Bilateral trade between Vietnam and the US is set to enter a new era marked by major US policy shifts.

According to the Foreign Market Development Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), in the 30 years since relations were normalized (1995-2025), Vietnam-US trade has grown strongly and been anchored by several key milestones: the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) signed in 2000, Vietnam’s WTO accession in 2007, the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, and ongoing efforts towards a fair and balanced reciprocal trade agreement in 2025.

These developments were highlighted at the Vietnam-US Trade Forum held on December 10 in Ho Chi Minh City, with the theme “30 Years of Economic and Trade Cooperation - Overcoming Challenges, Entering a New Era” and organized by the Foreign Market Development Department in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (AmCham Vietnam). The Forum took place as bilateral trade enters a new phase, with major US policy shifts directly affecting many partners, including Vietnam.

Partnership in transition

Over the past three decades, growth in Vietnam-US bilateral trade has become a key driver of economic development, job creation, and strengthened supply chain integration between two highly-complementary economies.

According to Vietnam Customs, as of the end of October, total bilateral trade between Vietnam and the US this year stood at $141.4 billion, up 27.2 per cent compared to the same period of 2024. Of this, Vietnam’s exports to the US totaled $126.2 billion, a 27.6 per cent increase year-on-year and accounting for 32.3 per cent of its total exports, while imports from the US reached $15.2 billion, up 23.8 per cent and representing 4.1 per cent of its total imports. Vietnam’s trade surplus came in at $110.9 billion, up 28.2 per cent year-on-year.

As of October 31, the US ranked eleventh in investment in Vietnam, with 1,501 projects and total registered capital of around $12.3 billion. In 2025 alone, the US registered 108 new projects in the country totaling $610.6 million, maintaining its eleventh position among foreign investors. Conversely, Vietnam had 266 investment projects in the US with total registered capital of nearly $1.4 billion, making the US its sixth-largest recipient of overseas investment among 85 countries and territories.

Mr. Nguyen Hong Duong, Deputy Director of the Foreign Market Development Department, said that before 2025 ends, Vietnamese businesses need to engage in in-depth discussions on issues related to reciprocal tariffs to prepare for new policies in 2026. Enterprises and investors must quickly identify challenges and collaborate to adapt to evolving conditions in the market.

“If Vietnam continues to innovate and approaches negotiations with the US appropriately, combined with domestic economic growth, the Vietnam-US economic and trade relationship will gain even stronger momentum.” Ambassador Pham Quang Vinh, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Ambassador of Vietnam to the US

Echoing this view, Mr. Pham Quang Vinh, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Ambassador of Vietnam to the US, noted that despite fluctuations in reciprocal tariff policies, Vietnam-US trade still holds strong growth potential due to the closely intertwined economic interests of both countries. “US tariff policies are a way for a superpower to ‘reset’ the global playing field, directly affecting Vietnam,” he said. “However, this is also an opportunity for Vietnam to reassess its economic position, analyze its strengths in attracting foreign investment, and evaluate its role in global supply chains.”

About 70 per cent of Vietnam’s exports to the US come from FDI enterprises, creating pressure to increase domestic value content, while foreign companies cannot be forced to buy local products. “To balance higher value added content and localization, Vietnam must upgrade its economic quality,” Mr. Vinh explained. “This is a major challenge.” He added that opportunities exist in the Vietnam-US relationship and in Vietnam’s drive for reform and development.

The largest export market for Vietnam is American consumers, and Vietnam has performed exceptionally well. Ms. Virginia Foote, Vice President and CEO of Bay Global Strategy and a Board Member of AmCham Vietnam

Ms. Virginia Foote, Vice President and CEO of Bay Global Strategy and a Board Member of AmCham Vietnam, affirmed that the US is a highly-successful export market for Vietnam. “The largest export market for Vietnam is American consumers, and Vietnam has performed exceptionally well,” she said. “When we first started working here, I worried that Americans might not want ‘Made in Vietnam’ products, as they only associated Vietnam with war. But Vietnam quickly transformed ‘Made in Vietnam’ into a symbol of quality and value.”

Rising pressure

Recent developments in US trade policy are reshaping the landscape for Vietnamese exporters, prompting both opportunities and heightened risks across key industries. New tariff measures, shifting trade defense tools, and evolving market requirements are compelling enterprises to strengthen compliance, upgrade supply chains, and prepare for significant policy changes in 2026.

“Reciprocal tariffs are a challenge, but they are also an opportunity to restructure our entire production system, manufacturing processes, and supply chains. We will be able to adapt to US policies, even though their future direction is still uncertain.” Mr. Ngo Chung Khanh, Deputy Director Of The Multilateral Trade Policy Department, Ministry Of Industry And Trade

A major point of concern is the series of reciprocal tariff adjustments announced in early 2025. “When the US announced a 46 per cent reciprocal tariff and later reached a temporary agreement to reduce it to 20 per cent, we experienced a wide range of reactions,” according to Mr. Ngo Chung Khanh, Deputy Director General of the Multilateral Trade Policy Department at MoIT. “This is a critical moment to review 2025 and set policy directions for 2026, at both the government and enterprise levels.”

Vietnam’s export sectors are already feeling the effects. Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam, Secretary General of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), noted that more than 400 Vietnamese seafood companies export to the US. Seafood exports have climbed from just $39 million in 1995-1997 to nearly $2 billion in recent years, while US seafood products have gained popularity in Vietnam. “Existing difficulties will soon be addressed through government exchanges,” he said. “Political and trade relations in seafood provide a foundation for business confidence.”

In textiles, the US remains the single-most important market for Vietnam, absorbing 38-40 per cent of exports despite tariff fluctuations. “Recent challenges, especially tariffs, also create opportunities to deepen US market penetration and support more than 7,000 textile enterprises,” said Mr. Dang Vu Hung, Deputy Chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS). “We will continue to adapt and grow.”

From another perspective, Dr. Tran Toan Thang, Head of International Issues Division at the Institute for Strategy and Policy on Finance and Economics, said electronics, phones, and computers led growth with over 40 per cent increases, based on US data. These are the main drivers of Vietnam’s exports to the US amid global supply chain restructuring by US corporations. Textiles and footwear have also recovered, with the US taking about 38 per cent of total trade, while furniture and interior goods turned positive after a slump and seafood remained stable at $ 2-2.2 billion.

Vietnam is a sustainable partner, open to dialogue, and always ready to negotiate. More than 50 per cent of athletic shoes sold in the US are made in Vietnam. Hundreds of millions of Americans are comfortable wearing ‘Made in Vietnam’ sneakers. This will remain true for many years.

Mr. Matt Priest, President and CEO of the US Footwear and Apparel Association

Mr. Matt Priest, President and CEO of the US Footwear and Apparel Association (FDRA), said the Association has recommended that President Donald Trump consider reducing or removing reciprocal tariffs on footwear due to rising retail prices and consumer concerns. “Vietnam is a sustainable partner, open to dialogue, and always ready to negotiate,” he said. “More than 50 per cent of athletic shoes sold in the US are made in Vietnam. Hundreds of millions of Americans are comfortable wearing ‘Made in Vietnam’ sneakers. This will remain true for many years.”

However, rapid growth also brings higher risks. US data shows that imports of Vietnamese goods in the first eleven months of 2025 rose more than 40 per cent across multiple product categories; a level that increases the likelihood of trade defense investigations.

Dr. Thang warned that reciprocal tariffs are not only about rates but also reflect the US strategy of reindustrialization and protecting domestic production. In the worst-case scenario, Vietnamese goods could face tariffs under Sections 232 or 301, with rates exceeding 50 per cent for steel, wood, and solar energy products. Electronics, which account for nearly 28 per cent of exports to the US, are also highly exposed if the origin of components is not strictly controlled.

Ms. Truong Thi Thuy Linh, Deputy Director of the Trade Remedies Authority at MoIT, added that the US could simultaneously apply anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures over long periods, effectively “locking out” many exporters from the market.

In this context, experts emphasize that the key solution is to increase supply chain transparency, strengthen traceability, control the origin of materials, and proactively implement trade defense measures. Mr. Khanh stressed that enterprises should not only expand exports but also increase imports of high-quality technology and materials from the US to balance trade and upgrade production capacity.

Four scenarios

Based on this situation, Dr. Thang outlined four potential US tariff scenarios for Vietnamese goods, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for the country’s export sectors.

Scenario A represents the baseline: all Vietnamese exports to the US would face a 20 per cent reciprocal tariff.

Scenario B is more complex: while most goods would be subject to a 20 per cent tariff, products under investigation or showing signs of trans-shipment could face a 40 per cent tariff. Sectors at greatest risk include wooden products, textiles, footwear, and energy storage batteries.

Scenario C is the optimistic outlook: most goods still face a 20 per cent tariff, but certain agricultural products and strategic technologies could enjoy a 0 per cent tariff thanks to positive negotiations under the Fair and Balanced Reciprocal Trade Agreement signed on October 26.

Scenario D represents the highest-risk situation: Vietnamese goods could face not only reciprocal and trans-shipment tariffs but also punitive tariffs under Sections 232 and 301, with wood and steel potentially subject to rates of up to 50 per cent.

Dr. Thang also classified risk levels by sector. High-risk sectors include furniture, solar energy, electronics, and steel, which could be immediately excluded from the market through anti-circumvention tariffs and national security restrictions.

Medium-risk sectors include textiles, seafood, food processing, and digital services. These sectors are affected by compliance audits, forced labor regulations, and potential retaliatory tariffs.

Low-risk sectors include agriculture and strategic technology products. These remain relatively safe due to inelastic US demand but are not completely immune to systemic shocks.

As Vietnamese businesses prepare for 2026 amid volatile US trade policies in 2025, Mr. Khanh highlighted three critical points.

First, the US has changed its trade strategy. Following the release of the US National Security Strategy, the country has shifted from being a global leader in trade liberalization to a reciprocity-first approach, prioritizing bilateral over multilateral relations. This shift is significant at both the government and enterprise levels. Vietnamese businesses need to understand the US bilateral focus while continuing to engage in multilateral trade agreements elsewhere.

Second, the US is not just an export market; it is also an import market. Many Vietnamese businesses still view the US primarily as an export destination. Mr. Duong noted that achieving balanced trade requires importing high-quality inputs, raw materials, and technology from the US. This approach is both a gesture of goodwill and a strategic business move, enabling companies to adapt to trends such as reshoring production to the US and aligning with American supply chain priorities.

And third, supply chain transparency is paramount. Controlling origin and traceability from input to output is essential for doing business with the US. This requirement goes beyond tariffs and rules of origin, encompassing standards, transparency, and credibility across the entire supply chain. Strengthening supply-chain management not only ensures compliance with US regulations but also upgrades Vietnam’s production capabilities and enhances resilience against uncertainties in trade policy.

Mr. Duong concluded that stability is key to navigating uncertainty. By focusing on supply chain transparency, balanced trade, and strategic adaptation, Vietnamese businesses can prepare effectively for 2026 while seizing the opportunity to reform production systems and strengthen their competitiveness in the US market.

Enduring confidence in Vietnam

With 75 per cent of exports to the US generated by FDI enterprises, Dr. Thang sees some positive factors. The Vietnamese Government is actively engaging major FDI investors to reassure and support them, and some investors remain optimistic about Vietnam’s long-term potential. “FDI enterprises operating in Vietnam continued to expand their investment this year, reflecting a positive assessment of the investment environment despite pressures from reciprocal tariffs,” he noted.

According to Ms. Foote, understanding the supply chain is crucial, and full documentation is necessary. “No company can easily relocate its supply chain in such uncertain times, but firms are working to ensure their supply chains remain valuable and sustainable,” she said. “Vietnam has proven to be a long-term partner, and it must maintain that position.”

She also recommended that the government strengthen soft infrastructure while reducing administrative and legal procedures. “FDI firms care about taxes, but this is not the primary reason they invest in Vietnam,” she added. “They see Vietnam as a good place to invest, build partnerships, and plan for the future.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Vinh predicted that with current outcomes, Vietnam’s exports and trade will continue to grow this year, with Vietnam-US trade expected to rise by over 16 per cent compared to 2024.

He emphasized that if Vietnam continues to innovate and negotiates appropriately with the US, as it has been doing recently, bilateral economic and trade relations will strengthen further. “In particular, Vietnam must improve the quality of economic reforms, enhance domestic value content, and increase the quality of exported goods,” Mr. Vinh affirmed.

VET-Nhu Quynh

Under the strategy, annual steel output is expected to increase to 25-26 million tons by 2030, 33-36 million tons by 2035, and 75-80 million by 2050.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No. 261/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son on February 9, a strategy for steel industry development through 2030, with a vision toward 2050, has been approved.

The strategy aims to meet 80-85 per cent and around 85-90 per cent of domestic demand by 2030 and 2035, respectively.

For that aim, annual steel output is expected to reach 25-26 million tons by 2030, 33-36 million tons by 2035, and 75-80 million by 2050.

The strategy also sets out tasks and solutions related to institutional and policy formulation; market development; science and technology; human resources; environmental protection; and a number of specific measures by steel product groups.

Particularly, the strategy plans to make more investments in technology and equipment to enhance production capacity and quality for steel product groups, including construction steel, alloy steel, fabricated steel, section steel, metal-coated and color-coated sheets, steel pipes, and hot-rolled steel, in order to stabilize domestic consumption and exports.

Meanwhile, more domestic technologies will be applied to produce high-strength steel plates, prestressed steel, steel for prestressed reinforced concrete, corrosion-resistant stainless steel for offshore and island projects, ultra-lightweight steel for equipment in the transport sector, cold-rolled light steel, and steel for the shipbuilding industry.

Additionally, it also targets to conduct research into the production of steel products to meet material demand for energy infrastructure development, rail steel for high-speed railway development, seamless steel pipes for liquefied gas transportation, seamless pipes for shipbuilding, wind power towers, and fabricated steel products for national defense and security.

vneconomy-Huyen Vy

The IP covers nearly 355ha and is planned as a modern and environmentally friendly industrial park applying advanced technologies.

Construction of the Dong Phuc Industrial Park (IP) has officially begun in northern Bac Ninh Province, with total investment estimated at VND3.7 trillion ($141 million).

The project covers nearly 355 hectares in Dong Viet Commune and Canh Thuy Ward and is planned as a modern, environmentally friendly industrial park applying advanced technologies.

Local authorities said that once operational, Dong Phuc IP will help complete Bac Ninh’s industrial development planning and create fresh momentum for local economic growth. The project is also expected to spur the development of technical, social, service, urban and supporting infrastructure, contributing to economic expansion and social welfare in the province.

The park is seen as a strategic step toward Bac Ninh’s goal of becoming one of the country’s modern, green and sustainable industrial growth hubs, as well as a key industrial center in the region.

Provincial authorities have urged the investor to ensure the park is developed in a modern, synchronised, green and clean manner and brought into operation on schedule.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Bách

Applicants are required to hold degrees from universities ranked among the Top 50 worldwide (for Bachelor’s degrees) or Top 100 (for Master’s and Doctoral degrees) on recognized global rankings.

The Executive Office of the International Financial Center in central Da Nang city has announced a major recruitment campaign, seeking highly qualified professionals for fixed-term contracts across four critical departments.

According to the announcement, candidates must meet stringent academic and professional standards. Applicants are required to hold degrees from universities ranked among the Top 50 worldwide (for Bachelor’s degrees) or Top 100 (for Master’s and Doctoral degrees) on recognized global rankings such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE), or ARWU at the time of graduation.

Professional experience is also a key requirement. Candidates must have at least five years of practical experience, with preference given to those who have worked at international financial centers or at financial institutions and multinational corporations listed in the Forbes Global 2000 (2025). Fluency in English across all four skills is mandatory.

The recruitment drive targets specialist positions in the departments of Strategy and General Affairs, Legal Affairs, Membership, and Technology.

The Technology Department sets particularly high standards. Applicants must graduate with distinction in majors such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Management Information Systems, Telecommunications, or Electronics. Candidates are expected to demonstrate deep expertise in Blockchain operations, Asset Tokenization, and Smart Contracts, contributing to the development of technical frameworks for sandbox mechanisms. They must also be capable of leveraging Big Data and AI/Machine Learning to analyze financial trends, detect fraud, and optimize system operations.

Meanwhile, the Strategy and General Affairs Department requires candidates with strong skills in strategic planning, competitive positioning, and policy development to align the Center’s growth with international best practices.

Vneconomy-Tuệ Lâm

The approved pilot quotas will be allocated to 110 key facilities, including 34 thermal power plants, 25 steel production facilities, and 51 cement production plants.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has signed Prime Ministerial Decision No. 263/QD-TTg, approving the total pilot greenhouse gas (GHG) emission quotas for the 2025–2026 period.

Under the decision, the approved pilot quotas will be allocated to 110 key facilities, including 34 thermal power plants, 25 steel production facilities, and 51 cement production plants.

Specifically, the total pilot GHG emission quota for 2025 is set at 243,082,392 tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e). For 2026, the total quota will increase to 268,391,454 tons of CO2e.

According to the decision, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MoAE) has been tasked to lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) and the Ministry of Construction (MoC) to distribute specific quotas to each individual facility and provide implementation guidelines. MoAE is also responsible for evaluating the pilot results and proposing improvements to legal regulations regarding GHG inventories and quota allocation.

Meanwhile, MoIT and MoC will monitor and evaluate the quota compliance of facilities within their respective management sectors.

Earlier, during a meeting on December 24, 2025, to review the quota proposal, Deputy PM Ha emphasized that this marks the first time Vietnam has implemented emission quota allocations. He stressed that while the program is a pilot designed to familiarize the industry with emission controls, it must be executed strictly with clear legal frameworks to avoid being a mere formality.

He requested that the pilot process include specific calculations for each sector (cement, steel, power, etc.) and clearly define the scale of participating enterprises. This will serve as a foundation to gain experience before expanding the mandate to 100% of emission sources in the future.

Furthermore, he noted that the pilot goes beyond simple numbers; it is a comprehensive process to synchronize methods for measurement, counting, statistics, reporting, and verification (MRV). These methods must be based on solid scientific evidence and aligned with international standards to ensure that Vietnamese data is globally recognized. This effort is closely linked to Vietnam’s responsibilities and commitments under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).

Vneconomy-Tùng Dương

This marking the highest monthly figure ever.

Vietnam welcomed nearly 2.5 million foreign visitors in January 2026, the highest monthly figure ever, according to the National Statistics Office.

The figure represents an increase of 21.4% compared to the previous month and 18.5% against the same period last year.

Asia continued to be Vietnam's largest source market, accounting for over 1.8 million visitors, up 12.3%. Europe posted the fastest growth among major regions, with arrivals jumping 59% to 424,000. Visitor numbers from the Americas, Oceania and Africa also rose sharply, up 14.2%, 13% and 45.4%, respectively.

The growth is attributed to visa policy reforms, enhanced tourism promotion efforts and a broader range of tourism products.

In 2026, Vietnam targets 25 million foreign visitors, 150 million domestic tourists and total tourism revenue of about VND1.125 quadrillion ($46.5 billion).

VnEconomy-Tường Bách

The goal is to complete and announce the census results by June 30, 2026, at the latest—seven months ahead of the initial plan.

Facing an urgent need for data to support socio-economic development planning for the new phase, the Central Steering Committee for the 2026 Economic Census has decided to adjust its plan, accelerate progress, and announce preliminary results seven months earlier than originally scheduled, reported Redio the Voice of Vietnam.

Chairing a conference held on February 9 to review the implementation of, and adjust the 2026 Economic Census plan, Minister of Finance and head of the Steering Committee, Mr. Nguyen Van Thang, stated that accurate and timely databases are vital for socio-economic management to achieve the country's strategic goals: becoming a developing nation with upper-middle income by 2030, and a developed, high-income nation with modern industry by 2045.

The minister emphasized that timely updates on the scale and structure of the economy, as well as the activities of enterprises and production-business units, will serve as an effective tool for analyzing and assessing the strengths, weaknesses, and shortcomings of the economy. From these insights, a comprehensive system of solutions can be developed to direct and implement socio-economic, national defense, and security objectives.

Consequently, instead of the original end-of-year completion target, the Central Steering Committee has requested an acceleration of the timeline. The goal is to complete and announce the census results by June 30, 2026, at the latest—seven months ahead of the initial plan.

Mr. Thang noted that while the project is being fast-tracked, quality must remain a priority. This must be coupled with a thorough review to eliminate impractical statistical criteria and categories to avoid waste and ensure efficiency.

Streamlining of manual tasks

Ms. Nguyen Thi Huong, Director of the National Statistics Office (Ministry of Finance) and Head of the Standing Group of the Central Steering Committee, reported that Phase 1 of data collection is scheduled to conclude on March 10, 2026. Phase 2 will take place from March 1 to April 30, 2026. Data verification and cleaning will be carried out concurrently, with preliminary results expected to be compiled and announced by June 30, 2026.

She highlighted that a key innovation in this census cycle is the expansion of its scope to include online business models and the comprehensive application of information technology (IT). Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be utilized for industry classification coding, while digital maps will be used to track progress in real-time.

To ensure the content and progress of key tasks meet the updated schedule, Ms. Huong proposed a significant reduction in manual workloads. For the enterprise sector, the survey form will omit 20 indicators, including detailed information on fixed assets, which effectively reduces the questionnaire by 21 questions. Instead, the statistics agency will leverage existing administrative data from tax authorities and financial reports to automatically populate the required data fields.

VOV-

Japan remains one of Vietnam’s top investors, with 5,722 valid projects worth $78.9 billion as of January 31, 2026.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called on the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and its Japan–Mekong Economic Committee to step up coordination with ministries and relevant agencies of both countries to boost investment and enhance its quality, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

Hosting a delegation of leaders from 37 JCCI member companies led by Mr. Keita Ishii, Chairman of the Japan–Mekong Economic Committee and Chairman and CEO of Itochu Corporation, in Hanoi on February 9, the PM said the Vietnam–Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia and the world continues to grow robustly.

Japan remains one of Vietnam’s top investors, with 5,722 valid projects worth $78.9 billion as of January 31, 2026. Two-way trade in 2025 exceeded $51.43 billion for the first time, while Japan is also Vietnam’s largest labour cooperation partner.

PM Chinh praised the role of JCCI and the Japan–Mekong Economic Committee in promoting bilateral ties and acting as a bridge for Japanese enterprises to expand investment in Vietnam.

The Vietnamese Government will continue building a stable, transparent and predictable investment climate, considering investor confidence a strategic asset, he said.

The PM called on Japanese partners to further expand cooperation with Vietnam, helping deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the development and well-being of both nations.

Keita Ishii and representatives of Japanese firms commended Vietnam’s reform efforts, particularly institutional improvements, administrative simplification, workforce development and upgrades in infrastructure and logistics that enable companies, including Japanese investors, to operate effectively. They expressed interest in exploring new projects and expanding operations in Vietnam, and hoped to recruit more high-quality Vietnamese workers.

Vietnam News Agency-Van Nguyen

While German consumers are already familiar with Vietnamese staples such as coffee, seafood, tea, and spices, many other products, particularly fresh tropical fruits, have yet to achieve widespread popularity.

The "Vietnamese Goods Day" program has been launched at the Selgros Berlin Lichtenberg wholesale center, as part of a series of promotional activities surrounding Fruit Logistica, the world’s leading international fruit and vegetable trade fair.

This event is a collaborative effort between the Vietnam Trade Office in Germany, the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetables Association (Vinafruit), and Selgros. 

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Vietnamese Ambassador  to Germany Nguyen Dac Thanh emphasized that showcasing products directly within a supermarket environment represents a "golden opportunity."

It not only introduces German consumers to tropical fruits but also allows Vietnamese businesses to engage directly with supermarket procurement departments and German importers, said Mr. Thanh.

The growing presence of Vietnamese fruit in Germany is no coincidence, but rather the result of a persistent shift in production mindset. 

According to Chairman of Vinafruit, Nguyen Thanh Binh, since 2010, Vietnam's fruit and vegetable industry has maintained an average annual growth rate of 20% to 25%. Currently, Vietnamese produce is exported to over 80 countries, with major markets including China, the United States, South Korea, Japan, and the European Union, specifically Germany.

"Vietnam is restructuring its agricultural production with a focus on advanced and modern processes such as VietGap and GlobalGap," said Mr. Binh, expressing confidence that German consumers would be satisfied with Vietnamese produce and continue to support these products, further strengthening Germany-Vietnam trade ties.

Vietnamese Trade Counselor in Germany, Ms. Dang Thi Thanh Phuong, said that fruit and vegetable export turnover reached over $60.17 million, an increase of nearly 40% compared to 2024. However, she frankly pointed out that this figure still represents a very small fraction of Germany's total demand, meaning there is immense room for future expansion.

While German consumers are already familiar with Vietnamese staples such as coffee, seafood, tea, and spices, many other products, particularly fresh tropical fruits, have yet to achieve widespread popularity. The Trade Office expressed its hope that through such events, German associations and procurement enterprises will become more aware of these products and help introduce them to wider distribution networks.

Mr. Mario Berger, Managing Director of Selgros Lichtenberg, noted that the Selgros hypermarket system already distributes several Vietnamese items, ranging from seafood to fresh fruits like dragon fruit and passion fruit.

Sharing future plans, Mr. Berger revealed: "The supermarket has expanded its Asian pavilion, and Selgros is planning to import Vietnam’s ST25 rice while considering the possibility of bringing even more Vietnamese agricultural products to our shelves."

Vneconomy-Song Hà

Launching from June, this route marking the first direct air connection between Vietnam and the Netherlands.

The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines will launch direct air service between Hanoi and Amsterdam from this June, marking the first direct air connection between Vietnam and the Netherlands, according to a report from  the Government News.

The new route will use Airbus A350 aircraft and operate three flights per week between Hanoi-based Noi Bai International Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The flight schedule has been designed to provide convenient travel options for European passengers while ensuring smooth onward connections within Vietnam and across Asia.

The route is also seen as a catalyst for deeper economic integration and stronger people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

The new route is also expected to support economic development and international integration, while enhancing Vietnam's global profile. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is among Europe's largest aviation and logistics center, serving as a major gateway to North America, Africa, and other regions. 

The Netherlands is currently Vietnam's largest trading partner in Europe, with imports from Vietnam exceeding $11 billion in 2025, and is also a major European investor, with total investment capital of around $16 billion.

Government News-Van Nguyen

According to the development plan, the fund will be raised and deployed in multiple phases, with a total target size of $1 billion.

A strategic partnership has officially been signed between Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center (HCMC IFC), VinaCapital, and the Global On-chain Economic Alliance at the Investment Promotion Conference for Digital Infrastructure and Big Data Centers held in HCM City on February 8.

Under this agreement, the parties will collaborate to research, develop, and operate the HCMC Digital Asset Fund.

The fund is envisioned as a "market-making" capital source, designed to facilitate the formation of an on-chain financial ecosystem within the framework of the IFC. According to the development plan, the fund will be raised and deployed in multiple phases, with a total target size of $1 billion.

This initiative aligns with the directives of the Government's Resolution 05, which mandates that the pilot implementation of a crypto-asset market must be conducted with a cautious, controlled approach and a roadmap suited to practical realities. The primary goals are to ensure safety, transparency, and efficiency while protecting the legal rights and interests of all participating organizations and individuals.

Notably, a key regulatory requirement was highlighted: to conduct transactions related to the purchase or sale of crypto assets in Vietnam, foreign investors will be required to open a Vietnamese Dong (VND) payment account at an authorized bank or a foreign bank branch licensed to provide foreign exchange services in Vietnam.

This development follows earlier discussions at the "Legal Framework and Development Models for Vietnam’s Digital Asset Market" dialogue, organized by VnEconomy/Vietnam Economic Times. During that event, Mr. To Tran Hoa, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Management Board for the Crypto Asset Trading Market (State Securities Commission), outlined Vietnam’s regulatory vision for the market, which consists of two main components:

In the primary market,  the regulator aims to encourage domestic enterprises to issue crypto assets backed by real-world assets (RWA) to foreign investors. This strategy is intended to mobilize international resources to support economic development and achieve double-digit growth.

In the secondary market, during the pilot phase, both domestic investors currently holding crypto assets and foreign investors will be permitted to open accounts with licensed service providers to conduct trades under the regulatory framework of the authorities.

Vneconomy-Bạch Dương

In January 2026, Vietnam’s economic landscape continued to show positive signals, indicating that the momentum of recovery and growth has been steadily maintained.

-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy

The meeting between overseas Vietnamese and authorities of the northern province is considered an opportunity for overseas Vietnamese and local agencies and businesses to seek investment and business cooperation opportunities.

The People's Committee of Ninh Binh province in northern Vietnam, in collaboration with the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), organized a program to connect with outstanding overseas Vietnamese.

The event, attracting 100 outstanding overseas Vietnamese from 32 countries and territories, is part the Xuan Que Huong (Homeland Spring) 2026 program. 

Held under the theme “Vietnam’s Aspiration: Peace and Prosperity,” the Homeland Spring 2026 runs from February 6–9 in Hanoi capital and Ninh Bình province, on the eve of the Tet (Lunar New Year), featuring a range of activities rich in national cultural identity.

The meeting between overseas Vietnamese and authorities of Ninh Binh province is considered an opportunity for overseas Vietnamese and local agencies and businesses to exchange information, explore potential, and seek investment and business cooperation opportunities.

At the meeting, overseas Vietnamese delegates shared many opinions and proposals related to environmental protection, preservation and promotion of traditional cultural values, sustainable tourism development, and building a foundation for long-term growth. Many opinions suggested that Ninh Binh has great advantages in developing a green urban model linked to heritage, in line with current development trends.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The Binh Quoi – Thanh Da New Urban Area spans approximately 423 ha with an estimated total investment of over $38 billion.

The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council has officially approved a proposal to bypass the traditional bidding process and instead select a strategic investor for the Binh Quoi – Thanh Da project.

This decision follows the National Assembly's Resolution No. 260/2025/QH15, which amends and supplements Resolution No. 98/2023/QH15, designating the development as a strategic project eligible for a specialized investor selection mechanism.

Under this framework, the HCMC People’s Committee is tasked with organizing the selection process for the Binh Quoi – Thanh Da New Urban Area using the pilot policies and special mechanisms granted by the National Assembly through Resolutions 98 and 260.

According to the proposal submitted by the municipal People’s Committee, the Binh Quoi – Thanh Da New Urban Area spans approximately 423 ha with an estimated total investment of over VND98 trillion (over $3.8 billion). It is identified as a vital focal point for urban development within the city's approved master plan.

Under the 1/2,000 scale zoning plan, the area is envisioned as a central urban and administrative hub featuring a signature wetland park, playing a key role in the city's spatial development structure.

The project is oriented toward becoming a comprehensive, integrated urban hub that includes residential zones, mixed-use areas, administrative and service centers, commercial and tourism facilities, and an extensive network of parks, greenery, and water bodies.

The development will feature synchronized technical and social infrastructure, focusing on its role as a wetland park and its ability to adapt to climate change.

Vneconomy-Thiên Di

Relevant ministries, agencies and localities instructed to pursue a reasonably expansionary fiscal policy with clear priorities.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on February 8 signed Official Dispatch No. 12/CD-TTg,  outlining key tasks and solutions for the management of monetary and fiscal policies in 2026, the Vietnam News Agency has reported.

The Ministry of Finance was tasked with leading and coordinating with relevant ministries, agencies and localities to pursue a reasonably expansionary fiscal policy with clear priorities, effectively tapping fiscal policy space to closely and flexibly coordinate with monetary policy and other macroeconomic policies.

The ministry was also requested to effectively mobilise domestic and foreign investment resources; make prudent use of public debt and deficit headroom to issue government bonds for key projects; intensify efforts to attract large-scale, high-tech FDI projects; and strongly develop capital markets, including putting the international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang city into official operation in February so as to help mobilise medium- and long-term capital and ease pressure on short-term bank funding.

More efforts are needed to promptly and effectively implement the Resolution on piloting a digital asset exchange, as well as the scheme on the establishment and development of the carbon market in Vietnam, as approved by the Government and the PM.

The PM also urged conducting a comprehensive review and assessment of the current operations of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promptly identifying difficulties and bottlenecks related to institutions, policies and administrative procedures, in order to propose practical, feasible and effective support measures. Particular attention should be given to studying mechanisms and policies to facilitate SMEs’ access to finance and credit.

It is necessary to expedite the research and completion of the National Investment One-Stop Portal, and report to the PM by February 25.

The SBV was assigned to manage monetary policy in a proactive, flexible, timely and effective manner, closely monitoring inflation, exchange rates, interest rates and liquidity to manage policy tools smoothly, with clear roadmaps, in line with macroeconomic developments and policy objectives. Credit growth should be managed appropriately, transparently announced, and adjusted in line with economic conditions, while ensuring credit flows into production, priority sectors and growth drivers, and controlling risks in vulnerable areas.

Vietnam News Agency-Van Nguyen

Vietnam’s GDP targets for the next five years and beyond will require the restructuring of its capital market given the ongoing financial constraints.

Under government targets, Vietnam is aiming to reach a GDP figure of $800 billion by 2030, translating to roughly $8,000 per capita. To do so, the country will need to sustain double-digit GDP growth throughout the 2026-2030 period. Against that backdrop, capital market restructuring is emerging as a critical lever for achieving such growth.

Experts have noted that the banking system is under mounting strain as credit continues to shoulder most of the economy’s financing needs. Constraints ranging from a limited supply of investment products to gaps in information transparency and the national credit rating are preventing the market from maturing as it should.

Financial imbalances

Analysts note that if the share of private sector investment remains steady at around 40 per cent of GDP, total private investment would need to be in the range of $250 billion to $300 billion per year; far beyond what the commercial banking system can supply. In this context, developing the domestic capital market and attracting foreign portfolio investment, particularly through the debt market and corporate bonds, has become critical.

Data from FiinRatings show that the ratio of short-term debt to total outstanding debt among listed companies rose sharply during 2023-2024, surpassing 60 per cent. Among the 50 largest listed firms by assets, the ratio reached roughly 45 per cent in 2024 - significantly higher than in regional markets such as Thailand (12 per cent), Malaysia (13.5 per cent), the Philippines (17 per cent), and Indonesia (26.5 per cent).

Growing dependence on short-term borrowing has heightened refinancing risks across the financial market, especially amid unpredictable interest rate movements.

To support economic growth, the State Bank of Vietnam has been cutting policy rates since 2022 and maintaining a low interest rate environment to improve access to credit for households and businesses. However, low rates have also made savings less attractive, causing deposit growth to lag credit growth for more than three years.

However, the downside of credit expanding faster than deposits is heightened liquidity risk and greater maturity mismatches in the banking system. “When lending growth exceeds deposit growth, pressures on capital adequacy and liquidity buffers inevitably increase,” said Mr. Sacha Dray, Economist at the World Bank in Vietnam.

Mr. Dray also warned of accumulating credit risks if capital flows are not allocated efficiently or if the economy’s capacity to absorb capital remains uneven. “These factors make it essential to strengthen risk management capacity within the banking system, while adding complementary tools to sustain financial stability and support long-term economic growth,” he emphasized.

Financial statements from listed banks show that as of the third quarter of 2025, the loan-to-deposit ratio had climbed to its highest level in five years, underscoring the mounting liquidity pressure across the system.

Significant barriers

Beyond the challenges within the banking system, the capital market is also confronting significant barriers in attracting international investment. Historically, foreign inflows into Vietnam’s stock market have come mainly from South Korea and Taiwan (China), but whether Vietnam can draw capital from regions with lower risk appetite, such as the US, Europe, and the UK, remains in question.

A shortage of investable products, in both quantity and quality, is seen as a chronic issue not only for the equity market but for the debt market more broadly. The investable universe includes not only equities and corporate bonds but also government bonds and money market instruments.

Bond funds typically manage assets far larger than equity funds. Yet a major obstacle preventing their participation in Vietnam is the lack of suitable investment products. Each year, the market records only about 300-400 corporate bond issuances, most of them private placements executed on a deal-by-deal basis. This approach works only for small funds or investors allocating a very limited share to Vietnamese debt.

In terms of quality, despite notable progress in information transparency, the market still has significant gaps to fill. Credit ratings remain far from widespread, and intermediary products such as bond guarantees are largely absent - tools essential for attracting large institutional investors.

In reality, many global debt funds managing hundreds of billions or even trillions of dollars operate with only a few dozen staff. They run portfolios using standardized methods and rely heavily on credit ratings for capital allocation decisions. These funds do not have the capacity to manually evaluate individual projects, yet Vietnam’s bond market still operates on a bespoke, deal-specific structure that requires exactly that.

Another major barrier is Vietnam’s sovereign credit rating, which remains at speculative grade, making the country less appealing to major financial institutions. The situation mirrors Vietnam’s equity market, which has not yet been upgraded to emerging market status. Without such upgrades, many foreign mutual funds and sovereign funds are unable to allocate capital to Vietnamese debt, regardless of its long-term growth prospects.

According to analysts, achieving a higher sovereign rating will require Vietnam not only to strengthen macro-economic fundamentals and manage foreign-currency public debt, but also to ensure banking system stability, improve the balance of payments, particularly foreign exchange reserves, and enhance transparency towards global markets.

VET-Ky Phong

The proposal includes adding continuous emergency lanes and a lighting system to alleviate congestion, enhance traffic safety, and meet growing transportation demands.

The Thanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee in central Vietnam submitted a document to the Ministry of Construction, requesting a report to the Prime Minister regarding the completion of the North-South Expressway segment passing through the province to its full design scale, according to a report by Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

The province proposed an investment to expand nearly 100km of the Eastern North-South Expressway to six lanes. The segment consists of three component projects: Mai Son – National Highway 45, National Highway 45 – Nghi Son, and Nghi Son – Dien Chau.

The proposal includes adding continuous emergency lanes and a lighting system to alleviate congestion, enhance traffic safety, and meet growing transportation demands.

These sections have currently completed Phase 1 with a four-lane scale, featuring a 17-meter-wide roadbed and a 16-meter-wide pavement. While these sections have significantly reduced travel time between Hanoi, Thanh Hoa, and other provinces, they are already facing limitations.

To maximize investment efficiency and support local socio-economic development, Thanh Hoa province has allocated nearly VND9 trillion (over $347 million) from its local budget to construct five roads connecting to seven interchanges on the expressway. To date, three of these five connecting roads have been put into operation, leading to a surge in traffic volume on the expressway segment, with figures expected to rise further once the remaining two roads are completed.

Furthermore, the province pointed out that the current limited four-lane scale and discontinuous emergency lanes (which are short and narrow, making them unsafe for large trucks to pull over) have created significant inadequacies. These limitations hinder rescue and recovery efforts and pose high risks for vehicles traveling at high speeds.

A tragic and particularly serious traffic accident on January 14, 2026, at Km 334+300 in Dong Tien Commune, served as a grim example of these dangers, resulting in heavy losses of life and property.

One of the primary causes of such accidents is that actual traffic volume has already exceeded the road’s capacity, while the current infrastructure fails to meet safety requirements.

VOV-

Often referred to as "Vietnam’s second Da Lat," Mang Den is expected to become a key driver for the socio-economic growth of central Quang Ngai Province.

The Quang Ngai Department of Construction has announced that the province has signed agreements with investors to implement three major urban development projects in Mang Den commune, with a total investment capital of VND27 trillion (over $1 billion).

Accordingly, Urban Area No. 1 will be developed by Sun World Group Co., Ltd. . Spanning over 264 ha, the project is designed to accommodate a population of more than 7,700 people.

With a total investment of over VND6.7 trillion (over $258 million), the project focuses on developing synchronous technical and social infrastructure while preserving the ecological space and natural landscape characteristic of Mang Den. The project is expected to be completed after nearly 9 years of construction.

Urban areas No. 4 and 5 will be developed by Nam Viet Infrastructure Management Co., Ltd. and its partners. Notably, Urban Area No. 4, covering over 247 ha, holds the largest investment share among the three projects.

It is expected to play a crucial role in establishing modern urban functional zones with a diverse range of real estate products. The project aims to serve a population of over 11,400 people with an implementation period of more than 10 years.

Meanwhile, Urban Area No. 5 covers more than 276 ha with a projected population of over 30,000 people and a total investment of approximately VND9.8 trillion (nearly $377 million). Once completed, this project will help finalize the urban space and create a seamless link between functional zones within Mang Den.

Mang Den (part of the former province of Kon Tum that had been merged with Quang Ngai, since July 1, 2025) has been earmarked for development as a center for eco-tourism, luxury resorts, and unique cultural experiences in the Northern Central Highlands.

Following its administrative merger with Quang Ngai Province, these urban projects are expected to complete the local infrastructure and create a "magnet" for further tourism investment.

Often referred to as "Vietnam’s second Da Lat," Mang Den is expected to become a key driver for the socio-economic growth of Quang Ngai Province.

Vneconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

The IP, covering 180ha, requiring an estimated investment capital of over VND2.2 trillion ($84 million).

Singapore Urban and Industrial Park Development JSC on January 6 started construction of the first phase of Hai Long Industrial Park (VSIP Nam Dinh) in northern Ninh Binh province.

The project, covering around 180 hectares in Giao Binh and Giao Hung communes, requires an estimated investment capital of over VND2.2 trillion ($84 million), invested by the Vietnam - Singapore Urban and Industrial Park Development Joint Stock Company.

The IP boasts a favourable location, situated at the intersection of new strategic infrastructure systems: the coastal road, the Nam Dinh - Lac Quan road, the Ninh Binh - Hai Phong expressway, providing convenient access to the Lach Huyen port system, Cat Bi International Airport, and other amenities in the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the project benefits from connections with other industrial centers within and outside the province, optimizing the supply chain and increasing benefits for investors.

VSIP Nam Dinh Industrial Park is oriented towards development as a low-carbon industrial park, targeting investors in light industries that apply advanced science and technology and do not cause environmental pollution. These include mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, supporting industries, household appliances, garment production, and food processing.

The entire infrastructure system of the IP is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2027.

VnEconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Another core component of the Plan is to increase the mobilization of non-budget resources through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and the socialization of investment.

The People’s Committee of Quang Tri Province has officially issued a new Action Plan focused on mobilizing investment resources into clean energy and services, aiming to establish these sectors as the primary engines of economic growth for the upcoming period.

According to the Plan, the loclaity will prioritize the allocation of mid-term and annual public investment capital for transport, logistics, urban, tourism, and social infrastructure projects. These projects are designed to connect the province's developmental spaces following administrative mergers.

These initiatives are identified as vital pillars to expand development opportunities, enhance intra-provincial and regional connectivity, and create a foundation for attracting investment and ensuring sustainable socio-economic development.

Alongside public investment, the Provincial People’s Committee has directed the proactive integration of various capital sources to build and finalize socio-economic infrastructure tied to human resource development. Infrastructure investment will not only focus on technical works but will also be aligned with improving the quality of the workforce to meet the demands of high-potential and advantageous sectors.

Another core component of the Plan is to increase the mobilization of non-budget resources through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and the socialization of investment.

Simultaneously, Quang Tri will step up efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Official Development Assistance (ODA), and preferential credit to implement key infrastructure projects, particularly in energy, logistics, tourism, and services.

In addition to infrastructure, the Plan places a strong emphasis on accelerating digital transformation in state management. Accordingly, the province will thoroughly apply digital solutions to provide comprehensive online public services for administrative procedures related to investment and land, ensuring a seamless, transparent, and efficient process.

The ultimate goal is to progressively develop Quang Tri into a hub for clean energy, tourism, and new services in the Central region. Looking toward 2045, Quang Tri strives to become a well-developed province, holding a prominent national position as a center for energy, logistics, and tourism.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn