VnEconomy - Vietnam Economic Times

Government's new action plan for combatting money laundering and terrorism financing adopted

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 08:30:00 GMT

The plan aims to remove Viet Nam from the list of countries subject to increased monitoring issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – a global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No.1139/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang on June 26, the Government's new action plan for combatting money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) has been adopted.

The plan constitutes part of Vietnam's efforts to implement its international commitments to prevent and combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing, the Government News remarked

The plan aims to remove Vietnam from the list of countries subject to increased monitoring issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – a global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog.

Under the plan, the Government required ministries and central agencies to develop, issue, and effecively carry out their action plans to reduce risks of money laundering for 2023-2028 period.

Ministries and central agencies are requested to develop and implement supervision mechanisms for the deployment of their action plans; enhance cooperation with foreign partners.

Since June 2023, when Vietnam made a high-level political commitment to work with the FATF and APG to strengthen the effectiveness of its AML/CFT regime, the country has taken some steps towards improving its AML/CFT regime.

FATF suggested Vietnam should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies, including increasing risk understanding; enhancing international co-operation; implementing effective risk-based supervision for FIs and DNFBPs, taking action to regulate virtual assets and virtual asset service providers.

Vietnam should conduct outreach activities with the private sector, establish a regime that provides competent authorities with adequate, accurate and up-to-date information on beneficial ownership.

VGP-Khanh Van

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

US lowers preliminary countervailing duties on Vietnamese tires

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 02:30:00 GMT

The preliminary countervailing duties in the fourth administrative review of the US Department of Commerce have decreased significantly compared to the initial rates, which ranged from 6.46% to 7.89%.

The Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam (TRAV), under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, announced that the US Department of Commerce (DOC) has published the preliminary results of the fourth administrative review (POR4) regarding the countervailing duty (CVD) order on Passenger Vehicle and Light Truck Tires (PVLT) imported from Vietnam, with tax rates applied ranging from 3.01% to 5.84% for two Vietnamese mandatory respondents—those who requested the review for this period.

Other companies that did not request a review will continue to be subject to the 6.46% rate established in the original investigation.

The review period (POR) covers from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. These products have been subject to US countervailing duties since 2021.

These results are currently preliminary. Moving forward, the DOC is expected to conduct on-site verifications to validate the information provided by the involved parties. Following the final verification report, stakeholders will have the right to submit written comments and rebuttals to the DOC. Additionally, interested parties may request a public hearing within 30 days of the publication of the preliminary results.

Unless the deadline is extended, the DOC expects to issue the final results of this review within 120 days of the publication date in the Federal Register.

The Trade Remedies Authority noted that the preliminary countervailing duties in POR4 have decreased significantly compared to the initial rates, which ranged from 6.46% to 7.89%. This improvement is attributed to the close coordination between the relevant businesses, the Vietnamese Government (represented by TRAV), and the investigating authority.

However, as these results are only preliminary, the Authority warned that businesses must remain well-prepared for the upcoming on-site verification, the submission of arguments, and potential hearings before the DOC issues its final conclusion.

The TRAV recommends that tire manufacturers and exporters continue to closely monitor the case and cooperate fully with the DOC during the verification process and subsequent stages to ensure a positive final outcome.

Vneconomy-Huyền Vy

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

ProPak Hanoi 2026: technological boost for manufacturing sector

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Spanning over 4,000 sq.m, the event will showcase the latest advancements in processing technology, packaging, automation, smart factories, and cold chain logistics.

The International Processing and Packaging Exhibition — ProPak Hanoi 2026 — will take place from October 13 to 15, 2026, at the Vietnam Exposition Center in Dong Anh, Hanoi.

As Northern Vietnam emerges as a pivotal industrial growth hub, fueled by an explosion of industrial zones, global supply chain shifts, and a surge in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), ProPak Hanoi 2026 is set to become the premier platform for connecting knowledge, technology, and business opportunities across the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries.

Spanning over 4,000 sq.m, the event will showcase the latest advancements in processing technology, packaging, automation, smart factories, and cold chain logistics.

Speaking at the press conference on June 25, Senior Manager of Informa Markets Vietnam, Ms. Annie Tran, said "Businesses no longer compete solely on scale or cost. Today’s competition is defined by operational efficiency, technological integration, quality standards, sustainability, and the capacity to participate in global supply chains."

According to Ms. Tran, a modern production line does more than just increase productivity; it serves as a vital tool for businesses to minimize waste, optimize quality control, and meet the stringent demands of international markets.

Chairman of the Vietnam Beer, Alcohol, and Beverage Association (VBA), Mr. Nguyen Van Viet, noted that for the beverage industry, processing, filling, and packaging technologies must be viewed as strategic pillars of development. He argued that these are no longer just technical components of a production line, but factors that directly impact product quality, operational efficiency, and overall market competitiveness.

From a research and application perspective, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duy Lam, President of the Vietnam Association of Food Science and Technology, asserted that science and technology are the "keys" to the industry’s major breakthroughs.

“Processing, preservation, and packaging technologies are no longer isolated technical stages; they have become fundamental elements that determine the efficiency of the entire value chain. From reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing product quality to ensuring food safety and expanding export markets, modern technology is the direct contributor to every success,” said Mr. Lam.

Vneconomy-Vũ Khuê

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

Minister Le Manh Hung appointed as Vietnam’s new Chief Trade Negotiator

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

With this role, Minister Le Manh Hung will lead the Government Negotiation Delegation for international economic and trade affairs.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has appointed as new Chief Trade Negotiator of Vietnam, the Government News reported on June 26.

Mr. Le Manh Hung will be assisted by Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan, Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong, and Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Hang as Deputy Trade Negotiators.

With this role, Minister Le Manh Hung will lead the Government Negotiation Delegation for international economic and trade affairs.

The Government Negotiation Delegation shall assist the Prime Minister in directing ministries, agencies, and localities in negotiating, signing, and implementing international economic and trade treaties and agreements.

The Delegation shall also advise the Prime Minister on formulating overall strategies, plans and roadmaps for joining international economic and trade treaties and agreements in line with national interests and Vietnam's socio-economic development priorities.

It will also coordinate with ministries and agencies in implementing Vietnam's commitments under international trade frameworks and take part in negotiations to expand or upgrade agreements involving Vietnam, including those under the World Trade Organization, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Asia-Europe Meeting, Association of Southeast Asian Nations and bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements.

VGP-Khanh Van

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

Computers, electronic products, phones account for 38% of Vietnam's exports in 5M

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Key markets including the US, China, and South Korea.

Computers, electronic products and components, together with mobile phones and parts, accounted for 38.2% of Vietnam's total export turnover in the first five months of 2026, underscoring the country's growing role in global technology supply chains.

According to the Vietnam Customs, export growth in May was driven primarily by electronics, with shipments of computers, electronic products and components rising by $1.36 billion from the previous month, while exports of mobile phones and parts increased by $536 million.

Exports of computers, electronic products and components reached $13.39 billion in May. In the January-May period, shipments totaled $56.19 billion, representing about 26% of the country's total exports and marking a 46.2% year-on-year increase, equivalent to an additional $17.77 billion.

The US remained the largest export market for the product group, with turnover reaching $22.54 billion, up 54.9% from a year earlier. It was followed by China, Hong Kong (China), and South Korea.

Meanwhile, exports of mobile phones and components totaled $5.09 billion in May, up 11.8% from April. For the first five months, shipments reached $26.37 billion, accounting for 12.2% of Vietnam's total exports and rising 17.7% year on year, an increase of $3.96 billion.

China was the largest market for Vietnamese phone exports at $5.78 billion, up 30.1%, followed by the US, the European Union, and South Korea.

On the import side, computers, electronic products and components also dominated Vietnam's import structure. Imports of the category reached $88.22 billion in the first five months, a sharp 57.1% increase from the same period last year.

Imports of mobile phones and components totaled $26.37 billion during the January-May period, up from $22.41 billion a year earlier, highlighting robust demand for intermediate inputs supporting Vietnam's expanding electronics manufacturing sector.

VnEconomy-Bạch Dương

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

King's Spotlight: A King's classroom from the UK comes to Ho Chi Minh City for the first time

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Beginning with King's Spotlight, pupils and parents in Ho Chi Minh City will have the opportunity to connect directly with the global King's community through academic programs and experiences delivered by the team from King's in the UK.

King's Spotlight will be taught by two teachers from King's UK and conducted entirely in English.

King's Spotlight is the first event in the series, offering pupils in Ho Chi Minh City the opportunity to learn directly from teachers from King's College School, Wimbledon, and experience the distinctive King's approach to education. Through engaging, thought-provoking lessons, children are encouraged to be curious, reflective, and collaborative as they take on new challenges, embracing King's belief that education should prepare young people for far more than the next test.

King's Spotlight runs from July 7 to 9, 2026, with two sessions each day. It is open to children in Years 2 to 7, ages 6 to 12. Each child joins one session matched to their year group—a single experience built around two connected lessons, with a short break in between.

In the first lesson, Logical Maths, children work through rich problems based on patterns, shape, number, and strategy, developing clear thinking and the confidence to tackle unfamiliar challenges. In the second, Language and Communication, they explore how language works and how young people use words to collaborate, influence, and lead. Together, the lessons offer pupils the opportunity to experience a King's classroom led by teachers from King's College School, Wimbledon, and discover how curiosity, challenge, and independent thinking shape learning at King's.

Mr. Kieran McLaughlin, Founding Head of School at King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, said: "King's Spotlight is an invitation for families to experience a King's education for themselves ahead of our school opening. Through these events, children and parents can see what a King's classroom feels like, meet our teachers, and understand the values that shape everything we do. We are delighted to welcome teachers from Wimbledon to teach pupils here in Ho Chi Minh City for the very first time."

Meet the teachers

King's Spotlight will be taught by two senior teachers from King's College School, Wimbledon, and delivered entirely in English.

Leading most of the lessons is Mr. Ted Lougher, Junior School Headmaster at King's College School, Wimbledon, since 2021. A trained linguist, he graduated with first-class honors from the University of Exeter and earned a master's degree in education with distinction from the University of Oxford. He brings experience from leading British schools, including Cheltenham College and Clifton College, and also serves as a member of the board of King's International.

Joining him is Mr. Simon Connolly, one of King's senior teachers, who currently leads the school's assessment and academic tracking. He began teaching at King's in 2014 and was a founding member of staff at King's College International School Bangkok, where he served as Head of Year 6. With more than a decade at King's, he has a deep understanding of how a King's school is established, grows, and sustains its core values across different countries.

Parents will also meet Mr. Kieran McLaughlin, Founding Head of School at King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, who will introduce the school's educational vision, curriculum, and development plans for the coming years.

An experience for the whole family

King's Spotlight is designed as an experience for the whole family. While children are in class, parents will take part in their own program.

Mr. Simon Connolly will share the story of King's growth from the UK to Bangkok, explaining how a King's school is established and develops in an Asian city, as well as the trends shaping primary education today. For families whose children are about to enter Year 1, Mr. Ted Lougher, Junior School Headmaster, will discuss the skills and qualities the school looks for at this stage and how parents can support their child through this important transition.

Parents will also meet Mr. Kieran McLaughlin, Founding Head of School at King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, to learn about the school's educational vision, curriculum, and plans for its early years.

Program details

King's Spotlight takes place at the School Gallery, 179 Vo Nguyen Giap, An Khanh Ward, with two sessions each day for pupils in Years 2 to 7 (ages 6 to 12). Pupils will join one of two groups - Years 2–4 and Years 5–7 - in classes designed for their age. Every session will be taught entirely in English.

Learn more about the program and register at: www.kingshcmc.edu.vn/kings-series/kings-spotlight.

About King's College School, Wimbledon

King's College School, Wimbledon is one of the world's leading schools. Founded by Royal Charter in 1829 as the junior department of King's College London, it is renowned for providing a true education of mind, spirit, and heart, combining academic excellence with the development of the whole person and preparing pupils not only for success in school, but for life beyond it. King's educates around 1,500 pupils ages 7 to 18, delivering outstanding outcomes across GCSEs, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate, and has a growing international family of partner schools across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

About King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City

King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City offers a British educational pathway for pupils ages 2 to 18, leading to IGCSE and A Level qualifications. The school will open at The Global City in August 2027.

Campus: The Global City, Binh Trung Ward, HCMC

School Gallery: 179 Vo Nguyen Giap, An Khanh Ward, HCMC

For more information, visit: www.kingshcmc.edu.vn.

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

Dong Nai targets green transition of 44 industrial parks by 2030

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Green transition is no longer optional but essential for the southern city’s industrial parks to attract high-quality investment.

Dong Nai city is aiming to transform all 44 of its industrial parks into eco-industrial parks by 2030, with a vision to 2050, as the southern city seeks to strengthen its investment appeal amid increasingly stringent global environmental standards.

The strategy reflects a broader shift in industrial competitiveness, where factors such as carbon emissions, resource efficiency and compliance with environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards are becoming as important as land availability and labor costs.

The transformation agenda was highlighted at a seminar on promoting eco-industrial parks, circular economy development and carbon emission reduction, jointly organized on June 25 by the Dong Nai Industrial Zones and Economic Zones Authority (DNIEZA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Speaking at the event, Mr. Pham Viet Phuong, Acting Deputy Head of DNIEZA, said green transformation is no longer optional but essential for industrial parks seeking to attract high-quality investment.

"Investment attraction is increasingly judged not only by the scale of capital or the number of projects, but also by technology, resource efficiency, energy use and environmental performance," he said.

Dong Nai is home to 44 established industrial parks with 2,793 active investment projects, making it one of Vietnam's leading destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI). However, the city's large industrial base has also placed growing pressure on energy consumption, water resources, environmental infrastructure and greenhouse gas emissions.

To address these challenges, the city People's Committee issued a roadmap in February 2026 to convert existing industrial parks into green and eco-industrial parks by 2030, with a longer-term vision extending to 2050.

The plan aligns with the Politburo's Resolution No. 10-NQ/TW, issued in June 2026, which targets having around 10% of Vietnam's industrial parks operating under the eco-industrial model by 2030 through both new developments and the conversion of existing sites.

Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thao, UNIDO's Country Representative in Vietnam, said Dong Nai is well positioned to become a national leader in eco-industrial park development. She noted that the transition could significantly enhance the city's ability to attract high-quality FDI, as multinational corporations increasingly favor industrial parks that meet ESG requirements and support low-carbon supply chains.

VnEconomy-Nguyệt Hà

Vietnam capable of producing 1 million barrels of SAF daily: expert

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Key actions include refining policies to support the SAF ecosystem, ensuring sustainable feedstock supplies, selecting appropriate technologies, and developing supply chains and supporting infrastructure.

Vietnam has a potential to produce roughly 1 million barrels of SAF daily between 2030 and 2050 by leveraging its vast agricultural waste from rice and cassava.

This assessment was shared by Mr. Sharmine Tan, Boeing’s Southeast Asia Sustainability Lead, at the international workshop titled "Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Policy Framework and Market Development in ASEAN" held on June 25, according to a report by the Government News.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Construction Le Anh Tuan noted that the green transition and sustainable development within the aviation sector are becoming increasingly urgent. This urgency aligns with Vietnam's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and its official participation in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) starting in 2026.

According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong Hien, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Construction's Institute of Strategy and Development, Vietnam's aviation industry is maintaining one of the fastest growth rates in Asia. Current consumption of traditional Jet A-1 fuel stands at approximately 2.8 to 3 million tons annually. Demand for air transport is forecasted to continue rising sharply, potentially driving fuel consumption to 4 million tons by 2030 and reaching 11 million tons by 2050.

"The biggest barrier to the development of SAF in Vietnam remains the economic challenge, as SAF production requires massive capital investment and cutting-edge technology," Ms. Hien remarked.

Currently, the production cost of SAF is 2 to 5 times higher than that of conventional Jet A-1 fuel, while investment incentive mechanisms are still being refined. Vietnam also faces several hurdles, including the lack of a formal SAF adoption roadmap, the absence of appropriate support mechanisms, difficulties in mobilizing sustainable raw materials, and challenges regarding traceability and meeting international certification standards.

Sharing this perspective, Mr. Philip Goh, CEO of the Asia-Pacific Sustainable Aviation Centre (APSAC), noted that SAF is projected to account for less than 1% of total global aviation fuel consumption by 2025. This is primarily due to its high cost compared to conventional fuels and the fact that production is concentrated in only a few countries. Furthermore, market instability and uncertain demand make investors hesitant to fund production without guaranteed long-term off-take agreements.

To drive SAF development, Ms. Hien suggested that Vietnam needs to establish a roadmap tailored to its practical conditions. Key actions include refining policies to support the SAF ecosystem, ensuring sustainable feedstock supplies, selecting appropriate technologies, and developing supply chains and supporting infrastructure. She also emphasized the need to mobilize investment, create risk-sharing mechanisms, expand international cooperation, and accelerate technology transfer alongside high-quality human resource development.

Echoing these views, Mr. Subash S, Deputy Regional Director for Asia-Pacific at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), stated that each nation must build an SAF roadmap aligned with its specific reality, based on its potential feedstock, energy sources, market demand, and existing infrastructure.

Developing SAF cannot be the sole responsibility of the aviation industry; it requires a coordinated policy framework involving transport, energy, environment, finance, industry, and investment. SAF must be integrated into existing national policies, with the Government playing a leading role by committing to SAF usage in state-managed activities, said Mr. Subash S.

Mr. Philip Goh added that Vietnam possesses immense potential for feedstock derived from agricultural by-products and biomass waste, such as rice straw, husks, bagasse, and other sources. APSAC is prepared to support research on materials and policies suitable for Vietnam, while providing training and capacity-building for government officials and connecting Vietnam with ICAO, regional partners, and the global aviation industry.

VGP-

Foreign female Consuls General in HCMC share career insights with students

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Eight foreign female Consuls General serving in Ho Chi Minh City shared personal experiences with students, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain for women pursuing careers in diplomacy.

To mark the International Day of Women in Diplomacy on June 24, eight foreign female Consuls General serving in Ho Chi Minh City met with around 40 female students from the Faculty of History and International Relations at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City), to discuss opportunities, challenges, and the growing role of women in diplomacy.

The event brought together Consuls General from Australia, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, the Netherlands, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. Instead of traditional speeches, the program was organized as a series of roundtable discussions, allowing students to engage directly with each Consul General in 10-minute conversations.

Topics ranged from leadership, gender equality, and career development to work-life balance, personal identity, and the future of women in diplomacy.

Building confidence, networks and leadership skills

H.E. Ms. Kate Wallace, Australian Consul-General in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasised the importance of professional networks and mentorship in helping women advance their careers. “All around us are people who will go on to achieve remarkable things in different fields. It is important to value and nurture those relationships from today,” she said.

According to Ms. Wallace, although women are increasingly represented in leadership and diplomatic positions, gender stereotypes and structural barriers continue to exist. She encouraged young women to have confidence in their abilities, actively seek opportunities, and build supportive networks that can help sustain long-term career growth.

H.E. Ms. Alexandra Smith, British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that gender balance has largely been achieved at the entry level of the UK diplomatic service, with women and men joining the profession in nearly equal numbers.

However, she noted that gender gaps tend to emerge later in careers, particularly at senior leadership levels. According to Ms. Smith, many women face additional responsibilities related to family care, which can affect career progression, while less visible barriers, such as informal professional networks, may also limit opportunities.

According to Ms. Smith, rather than introducing special recruitment policies for women, the UK focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion across the public sector. This includes internship programmes for people from diverse backgrounds, regular workforce surveys, and data-driven human resources policies aimed at ensuring public institutions reflect the diversity of British society.

She also highlighted the UK's "blind recruitment" approach, under which information such as an applicant's name, gender, and educational background is removed during the initial screening process to reduce unconscious bias and ensure candidates are assessed primarily on their skills and capabilities.

Ms. Smith encouraged students to seek mentors throughout their careers, noting that trusted advisers can provide valuable guidance, fresh perspectives, and support during key professional milestones.

Progress made but barriers remain

Sharing her perspective on women in diplomacy, H.E. Ms. Wiraka Moodhitaporn, Consul General of Thailand in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that while opportunities for women have improved significantly, a number of barriers remain. In many Asian societies, traditional perceptions of leadership are still often associated with men, while the demands of diplomatic careers, including frequent relocation and extensive travel can create additional challenges for women balancing professional and family responsibilities.

However, she observed that female representation in diplomacy is steadily increasing. In Thailand, women now account for a growing share of diplomats, ambassadors, and senior officials within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to Ms. Wiraka, today’s generation of women is more confident in speaking up, pursuing leadership roles, and balancing career aspirations with personal life.

She also emphasized that many of the challenges faced by women in diplomacy are universal rather than regional. Regardless of whether they work in Asia or Europe, women often encounter similar decisions regarding career progression, family commitments, and leadership opportunities. "There are more opportunities today, and we are seeing more women in leadership positions. The key is to continue creating an environment where women can contribute and advance on equal footing," she said.

Speaking with Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy, H.E. Ms. Raïssa Marteaux, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that the Netherlands pursues a feminist foreign policy that promotes equal representation of women in leadership positions, peace processes, and diplomatic affairs. However, she acknowledged that gender parity has not yet been fully achieved, even within the Dutch diplomatic service. Ms. Marteaux herself is the first woman appointed by the Netherlands as Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City.

According to the Dutch diplomat, women are playing increasingly important leadership roles not only in the public sector but also in business. Nevertheless, many barriers remain, and continued dialogue is needed to identify and address them.

Reflecting on the event, Ms. Marteaux said she was particularly impressed by the students’ curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn. Diplomacy, she noted, is fundamentally about communication, listening, and continuous learning, all qualities that the participants demonstrated throughout the discussions.

Sharing her advice with the students, the Consul General emphasized two key messages: find your voice and be yourself. Every individual has a unique perspective that deserves to be heard, regardless of age, experience, or gender. Greater diversity of perspectives, she said, ultimately leads to better decision-making in both diplomacy and society. “As long as we have not achieved genuine equality, we cannot say that our efforts to advance women in diplomacy are enough,” Ms. Marteaux stressed.

Vneconomy -Nhu Quynh

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(*)

Hanoi welcomes over 18mln visitors in 6M

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:10:00 GMT

The capital city's total tourism revenue hitting VND74.23 trillion ($2.8 billion) in the first six months of 2026.

Hanoi welcomed more than 18 million visitors in the first six months of 2026, up 15.7% from the same period last year, according to the city's Department of Tourism.

Tourism revenue reached VND74.23 trillion ($2.8 billion) during the period, an increase of 19.1% year-on-year. The stronger growth in revenue compared with visitor arrivals suggests that the capital is becoming increasingly effective at boosting tourist spending and improving the overall value generated by the sector.

Building on the positive momentum, Hanoi's tourism industry has identified the second half of the year as a crucial period to accelerate growth and contribute to the city's broader economic targets. Under its development plan, the capital aims to welcome over 36 million tourists, including 9 million international visitors, in 2026.

A key priority will be the completion and submission of several major tourism development initiatives for municipal approval. These include a comprehensive tourism development strategy designed to attract more than 12 million international visitors annually by 2030, a proposal to establish the Hanoi Beer Museum as a new tourism destination, and a program promoting rural tourism in conjunction with the city's new rural development agenda.

On the promotion front, Hanoi plans to organize 16 flagship tourism events in the coming months. The city will also step up tourism promotion campaigns in key overseas markets, including China, Japan and the United Kingdom.

VnEconomy-Tường Bách

Hanoi to host 2026 job fair for the elderly

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:20:00 GMT

The fair aims to create job connections, provide career counseling, offer vocational training, and support livelihoods for about 300 elderly participants (attending both directly and virtually).

The Hanoi Department of Home Affairs is set to organize the "2026 Career Counseling and Job Fair for the Elderly" on June 27. The initiative aims to proactively adapt to the aging population trend while leveraging the vast experience and wisdom of senior citizens.

The event serves as a practical bridge, helping the elderly access employment opportunities tailored to their health and qualifications. It also seeks to foster an inclusive and humane labor market.

According to the department, the program is expected to attract approximately 30 enterprises, cooperatives, and business establishments for both in-person and online recruitment. The fair aims to create job connections, provide career counseling, offer vocational training, and support livelihoods for about 300 elderly participants (attending both directly and virtually).

Additionally, the program will mobilize 5 to 10 vocational education institutions to provide counseling and introduce programs for vocational training, retraining, and upskilling for seniors. The goal is to provide vocational advice to at least 100 individuals and award 20 job-creation loan contracts to elderly workers.

The event is designed as an integrated model featuring diverse support services. Regarding job matching, businesses will conduct interviews and recruitment both on-site and online via the Hanoi Job Exchange.

The fair will also include vocational counseling, retraining sessions, and guidance on basic digital skills to help seniors adapt to modern working environments. Furthermore, to ensure stable livelihoods, the program will offer guidance on administrative procedures and facilitate access to preferential loans for household economic development.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Dien Bien launches Vietnam’s first UAV low-altitude economy sandbox

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The trial covering four key sectors: agriculture, logistics, healthcare and digital mapping.

The People’s Committee of northern mountainous Dien Bien Province has approved a controlled pilot program, or regulatory sandbox, for digital services and products supporting the development of the low-altitude economy with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) engaged.

The initiative is the first local sandbox model in Vietnam focused on UAV-powered low-altitude economic activities. The pilot is expected to provide practical insights and support the development of policies and regulations governing low-altitude airspace and drone-based services.

State-owned postal operator Vietnam Post will lead the implementation and operation of the pilot program. FPT Corporation and other UAV manufacturers will provide technical support, drone equipment, software platforms and flight-control solutions.

The trial will run from the date the decision takes effect until May 31, 2027, covering four key sectors: agriculture, logistics, healthcare and digital mapping.

Planned activities include the transportation of agricultural products, farming supplies, medicines, medical equipment, laboratory samples and essential goods. In agriculture, UAVs will be used for seeding, crop spraying, fertilizer application, crop monitoring and pest detection. The program will also support topographic surveys, digital mapping and the creation of digital elevation models (DEM).

Dien Bien aims to conduct approximately 6,000 UAV flights during the pilot period while maintaining a flight safety rate of more than 99%.

Local authorities expect the initiative to help evaluate the effectiveness of UAV technology in remote and mountainous areas while laying the groundwork for broader development of Vietnam’s emerging low-altitude economy.

VnEconomy-Hạ Chi

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

Politburo greenlights plan to establish Bac Ninh as centrally-run city

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:30:00 GMT

The city aims to develop a modern high-tech industrial sector that integrates deeply into global supply chains, establishing itself as a leading national and regional hub for electronics, with a focus on semiconductors, microchips, and artificial intelligence (AI).

On behalf of the Politburo, Politburo member and permanent member of the Party Central Committee's Secretariat, Mr. Tran Cam Tu, has signed Conclusion No. 52-KL/TW of the Politburo regarding the master plan to establish Bac Ninh as a centrally-run city. The new administrative entity will be formed based on the current boundaries of Bac Ninh province, northern Vietnam.

The conclusion sets out a vision to develop Bac Ninh into a model green, smart, modern, and civilized city that deeply preserves the cultural identity of the Kinh Bac region. Economic growth is to be harmonized with environmental protection, driven primarily by science, technology, and innovation.

The city aims to develop a modern high-tech industrial sector that integrates deeply into global supply chains, establishing itself as a leading national and regional hub for electronics, with a focus on semiconductors, microchips, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Furthermore, Bac Ninh will focus on completing a synchronous infrastructure network—encompassing road, waterway, railway, and airway transport—alongside smart urban development. This includes connecting major urban centers with multi-modal logistics infrastructure and ensuring balanced development across all local areas within the city.

Following the merger between Bac Ninh and Bac Giang provinces in July 2025, the new administrative unit will span a natural area of more than 4,718 sq.km with a population of approximately 3.6 million. This will make it one of the most densely populated regions in the country, characterized by a young demographic structure.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Vietnam leads ASEAN in AI readiness: Microsoft study

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Vietnam currently ranks first in ASEAN in the proportion of AI pioneers, with 39% of workers classified as advanced AI users—more than double the global average of 16%, according to Microsoft Vietnam’s Work Trend Index 2026 report.

Vietnam’s workforce is among the most prepared in Southeast Asia to embrace artificial intelligence, but businesses must redesign their operating models to fully translate that advantage into higher productivity and competitiveness, according to Microsoft Vietnam’s Work Trend Index 2026 report released on June 24.

The report, based on analysis of trillions of anonymized productivity signals from Microsoft 365 and a survey of 2,000 knowledge workers in Vietnam, suggests the country is rapidly entering the AI era.

Vietnam currently ranks first in ASEAN in the proportion of AI pioneers, with 39% of workers classified as advanced AI users—more than double the global average of 16%.

According to the report, AI pioneers are employees who have integrated AI deeply into their daily work. Rather than using the technology solely for routine tasks, they apply it to higher-value activities such as information analysis, complex problem-solving, evaluating options and generating innovative ideas.

The findings also indicate that Vietnamese workers largely view AI as a tool to enhance human thinking rather than replace it. As many as 89% of AI users in Vietnam said they treat AI-generated outputs as a starting point for deeper analysis rather than as final answers.

This suggests that AI is increasingly being used to support decision-making, while critical judgment, evaluation and accountability remain firmly in human hands.

The impact on workplace performance is already becoming evident. The report found that 76% of Vietnamese AI users are now producing work outcomes that would have been impossible for them to achieve a year ago. Among AI pioneers, the figure rises to 83%.

While these results highlight Vietnam’s growing strength in AI-enabled talent, Microsoft noted that workforce capability alone is not enough. To turn this advantage into sustainable competitive gains, businesses will need to adopt new organizational structures, operating processes and governance models that fully leverage AI-driven transformation.

VnEconomy-Dũng Hiếu

First Vietnam–China Agricultural Trade Connectivity Forum opens in HCM City

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Vietnam currently has more than 20 fruit and vegetable products approved for official export to China.

The first Vietnam–China Agricultural Trade Connectivity Forum was held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 24, bringing together government agencies, business associations and enterprises from both countries to explore new cooperation opportunities.

According to Mr. Nguyen Quoc Manh, Deputy Director General of the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection under Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam has made significant progress in expanding market access, particularly in China. The two countries have signed export protocols covering products such as durian, mangosteen, jackfruit, bananas, coconuts, passion fruit, sweet potatoes, grass jelly and frozen durian.

Negotiations are also underway to finalize export requirements for additional fruits, including longan, lychee, rambutan, mango, dragon fruit and citrus products.

Vietnam currently has more than 20 fruit and vegetable products approved for official export to China. Looking ahead, industry leaders stressed the need to move beyond fresh produce exports by expanding deep processing, developing certified production areas, improving logistics infrastructure and strengthening product traceability.

Bilateral trade between Vietnam and China exceeded $290 billion in 2025. In the fruit and vegetable sector, Vietnam remained China’s second-largest supplier, accounting for 22.55% of the market. Exports of Vietnamese fruit and vegetables to China reached $5.5 billion, representing 64% of Vietnam’s total fruit and vegetable export value. Durian remained the standout product, with export volume reaching 941,000 tons.

VnEconomy-Chu Khôi

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

Vietnam Economic Times June, 22 2026

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Vietnam Economic Times Issue 462 | Monday, June 22 2026

Dear readers,

On the occasion of the 101st anniversary of Vietnam Revolutionary Press Day (June 21, 1925 - 2026), Party General Secretary and State President To Lam penned an article entitled “Vietnamese Revolutionary Journalism in the Digital Era,” affirming the key role and responsibility of Vietnamese revolutionary journalism in the current era, with its mission of being “a place where the public turns for reliable verification” and “a trusted source” for society “to understand the truth accurately.” Vietnam’s leader also provides guidance on revolutionary journalism continuing to develop and maintain its dominant role in the flow of information in the digital space, thus becoming the main force to “protect national information sovereignty.”

Vietnam Economic Times respectfully introduces a translation of this important article.

Meanwhile, our Cover Story in this edition focuses on analyzing the national housing development strategy, with a focus on finding solutions for the “rental housing problem.”

Developing rental housing is a major policy of the Party and State, as reflected in Directive No. 34-CT/TW, dated May 24, 2024, from the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat and the conclusion of Party General Secretary and State President To Lam at a working session on May 19 with several agencies on the implementation of the Directive. Accordingly, alongside housing for sale, priority will be given to developing rental housing, especially rental apartment models in major urban areas, industrial parks, economic zones, dynamic regions, and important economic corridors.

Chairing a working session with leaders from the northern port city of Hai Phong and the nearby provinces of Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, Ninh Binh, and Hung Yen on developing rental housing, as directed by the Party General Secretary and State President, in Hai Phong on June 1, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung stated that there is a need to strongly shift the mindset on housing, from primarily developing housing for sale to simultaneously developing both commercial housing and rental housing. The Prime Minister also identified the “first bottleneck” in implementing a rental housing development policy: high demand while supply is severely lacking, especially for long-term rentals at affordable prices.

To resolve this “first bottleneck,” it is clear that all resources need to be focused, with concerted and synchronized efforts from the central government to localities, to quickly develop rental housing and gradually bridge the “mismatch” between supply and demand in the segment, which is now considered the top priority in the real estate market.

Developing rental housing in a fast, transparent, well-planned, and sustainable manner is the right direction to take to turn a major policy from the Party and State into reality, so that people, especially poor and near-poor households, and workers in industrial parks can soon benefit from a socially-humane policy, helping to narrow inequality and ensuring the right to safe housing for all social classes. This will also help alleviate many other bottlenecks in Vietnam’s real estate market, ease the pressure from rising real estate prices, limit real estate speculation, and ensure that the market develops healthily, thus attracting investment capital from the private sector and foreign investors for building, developing, and operating the real estate market in a transparent, professional, and modern manner.

Solutions for developing rental housing, with the leading and enabling role of the State affirmed, as introduced in our Cover Story, include forming a rental housing ecosystem to mobilize long-term and sustainable capital, identifying a harmonious real estate market structure, and boosting the supply of rental housing, among others.

Warmest regards

Dr. CHU VAN LAM
CHAIRMAN OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD

VET-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy

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

Vietnamese Trade Union proposes 9.8% increase in regional minimum wage for 2027

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

The proposed adjustments are intended to better ensure a basic standard of living for workers.

Vietnam’s National Wage Council held its first meeting on June 23 to discuss regional minimum wage adjustments for 2027, with the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour proposing two options that would raise wages by up to 9.8%.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the meeting, Ms. Tran Thi Thanh Ha, Deputy Head of the Labour Relations Department at the confederation, said the organization had submitted two proposals for consideration.

Under the first option, regional minimum wages would increase by between VND360,000 ($13.6) and VND520,000 per month, representing an average rise of 9.8% compared with 2026 levels.

The second option proposes increases ranging from VND315,000 to VND450,000 per month, equivalent to an average increase of 8.5%.

According to Ms. Ha, the proposed adjustments are intended to better ensure a basic standard of living for workers. The recommendations were formulated based on key economic indicators, including GDP growth, consumer price inflation (CPI), labor productivity and factors affecting business operations.

She added that, considering Vietnam’s economic growth performance in 2025 and other influencing factors, the 7.2% increase in regional minimum wages that took effect on January 1, 2026 was relatively modest compared with actual living cost pressures.

The most recent wage adjustment raised regional minimum wages by an average of 7.2%, a move that was widely viewed as balancing the interests of both employers and employees while helping to maintain minimum living standards.

Vietnam’s minimum wage serves as the lowest legal salary for workers performing the simplest jobs under normal working conditions. It is designed to ensure a minimum living standard for employees and their families while reflecting the country’s socio-economic development conditions.

VnEconomy-Thu Hằng

Vietnam hosts international workshop on UN peacekeeping

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This annual event will bring together more than 50 senior government officials, UN representatives, policymakers, experts, and peacekeepers.

The Government of Vietnam, in coordination with the governments of Australia and Japan and the United Nations, hosts the 2026 Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP) Stakeholder Workshop in Hanoi from June 24 to 26, according to the United Nations Department of Operational Support (DOS).

Launched by the UN in 2015, the TPP is considered a flagship cooperation initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of troop- and police-contributing countries (T/PCCs) for peacekeeping missions.

This annual event will bring together more than 50 senior government officials, UN representatives, policymakers, experts, and peacekeepers. It serves to exchange solutions for strengthening international cooperation, improving deployment readiness, and fostering innovation in global peacekeeping operations.

The workshop comes at a time when traditional and non-traditional security challenges are becoming increasingly complex. This reality places higher demands on the capabilities, coordination, and readiness of peacekeeping forces stationed in conflict zones worldwide.

Through a collaborative mechanism between the UN, supporting member states, and contributing countries, the program focuses on key areas such as engineering, military medicine, Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), and Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) capabilities.

In addition to in-person training, the program promotes the application of telemedicine to support healthcare services, ensure safety, and improve working conditions for peacekeepers serving at UN missions.

According to the United Nations, enhancing training quality and interoperability among peacekeeping nations not only boosts field efficiency but also minimizes risks for personnel operating in complex security environments.

A notable highlight of this year’s workshop is a field visit program designed to showcase Vietnam’s contributions to UN peacekeeping training and capacity building.

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

Hai Phong receives the largest container ship ever

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Container vessel MATZ MAERSK has a deadweight tonnage of nearly 214,000 DWT, with a length of 399.2m and a carrying capacity of approximately 18,270 TEUs.

The Hateco Hai Phong International Container Terminal (HHIT) on June 23 welcomed the container vessel MATZ MAERSK operated by global shipping line Maersk at berths No. 5 and No. 6 of the Lach Huyen deep-water port complex.

With a deadweight tonnage of nearly 214,000 DWT, a length of 399.2 meters and a carrying capacity of approximately 18,270 TEUs, MATZ MAERSK belongs to the Triple E class, among the largest container ships in operation worldwide. It is also one of the highest-capacity container vessels ever authorized to operate at a Vietnamese seaport.

The vessel’s arrival follows approval from the Ministry of Construction allowing Hateco Hai Phong International Container Terminal JSC to receive ultra-large container ships at berths No. 5 and No. 6 in Lach Huyen.

Tran Van Ky, Chairman of Hateco Group, said that less than a year after commencing operations, the two berths have already handled more than 800,000 TEUs of cargo. Throughput is projected to reach around 1.4 million TEUs in 2026, representing an increase of more than 70% compared with the previous year.

Earlier, in April 2026, HHIT also received the COSCO SHIPPING AQUARIUS, a container vessel with a deadweight tonnage exceeding 197,000 DWT operating on the Asia–Europe shipping route.

Industry experts said the growing ability of northern Vietnam’s deep-water ports to accommodate mega container ships is strengthening the country’s direct connectivity to major international shipping routes. This reduces reliance on regional transshipment hubs, shortens transit times and lowers logistics costs for exporters and importers.

VnEconomy-Dũng Huỳnh

South America’s logistics upgrades create new export opportunities for Vietnamese businesses

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 01:30:00 GMT

Vietnamese exporters expected to expand their presence in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and neighboring markets in the coming years.

A wave of investment in logistics infrastructure across South America is expected to provide a significant boost for Vietnamese exporters seeking to expand their presence in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and neighboring markets in the coming years.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Argentina, Argentina’s preliminary selection of a consortium to upgrade the strategic Paraná–Paraguay waterway could help reduce logistics costs and improve transport efficiency, creating more favorable conditions for trade flows between Vietnam and South America.

The development is particularly noteworthy for Vietnamese businesses, as the region has long been regarded as a promising market whose potential has been constrained by relatively high transportation and logistics costs.

Once river and maritime transport infrastructure is upgraded and better integrated, Vietnam’s key export products—including coffee, cashew nuts, pepper, processed seafood, textiles and footwear, furniture, consumer goods and electronic components—could gain stronger access to South American markets.

The Trade Office noted that Argentina, the largest economy among the three countries, is showing signs of improving economic stability. Consecutive declines in inflation are expected to support consumer confidence and create a more favorable environment for importers. While demand for some non-essential products remains cautious, rising food prices above the overall inflation rate indicate stable demand for essential goods, presenting opportunities for Vietnamese exporters of agricultural products, processed foods and consumer staples.

Meanwhile, Uruguay continues to strengthen its position as a regional logistics hub, offering Vietnamese businesses greater flexibility in transportation and access to efficient warehousing and transshipment services. This could facilitate deeper market penetration into Uruguay, Paraguay and the wider Southern Common Market (Mercosur).

Paraguay’s appeal lies in its macroeconomic stability rather than rapid consumer growth. Low inflation enables importers, distributors and retailers to better manage costs and plan business activities. Demand for food and non-alcoholic beverages remains resilient, creating favorable conditions for Vietnamese exporters of agricultural products, food items and other essential consumer goods.

As logistics networks across the region continue to improve, South America is increasingly emerging as a more accessible and attractive destination for Vietnamese exporters seeking to diversify markets and strengthen their global trade footprint.

VnEconomy-Song Hà

Vietnam exports 1.8mln tons of cassava in 5M, earning $613.7mln

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

While export volume down 9.8% year-on-year, export value increased 2%, reflecting stronger prices in international markets.

Vietnam exported an estimated 1.8 million tons of cassava and cassava-based products worth $613.7 million in the first five months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

While export volume declined 9.8% year-on-year, export value increased 2%, reflecting stronger prices in international markets.

Average export prices reached approximately $342 per ton during the January-May period, up 13.1% compared with the same period last year. The increase suggests improving value addition within Vietnam’s cassava industry despite lower shipment volumes.

China remained by far the largest export destination, accounting for 92.3% of Vietnam’s cassava and cassava-product exports in the first four months of 2026. Malaysia and Taiwan followed, each holding a market share of around 1.4%. Export value to China rose 10.6% year-on-year, while shipments to Malaysia and Taiwan increased 68.9% and 4.6%, respectively.

By the end of 2025, Vietnam had approximately 517,000 hectares of cassava cultivation, producing 10.5 million tons annually.

Although the sector is facing many difficulties in exports, the nationwide rollout of E10 biofuel is expected to create a new source of demand. Under a government resolution effective from June 2026 to June 2028, authorities will pilot policies supporting E10 gasoline adoption and develop raw-material zones for biofuel production.

Under the long-term strategy, around 85% of Vietnam’s cassava output will be directed toward value-added processing, including starch, ethanol, monosodium glutamate and other industrial products.

VnEconomy-Chu Khôi

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

Department of Environment and Unilever Vietnam to launch new plastic circularity program

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The initiative combines a renewed five-year partnership with a national innovation competition designed to help promising solutions move from concept to commercial implementation in Vietnam’s growing circular economy.

The Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and Unilever Vietnam on June 23 launched the Plastic Circularity Innovation Solutions 2026 competition as part of a strategic partnership for the 2026-2030 period.

The initiative marks an expansion of the public-private partnership between the two parties to promote the plastic circular economy in Vietnam, building on a collaboration platform established in 2020.

Over the past five years, the partnership has contributed to the collection and recycling of more than 60,000 tons of plastic waste into packaging and other products, while supporting waste sorting and recycling initiatives and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Unilever Vietnam said that 70 per cent of its current packaging is recyclable, with recycled plastic accounting for an average of 50 per cent of the plastic used in its packaging.

Under the memorandum of understanding signed for the 2026-2030 period, the Department of Environment and Unilever Vietnam will seek to strengthen connections among policymakers, businesses, technology providers, investors, and the innovation community to help bring plastic circularity solutions into practical implementation.

The Plastic Circularity Innovation Solutions 2026 competition will focus on supporting initiatives with the potential to be validated, refined, and scaled up, particularly those addressing challenges in waste sorting, collection, recycling, and the use of recycled materials in production.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mr. Tang The Cuong, Director of the Department of Environment, said that protecting the environment, utilizing resources efficiently, and developing a circular economy are becoming the inevitable trends for many countries. For Vietnam, this is a major policy of the Party and the State aimed toward a green growth model, sustainable development, and improved resource utilization efficiency.

“I believe that the ‘Plastic Circularity Innovation Solutions 2026’ Competition will continue to discover many valuable initiatives, contributing to promoting the circular economy, mitigating plastic pollution, and strongly spreading the spirit of innovation for a green and sustainably developed Vietnam,” he noted.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Van, Country Managing Director of Unilever Vietnam

Sharing a corresponding perspective, Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Van, Country Managing Director of Unilever Vietnam, said the country’s green transition requires a different perspective on plastics. “The country’s green transition journey begins with recognizing plastic not as waste, but as a resource. This is the crucial premise of the transition journey for plastics so that they can circulate back to serve daily life.

“With the ‘Plastic Circularity Innovation Solutions 2026’ Competition, Unilever Vietnam hopes to join the Department of Environment and partners in fostering an effective public-private partnership mechanism, so that potential initiatives can be connected with practical needs, tested within the value chain, and gradually scaled up, contributing to Vietnam’s dual green-digital transition and sustainable growth, as well as reaching the global market,” she said.

The competition seeks innovative solutions across a broad range of areas, including packaging design, alternative materials, recycling technologies, collection and sorting models, circular business models, and initiatives that reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable consumption.

Unlike programs focused primarily on recognizing ideas, the 2026 edition emphasizes practical deployment. Promising solutions will have opportunities to access a network of experts, government agencies, businesses, development organizations, and investors to refine their models, conduct pilot projects, and pursue commercialization and scale-up opportunities.

The program has three main objectives. The first is to connect innovators with businesses and organizations seeking practical plastic circularity solutions. The second is to promote capital flows for green innovation by creating opportunities for promising projects to access financial resources, technical expertise, and partner networks. The third is to accelerate Vietnam’s green and digital transition by encouraging the application of technology, data, and automation in waste collection, sorting, recycling, and material flow management.

The competition builds on the results of the 2024 edition, which attracted more than 350 projects, ideas, and businesses, connected over 500 individuals and organizations, and engaged 42 experts. The program generated 48 innovative ideas and 47 potential solutions, supported by more than 60 hours of training, mentoring, and networking activities. Organizers said the initiative reached more than 23 million people through media and social media channels.

Several projects from the previous competition have already moved beyond the concept stage. Most recently, Unilever Vietnam collaborated with GRAC Technology Joint Stock Company, an award-winning participant from the 2024 program, and the People’s Committee of Tan My Ward in Ho Chi Minh City to implement a technology-integrated waste sorting station model. The project is being cited as an example of how innovation can move from competition stage to practical deployment through collaboration among local authorities, businesses, and technology providers.

According to the organizers, the 2026 edition represents an upgrade in execution rather than simply a continuation of the earlier program. Building on the network of innovators and partners established in 2024, this year’s competition will place greater emphasis on connecting solutions with market demand, facilitating access to resources, supporting pilot implementation, and helping projects move toward commercial scalability.

The “2026 Circular Plastics Innovation Solutions Competition” will officially open for applications in mid-July 2026. Applications will go through three rounds of selection, evaluation, and training before the results are announced in Q1 2027. Detailed information on the rules and participation methods will be published by the Organizing Committee on the website www.unilever.com.vn in mid-July 2026.

Evolution of visual journalism

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

The use of data journalism makes information more engaging and understandable for readers via charts, graphs, and other visualization tools.

Data journalism is emerging as an inexorable trend amid the rapid advancement of digital technologies, reshaping how information is produced and consumed. In Vietnam, this transformation is not only a challenge but also an opportunity for the media industry. By enabling journalists to analyze and visualize complex information, data journalism is gradually becoming essential to enhancing the quality and reliability of news coverage.

The term data journalism refers to a form of reporting that uses data to tell stories. Rather than relying solely on text and images, it combines charts, graphs, maps, and other visual tools to present information in a more engaging and understandable manner. This approach helps readers better grasp complex issues while also strengthening transparency and trust in the information being presented.

Growing influence

Major news organizations in Vietnam have begun paying greater attention to and investing in data journalism. Publications such as VnEconomy, Tuoi Tre, Thanh Nien, and VnExpress have increasingly incorporated data-driven reporting into their coverage, particularly in areas such as economics, politics, and social affairs. The use of data not only makes stories more compelling but also provides readers with deeper and more comprehensive insights into current events.

One of the greatest advantages of data journalism is its ability to transform complex information into clear visual narratives. Instead of presenting readers with raw figures and statistics, journalists can use charts, graphs, and other visualization tools to make information more engaging and easier to understand. This not only improves accessibility but also enhances transparency and public confidence in the reporting.

However, achieving this requires journalists to possess strong data analysis skills and proficiency in data visualization tools. This remains a significant challenge for many traditional journalists who may not yet be familiar with technology-driven reporting methods. To address this gap, many newsrooms have introduced training programs focused on data journalism, equipping reporters with the skills and knowledge needed to work effectively with data.

Legal and data access challenges

Data journalism, however, also presents a range of ethical and legal challenges. The use of data requires journalists to comply with privacy and data protection regulations while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the information they publish. As a result, news organizations must establish rigorous processes for data verification and validation to ensure that published information is both accurate and trustworthy.

One of the most significant obstacles facing data journalism in Vietnam is access to reliable data sources. The collection and retrieval of data remain difficult due to the limited availability of open and transparent public datasets. This requires journalists to develop strong skills in sourcing information from multiple channels, as well as the ability to assess the reliability and accuracy of the data they obtain.

Despite these challenges, data journalism continues to gain momentum in Vietnam. Many news organizations are investing in both technology and human resources to strengthen their data journalism capabilities, with the goal of improving the quality and credibility of their reporting. These investments not only help attract larger audiences but also contribute to enhancing the reputation and standing of Vietnamese journalism on the international stage.

Looking ahead, data journalism is expected to continue expanding and become an integral part of the news industry. As technology advances and the volume of available data increases, data-driven reporting will become more widespread and play an increasingly important role in delivering accurate and reliable information to the public.

According to experts, data journalism is not merely a trend but a major opportunity for Vietnam’s media sector. By harnessing the power of data and technology, news organizations can improve the quality and credibility of their reporting while reaching a broader audience. To realize this potential, however, journalists must continually enhance their skills and remain committed to ethical and legal standards in the use of data. Only then can data journalism fully demonstrate its value and contribute meaningfully to the development of Vietnam’s news industry.

Mr. Le Quoc Minh, Member of the Party Central Committee, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan newspaper, and Deputy Head of the Central Commission for Communication and Mass Mobilization.

The adoption of AI in Vietnam is accelerating rapidly. AI is now being applied across a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, climate change, and journalism, significantly reducing the amount of human labor required. In reality, journalism today is already operating in fundamentally different ways.

However, the rapid adoption of AI and the extensive use of data also bring significant challenges. Around the world, AI-powered websites have emerged that can produce far more content than major news organizations such as the New York Times or the Washington Post. At the same time, AI has heightened the risks of misinformation, propaganda, and information manipulation. As a result, the ability to verify information increasingly depends on the knowledge and critical thinking skills of audiences.

Copyright is another growing concern. In the past, copyright infringement largely involved copying or repurposing journalistic content. Today, AI systems routinely scrape news content to train their models without providing any compensation to the organizations that produce the original material.

Beyond these issues, AI also poses broader social risks. Training data often contains inherent biases and lacks consistent ethical standards. Without proper safeguards, AI systems can reinforce “echo chambers” that amplify existing prejudices, including gender bias, discrimination, and other forms of social bias. If left unchecked, these effects could become increasingly difficult to control.

Mr. Bui Binh Minh, Head of the Multimedia Division, VietNamNet

Data journalism is not a new concept, and many news organizations in Vietnam have already embraced it. However, implementing it effectively remains a challenge.

One of the biggest hurdles facing news organizations today is the initial investment required, along with identifying data-driven content that aligns with audience interests. At its core, data journalism is about transforming data into valuable information. Broadly speaking, there are two approaches: broad scanning, which involves collecting data from a wide range of sources, and deep analysis, which focuses on mining, aggregating, and interpreting data to uncover meaningful insights.

Currently, many Vietnamese news organizations favor the broad-scanning approach, gathering and organizing information around a particular topic before presenting it to readers. While this method is relatively easy to implement, it can also overwhelm audiences with excessive amounts of content. Readers may not have the patience to work through large-scale formats such as mega stories or e-magazines packed with datasets, charts, and visualizations.

News organizations therefore need to place greater emphasis on deep analysis. Interactive maps could, for example, provide concise yet detailed statistics on cities and provinces following the transition to a two-tier local government model. Another practical application would be analyzing high school and university entrance examination score distributions, helping students assess their admission prospects and make better-informed choices about where to apply.

Technology experts often describe data as the world’s new oil. It has indeed become a critical resource, with perhaps the most visible example being its role in training increasingly sophisticated AI models. Journalism is no exception. By analyzing and uncovering insights from data, news organizations can generate information of significant value, helping readers make faster, more informed, and more effective decisions.

VET-HONG VINH

Home affairs ministry to develop 'silver economy' scheme

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 08:30:00 GMT

The initiative seeks to harness the potential of Vietnam's aging demographic, converting societal shifts into sustainable economic opportunities.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has identified the 'silver economy' as a strategic priority for the third quarter of this year, aiming to harness the potential of Vietnam's aging demographic, converting societal shifts into sustainable economic opportunities.

This project focuses on a fundamental shift in mindset: moving from viewing the elderly as a "welfare burden" to recognizing them as a "development opportunity" and a valuable resource that should be both empowered and cared for.

This move follows Government Resolution No. 109/NQ-CP, issued on April 16, 2026, which tasked the MoHA with leading and coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies to "review, adjust, supplement, and develop new mechanisms, policies, schemes, and plans for the development of the silver economy."

To implement this mandate, the MoHA has requested that relevant agencies focus on two major areas: Evaluating existing mechanisms, policies, and projects related to the silver economy; and suggesting solutions, tasks, and development schemes for the silver economy through 2030, with a vision toward 2045.

The assessment of the current silver economy will be comprehensive, covering various dimensions: public awareness; the scale, quality, and structure of the aging population; the employment needs and labor market participation of the elderly; healthcare and medical services; financial and insurance services; social security; and access to culture, entertainment, tourism, sports, information technology, and infrastructure.

Based on these findings, the MoHA will propose new or adjusted policy frameworks. General solutions will focus on raising awareness, refining institutional frameworks, enhancing communication, and promoting international cooperation.

Specific solutions will be targeted across multiple sectors, including finance, investment, and budgeting; business development; labor and employment; healthcare; education and training; culture and sports; and IT and infrastructure development.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Marriott International names new Market Vice President for Vietnam

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 08:15:00 GMT

Mr. Sander Looijen has been named Marriott International’s Market Vice President for Vietnam, taking charge of a portfolio of 32 hotels and resorts as the company accelerates expansion in one of its fastest-growing markets globally.

Mr. Sander Looijen, Market Vice President for Vietnam at Marriott International

Marriott International has appointed Mr. Sander Looijen as Market Vice President for Vietnam, effective June 22, 2026, as the global hospitality group continues to accelerate its expansion in one of its fastest-growing markets worldwide.

Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr. Looijen will oversee Marriott’s portfolio of 32 hotels and resorts across Vietnam, representing more than 9,900 rooms under 11 brands. He will also help drive the company’s development pipeline, which currently includes more than 50 projects nationwide.

A hospitality veteran with more than 25 years of experience across the Asia-Pacific region, Mr. Looijen joins the role after serving as Marriott’s Area General Manager for Bali (Premium Select Properties), where he managed a portfolio of 22 hotels and resorts and led the opening of eight new properties.

His career with Marriott began in 2001 as a management trainee following his graduation from the Hotel Management School Maastricht in the Netherlands. Since then, he has held a range of leadership positions across the region, including Director of Restaurants and Bars for Asia Pacific, General Manager roles in Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, and Area Director of Operations for South Korea.

Mr. Looijen received Marriott’s Asia Pacific General Manager of the Year award in 2017 while leading Renaissance Phuket Resort Spa.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Looijen said Vietnam offers significant opportunities for growth, supported by a diverse hospitality landscape and a strong pipeline of upcoming developments.

“It is a great honor to have been appointed Market Vice President for Vietnam. This is a wonderfully diverse and vibrant region, with many exceptional hotels and an exciting pipeline that will see the debut of new landmark hotels and iconic brands,” he said. “I look forward to working alongside our talented teams, owners, and partners to deliver unforgettable guest experiences and elevate the performance of our properties.”

Vietnam has become an increasingly important market for Marriott International as the company expands its footprint across Southeast Asia. The country currently hosts 32 Marriott-branded properties, with more than 50 additional projects under development.

-Linh Tong

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

Why Zamil Steel is betting bigger on Vietnam

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Mr. Nawaf Al Zamil, CEO of Zamil Steel Holding Company, tells VET about the company's long-term commitment to Vietnam, its manufacturing consolidation strategy, and the opportunities arising from stronger Saudi-Vietnam economic ties.

Mr. Nawaf Al Zamil, CEO of Zamil Steel Holding Company

Zamil Steel recently announced the consolidation of its Vietnamese manufacturing operations by closing its northern Vietnam facility to focus on expansion in southern Vietnam. Given Zamil Steel's pioneering role as the first Saudi Arabian investor in Vietnam in 1997 and its 29-year history here, how does this decision reflect the company's long-term commitment to the Vietnamese market?

The consolidation of our two Vietnamese facilities into one expanded, world-class operation reflects a strategic evolution grounded in nearly three decades of on-the-ground experience and unwavering confidence in Vietnam’s trajectory. As the first Saudi investor in this nation, we have had the privilege of witnessing Vietnam’s remarkable rise. Today, Vietnam stands as a premier manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia. Over the past 29 years, we have delivered more than 7,000 projects from our Vietnam base - clear evidence that this country is integral to Zamil Steel’s global strategy.

By concentrating our resources in an expanded, highly innovative facility, we are making a decisive, long-term commitment to Vietnam’s industrial future. This move enables us to consolidate our engineering expertise, advanced automation, and fabrication excellence into a single high-capacity export hub. In doing so, we are not merely optimizing for today, we are future-proofing Zamil Steel Vietnam for the decades ahead, ensuring we remain the most efficient, technologically advanced, and reliable partner for Vietnam’s continued industrial ascent.

The steel construction market in Vietnam and Southeast Asia is highly competitive. Based on your 29 years of regional experience, what are Zamil Steel's core competitive advantages that differentiate you from local fabricators and ensure your continued leadership in quality and service?

As competition within the local market intensifies, Zamil Steel distinguishes itself by adhering to global standards of excellence. Our competitive advantage is founded on three essential pillars.

The first pillar is our legacy and scale. With nearly five decades of experience since our establishment in Saudi Arabia in 1977, and having successfully completed more than 90,000 projects globally, we possess a profound level of expertise that is evident in every structure fabricated at our Vietnam facilities.

The second pillar is our engineering precision. We have the capacity to undertake extensive and technically sophisticated projects, such as the 20,000-ton steel plant in Bangladesh and the 25,000-ton facility in Malaysia. In Vietnam, notable examples of our large-scale projects include the VinFast electric battery plant in Vung Ang, Ha Tinh, which incorporates 6,000 tons of steel structure; the Nghi Son steel plant in Thanh Hoa, which is being executed in two phases and utilizes more than 9,000 tons of steel structure; and the manufacturing facility developed for Hayat Kimya Vietnam in Binh Phuoc, which employs 4,000 tons of steel structure. These projects are significant engineering achievements that clearly set us apart from other fabricators. Additionally, we have incorporated automation and robotics at scale to enhance precision during the manufacturing process and improve our overall plant performance.

The third pillar is our integrated quality. We provide a comprehensive, end-to-end solution, encompassing everything from initial design to fabrication and erection support. Our distinctive features include strict adherence to international engineering standards, meticulous quality control processes, and a proven track record of reliability over the past 29 years in Vietnam. Clients select our services for the assurance, efficiency, and peace of mind we provide.

As the first Saudi investor in Vietnam and a company deeply embedded in the country for nearly three decades, how does Zamil Steel view the evolving strategic and economic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Vietnam? How does the company uniquely position itself to benefit from and contribute to this growing relationship within the construction and industrial sectors?

Zamil Steel takes pride in being a pioneer in Saudi-Vietnam economic relations. As the first Saudi investor in Vietnam, we have served as a proof of concept for other Gulf investors, demonstrating that Vietnam is a stable, welcoming, and high-growth environment.

When Zamil Steel invested in Vietnam in 1997, we were not just constructing a factory; we were creating a bridge between Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. Today, as both nations seek to strengthen their economic ties under Saudi Vision 2030 and Vietnam’s integration into global supply chains, our company stands at the intersection of these two emerging economies, exemplifying successful Saudi-Vietnam cooperation.

Our continuous presence and expansion in Vietnam demonstrate that Saudi investment can be long-term, mutually beneficial, and resilient. We contribute by transferring advanced steel fabrication technologies, creating high-quality jobs, and supporting Vietnam’s ambition to become a manufacturing hub. In return, Vietnam offers us an unmatched strategic location and a business-friendly environment.

We actively encourage other Saudi and Gulf investors to follow our lead and regularly share our positive experiences with government and business delegations from both countries.

Zamil Steel emphasizes excellence in quality and service. What concrete steps and investments are being made, particularly with the Dong Nai expansion, to ensure your products and services not only meet but exceed international standards and client expectations in this next phase?

The expansion of our factory is strategically focused on achieving a technological leap through the implementation of advanced automated fabrication lines and a digital quality-tracking system. We are allocating significant investment toward several key initiatives:

First, next-generation automation. This initiative aims to substantially reduce human error during the fabrication process, thereby ensuring maximum accuracy in fit-up and fabrication.

Second, digital planning through Building Information Modeling (BIM). This enhances our ability to coordinate seamlessly with other construction disciplines on site, reducing clashes, delays, and costly rework.

Third, capacity enhancement. We are improving our ability to manage larger tonnages while simultaneously reducing lead times.

At Zamil Steel, we define quality as encompassing the entire client journey, from the initial drawing to the final bolt.

Accurate, timely, insightful information

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Leading executives from various industries share their thoughts on Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s contribution to Vietnam’s business community and the future of economic journalism in the age of AI.

Mr. Phung Viet Thang, Country Manager of Intel Vietnam

For more than three decades, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has established itself as one of Vietnam’s leading sources of authoritative, in-depth, and influential economic journalism.

What I value most is that the organization not only reports on economic developments, market trends, and policy changes, but also fosters a high-quality platform for dialogue between policymakers, the business community, experts, and readers. Especially in today’s digital economy, its ability to harness and deliver reliable, data-driven, and insightful information has created exceptional value in a world saturated with information.

We greatly appreciate the organization’s continued engagement with and understanding of the technology community, its efforts to highlight digital transformation stories, and its analysis of technology’s impact across sectors of the economy. In doing so, it has made a direct contribution to Vietnam’s ongoing national digital transformation.

The greatest opportunity and challenge for economic journalism in this era lies in data and AI. As technology advances, the volume of available and newly-generated data continues to grow exponentially. This places significantly greater demands on publications and journalists to identify trustworthy sources, apply effective methods of aggregation and analysis, and, most importantly, combine multiple datasets to generate meaningful insights.

From this perspective, I believe investing in AI is essential for journalism to strengthen its capabilities and meet evolving demands. AI should be deployed comprehensively - from centralized data infrastructure to individual devices, from large-scale data applications at the publication level to intelligent reporting tools for journalists - built on a unified, open, and secure platform. In that context, AI should serve as a capability-enhancing tool, not a replacement for journalists, enabling news organizations to better fulfill journalism’s core responsibilities of editing, verification, analysis, and critical thinking, guided by human judgment and professional ethics.

I see three strategic priorities specifically for the organization. First, invest heavily in high-quality, multi-format data capabilities to enhance the user experience. Second, leverage AI to support data aggregation, in-depth analysis, and more efficient content production. Third, establish clear governance mechanisms for AI-assisted content to ensure transparency, credibility, and information security.

What I find most remarkable about the organization’s 35-year journey is the enduring value that a trusted economic news organization can create for the community. In an environment where business conditions and technology are changing rapidly, what companies and society need are information channels that are credible, analytically rigorous, and capable of connecting major global trends with Vietnam’s development realities.

In my view, that is precisely the newsroom’s meaningful contribution over the years: not only documenting economic developments, but also fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and strengthening confidence within the business community on its growth journey.

Looking ahead, I hope Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy will continue to build on its strengths as a trusted and specialized economic organization, constantly innovating in both operations and technology adoption, remaining a true companion to businesses, and contributing actively to Vietnam’s digital transformation, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Mr. Tran Dinh Tai, Deputy General Director of Hoa Sen Group

For the past 35 years, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has established itself as one of Vietnam’s most respected economic media organizations, accompanying the country through its economic transformation. Its value lies not only in providing information but also in its ability to analyze, offer constructive critique, and connect stakeholders across the economy.

For the business community, the organization acts as an important bridge between enterprises and policymakers, while also providing a trusted platform for sharing perspectives, initiatives, and sustainable development values.

I believe that, building upon its 35-year foundation, it will continue to be a trusted partner of the business community as Vietnam advances its integration and development journey.

In the digital era, the greatest competitive advantage for economic journalism is no longer the speed of reporting but the quality of analysis, the ability to verify information, and the value that information delivers to readers.

In my view, economic media organizations should continue strengthening their expertise in in-depth reporting while embracing technology, data, and AI to enhance analytical capabilities, forecasting, and personalized user experiences. At the same time, they should continue serving as platforms that connect businesses, experts, and policymakers, helping foster dialogue, improve policy frameworks, and strengthen the business environment.

In a world saturated with information, what creates value and earns readers’ trust is not publishing more news but helping readers understand issues more clearly. This represents both a strength and an opportunity for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy to further reinforce its position as a leading and influential economic publication.

Over the past 35 years, as Vietnam and its economy have undergone significant transformations, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has done more than report on market developments; it has consistently examined economic and social issues through a lens of depth, objectivity, and responsibility. Through insightful analysis, high-quality forums, and trusted information, the publication has helped provide accurate and multidimensional perspectives for businesses, investors, and readers alike.

Mr. Dang Tung Son, CEO of CMC Corporation

Like many business leaders and executives, I have always regarded Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy as one of Vietnam’s most trusted publications covering economics, finance, investment, and corporate governance. Over the years, it has not only delivered accurate, timely, and insightful reporting on the economy but has also served as an important platform connecting government, experts, businesses, and the market.

What I particularly value is the organization’s ability to accompany businesses not only by highlighting achievements and success stories but also by closely following the major forces reshaping the economy, especially information technology, telecommunications, digital transformation, and, more recently, AI transformation. These are also the areas that CMC has consistently pursued as a pioneering Vietnamese technology company.

As Vietnam enters a new phase of development, marked by ambitions in innovation, technological self-reliance, digital transformation, green growth, and global integration, economic journalism has an increasingly important mission. Journalism does more than reflect reality; it helps build confidence, promote a positive business culture, and inspire the aspirations needed to drive growth and development.

I believe that, with its 35-year legacy and strong spirit of innovation, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy will continue to be a responsible, insightful, and trusted voice of Vietnam’s economy while supporting the country’s technology and digital enterprises as they expand into regional and global markets.

In recent years, we have witnessed the rapid rise of AI, particularly generative AI, across nearly every aspect of society, from business and manufacturing to healthcare, education, culture, media, and journalism. This is no longer a future trend; it is a reality transforming organizations at remarkable speed.

For CMC, a technology and telecommunications company with 33 years of development, AI represents not a challenge to fear but an opportunity to accelerate. Businesses, organizations, and media institutions all need to embrace AI transformation to meet Vietnam’s development ambitions, especially as the country pursues high-growth objectives and seeks to strengthen its global competitiveness.

Journalism is no exception. For economic media, AI transformation is not simply about applying technology to publishing workflows. It is a comprehensive shift in operating models, content production, data analysis, audience engagement, and the creation of new value for readers and the business community.

I highly appreciate Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s early leadership in developing the Marcom AI Platform ecosystem, including its editorial CMS platform and Askonomy Platform, which supports research, summarization, and translation through AI. This reflects both innovation and adaptability. CMC is currently working with the organization to support the commercialization of these solutions.

However, AI should not be viewed merely as a content-production tool. It should become an integral part of a newsroom’s long-term strategy. Economic journalism needs to evolve from a “digital newsroom” into an “AI-native newsroom” - one designed and operated around data, AI, and intelligent automation.

AI can help journalists aggregate information, identify trends, analyze policies, monitor market developments, personalize content, and expand multilingual and multi-platform capabilities. Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy can become more than a publication reporting on economic developments; it can evolve into a digital knowledge platform that provides information, analysis, forecasts, and policy insights for businesses, investors, policymakers, and society.

At the same time, technology should be seen as an enabler rather than a replacement. The core values of journalism remain unchanged: truth, social responsibility, professional integrity, and readers’ trust. AI transformation must therefore extend beyond technology to encompass people, processes, governance, and organizational culture.

With its 35-year reputation and its commitment to innovation, I believe Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy is well positioned to become one of Vietnam’s leading economic media organizations in AI transformation. It can play a significant role not only in documenting the country’s digital economy but also in accelerating AI adoption across Vietnam’s media sector. CMC stands ready to support the organization and the broader journalism community on that journey.

If I were to choose descriptions for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy after 35 years, they would be hardworking, disciplined, innovative, and constantly creating value for the community. To me, this reflects both its achievements over the past three and a half decades and its future potential as a trusted “hive of knowledge” where information, expertise, and inspiration come together to support Vietnam’s business community.

Mr. Thieu Phuong Nam, General Director of Qualcomm for Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos

Over more than two decades of operating in Vietnam, we have witnessed the country’s remarkable transformation in both economic development and technological advancement. As technology plays an increasingly critical role in economic competitiveness, credible media organizations specializing in business and technology have a particularly important role in helping businesses, policymakers, and the public better understand both the opportunities and implications brought about by emerging technologies.

Innovation can only realize its full potential when stakeholders understand not only what technology can do but also how it can be applied responsibly to create meaningful value for the economy and society.

Looking ahead, Vietnam has the opportunity not only to adopt and apply technology but also to become a contributor to the global innovation ecosystem through RD and a highly-skilled workforce. Achieving this goal will require stronger public-private collaboration and a greater role for trusted institutions in fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and supporting informed decision-making. We believe that media organizations such as Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy will continue to play an important role in facilitating these conversations as Vietnam moves closer to becoming an innovation-driven economy.

For its part, Qualcomm remains committed to supporting this journey through long-term investments in innovation, talent development, and collaboration with partners across Vietnam’s technology ecosystem.

I do not believe that the rise of AI diminishes the role of mainstream journalism. As information becomes increasingly abundant and easier to generate, qualities such as credibility, context, and authenticity become even more valuable. For media organizations, the opportunity lies not only in adopting AI but also in leveraging it to enhance both operational efficiency and content quality.

AI can significantly support activities such as research, content discovery, translation, and audience engagement. However, technology is a tool, not a substitute for editorial judgment. While AI can generate content at scale, it cannot replace domain expertise, critical thinking, or the ability to analyze complex issues. The organizations that succeed will be those that effectively combine the speed and efficiency of AI with the standards and professionalism of journalism.

Beyond applying AI in their own operations, media organizations also have an important role to play in helping society adapt to technological change. As AI becomes increasingly embedded across industries, society needs clear, balanced, and practical perspectives on how these technologies can improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and drive long-term economic growth.

Media organizations capable of translating complex technological developments into accessible, meaningful analysis for businesses and society will continue to stand out. At the same time, the media can serve as a bridge that promotes dialogue and collaboration between policymakers, businesses, academia, startups, and investors.

At Qualcomm, we view AI as one of the most transformative technologies of our time, with the potential to boost productivity, enable new business models, and drive economic growth across sectors. This belief underpins Qualcomm’s long-term commitment to Vietnam, including the establishment of the Qualcomm RD Center in Hanoi and the implementation of initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic AI capabilities and innovation, such as Qualcomm Academy and the Qualcomm Vietnam Innovation Challenge.

We believe these long-term investments will help support Vietnam’s ambition to become a leading innovation-driven economy in the AI era.

Mr. Kulachet Dharachandra, Country Director of SCG in Vietnam and General Director of Long Son Petrochemicals

I would like to congratulate Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy on its 35th anniversary. What impresses me most about the organization is its ability to continuously reinvent itself, from a traditional newspaper into a trusted multi-platform media ecosystem. In many ways, this mirrors SCG’s own transformation in Vietnam over the past three decades, from an importer to a manufacturer and strategic industrial partner.

Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s contribution extends well beyond journalism. It has effectively connected policy with business realities and fostered meaningful dialogue between government, businesses, and society. Through flagship initiatives, the publication has created valuable platforms where ideas can be transformed into action. In an age of information overload, its ability to shape serious, constructive conversations about Vietnam’s development is what has earned the trust of readers for 35 years.

Today, economic developments can no longer be viewed in isolation. They are increasingly shaped by geopolitics, technology, and sustainability. Amid an abundance of information, what readers need most from credible media organizations is context, insight, and trust.

Journalism must stay one step ahead, helping businesses understand the forces driving change. Topics such as AI, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, the circular economy, and net-zero commitments are no longer emerging trends; they have become long-term drivers of competitiveness. By sharing practical lessons and real-world success stories, the media can help accelerate the green transition across both the public and private sectors.

No matter how rapidly technology evolves, credibility remains timeless. The most valuable media organization is not the one that delivers news the fastest, but the one that earns a unique and enduring level of trust from its audience.

If I were to choose a metaphor to describe the organization after 35 years of innovation and development, it would be a “fiber-optic cable of trust.” A bridge connects people physically; a fiber-optic cable connects them instantly, across unlimited distances and on a global scale.

For 35 years, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has served as that connection, linking policy with practice, businesses with opportunities, and sustainability ambitions with concrete action. As Vietnam enters a new stage of development, trusted organizations such as Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy will become even more important. SCG is proud to have accompanied this journey and wishes it continued success as one of Vietnam’s leading economic media organizations.

Mr. Le Quoc Vinh, Chairman of the Le Group of Companies, and Chairman of the Vietnam Chief Sales Marketing Officers Club (CSMO)

Looking back, what moves me most is not that Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has endured for 35 years. What moves me is that it has accompanied almost the entire journey of Vietnam’s market economy, from its emergence to its maturation.

From an A4-sized economic bulletin first published in 1991 to the influential economic media ecosystem it is today, the publication has done more than witness Vietnam’s economic history. In some ways, it has helped shape that history.

I have always believed that journalism’s greatest role is not to record events, but to help society understand their meaning. For decades, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has fulfilled that role in relation to the country’s economic life.

From the early years of opening up to foreign investment, through the rise of the private sector, waves of equitization, WTO accession, the development of the stock market, and global economic crises, the publication has helped explain complex developments to businesses and the broader public.

Thirty-five years ago, businesses needed information. Today, they are no longer short of information; they are surrounded by it. What has become scarce is not data, but the ability to interpret it correctly. Not news, but knowledge. Not speed, but trust.

AI can give us access to unlimited amounts of information. But AI cannot create social trust on its own. Trust must still be built by credible institutions.

That is why I believe the greatest mission of economic journalism in the years ahead is not to become the fastest source of news, but to become part of the economy’s trust infrastructure. A modern economy requires more than roads, ports, and data centers. It also needs institutions capable of verifying information, promoting transparency, connecting market participants, and facilitating meaningful policy dialogue.

Thirty-five years ago, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy was founded as Vietnam began opening up to the world. Today, the country is entering a new stage of development, one defined by greater ambitions, greater opportunities, and greater challenges.

While the first chapter was about accompanying the formation of Vietnam’s market economy, the next may well be about accompanying the maturation of Vietnamese businesses in a knowledge-based and trust-based economy. It is a more difficult journey, but is one worth beginning.

Mr. Nguyen Vu Anh, CEO of Coc Coc

In developed markets, many leading economic media organizations have evolved far beyond the role of news providers. They have become platforms that integrate data, analysis, research, and expert insights to help businesses make better decisions. Today, the most influential economic publications do not simply tell readers what is happening; they help them understand why it matters and what actions they should consider. I see Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy playing a similar role in Vietnam.

For businesses, internal data alone is rarely enough. Leaders also need to understand broader developments in the economy, public policy, technology, consumer behavior, capital flows, and market competition. High-quality economic journalism helps provide that wider perspective, enabling businesses to validate assumptions, identify opportunities, and make more informed decisions.

At Coc Coc, we have experienced this value firsthand. As a Vietnamese technology company developing digital products and platforms for local users, we appreciate not only Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s journalistic credibility but also its ability to place business stories within the larger context of digital transformation, innovation, and economic development. When technology is viewed through the lens of policy, market trends, and national development priorities, the discussion becomes far more meaningful.

Looking ahead, I believe economic journalism must continue evolving beyond its traditional role as a news outlet. The challenge today is no longer a lack of information; it is information overload. Business leaders need trusted sources that can filter information, provide context, and explain what developments mean for their organizations.

That is why I believe economic journalism should increasingly serve as an information and analytical infrastructure for businesses. Leading international media organizations have already moved in this direction, building specialized databases, market intelligence products, expert communities, and policy forums alongside their core journalism.

This is also a natural direction for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy. The publication already possesses deep economic expertise, a strong network of experts, close relationships with the business community, and extensive experience organizing respected economic forums. Combined with data, AI, and digital innovation, these strengths could help transform Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy into a comprehensive economic knowledge platform.

I particularly appreciate the publication’s early investment in initiatives such as Askonomy and other AI-powered products. These efforts demonstrate that Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy is not merely reporting on digital transformation, it is actively embracing it.

Ultimately, economic journalism must preserve its most valuable asset: public trust. Technology can help journalism move faster and create new forms of value, but trust remains the foundation. Technology may help journalism go faster, but trust is what enables it to go further.

Mr. Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of LuxGroup

For the past 35 years, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has established itself as one of Vietnam’s most respected and influential economic media organizations. For the business community, it has been more than a source of information; it has been a trusted companion throughout the country’s journey of reform, integration, and economic development.

I particularly value the newsroom’s role in connecting businesses with experts, policymakers, and investors. Its economic forums, policy dialogues, and conferences have become important platforms where ideas are shared, debated, and refined.

In tourism, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy was among the first media organizations to recognize the industry as a major economic driver rather than simply a service sector. Its in-depth reporting, policy analysis, tourism forums, and the legacy of The Guide Awards have helped improve service quality, promote professionalism, and strengthen Vietnam’s tourism brand internationally.

From my perspective, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s greatest contribution has been not only reporting on economic developments but also helping shape development thinking among businesses and society. That is a remarkable achievement over the past 35 years.

In the digital era, speed is no longer journalism’s only competitive advantage. What readers and businesses increasingly value is credibility, analytical depth, and the ability to anticipate future trends.

Economic journalism must evolve from simply delivering news to creating knowledge. Today’s business leaders want more than information about what is happening; they want to understand why it is happening and what it means for their strategies. I hope the organization continues to build on its strengths in policy analysis, economic data, trend research, digital transformation, AI, green growth, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, and innovation.

It should also continue acting as an effective bridge between businesses, experts, investors, and regulators, ensuring that practical business perspectives are better reflected in policymaking. In tourism in particular, I would like to see the organization develop a deeper content ecosystem around the economics of tourism; one of Vietnam’s most influential industries. As the country aims to become a leading destination in Asia, it needs high-quality policy forums, market research, conferences, and industry discussions that can help strengthen national competitiveness.

I believe that by combining technological innovation with the core values of professional journalism, the organization will continue to play a leading role within Vietnam’s economic media landscape.

If I were to choose a symbol for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy after 35 years of innovation and development, it would be a lighthouse guiding Vietnam’s economic journey. A lighthouse does not steer the ship, but it helps sailors navigate through changing conditions and uncertain waters.

I believe the organization will continue to serve as a lighthouse of knowledge for Vietnam’s business community, accompanying the nation as it builds a greener, more digital, more innovative, and more globally-integrated economy.

Mr. Nguyen Tu Quang, Chairman and CEO of the BKAV Group

Having had the opportunity to work with many media organizations since the early 2000s, I have always held a special regard for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy. In my view, it is a publication that truly lives up to its name, consistently maintaining professionalism, integrity, and high standards worthy of one of Vietnam’s leading economic media brands.

That professionalism is reflected not only in the stature of the publication itself but also in the working style of its journalists. I have worked with its reporters on numerous occasions and have always been impressed by the way they approach their subjects. They possess deep knowledge, ask insightful questions that go straight to the heart of the issues that matter most to business leaders, and demonstrate a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by enterprises.

The rise of social media has brought unparalleled speed in the dissemination of information, but it has also exposed weaknesses in depth, accuracy, and credibility. In that context, I believe this presents a golden opportunity for mainstream media organizations such as Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy to reinforce their position. No matter how quickly information travels, modern society will always require trusted, verified sources that provide direction and in-depth analysis. Professional journalism remains the foundation, the authoritative source of information from which social media draws and amplifies content.

As Vietnam enters a new era of national development and aspiration, economic issues will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of attention for the government, businesses, and society as a whole. I therefore hope that Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy will continue to stay committed to its strength in in-depth reporting and analysis, focusing on the major economic challenges facing the country. Thought-provoking and well-researched reporting from the newsroom can help society develop a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of economic realities, making a meaningful contribution to the nation’s development.

If I were to describe Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy after 35 years in a single phrase, it would be: “Authentic integrity and professionalism.” Throughout its development, amid an increasingly turbulent media landscape, it has remained one of the rare publications that has preserved the core values and identity of journalism. Rather than seeking attention through sensationalism or controversy, it has built its reputation through the quality of its content and the value of the knowledge it delivers.

Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy is truly a symbol of ethical, principled, and professional economic journalism in Vietnam.

Mr. Ngo Minh Quan, Chief of Digital Transformation at the Rikkeisoft Corporation

Looking back on Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s 35-year journey of innovation and growth, we see a publication that has evolved alongside Vietnam’s economy. For the business community, particularly the technology sector, it is far more than a media organization. It has established itself as both a trusted chronicler of economic development and a strategic communications platform.

The relationship between Rikkeisoft and Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy is a testament to that role. We have been honored to contribute to editorials, in-depth discussions, and industry dialogues alongside leading technology groups such as FPT, Viettel, and VNPT. The fact that Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy has consistently provided a platform for newer-generation enterprises like Rikkeisoft reflects the newsroom’s openness, objectivity, and commitment to promoting Vietnam’s digital capabilities.

More importantly, the publication has not merely reported on corporate milestones; it has accompanied and documented them. In many ways, the organization has served as a source of knowledge and inspiration, helping Vietnamese enterprises gain the confidence to integrate internationally and compete on the global stage.

As a technology company, our current strategy focuses on applying AI to enhance productivity and increase value creation while pursuing our ambition of becoming a global enterprise and strengthening the presence of Vietnamese brands in international markets. From that perspective, I believe Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy can further amplify its impact in two important ways.

First, it can become a strategic compass for Vietnamese businesses navigating international markets. As companies expand into destinations such as the US, Japan, and the wider Asia-Pacific region, they increasingly need deeper insights into capital flows, international economic policies, regulatory developments, and emerging opportunities in areas such as AI and semiconductors. Stronger forward-looking analysis would help businesses not only seize opportunities but also manage risks more effectively.

Second, it can play an even greater role in advancing what I would call the “human capital economy.” In the digital era, high-quality talent is one of a nation’s most valuable assets. The publication is uniquely positioned to connect government, businesses, and educational institutions while promoting technology talent development and sharing best practices in productivity and workforce management. A practical knowledge ecosystem of this kind would provide a powerful foundation for the global ambitions of Vietnamese enterprises.

If I had to describe Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam / Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy at 35 years in a single image, I would call it “the fiber-optic cable of knowledge connecting Vietnam’s economy to the world.”

In the digital age, fiber-optic infrastructure forms the backbone of connectivity, transmitting information at high speed with reliability and precision. For 35 years, the publication has fulfilled a similar role, delivering economic information quickly and accurately while providing the depth of analysis and strategic perspective needed to guide decision-making.

More importantly, it has connected generations of Vietnamese businesses, linked enterprises with policymakers, and bridged domestic capabilities with global technology trends and international capital flows. That seamless flow of knowledge has provided companies like Rikkeisoft with valuable support as we pursue growth and global expansion.

VET-

Vietnam to launch agro-forestry-fishery traceability system on July 1

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The system currently records over 18,000 products from 149 participating enterprises across 26 provinces and cities, indicating a high level of readiness ahead of the official launch.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is fast-tracking final preparations to launch the national agro-forestry-fishery traceability system, scheduled to become operational on July 1, 2026.

To date, technical infrastructure, data integration, and pilot programs have yielded positive results, creating a foundation for enhanced transparency, management efficiency, and the ability to meet both domestic and international market requirements.

Reporting at a meeting on June 22 regarding the system’s readiness, Mr. Nguyen Van Long, Director of the Department of Science and Technology (Ministry of Agriculture and Environment), stated that the ministry has highly focused on the upcoming launch. These efforts are being implemented across three synchronized pillars: perfecting the institutional framework, building technical infrastructure, and organizing data connections and pilot operations.

According to Mr. Long, a critical component of the preparation involves data connection and integration. The ministry has directed specialized agencies, local authorities, and businesses to collaborate in sharing foundational data, such as planting area codes, packing facility information, and laboratory testing data.

As of now, most solution providers have completed connectivity within the testing environment and are expected to finish all requirements by June 30. The system currently records over 18,000 products from the 149 participating enterprises across 26 provinces and cities, indicating a high level of readiness ahead of the official launch.

Parallel to infrastructure development and data integration, the ministry has conducted pilot operations for several key commodities, most notably the export durian industry. Initial results show that the system has effectively supported the traceability of shipments, contributing to increased transparency and meeting the stringent demands of international markets.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Hoang Trung said: "The connection and sharing of data must strictly adhere to the principle of 'single declaration, multiple uses' to avoid redundant investment and maximize data utilization efficiency."

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

HCM City targets services sector to contribute up to 75% of GRDP by 2040

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 01:30:00 GMT

The target is part of the southern city's strategy to become a leading services hub in Southeast Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City has set an ambitious goal of increasing the contribution of the services sector to 60–65% of its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) by 2030 and 70–75% by 2040, as part of its strategy to become a leading services hub in Southeast Asia.

The city’s People's Committee has issued a plan to implement a project aimed at transforming the southern metropolis into a major national and regional services center, focusing on high-value, modern service industries.

Under the plan, the services sector will remain the primary engine of economic growth and play a leading role in restructuring the economy toward greater efficiency, modernization and sustainability. The city targets annual service-sector growth of 12–14% during the 2025–2030 period. Between 2030 and 2040, service-sector growth is expected to remain strong at 11–13% per year.

The strategy identifies three groups of priority industries. Strategic sectors include finance, banking and insurance; information and communications; transportation, warehousing and logistics; science, technology and innovation; and tourism. Potential growth sectors include education and training, healthcare, and digital economy services, while supporting sectors comprise trade, real estate, arts, sports and entertainment.

A key feature of the plan is the implementation of a “5+1” development model, with Ho Chi Minh City - based Vietnam's International Financial Centre serving as the core and linked to five strategic service hubs: a maritime and logistics center; an information, communications, science and innovation center; a tourism center; a healthcare center; and an education and training center.

By 2030, the city aims to become Southeast Asia’s leading services center and maintain its role as Vietnam’s economic powerhouse in digital economy development, finance, science and technology, logistics, tourism, education and healthcare.

Looking further ahead, the city targets becoming one of Asia’s leading service hubs by 2035 and joining the world's top 100 fastest-growing, most modern and sustainable cities. By 2045, it aspires to achieve global service-center status and rank among the world's top 50 rapidly developing, modern and sustainable cities.

VnEconomy-Minh Huy