province to achieve these housing development goals. Businesses pledged to mobilize maximum financial resources, personnel, equipment, and materials. They also vowed to strengthen coordination with functional agencies to tackle obstacles and speed up project implementation.

According to the developers, completing these social housing projects on schedule will not only help fulfill the targets set by the Government but also directly address the urgent housing needs of workers and low-income residents within the province.

"In cases of implementation delays, failure to honor commitments, or insufficient execution capacity, the City People’s Committee will consider handling measures in accordance with regulations," said Mr. Long.

"We will resolutely revoke investment approvals and select alternative investors for projects with prolonged delays that hinder the city’s social housing development goals."

Vneconomy-Thiên Di

Da Nang unveils zoning plan for new Industrial Park on high-tech industries

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

The central city’s Dien Tien Industrial Park, covering 250ha, will be developed as a modern industrial hub.

The Management Board of Da Nang Hi-tech Park and Industrial Zones has announced a zoning plan for the Dien Tien Industrial Park (IP), a key component of the larger Dien Tien Industrial–Urban–Service Complex in Vietnam's central city.

Covering nearly 250 hectares in Dien Ban Bac Ward, the planned industrial park is located within the boundaries of the integrated industrial, urban and service development area.

According to the zoning plan, Dien Tien IP will be developed as a modern industrial hub with synchronized technical and social infrastructure designed to attract investment and support sustainable industrial growth. The project will be closely integrated with the broader Industrial–Urban–Service Complex to ensure consistency with Da Nang city's long-term development strategy and related planning frameworks.

The IP is expected to become a major growth driver for southern Da Nang, contributing to economic restructuring, job creation and higher incomes for local residents.

Priority will be given to high-tech industries, supporting industries and environmentally friendly manufacturing activities. The park will target sectors that generate high added value while making efficient use of land resources.

Following recent administrative restructuring in July last year, the expanded Da Nang city is home to 36 industrial parks and 126 industrial clusters, of which 55 are already operational.

VnEconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

HCMC to put 8 land lots in Thu Thiem up for auction

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 07:30:00 GMT

The eight land lots covers a total area of more than 138,000 sq.m in the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, An Khanh Ward.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has issued a plan to organize an auction of eight land lots covering a total area of more than 138,000 sq.m in the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, An Khanh Ward.

The auction is expected to enhance the efficiency of public land utilization and generate additional revenue for the city budget.

To ensure strict compliance with legal procedures, protocols, and jurisdiction regarding public land-use rights auctions as stipulated by land laws, the City People's Committee has tasked relevant departments and agencies with reviewing, advising, and finalizing legal procedures. The auction process for these eight eligible plots will be conducted across a four-stage roadmap:

Stage 1: Preparation for the auction in accordance with Clause 1, Article 229 of the Land Law.

Stage 2: Implementation of the land-use rights auction in accordance with Clause 2, Article 229 of the Land Law and the Law on Property Auction.

Stage 3: Official recognition of the auction results in accordance with Clause 3, Article 229 of the Land Law.

Stage 4: Finalization of procedures after the winning bidder completes their financial obligations, in accordance with Clause 5, Article 229 of the Land Law and Clause 9, Article 55 of Decree 102/2024/ND-CP.

The municipal Department of Agriculture and Environment (DAE)has been assigned to monitor and urge progress, as well as advise on procedures and decisions related to the auction, land allocation, and the issuance of land-use right certificates to the winning bidders.

The An Khanh Ward People’s Committee is responsible for drafting the land-use rights auction plan and submitting it to the DAE for appraisal before it is presented to the City People’s Committee for approval. Meanwhile, the HCMC Land Fund Development Center is tasked with organizing the auction and selecting a qualified auctioning service provider in accordance with regulations.

Vneconomy-Thiên Di

Bac Ninh plans Free Trade Zone linked to Gia Binh International Airport

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Under the northern province's plan, a 5,000-ha free trade zone will be developed as a modern integrated complex combining manufacturing, logistics, trade, services, innovation and digital economy.

Under the adjusted 2021–2030 master plan with a vision toward 2050, which has been approved by the People's Council of northern Bac Ninh Province, a 5,000-hectare free trade zone connected to Gia Binh International Airport will be developed as a modern integrated complex combining manufacturing, logistics, trade, services, innovation and digital economy, according to a report from Vietnam News Agency.

It is envisioned as a gateway connecting Vietnam to global markets, a key hub coordinating economic flows across the northern growth region, and a catalyst for stronger links among Hanoi, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh and neighbouring industrial provinces.

To support the project, Bac Ninh is accelerating investment in Gia Binh International Airport, which is planned to meet ICAO 4F standards. The airport is expected to handle 30 million passengers and 1.6 million tons of cargo annually by 2030, rising to 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tons of cargo by 2050.

VNA-Van Nguyen

Bac Ninh announces two housing projects open to foreign ownership

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:40:00 GMT

The publication of the list expected to improve transparency in the real estate market while facilitating lawful property ownership by foreign investors and residents in the province.

Authorities in northern Bac Ninh Province have announced two residential development projects where foreign organizations and individuals are permitted to own homes, aiming to enhance market transparency and provide a clear legal framework for property transactions.

The two projects have been included in the province’s official list of housing developments eligible for foreign ownership under Vietnamese regulations.

The first project is Social Housing Project No. 2, located in Zones 5 and 9 of the Southern Urban Area in Bac Giang and Tan Tien wards and developed by Thu Do Investment and Trading JSC. The project covers approximately 1.2 hectares and comprises three residential buildings. These include two 19-story social housing towers with one basement level each, and a 19-story commercial apartment building with two basement levels.

Under the approved plan, foreign individuals and organizations are allowed to purchase and own apartments in the project's commercial residential building.

The second project is a social housing development located in Zone 1 of the urban area adjacent to the Vietnam–Korea Vocational College of Technology in Bac Giang ward, also developed by Thu Do Investment and Trading JSC.

Built on a one-hectare site, the project includes a 12-story social housing building and a 15-story commercial residential tower with one basement level, together with integrated infrastructure and landscaping facilities. Foreign buyers will be eligible to own units in the commercial housing section of the project.

VnEconomy-Thanh Xuân

Over 1,230 Vietnamese hospitals adopt AI and digital technologies

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The results laying a groundwork for the development of smart hospitals nationwide.

A total of 1,238 hospitals across Vietnam have begun applying artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in healthcare services, laying a groundwork for the development of smart hospitals nationwide.

The milestone was highlighted at the seminar titled “Digital Health Transformation and Smart Hospital Development: International Experience and Implementation in Vietnam,” organized by the Vietnam Medical Informatics Association on June 18.

Speaking at the event, Associate Professor Dr. Tran Quy Tuong, President of the Vietnam Medical Informatics Association, said digital transformation is being accelerated throughout the country’s healthcare system.

According to Mr. Tuong, 1,238 hospitals have started researching and implementing AI-powered solutions and digital technologies in medical examination and treatment, hospital management, and clinical decision support. These applications are helping healthcare providers improve operational efficiency, enhance service quality, and streamline administrative processes.

The adoption of AI and digital tools is also expected to reduce workloads for healthcare professionals while improving patient experiences through faster, more accurate, and more personalized care.

Experts at the seminar noted that the growing use of advanced technologies represents a critical step toward establishing a nationwide network of smart hospitals. Such facilities are expected to integrate digital records, intelligent diagnostics, automated workflows, and data-driven management systems to deliver more efficient and sustainable healthcare services.

VnEconomy-Thu Minh

Vietnam advances social housing development, targets rental housing expansion

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 00:40:00 GMT

More than 720,000 social housing units currently under development nationwide, equal to 72% of the Government target of one million units by 2030.

Vietnam has made significant progress in its social housing program, with more than 720,000 units currently under development nationwide, equivalent to 72% of the government's target of one million social housing units by 2030, according to the Ministry of Construction (MoC).

Speaking at the ministry’s second-quarter press conference on June 18, officials reported that more than 180,000 social housing units have already been completed.

Despite these achievements, challenges remain in the housing market. Mr. Ha Quang Hung, Deputy Director General of the ministry's Department of Housing and Real Estate Market Management, noted an oversupply of high-end housing while affordable homes remain scarce. Housing prices in major cities have risen far beyond average income levels, making homeownership increasingly difficult for workers. The market also lacks long-term rental housing, while existing incentives have not been sufficient to attract private investment in rental projects.

To address these issues, the MoC is promoting rental housing as a strategic pillar of social welfare through 2030. Local authorities have been urged to assess housing demand, particularly for rental and public-service housing, and prepare land reserves in urban areas, industrial parks, economic zones and high-tech parks.

The ministry also encourages local governments to invest in rental housing using local budget resources and to make effective use of local National Housing Fund resources to expand affordable rental housing supply.

VnEconomy-Phan Dương

Vietnam Private Sector Forum 2026 dialogue session held in Nghe An

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The event emphasizing practical recommendations, concrete action plans and stronger public–private collaboration.

A local dialogue session of the Vietnam Private Sector Forum 2026 (VPSF 2026) was held in central Nghe An Province on June 18.

The event was jointly organized by the Central Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association, the Nghe An Provincial People’s Committee, and the Nghe An Young Entrepreneurs Association.

Building on previous regional consultations, this year’s dialogue marked a shift from simply identifying business challenges to jointly shaping policy solutions. The forum emphasized practical recommendations, concrete action plans and stronger public–private collaboration.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Nguyen Van De, Vice Chairman of the Nghe An People’s Committee, highlighted the province’s strong economic performance in recent months. Nghe An’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) expanded by 8.15% in the first quarter of 2026, the highest growth rate recorded in many years.

The province also witnessed robust business development. More than 2,600 new enterprises were established during the first six months of 2026, nearly 20% higher than the same period last year, while the number of businesses resuming operations rose by over 30%. Nghe An now has more than 19,000 active enterprises.

VPSF 2026 Chairman Dang Hong Anh said the forum provides an opportunity for businesses and government agencies to identify bottlenecks and propose targeted, feasible solutions.

VnEconomy-

Continued resilience of Vietnam's economy

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Economic performance in the first five months of 2026 was solid overall though certain concerns are emerging.

Vietnam’s economy maintained its solid recovery trajectory over the course of the first five months of 2026, with bright spots found in industrial production, public investment, FDI inflows, and international goods trade. Behind the growth figures, however, several emerging concerns warrant close attention: mounting inflationary pressure, a widening trade deficit, sluggish domestic demand, and a growing dependence on the FDI sector. These developments suggest that the economy is entering a phase in which the challenge is no longer simply to grow faster but to become more self-reliant and achieve more sustainable growth.

Industrial production

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose 9.1 per cent year-on-year in the first five months, 0.3 percentage points higher than the growth recorded during the same period of 2025. It also marked the strongest five-month performance in four years.

The manufacturing and processing sector remained the primary growth driver, making the largest contribution to industrial output, exports, and job creation. The result underscores the resilience and adaptability of Vietnam’s manufacturing base despite continued uncertainty in the global economy.

The expansion in industrial production also reflects the initial effectiveness of policies aimed at supporting businesses, accelerating public investment, and improving the business environment.

Industrial production continues to be a key pillar of economic growth. However, the quality of the recovery is facing increasing pressure from rising input costs and external volatility.

Still, industrial output data only captures the sector’s end-results. To assess the quality and sustainability of the recovery, it is necessary to examine leading indicators such as new orders, production volumes, and business sentiment. These trends were reflected clearly in the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for May, which rose to 52.8 points from 50.5 points in April.

Output expanded for the 13th consecutive month, with growth accelerating significantly from March and April. New export orders returned to growth after two months of decline. Purchasing activity and inventories of raw materials also increased substantially. Yet these positive signs should be interpreted with caution.

The rise in orders and purchasing activity during May did not stem entirely from stronger aggregate demand. Rather, much of the increase reflected businesses’ efforts to hedge against potential supply chain disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Many companies proactively increased inventories of raw materials and goods to protect themselves against future price shocks and supply shortages. As a result, current growth signs appear to be driven more by risk mitigation than by genuine market demand.

More importantly, input costs increased for the fourth consecutive month, hitting the fastest pace of growth since April 2011. Rising prices for imported materials, fuels, and logistics services forced many manufacturers to raise their selling prices. This not only affects profitability and competitiveness but also increases inflationary pressure across the broader economy.

The rebound in the PMI reflects a recovery in manufacturing activity, but much of the momentum appears to be driven by precautionary behavior rather than a durable improvement in demand. The PMI data suggests, however, that manufacturing remains on a growth path despite mounting cost pressures.

However, economic health is measured not only by production activity but also by the ability of businesses to enter, survive, and expand. Against that backdrop, business formation and market exits during the first five months provide additional insights.

Business formation rises sharply

Vietnam recorded 94,800 newly-established enterprises in the five-month period, up 42.1 per cent year-on-year. Combined with nearly 47,800 businesses resuming operations after a period of temporary suspension, total market entrants reached 142,600 enterprises.

This is a positive sign, indicating a significant improvement in business confidence compared with last year. However, 74.47 per cent of newly-established enterprises were concentrated in the services sector, while growth in new industrial and manufacturing enterprises remained modest. On average, each newly-established enterprises registered only 4.5 employees and average charter capital of VND11.2 billion ($431,000).

These figures suggest that while the number of new businesses is rising rapidly, their scale remains small and their contribution to new productive capacity is limited. Most new enterprises continue to focus on trade and services rather than expanding the economy’s manufacturing base.

At the same time, 78,800 businesses suspended operations, more than 31,400 ceased operations pending dissolution, and over 19,000 completed dissolution procedures. In total, 129,200 enterprises exited the market, equivalent to 90.6 per cent of the number entering the market. This ratio indicates that the business environment remains challenging, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

More businesses are entering the market, but resilience and business quality remain unresolved challenges. For an economy as open as Vietnam’s, corporate performance is closely tied to international market conditions. Therefore, in addition to domestic business indicators, trade data remains a critical gauge of competitiveness and economic resilience.

Trade deficit widens

Vietnam’s total goods trade turnover stood at $445.12 billion in the first five months of 2026, up 25 per cent year-on-year. Exports totaled $215.66 billion, increasing 19.5 per cent, while imports surged 30.8 per cent to $229.46 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $13.8 billion.

Notably, the trade deficit in May reached $5.21 billion, exceeding the $3.99 billion deficit recorded in April.

The trend suggests that many businesses have accelerated imports of materials and goods as a precaution against supply chain disruptions and price volatility associated with the conflict in the Middle East.

While higher imports may help businesses manage risks and maintain production, they also highlight the manufacturing sector’s heavy reliance on imported inputs.

Another notable feature is the continued dominance of the FDI sector in exports. Of the $215.66 billion in total exports, FDI enterprises accounted for $172.16 billion, up 24.7 per cent and representing 79.8 per cent of the total. The domestic sector generated only $43.5 billion in exports, up 2.5 per cent and accounting for just 20.2 per cent.

The widening gap underscores the limited participation of Vietnamese enterprises in global value chains. While exports are growing rapidly, the economy’s domestic export capacity is not keeping pace with the expansion of the FDI sector.

FDI inflows

FDI attraction remained another bright spot during the first five months of 2026. Yet behind the impressive growth figures lies a larger question: Is Vietnam strengthening its internal economic capacity, or becoming relatively weaker?

During the period, 1,576 new FDI projects were licensed with total registered capital of $14.84 billion; more than double the level recorded a year earlier. Disbursed FDI reached $9.75 billion, up 9.6 per cent for the highest five-month growth rate in five years.

However, the composition of FDI inflows deserves close monitoring. Of total registered FDI, $4.19 billion came from capital contributions and share acquisitions, up 46.7 per cent year-on-year. In May alone, such transactions totaled $1.68 billion, accounting for more than 40 per cent of the five-month total.

Most notably, foreign investors completed 828 acquisitions of stakes in domestic companies without increasing charter capital, with a combined value of $3.62 billion. This means that a substantial portion of FDI inflows is not directly creating new production capacity or jobs. Rather, ownership of existing domestic assets is being transferred from local investors to foreign investors.

From a market perspective, such transactions are a normal feature of an open economy. From a long-term development perspective, however, they raise two concerns. First, many domestic enterprises may be struggling with capital shortages, technology gaps, and competitive pressures, prompting them to sell equity stakes to foreign partners. Second, if the trend persists, Vietnam risks becoming increasingly dependent on the FDI sector, potentially weakening its economic autonomy. The issue is not the amount of FDI entering the country, but rather the growing share of investment directed toward acquiring existing assets instead of creating new productive capacity.

Domestic consumption

Retail sales of goods and consumer service revenues increased just 6.1 per cent during the first five months of 2026, below the 7.2 per cent growth rate recorded during the same period last year and slower than growth recorded in the first four months of the year. This occurred despite Vietnam welcoming 10.6 million international visitors, up 14.9 per cent and the highest level ever recorded. Without the boost from international tourism, underlying household demand would appear even weaker.

The data suggests that household incomes have not improved sufficiently to offset rising consumer prices. Inflationary pressures continue to encourage cautious spending behavior among consumers. The economy is unlikely to achieve sustainable growth if household consumption recovers more slowly than production and investment.

Weak consumer demand reflects not only modest income growth but also the increasingly visible impact of rising prices. With business input costs continuing to rise and global energy prices remaining elevated, inflation has become one of the most pressing macro-economic concerns.

Rising inflation

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 5.6 per cent year-on-year in May and 4.31 per cent during the first five months, while core inflation rose 4.04 per cent. These figures are relatively high given the dual objective of maintaining macro-economic stability while pursuing double-digit economic growth.

Current inflation is largely cost-push in nature. Higher raw material prices, rising logistics costs, exchange rate pressures, and elevated global energy prices are all contributing factors.

Under the World Bank’s baseline scenario, assuming the most severe disruptions ease and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to near pre-conflict levels by the end of the year, Brent crude oil prices are projected to average $86 a barrel in 2026, up 24.6 per cent from $69 per barrel in 2025. This factor alone could add approximately 1.1 percentage points to the CPI.

At the same time, expanded public investment and adjustments to State-administered prices for selected goods and services could place additional upward pressure on prices. Inflation is no longer a latent risk; it is becoming an active constraint on growth and macro-economic stability.

Emerging constraints

Viewed individually, many indicators point to encouraging economic performance. However, when production, business activity, trade, investment, consumption, and inflation are considered together, new constraints on growth become increasingly apparent.

Rising inflation, weak domestic demand, widening trade deficits, fragile domestic enterprises, and growing dependence on the FDI sector are creating new pressures on the economy.

These risks do not exist in isolation - they increasingly reinforce one another. Higher inflation weakens purchasing power; weaker demand limits business expansion; and when domestic firms struggle, the FDI sector gains an even larger role in driving growth. The greatest risk today is not slower growth, but growth that becomes increasingly dependent on external factors and therefore less sustainable.

Recognizing these constraints is, however, not a cause for pessimism. Rather, it is necessary to identify policy priorities more clearly as Vietnam navigates a period of overlapping challenges.

Under current conditions, the top priority for macro-economic management should be controlling inflation and safeguarding macro-economic stability. At the same time, Vietnam should continue institutional reforms, reduce compliance burdens, and lower logistics and input costs for businesses. Policies in growth support should focus more strongly on strengthening domestic enterprises, particularly manufacturers and technology companies.

With respect to FDI, the objective should not simply be attracting more capital, but attracting higher-quality investment that creates new productive capacity, transfers technology, and strengthens links with domestic enterprises. At this stage, the most important task is not merely to accelerate growth, but to protect the quality of growth.

These measures will be most effective if implemented consistently, comprehensively, and in a timely manner. More importantly, they are not just short-term responses to immediate challenges but essential steps toward reinforcing the economy’s long-term foundations.

Results in the first five months of 2026 demonstrate that Vietnam’s economy remains resilient and continues to recover. Yet new pressures are emerging more rapidly than expected.

Looking beyond this year, the greatest risk may not lie in the pace of growth itself but in the quality, autonomy, and sustainability of such growth. If domestic enterprises are not strengthened, and if growth continues to rely excessively on exports and investment from the FDI sector, the gap between economic scale and internal capacity will continue to widen.

Vietnam’s strategic objective in the years ahead should therefore extend beyond achieving faster growth. It should focus on building a more resilient economy, strengthening self-reliance, and increasing the capacity of domestic enterprises to generate higher value-added output.

In the short term, macro-economic stability and inflation control must remain the top priorities. In the long term, however, the strength of domestic enterprises will determine the economy’s resilience and global standing. High growth is important, but growth built on strong domestic foundations is the true basis for sustainable national development.

(*) Dr. Nguyen Bich Lam is the former Director General of the General Statistics Office (now the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance)

VET-Dr. Nguyen Bich Lam(*)

Vietnam ranks second in Southeast Asia for IPv6 adoption

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Beyond merely solving the shortage of IP addresses, IPv6 provides a highly scalable connection environment that meets the growing demands of people, data, devices, and smart systems.

Vietnam’s IPv6 adoption rate has reached approximately 70%, ranking the country 7th globally and 2nd in ASEAN. This figure is 1.6 times higher than the global average, with nearly 95 million broadband subscribers currently operating on the IPv6 protocol.

At a conference held on June 18 to review the 2021-2025 IPv6 transition support program for state agencies and to launch the "IPv6-Only" roadmap for 2026-2030, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Pham Duc Long emphasized that IPv6 is an inevitable choice for the future. He noted that it serves as the foundational pillar for expanding Vietnam’s development space in the digital environment.

Reflecting on the nearly 30 years since the Internet first arrived in Vietnam, the Deputy Minister highlighted a fundamental shift in its role. While the Internet was initially used primarily for connectivity and information exchange, it has now become the backbone of the economy and nearly every aspect of social life.

In this context, the transition from IPv4 to IPv6 is a vital requirement. Beyond merely solving the shortage of IP addresses, IPv6 provides a highly scalable connection environment that meets the growing demands of people, data, devices, and smart systems.

Mr. Long stressed that IPv6 is the platform for creating a new growth space for Vietnam. This vast connectivity will help foster new industries, business models, and economic drivers, thereby creating more room for national development.

In the coming phase, Vietnam’s Internet infrastructure must ensure safety, reliability, and scalability to meet the demands of data development, Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovation, and other strategic technologies.

Mr. Long pointed out that data and AI can only be effectively harnessed when connected and shared over a sufficiently robust digital infrastructure.

Vneconomy-Bạch Dương

Vietnam–Russia Trade and Investment Networking offers new cooperation opportunities

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

The event bringing together senior officials, local authorities and more than 100 businesses from both countries to explore new cooperation opportunities.

The Vietnam–Russia Trade and Investment Networking, held on June 17 in Kazan, Russia, brought together senior officials, local authorities and more than 100 businesses from both countries to explore new cooperation opportunities.

The event took place on the sidelines of the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit.

Speaking at the forum, Vietnamese Finance Minister Ngo Van Tuan highlighted the significance of strengthening business ties between Vietnam and Russia at a time when the global economy continues to face uncertainties and volatility.

According to the minister, the event serves not only as a platform for business networking but also as an opportunity for both countries to share long-term development visions and capitalize on the complementary strengths of their economies.

He outlined five priority areas for future cooperation: improving the quality of bilateral trade and diversifying export-import products; promoting investment and participation in emerging value chains; expanding collaboration in science, technology and innovation; strengthening partnerships between localities; and enhancing transport and logistics connectivity.

He expressed hope that Russian companies would continue expanding their presence in Vietnam, while encouraging Vietnamese businesses to take greater advantage of opportunities in the Russian market.

Bilateral trade has shown encouraging growth, reaching $4.77 billion in 2025. Trade turnover totaled $2.16 billion in the first five months of 2026, underscoring the positive momentum in economic relations between the two countries.

VnEconomy-Phương Nhi

Vietnam, Russia target $15bln in bilateral trade

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to boost effective implementation of high-ranking cooperation agreements.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to take measures to raise bilateral trade to $15 billion in the near future, during their meeting in Kazan on June 18, as part of the Vietnamese leader’s trip for the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit and bilateral activities in Russia.

They agreed to continue collaboration in mining, transport, shipbuilding, railway modernisation, the expansion of transport corridors, including international intermodal railway routes through China.

They agreed to accelerate negotiations for the early implementation of the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant project. They affirmed that cooperation in energy, oil and gas, and nuclear power is one of the key pillars of bilateral relations and should be implemented in line with the agreed roadmap.

PM Hung proposed that Russia create more favourable conditions for Vietnamese products, particularly agricultural goods, to gain greater access to the Russian market. He also called for the removal of restrictions on certain Vietnamese seafood processing facilities exporting to Russia and the expansion of the list of enterprises eligible to export seafood products to Russia and other member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

The Vietnamese leader further suggested that Russia consider negotiations to amend the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the EAEU, including the complete removal of safeguard measures applied to Vietnamese textile, garment and footwear exports to Russia and the EAEU market.

The two sides agreed to promote tourism cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, expedite the establishment of a Vietnamese Cultural Centre in Russia, consider the construction of a Russian school in Hanoi, and organise a Russian Cultural Season in Vietnam in 2027.

VnEconomy-Hà Lê

Asko Meet in action

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:30:00 GMT

During the Vietnam - Asia DX Summit 2026, Asko Meet, an AI-powered smart meeting and conference platform within Vietnam Economic Times’ Askonomy ecosystem, provided real-time speech-to-text transcription and multilingual live interpretation for participants. The solution is powered by a core AI engine developed through a collaborative endeavor between Vietnam Economic Times and technology partner Actable AI.

The platform attracted significant interest from both domestic and international delegates thanks to its ability to display content and translations in real time, making multilingual discussions easier to follow. Instead of relying entirely on traditional interpretation booths, attendees could access continuously updated bilingual translations on large event screens or personal devices.

Mr. Alexey Burov, Business Development Manager at Haulmont Technology, a UK-based technology group, said he greatly valued the Asko Meet experience, particularly as a non-Vietnamese speaker. The system enabled international delegates to follow discussions and capture speakers’ exchanges almost in real time. By scanning a QR code to access Asko Meet on his smartphone, Mr. Burov followed the full program through live translations, allowing him to participate and interact seamlessly with speakers and attendees.

Having previously used numerous AI translation tools worldwide, including products from major technology companies, Mr. Burov said the Vietnamese-developed solution offered a more natural and convenient experience. “Asko Meet delivers content quickly, maintains context well, and provides a comfortable user experience,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ms. Vo Thi Trung Trinh, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Center, said Asko Meet benefits from being a Vietnamese AI solution developed by teams with a strong understanding of the local language, culture, and user needs. “I observed Vietnamese content being translated into English in real time directly on screen,” she explained. “Both the speed and quality were quite good, with natural language relatively well preserved. In my view, this is a necessary application that can improve the quality of conferences and meetings today.” She added that rising demand for AI applications in meetings, operations, and corporate governance presents strong growth potential for Vietnamese technology companies.

Mr. S. Chinpau Ngaihte, Counsellor (Eco, Com Development Partnership) at the Embassy of India in Vietnam, also praised the platform’s role in multilingual conference sessions, saying it made it easier for participants to follow discussions and quickly understand speakers’ key messages.

At the Summit’s technology exhibition area, the Askonomy ecosystem and Asko Meet platform attracted strong interest from technology companies and international organizations.

Beyond translation and meeting documentation, data security and sovereignty emerged as major concerns among experts discussing enterprise AI deployment. Ms. Trinh said AI adoption in operations has become an inexorable trend, supporting document summarization, translation, meeting transcription, and data storage. However, she stressed that maintaining control over and protection of data remains the most important consideration.

Mr. Phung Viet Thang, Country Manager of Intel Vietnam, was of a similar view, noting that the value of AI meeting platforms lies not only in automated translation but also in how conversational data is collected, managed, and used. Ensuring secure internal operations and data protection, he said, will remain a critical challenge for AI developers.

For this reason, Asko Meet was developed with a “security in mind” approach, giving enterprises full control over their data. The platform supports flexible deployment options, including on-premises infrastructure, private cloud, and public cloud environments.

Organizations can choose their own data retention policies, ranging from no post-meeting storage to controlled retention based on timelines and data types. All data is encrypted during transmission and storage, while enterprises may also manage their own encryption keys.

Customer data is not used to retrain AI models without permission. The platform complies with international standards such as ISO 27001 and GDPR, meeting the security requirements of enterprises and institutions, particularly those handling sensitive data.

VET-

Vietnam aims to be among top 3 Southeast Asian nations in AI by 2030

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Under a project approved by the Government, Vietnam aims to form at least ten such enterprises by 2030 to serve as the backbone for the country’s digital transformation and the protection of its digital sovereignty.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 1091/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung on June 17, a strategic project to establish large-scale domestic technology enterprises tasked with developing digital infrastructure, human resources, data, strategic technologies, and cybersecurity for the 2026–2030 period has been approved.

Under the project, Vietnam aims to form at least ten such enterprises by 2030 to serve as the backbone for the country’s digital transformation and the protection of its digital sovereignty.

To qualify, these firms must simultaneously meet rigorous benchmarks, including achieving an annual revenue of at least $1 billion each and maintaining a workforce of no fewer than 5,000 employees.

Furthermore, these companies are required to establish and operate at least one dedicated science and technology organization while allocating a minimum of 3% of their total revenue to research and development activities.

Innovation is a key pillar of the scheme, as each of these enterprises must hold at least one patent granted by one of the world’s top five intellectual property offices: the USPTO, EPO, JPO, KIPO, or CNIPA.

These strategic entities are expected to lead the development of a modern, green, and highly interconnected national digital infrastructure with the capacity to support the digital economy and society.

Specific infrastructure goals outlined in the decision include the operationalization of at least six new international submarine fiber optic cables, including at least one fully owned and operated by Vietnam.

Additionally, the project targets the development of at least five new large-scale data centers that meet international green standards.

These efforts are intended to position Vietnam as a primary regional data hub and ensure high-speed, reliable, and secure connectivity for the nation’s ongoing digital evolution.

Vneconomy-Hạ Chi

Vietnam, Poland explore green growth and circular economy cooperation

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

At a seminar held in Hanoi on June 18, the Polish ambassador to Vietnam, H.E. Ms. Joanna Skoczek highlighted the longstanding friendship between Vietnam and Poland, which has been nurtured across generations and serves as a strong foundation for cooperation in politics, trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

A seminar titled “Green Champions of Growth: Lessons from Poland’s Economic Transition Toward a Sustainable and Circular Economy” was jointly organized on June 18 by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Hanoi and the Institute for European and American Studies (IEAS) under the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.

Focusing on economic transformation and sustainable development, the event provided an opportunity for participants to gain insights into Poland’s remarkable economic transition, while engaging with leading experts in economics, business, and green technology from Poland, the European Union, and Vietnam.

The seminar brought together a distinguished group of participants, including Ambassador Vu Quang Minh, former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam.; H.E. Ms. Joanna Skoczek, Polish Ambassador to Vietnam; Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Chien Thang, IEAS Director; Professor Marcin Piątkowski of Poland's Kozminski University; Dr. Bui Viet Hung, Senior Research Fellow at IEAS; as well as representatives from Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, the Delegation of the European Union to Vietnam, researchers, experts, and leaders of businesses from Europe and South Korea operating in Vietnam.

In her opening remarks, the Polish ambassador highlighted the longstanding friendship between Vietnam and Poland, which has been nurtured across generations and serves as a strong foundation for cooperation in politics, trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

According to the ambassador, as the world undergoes profound technological, geopolitical, and economic changes, Vietnam and Poland have significant opportunities to deepen practical cooperation, particularly in innovation, digital transformation, education, scientific research, and the development of highly skilled human resources.

“We believe that Poland’s transformation journey may offer valuable lessons for Vietnam as it pursues its ambitious goals of economic growth, technological advancement, and prosperity for its people,” she said.

Speaking at the seminar, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Chien Thang noted that the world is entering a period of profound transformation, with green growth, the circular economy, energy transition, and innovation emerging as key development drivers. Amid mounting challenges related to climate change, resource depletion, energy security, and sustainable development, countries worldwide are accelerating their shift toward greener, more efficient, and more resilient growth models.

“Green transition is no longer an option, but has become an inevitable trend and a crucial driver of future growth,” he emphasized. “Countries that successfully embrace this transformation will be better positioned to enhance competitiveness, attract investment, and ensure long-term sustainable development.”

Against this backdrop, international experience offers valuable lessons. Poland stands out as a compelling example of successful economic transformation, enhanced competitiveness, and innovation-driven growth. Today, the country continues to advance its green transition agenda in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal, providing practical insights for Vietnam as it seeks to build a green growth model and pursue sustainable development.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Professor Marcin Piątkowski, an economist at Kozminski University and an internationally recognized expert in economic development, innovation, and competitiveness. He shared Poland’s experience in economic transformation and discussed lessons related to sustainable growth, economic modernization, and green transition.

The event also featured presentations and panel discussions on green technology, the circular economy, and sustainable economic transformation. Speakers included representatives from major European and Asian business organizations, including the leadership of EuroCham and KOCHAM, the EU Delegation to Vietnam, Vietnamese research institutions, and the business community.

A highlight of the event was the participation of GreenEvo – the Green Technology Accelerator, a flagship initiative of Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment that supports the international expansion of Polish environmental technologies. As a key partner of the seminar, GreenEvo brought a delegation representing 12 Polish technologies across a wide range of sectors, including water management, waste management, biodiversity protection, air quality improvement, climate protection, and circular economy solutions.

The GreenEvo program focuses on areas such as water and wastewater treatment, waste management and recycling, renewable energy, energy efficiency, environmental technologies, and solutions that support circular economy development and carbon emission reduction.

The seminar contributed to strengthening mutual understanding, promoting research cooperation, facilitating knowledge exchange, and expanding business opportunities between Vietnam and Poland in the fields of green growth, circular economy, and sustainable development. These efforts are expected to support both countries in advancing their sustainable development goals while fostering deeper bilateral cooperation in the years ahead.

Vneconomy-Anh Hoang

Rosatom stands ready to support Vietnam in developing nuclear industry

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:20:00 GMT

At a meeting with Russia’s Rosatom in Kazan, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung noted that the Vietnam–Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by a high level of political trust, provides a strong impetus and an important foundation for elevating bilateral cooperation in atomic energy into a long-term strategic pillar.

During his meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung in Kazan, Russia, on June 17, Director General of Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation (Rosatom) Alexey Likhachev said that Rosatom stands ready to support Vietnam in developing its nuclear industry, establishing a modern nuclear center, promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and training qualified nuclear specialists, according to a report from the Government News.

Mr. Likhachev expressed his corporation’s desire to continue cooperation with Vietnamese partners to effectively implement agreed projects while exploring new and promising areas of collaboration, affirming that cooperation with Vietnam is one of Rosatom's top priorities.

He added that Rosatom is working closely with its Vietnamese partners to advance Vietnam’s Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant project.

Mr. Likhachev highlighted potential for further cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, high technology, logistics, and shipbuilding for the Arctic region.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung expressed his sincere appreciation for significant contributions made by Rosatom and the Russian side to the development of Vietnam's nuclear energy sector over the past four decades, including the operation of the Da Lat nuclear reactor.

The Prime Minister noted that the Vietnam–Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by a high level of political trust, provides a strong impetus and an important foundation for elevating bilateral cooperation in atomic energy into a long-term strategic pillar.

As an active member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vietnam places importance on the peaceful application and development of nuclear energy, the PM said.

In this regard, cooperation with Russia and the implementation of the Ninh Thuan I Nuclear Power Plant project remain among Vietnam's top priorities, asserted PM Hung.

The Prime Minister called on Rosatom and the Russian side to continue supporting the extension of Vietnam’s Da Lat reactor's operation in the upcoming period and the implementation of the Nuclear Science and Technology Center project in the country’s southern Dong Nai city.

The same day, the Prime Minister had a meeting with General Director Kudryashov Sergei Ivanovich of Russian oil and gas company Zarubezhneft – one of Vietnam's leading partners in energy sector.

He voiced his support for Zarubezhneft's research into expanding its investment activities and signing new oil and gas contracts for open blocks on Vietnam's continental shelf, based on the principles of ensuring investment efficiency, balancing the interests of all parties involved, and complying with Vietnamese law.

PM Hung also encouraged the company to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation and joint activities in third countries.

The Prime Minister called on Zarubezhneft to consider establishing long-term and stable commercial cooperation with Vietnamese energy enterprises.

He also urged the company to work closely with Petrovietnam and Vietsovpetro to study and promptly finalize proposals for establishing wind power equipment manufacturing facilities and developing a supply chain in Vietnam.

VGP-Khanh Chi

For tangible outcomes from science and technology

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:20:24 GMT

A recent tech summit looked at the increasing role of science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation within Vietnam’s new development model.

The Vietnam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA) hosted the Vietnam - Asia DX Summit 2026 in Hanoi on May 27-28, with the theme “Powering New Sources for Double-Digit Growth”, bringing together thousands of delegates, including government leaders, ministries, local authorities, CEOs, CIOs, and CTOs of major enterprises, AI and technology experts, and leading Vietnamese and international technology corporations.

Opening the Summit, Mr. Ngo Dien Hy, Vice Chairman of VINASA and Deputy CEO of the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), said Vietnam is entering a new phase of development, targeting double-digit economic growth in the 2026-2030 period. This, he noted, is not only about growth rates but also about transforming the country’s development model. In that context, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation are becoming the most important new growth drivers.

Proud strides forward

Mr. Hy stressed that Vietnam’s digital technology community must be capable of shaping and leading strategic frontiers of the future, including AI, the low-altitude economy, robotics, and quantum technologies - emerging fields expected to generate major “technology surpluses” and shape Vietnam’s standing in global supply chains.

He further noted that Vietnamese digital technology firms have already taken notable steps forward. “We have demonstrated the ability to fully master our application, digital transaction, and digital infrastructure layers,” he believes. “We have moved beyond passive technology adoption toward mastering core technologies under the ‘Made in Vietnam’ strategy, from AI and cloud infrastructure to localized large language models, automated agent systems, full-process digital public services, and land resource data integration in key localities.”

However, he also warned that as businesses enter a new acceleration phase, they must confront mounting challenges, including the limits of traditional labor-driven growth, growing pressure on physical infrastructure and clean energy, and legal gaps for deep tech and emerging technologies.

Mr. Dao Quang Binh (L), General Director, and Managing Editor of Vietnam Economic Times /VnEconomy, is sharing with Mr. Le Hong Quang, General Director of the MISA Group, about the made-in-Vietnam AI-powered solution Askonomy.- (Photo: Viet Dung)

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui Hoang Phuong said 2025 marked a major breakthrough in institutional reform under the guiding principle that “institutions must lead the way.” Vietnam, he noted, has reviewed, amended, and supplemented nearly its entire legal framework for science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

“For the first time, we now have the Law on Digital Transformation, the Law on Digital Technology Industry, the Law on AI, and the Law on Data, together with implementation guidelines that are gradually creating a synchronized legal framework for a new development space,” he continued. “Vietnam is now among the few countries globally to establish a relatively comprehensive legal framework for these sectors.”

He added that the priority for 2026 is to translate these institutional foundations into tangible outcomes. Policies on digital transformation, he said, must deliver practical benefits for citizens and businesses.

To achieve this, the Ministry of Science and Technology is calling on ministries, sectors, and especially digital technology enterprises to proactively identify the daily challenges faced by citizens, businesses, and public agencies at both the central and local levels, rather than waiting for problems to be formally proposed.

Businesses, he added, should actively propose breakthrough solutions, models, and approaches for applying digital technologies to practical challenges while also recommending adjustments to procedures and regulations to enable wider technology adoption. He emphasized that implementation should focus on solving concrete and practical problems first. Once proven effective, however, successful models should be scaled up quickly to accelerate digital transformation across society.

Toward interoperable data

Local leaders reaffirmed that science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation are emerging as key growth drivers in Vietnam’s new development phase. However, many localities continue to face difficulties, with the digital economy’s contribution to gross regional domestic product (GRDP) still below expectations, especially in localities lacking strong technology ecosystems, such as Hue in the central region and south-central Khanh Hoa province. In response, local governments are developing dedicated policies to support domestic technology firms while investing in shared digital infrastructure and platforms to improve the efficiency of the broader digital ecosystem.

We have demonstrated the ability to fully master our application, digital transaction, and digital infrastructure layers.

Mr. Ngo Dien Hy, Vice Chairman of VINASA and Deputy CEO of the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT)

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Ha, Vice Chairman of the Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee, said the Provincial People’s Council is expected to issue a resolution in the second quarter of this year to implement provisions of the new Law on Science, Technology and Innovation. Support measures will include assistance for establishing technology firms and improving access to financing through specialized funds.

The province is also working to establish a Science and Technology Fund and a venture capital fund to support the growth of local technology businesses. At the same time, Khanh Hoa is partnering with major institutions, including the Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics, to help local businesses adopt digital transformation, improve productivity, and strengthen resilience.

Meanwhile, Mr. Nguyen Duong Anh, Deputy Director of the Hue Department of Science and Technology, said many technology infrastructure systems built years ago are becoming outdated and overloaded amid the demands of digital transformation and AI. The rapid rise of AI, he noted, is driving significantly greater demand for data, processing capacity, and governance, making infrastructure upgrades increasingly urgent despite limited investment resources.

Acknowledging the infrastructure and data challenges facing both businesses and localities, Mr. Hoang Huu Hanh, Deputy Director General of the National Authority of Digital Transformation at the Ministry of Science and Technology, said the Ministry has been tasked with reviewing and upgrading the national shared digital platform system.

The goal, he said, is a system that requires one-time investment but can be used consistently from the central to local levels. Functions already developed centrally should not need to be duplicated by local governments, while all platforms must meet unified technical standards and ensure interoperability with national databases.

After two days of discussions spanning institutions, infrastructure, data, energy, and AI, one message consistently emerged from the Summit: science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation are no longer supporting tools but core growth drivers for the economy. In the next development phase, digital transformation must move beyond isolated digitization efforts toward data-driven operations, interoperable data systems, and nationally-shared digital platforms. Cooperation between government, technology firms, and local authorities, delegates said, will determine how quickly Vietnam can achieve new breakthroughs in the decades ahead.

PM asks HCM City to accelerate major infrastructure projects

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 02:30:00 GMT

The southern city playing important role in fulfilling the country's target of double-digit growth this year.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has called on Ho Chi Minh City to accelerate key infrastructure projects, launch a series of large-scale developments in the second half of 2026, and resolve long-delayed investments to create new growth momentum for the country's largest economic hub.

During a recent working session with the Standing Committee of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee, the Prime Minister stressed the need to improve administrative efficiency by reducing processing times and compliance costs by 50%.

The city was instructed to update its economic growth scenarios in line with current conditions and unlock potential across key sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and financial services. Authorities were also asked to address obstacles facing businesses and ensure stable supplies of goods and production materials.

On public investment, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of accelerating disbursement and assigning clear responsibilities to agencies and officials, with the goal of achieving a 100% disbursement rate.

The city was also directed to speed up major transport projects, including Ring Road 3, the An Phu and My Thuy interchanges, and National Highway 50. In the second half of the year, the city is expected to begin construction of several landmark projects, including Metro Line 2, the Can Gio–Ba Ria-Vung Tau sea bridge, Cai Mep Ha Port, the Thu Thiem–Long Thanh railway, Thu Thiem 4 Bridge, and Binh Tien Road.

The PM further urged the city to strengthen its role as a national center for trade and services, expand logistics infrastructure linked to major seaports, and accelerate the development of an international financial center to attract global investors and financial institutions.

VnEconomy-Thanh Thủy

Amata launches Phu Tho Industrial Park, targeting AI and semiconductor investment

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The IP, covering over 475ha, is designed to attract investment in AI, semiconductor production, and clean technology industries.

Thailand's industrial estate developer Amata has officially launched the Amata City Phu Tho project in northern Phu Tho province, also known as the Doan Hung Industrial Park, marking a significant step in expanding high-tech industrial infrastructure in northern Vietnam.

The project received investment approval and an investment registration certificate in December 2025.

Covering a total area of 475.67 hectares, the development will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, spanning 239.43 hectares, is scheduled for 2025–2029, while the second phase of 236.24 hectares will be developed between 2029 and 2033.

Positioned as a key industrial hub at the northern gateway of Phu Tho province, the IP enjoys strong transport connectivity. It has direct access to National Highway 70, the Phu Tho–Tuyen Quang Expressway, and convenient links to the Hanoi–Lao Cai Expressway. The location significantly reduces transportation times to the Lao Cai border gate with China, Noi Bai International Airport, and major seaports.

Beyond traditional manufacturing, Amata City Phu Tho is designed to attract investment in artificial intelligence, semiconductor production, and clean technology industries, supporting Vietnam’s ambitions to become a regional high-tech manufacturing hub.

VnEconomy-Hương Loan

Energy should become key pillar of ASEAN-Russia relations: Prime Minister

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

At the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum, held in Kazan, Russia, on June 17, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung highlighted that given the rapid and complex transformations around the world, it is imperative for ASEAN and Russia to foster trusted partnerships, stable markets, and resilient supply chains.

Speaking at the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum, held in Kazan, Russia, on June 17, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung stated that energy should be positioned as a key pillar of ASEAN-Russia cooperation as energy security remains one of the most pressing challenges to the growth and sustainable development of nations

The Prime Minister was quoted by the Government News as saying that this year's forum provides a valuable opportunity for both ASEAN and Russia to exchange strategic perspectives aimed at fostering broader, more substantive, more connected, and more resilient future cooperation amid global changes.

Given the rapid and complex transformations around the world, it is imperative for ASEAN and Russia to foster trusted partnerships, stable markets, and resilient supply chains, he said.

Building on the complementary strengths and potentials between ASEAN and Russia, the Vietnamese Prime Minister suggested both sides should work together to build stable, flexible, and resilient supply chains capable of withstanding external disruptions.

The development of transportation routes linking Russian Far East with Southeast Asian seaports and railways will not only help bridge geographical divides and facilitate trade but also unlock immense opportunities for cooperation and investment for the business communities on both sides, he added.

The Prime Minister suggested businesses should make fuller use of existing economic cooperation frameworks, particularly the free trade agreements between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and several ASEAN Member States.

Drawing on its experience in promoting trade and investment cooperation with the Eurasian region through the Vietnam-EAEU free trade agreement, Vietnam stands ready to serve as a bridge, helping to deepen trade and investment ties between ASEAN and the EAEU as well as between ASEAN and Russia. According to him.

Prime Minister Hung also suggested energy should be positioned as a key pillar of ASEAN-Russia cooperation as energy security remains one of the most pressing challenges to the growth and sustainable development of nations.

The potential for investment and collaboration between ASEAN and Russia is significant, particularly in clean energy, LNG, hydrogen, offshore wind power, and energy-efficiency technologies, he noted.

As energy has long been a cornerstone of the Vietnam-Russia partnership, Prime Minister Hung said Vietnam looks forward to working with Russia and fellow ASEAN Member States to develop viable projects, particularly in clean energy and green technologies, thereby contributing to regional energy security and stability.

Prime Minister Hung suggested ASEAN and Russia advance cooperation in technology, innovation, and digital transformation, adding that this will be one of the most important areas of cooperation between the two sides in the years ahead.

He affirmed that Vietnam welcomes and stands ready to facilitate deeper cooperation with Russian enterprises in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber-security, digital education, and digital healthcare.

The Vietnamese leader also encouraged ASEAN and Russia to advance innovation cooperation programs, support technology companies and young start-ups, and foster a vibrant innovation system that connects the business communities on both sides.

As the Governments have the responsibility to create a stable, transparent, and enabling environment for investment and business, the business community, for its part, serves as the driving force in translating cooperation into tangible outcomes and strengthening ties among economies, said PM Hung.

From that perspective, he encouraged ASEAN and Russian business communities to continue making long-term investments and to work together in building new value chains for the future that deliver mutual benefits.

PM Hung also reiterated that Vietnam stands ready to work with Russia and follow ASEAN Member States to transform potential into concrete projects, connectivity into business opportunities, and mutual trust into new driver of growth.

The ASEAN-Russia Business Forum, held ahead of the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit marking the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations, also drew the participation of ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

VGP-Van Nguyen

Vietnam's strong ecosystem rebound

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Vietnam’s rise in global rankings for startup ecosystems reflects a strong rebound after a challenging few years.

Vietnam rose five places to 50th globally in the 2026 Global Startup Ecosystem Index Report released by StartupBlink, marking the country’s strongest performance since the annual rankings began in 2017. The improvement places it among the fastest-rising startup ecosystems in Southeast Asia and comes as new investment data points to renewed momentum following a difficult period for global venture funding.

Yet while the ranking signals growing international recognition, it also raises a broader question: what is driving Vietnam’s startup rise, and can the country sustain the momentum amid intensifying competition for technology investment and global capital?

Recent data suggests the answer lies not only in startup activity itself, but also in broader shifts across the innovation landscape. Private capital investment is recovering, foreign investors are returning after a period of caution, startup activity is spreading beyond traditional hubs, and sectors such as AI are attracting growing attention. At the same time, investors are becoming more selective, placing greater emphasis on startups with stronger business models and clearer growth prospects.

Gaining momentum

According to StartupBlink, Vietnam and Thailand recorded the strongest growth momentum among countries ranked between 21st and 50th globally; a segment identified as the most dynamic tier of startup ecosystem development. It noted that countries in this group are often growing more quickly than leading startup ecosystems, where expansion naturally slows due to maturity.

At the city level, Ho Chi Minh City recorded one of Vietnam’s most significant gains, climbing 12 places to rank 98th globally and entering the world’s Top 100 startup ecosystems for the first time. The southern city also strengthened its position in several sectors, particularly fintech and blockchain, ranking 60th and 70th globally, respectively. As Vietnam’s largest economic center, Ho Chi Minh City has benefited from a concentration of venture capital firms, financial institutions, technology companies, and digital consumers, helping it emerge as the country’s leading startup hub.

Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, the latest rankings also suggest startup activity is gradually expanding outside of Vietnam’s traditional innovation centers. The northern port city of Hai Phong entered StartupBlink’s global Top 1,000 startup ecosystems for the first time, joining Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and central Da Nang city among the country’s recognized startup locations. While still in the early stages of development, Hai Phong’s emergence reflects broader efforts by local authorities to support innovation and technology-oriented industries.

StartupBlink also recorded increased participation by Vietnamese organizations and local authorities in its ecosystem partner network, including the Vietnam National Startup Support Center (NSSC), the Da Nang and Hai Phong City People’s Committees, the Startup Innovation Hub of Ho Chi Minh City, and Startup Hai Phong.

Its improved ranking comes as Vietnam continues to position technology and innovation as important pillars of long-term economic development. Policymakers have increasingly emphasized digital transformation, high-value manufacturing, and innovation-led growth as the country seeks to strengthen its position in regional and global supply chains.

However, rankings alone provide only a partial picture of ecosystem development. While startup activity and institutional support have expanded, the long-term strength of an innovation ecosystem also depends on the availability of capital, the ability of startups to scale, and the development of viable exit opportunities for founders and investors. Recent investment data indicates progress in several of these areas.

Capital to return selectively

Vietnam’s startup ecosystem is showing signs of recovery after several years marked by weaker global venture activity and tighter financing conditions. According to the Vietnam Innovation Private Capital Report 2026, released jointly by the National Innovation Center (NIC), the Vietnam Private Capital Agency (VPCA), and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), the country’s private capital market recorded its strongest rebound in years in 2025.

The report revealed that total private capital investment reached approximately $4.5 billion across 149 deals, with private equity (PE) rising to a record $4 billion and venture capital (VC) rebounding to $509 million. The recovery followed a period of adjustment in global technology investment, during which higher interest rates, inflationary pressures, and slowing economic growth prompted investors to become more cautious about startup valuations and funding strategies.

According to the report, Vietnam’s rebound broadly reflected wider recovery patterns across Southeast Asia, where investor activity has gradually strengthened after several years of volatility. However, the latest funding cycle differs from earlier periods of rapid expansion, when abundant liquidity supported aggressive growth strategies across the region’s startup ecosystem.

Although total venture capital increased by 28 per cent in 2025, deal volume declined to 103, suggesting investors are concentrating funding into fewer but larger investments. The report noted that investment activity remained relatively stable in Pre-A and Series A rounds, while later-stage financing strengthened, contributing to the highest level of C+ deals since 2022.

The trend points to a more selective investment environment, with investors placing greater emphasis on profitability, operational performance, and business sustainability rather than expansion at any cost.

The number of private equity investors more than doubled to 48; the highest level recorded in nearly a decade, while US and European investors made a notable return. Singapore continued to maintain a strong position in Vietnam’s venture capital ecosystem, reflecting its role as a regional financial and startup hub.

The return of international investors is particularly important for Vietnam’s startup sector because foreign capital has historically played a significant role in supporting startup growth and scaling. In addition to funding, international investors often bring operational expertise, market access, and global networks that can help Vietnamese startups expand beyond the domestic market.

The recovery in investment activity may therefore reflect growing confidence not only in Vietnam’s startup ecosystem, but also in the country’s broader economic outlook and policy environment.

Next challenge

Alongside recovering investment activity, sectoral shifts are beginning to reshape Vietnam’s startup landscape. According to the report, AI-related investment increased 13-fold between 2023 and 2025, reaching an all-time high and emerging as one of the fastest-growing areas of investor interest.

The increase reflects broader global momentum around AI adoption, while also highlighting growing confidence in Vietnam’s engineering talent base and digital economy. Beyond AI, the report identified healthcare, retail, and climate technology as among sectors attracting stronger investment attention in 2025. Investor interest in those sectors reflects longer-term structural trends, including urbanization, changing consumer behavior, sustainability requirements, and rising healthcare demand.

Those developments suggest Vietnam’s startup ecosystem is gradually broadening beyond sectors that previously dominated startup activity, including fintech, e-commerce, and digital consumer platforms. While those segments remain important, investors are increasingly exploring opportunities tied to industrial upgrading, climate adaptation, and technology-enabled services.

At the same time, stronger financing pathways are becoming increasingly important as startups seek to scale. The report pointed to the role of deeper capital markets and stronger exit mechanisms in supporting startup growth over the coming years. In particular, the report highlighted an improving outlook for Vietnam’s public markets, including a stronger IPO pipeline expected in 2026 and 2027, which could help expand financing options for fast-growing companies.

According to the report, Vietnam is expected to benefit from its planned FTSE Emerging Markets reclassification next September, while potential future inclusion in MSCI Emerging Markets indices could eventually unlock larger institutional capital flows.

Despite the positive momentum, several challenges remain. Access to later-stage funding remains more limited than in more mature startup ecosystems, while competition for highly-skilled technology talent, particularly in AI and deep technology, continues to intensify.

Commercialization capacity, RD capabilities, and stronger links between startups, universities, and larger enterprises also remain areas requiring further development. Strengthening those foundations may become increasingly important as Vietnam seeks to move beyond early-stage ecosystem growth toward building globally-competitive technology companies.

Vietnam’s rise in the StartupBlink rankings signals growing momentum, but the longer-term challenge will be converting that momentum into a deeper innovation ecosystem capable of producing stronger technology companies and more durable economic value.

VET-Linh Tong

Hanoi introduces new rules for investor selection and compensation in urban redevelopment

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:30:00 GMT

Homeowners and land users within the project area may propose to implement the project themselves in accordance with the approved planning.

The Hanoi People's Council has passed a Resolution on policies for urban renovation, beautification, and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) within the city.

The Resolution introduces several specific regulations regarding developer selection, compensation, support, and resettlement, aimed at resolving existing bottlenecks and accelerating the progress of urban renovation projects.

According to the Resolution, project boundaries for urban renovation and beautification are initially established by the City People's Committee upon the project's public announcement. However, during the detailed planning research phase, developers have the right to propose boundary adjustments. The boundaries defined in the detailed planning approved by the City People's Committee will serve as the official boundaries for the renovation project.

In addition to establishing project boundaries, the Resolution stipulates the process for selecting developers. Accordingly, homeowners and land users within the project area may propose to implement the project themselves in accordance with the approved planning. This case requires 100% consensus among all homeowners and land users. Alternatively, they may nominate a developer to implement the project for the City People's Committee's consideration and approval.

Beyond developer selection, the Resolution clearly outlines the plans for compensation, support, and resettlement. Notably, a compensation and resettlement plan will be approved if it receives consensus from at least 75% of the homeowners and land users. Regarding the renovation and reconstruction of apartment buildings or complexes, a 75% consensus from apartment owners and legal land users is required.

Furthermore, regarding compensation and resettlement support policies, homeowners and land users whose property is recovered within the scope of urban renovation, beautification, or reconstruction projects (for residential purposes) will be considered for on-site resettlement. An exception applies if the developer proposes an alternative plan—to balance and ensure the project's financial efficiency—which must be approved by the competent authorities.

Alongside incentive mechanisms and support to speed up implementation, the Resolution also specifies cases in which developer selection and investment policy approval will be revoked.

Specifically, the city will revoke the selection of a project developer if, after 12 months from the date of selection and after three rounds of formal consultation with homeowners and land users, a 75% consensus rate (representing at least 75% of the total land area in the renovation zone) cannot be reached.

Additionally, the city will revoke the investment policy and select a different developer if, within six months of completing all administrative procedures required to commence construction, the developer fails to break ground or implement the project according to the approved schedule.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Da Nang Business, Finance and Technology Week 2026 set to open in July

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:05:00 GMT

The event aims to provide a platform for sharing experiences, discussing emerging trends in economics, finance, technology, and innovation, and fostering dialogue among policymakers, businesses, investors, and academics.

The Da Nang Business, Finance and Technology Week 2026 (DBFTW 2026), a major event designed to promote innovation, attract high-quality investment, and strengthen the central city’s position as an emerging regional hub for technology and finance, is scheduled to open on July 7-12, according to the organizers.

The event aims to provide a platform for sharing experiences, discussing emerging trends in economics, finance, technology, and innovation, and fostering dialogue among policymakers, businesses, investors, and academics.

It will also showcase Da Nang’s investment potential, business environment, and strategic advantages while promoting international cooperation and attracting high-quality capital.

The week-long program will feature five flagship events alongside a series of supporting activities focused on economic development, finance, technology, innovation, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and startup ecosystem development.

Key events include the opening ceremony; a high-level policy dialogue themed “New Growth – Innovation – Global City”; the Vietnam Finance Forum 2026; a workshop on strengthening collaboration among government, universities, and businesses; and the Da Nang Semiconductor and High-Tech Conference 2026.

Additional activities will include site visits to major development projects, exhibitions showcasing investment opportunities and technology products, specialized international seminars, business networking sessions, and startup and innovation programs.

The event is expected to attract senior government officials, international organizations, financial institutions, business associations, scientists, technology experts, entrepreneurs, and investors from Vietnam and abroad.

VnEconomy-Ngô Anh Văn