This collaboration aims to attract and train high-quality human resources while simultaneously promoting technology transfer.

The Da Nang Semiconductor AI Center (DSAC) has hosted a conference to connect enterprises within the semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors.

The conference served not only as a networking platform for businesses but also as a vital opportunity to shape the future of the technology industry in the central city of Da Nang.

A primary objective of the event was to strengthen the link between educational institutions, research institutes, and enterprises. This collaboration aims to attract and train high-quality human resources while simultaneously promoting technology transfer.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Le Son Phong, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of the "Triple Helix" model—connecting the State, academia, and industry.

He said that this strategy is designed to align vocational training with practical demands and bridge the gap between research, application, and the market. This represents a significant milestone in developing the city’s operational model and connecting technology supply and demand.

According to reports presented at the conference, Da Nang focused heavily on the semiconductor and AI sectors in 2025, identifying them as "foundational technologies" that play a pioneering role in digital transformation and serve as engines for economic growth.

The city implements a range of policies, programs, and activities aimed at boosting international cooperation; expanding partnerships with both domestic and foreign enterprises; strengthening ties between schools, institutes, and the private sector to cultivate a high-tier workforce; and accelerating technology transfer to perfect and expand the semiconductor and AI ecosystem in the city.

Vneconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

Currently, the northern province hosts eight Singaporean-invested projects with a total registered capital of over $450 million, primarily in garments, electronic components, and industrial park infrastructure.

Singapore will continue to expand its cooperation and investment in Ninh Binh, focusing on high-potential sectors such as tourism, industrial manufacturing, and the maritime economy.

Singaporean Ambassador to Vietnam,H.E. Rajpal Singh, said during a meeting with the Chairman of the Ninh Binh Provincial People’s Committee, Mr. Tran Huy Tuan, on February 5.

The  ambassador noted that the Hai Long Industrial Park (VSIP Nam Dinh) Phase 1 is the 22nd VSIP project to be implemented in Vietnam, reflecting Singapore’s long-term commitment to partnering with Vietnamese localities for socio-economic development. In the coming time, Singapore will continue to encourage its businesses to explore opportunities in Ninh Binh—a province recognized for its significant development potential and favorable investment climate.

Mr. Tuan, for his part, said the localitty expects to increase delegation exchanges and learn from Singapore’s expertise in urban management, high-tech agriculture, and tourism. 

The Chairman of the provincial People's Committee highlighted that Ninh Binh has maintained stable growth, with its economic structure shifting positively toward industry, construction, and services. Since 2022, the province has been budget-independent. It is gradually establishing itself as a major national automotive manufacturing hub while developing ecosystems for supporting industries, electronics, and manufacturing.

In 2025, Ninh Binh achieved an economic growth rate of 10.65%, ranking 3rd among 34 provinces and cities surveyed and exceeding the target set by the Prime Minister. The investment and business sector recorded positive signals, with 293 newly licensed projects, 508 adjusted projects, and 4,914 newly established enterprises with a total registered capital of VND115.7 trillion (over $4.45 billion).

Highly valuing the role of foreign investors, Mr. Tuan noted that Ninh Binh has attracted numerous projects from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and others. Currently, the province hosts eight Singaporean-invested projects with a total registered capital of over $450 million, primarily in garments, electronic components, and industrial park infrastructure. Notably, the upcoming VSIP Ninh Binh project is expected to create a breakthrough in attracting high-quality FDI, following the success of the VSIP model in other localities.

Alongside industrial development, tourism remains a vital pillar in Ninh Binh’s long-term development strategy, he said.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Foreign direct investment showing strong momentum in the central city, contributing $28.95 million, up 6.4 times year-on-year.

Central Da Nang City attracted more than VND6.18 trillion ($236 million) in investment in January, a 2.6-fold increase compared to the same period last year, according to local authorities.

During the month, the city licensed 11 new projects with total registered capital of VND2.703 trillion ($102 million).

Foreign direct investment (FDI) showed strong momentum, contributing $28.95 million in the first month of the year, up 6.4 times year-on-year. This included 10 newly licensed FDI projects with combined capital of $0.51 million, as well as eight existing FDI projects, with an additional investment capital  of $23.75 million.

In the domestic sector, authorities approved capital increases for three projects, with total additional investment of VND3.479 trillion ($132.8 million).

Although the number of projects adjusting their capital declined compared to the same period in 2025, the scale of additional investment rose 38%, reflecting a trend toward expanding the scale and strengthening resources for ongoing projects. The figures signal continued investor confidence and a favourable investment climate in the city.

VnEconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

The AGILE project is designed with a five-year vision, focusing on strengthening the ecosystem for climate-related businesses, with a specific priority on gender-integrated and inclusive enterprises.

Against the backdrop of unprecedented climate change challenges facing the global economy and that of Vietnam in particular, the Vietnamese Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, has officially launched the "Advancing Growth, Innovation and Leadership for Enterprises" (AGILE) project.

The AGILE project is designed with a five-year vision, focusing on strengthening the ecosystem for climate-related businesses, with a specific priority on gender-integrated and inclusive enterprises.

The project structure revolves around three main components:

First, strengthening the support ecosystem by focusing on capacity building for Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) and intermediaries. The goal is to empower these entities to provide high-quality advisory and training services to climate businesses. AGILE places a particular emphasis on enterprises operating in high-risk climate areas, such as the Mekong Delta and coastal regions, as well as women-led businesses.

Second, unlocking capital by deploying innovative financial mechanisms to boost investment in climate-impact enterprises. A highlight of this component is the development of a “Climate Tech Accelerator Track”—a specialized acceleration pathway for clean technology companies to help them access international investors.

Third, enhancing investor capacity. The project will work with investment funds and banks to integrate gender factors and climate metrics into their investment appraisal processes. This ensures that capital flows not only generate profit but also create positive social and environmental impacts.

AGILE will provide non-refundable grants (up to CAD150,000 or nearly $110,000) for high-risk stages of business development. These grants act as "seed capital," helping businesses perfect their technology, test business models, or prepare for fundraising. A prerequisite for this support is that the enterprise must mobilize matching funds from the private sector (commercial capital) at an expected ratio of up to 5:1.

Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam, H.E. Jim Nickel, stated that the Official Development Assistance (ODA) funds within the AGILE project will not operate in a traditional manner but will instead serve as a catalyst. The objective is to utilize this capital to share risks, thereby attracting much larger flows of private investment into the climate adaptation sector.

Vneconomy-Anh Nhi

Participants listened to an important address by Party General Secretary To Lam, who outlined orientations, tasks and requirements for the Resolution implementation to turn it into action, action into results, and results into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

A national conference co-organised by the Politburo and the Secretariat of the Party Central Committee to disseminate and implement the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress concluded on February 7 afternoon.

Participants listened to an important address by Party General Secretary To Lam, who outlined orientations, tasks and requirements for the Resolution implementation to turn it into action, action into results, and results into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

Responding to the General Secretary’s guidance, Mr. Trinh Van Quyet, Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of its Commission for Information, Education and Mass Mobilisation, underlined that immediately after the conference, Party committees and organisations at all levels must continue disseminating the Resolution, strengthen leadership and direction, and promptly organise implementation in an action-oriented manner.

He also stressed the need to promote strategic autonomy, self-reliance and confidence in advancing into the nation’s new era, creating a strong shift from “studying and disseminating” to “deep understanding, proper action and thorough implementation”.

Mr. Quyet noted that efforts should combine traditional communication methods with the effective application of science, technology and digital transformation while strengthening inspection and supervision to ensure practical effectiveness in dissemination, learning and implementation, with the determination to successfully Realise the resolution.

The hybrid event, with the main venue at the Dien Hong Hall of the National Assembly building, was connected with 31,097 sites of central agencies, provincial and commune-level localities, and Party organisations of the armed forces and businesses nationwide via videoconferencing, with more than 1.9 million participants. It was also broadcast live by Vietnam Television and Radio the Voice of Vietnam, as well as on digital platforms.

Through 10 topics, the conference focused on the key contents and new points in the documents of the 14th National Party Congress.

These topics include some new and core issues and experiences during 40 years of Doi moi (Renewal) identified in the documents of the 14th National Party Congress; the action plan for implementing the Congress Resolution; the review report on the Party building during the 13th National Congress term and on the 15-year implementation of the Party Statutes (2011–2025), directions, tasks, and measures for the Party building and the implementation of the Party Statutes during the 14th National Congress term; and an assessment of the five-year implementation of the 10-year socio-economic development strategy for 2021–2030 and the socio-economic development plan for 2026–2030.

Other items on the agenda include the promotion of the strength of great national solidarity in the cause of national construction, development and defence in the new era; the Congress’s new mindset and understanding on national defence and safeguarding; the Congress’s new mindset and understanding on national security; and the development of foreign relations in the new era commensurate with the country’s historical and cultural stature and position.

The remaining topics are the outline reviewing 100 years of the Party's leadership over the Vietnamese revolution (1930–2030), orientation for leadership over national development in the next 100 years (2030–2130) and a review of the 40-year implementation of the Platform on national construction during the transitional period to socialism; and the reform of the inspection and supervision work to help strengthen discipline and order to meet the requirements of tasks in the new context in accordance with the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress. - (VNA)

VNA-

Addressing the national conference held on February 7 to disseminate and implement the resolution of the 14th National Party Congress, the Party leader underlined that in the new stage of development, discipline and responsibility must be placed first.

Party General Secretary To Lam has called for a consistent and resolute shift in mindset from talk to action and from awareness to implementation to soon translate the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress into tangible outcomes.

Addressing the national conference held on February 7 to disseminate and implement the Congress Resolution, the General Secretary stressed that all the country’s achievements have consistently been associated with periods in which correct policies were carried out resolutely and effectively.

Reflecting on 80 years of national development, particularly the four decades of Doi moi (renewal), the Party leader affirmed that the Party’s decision to pursue Doi moi was historically significant and forward-looking, grounded in the country’s realities and in the political resolve of a genuine revolutionary Party willing to confront the truth and innovate for the benefit of the people and the nation.

He stressed that the current task is not only to reaffirm the correctness of the path of Doi moi, but more importantly to pursue stronger, more decisive and more comprehensive innovation in development thinking, growth model and, in particular, implementation capacity.

The most fundamental bottleneck today lies not in policy direction but in the ability to translate policy into tangible development outcomes, he observed.

To meet the growing requirements of national development in the new period, General Secretary Lam requested a consistent and resolute shift in mindset from talk to action, and from awareness to implementation.

The congress documents highlight the need to firmly address shortcomings such as “talking more than doing”, “speaking well but performing poorly”, and “failing to match words with actions”, while putting an end to bureaucratic and formalistic working practices.

Each Party committee, Party organisation, cadre, and Party member, particularly leaders, must demonstrate a high sense of responsibility and take the lead in turning policies into reality, he stated.

The Resolution of the 14th Congress sets strategic development goals for the new period and demands stronger capacity to translate these goals into specific and measurable results that directly benefit the people.

In this regard, the General Secretary identified five decisive priorities in implementing the Resolution. They are improving the capacity to institutionalise the Resolution into policies and laws; reforming implementation methods and strengthening enforcement discipline; taking development effectiveness and public satisfaction as the highest measure of success; building a contingent of cadres capable of organising implementation and daring to think, act, and bear responsibility for the common good; and linking the Congress implementation with the reform of the Party's leadership methodology and the improvement of national governance efficiency.

He underlined that in the new stage of development, discipline and responsibility must be placed first. Task allocation must be accompanied by clear mechanisms for inspection, evaluation and accountability.

Organisational and personnel weaknesses must not be allowed to slow national progress, he said, noting that time is a vital and non-renewable development resource, and delays in implementation risk wasting resources and missing opportunities for development.

The country’s future development, he added, will depend greatly on the sense of responsibility, political resolve and capacity for action of each Party committee, Party organisation, cadre and Party member, especially those in leadership positions, the leader stated.

He requested that following the conference, Party committees, authorities, the Vietnam Fatherland Front committees and socio-political organisations promptly translate the Resolution into action plans suited to their functions and practical conditions, identify immediate priorities and breakthrough tasks, and ensure that commitments are followed through with concrete results. – (VNA)

-

The plan requiring an estimated investment capital of more than VND3.2 quadrillion ($123 billion).

Vietnam plans to spend more than VND3.2 quadrillion ($123 billion) to expand its expressway network to nearly 9,000km by 2050, under a long-term infrastructure blueprint recently approved  by the Ministry of Construction, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

By mid-century, the expressway system is expected to include 43 routes, stretching about 8,920km in total.

At the centre of the network is the north-south spine, which will run on two parallel tracks - an eastern coastal expressway of about 2,065km and a western inland route extending roughly 1,205km.

Regionally, northern Vietnam is set to host 14 expressway routes, adding up to around 2,242km.

The central region and the Central Highlands will account for 11 routes, or about 1,353km, while the south will have a similar number of routes covering roughly 1,342km.

Large cities will see major ring-road expansions. Hanoi plans to operate three ring roads by 2050, with a combined length of about 417km. Ho Chi Minh City will have two, totalling nearly 299km. The blueprint also looks beyond expressways.

By 2050, the national highway system is expected to include 172 routes with a combined length of more than 28,600km. The main North–South arteries will comprise National Highway 1, which runs about 2,218km, and the Ho Chi Minh Road, at roughly 1,894km.

Vietnam Nam News Agency- Nguyễn Khánh Vân

This urban railway axis is identified as the "backbone" infrastructure of central Da Nang city, designed to establish seamless connectivity and lay the foundation for the city’s long-term development.

Da Nang City in central Vietnam is currently expediting administrative procedures to prepare for the investment of an urban railway project linking it and  Hoi An.

The project has garnered significant interest from two of Vietnam’s major corporate players: Truong Hai Group (THACO) and Deo Ca Group.

In 2025, the Da Nang Department of Finance issued Official Dispatch No. 4038/STC-DAĐTC, reporting to the municipal People's Committee on matters regarding the approval for investors to draft project proposals for the Da Nang - Hoi An Urban Railway under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

This urban railway axis is identified as the "backbone" infrastructure of Da Nang, designed to establish seamless connectivity and lay the foundation for the city’s long-term development. As part of this vision, Da Nang plans to implement investment for three specific rail segments:

Segment 1 connects Da Nang city center with the Hoi An Ancient Town. This route will span approximately 24.7km of Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and 6.5km of Light Rail Transit (LRT), with a total estimated investment of VND47.7 trillion (over $1.8 billion).

Segement 2 connects the projected National High-Speed Rail Station to the existing Da Nang Station. This segment will feature 12km of LRT with an estimated cost of VND15.7 trillion ($605 million).

Segment 3 connects Hoi An to Chu Lai (Nui Thanh). This is the longest stretch, covering approximately 70km with a total estimated budget of VND111.6 trillion ($4.47 billion).

The urban railway system is expected to provide synchronous and smooth connectivity across functional spaces and land along the eastern coastal strip and the coastal plains of Da Nang.

Beyond improving local transit, the project will link Da Nang’s city center with the southern regions of the former Quang Nam province (now part of Da Nang). Specifically, it aims to synchronize strategic infrastructure clusters in both the north and south of the city, fostering Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). 

Vneconomy-Ngô Anh Văn

Regarding the sectoral structure of these new projects, processing and manufacturing led the way with $1.05 billion, accounting for 70.8% of the new capital, while the real estate business followed with $243.2 million, or 16.3%.

As of January 31, 2026, total registered FDI capital reached $2.58 billion, a 40.6% decrease compared to the same period last year, according to data from the National Statistics Office.

However, the investment landscape still showed several positive highlights, particularly in disbursement capacity and the growth of new projects.

Specifically, realized FDI capital was estimated at $1.68 billion, up 11.3% over the same period in 2025. This figure represents a record high for January over the five-year period from 2022 to 2026. The processing and manufacturing industry remained the primary driver, accounting for 82.5% of total realized capital at $1.39 billion, followed by real estate sector, at $110.2 million and electricity and gas production and distribution at $66.6 million.

In contrast to the overall decline in total registrations, newly registered capital saw robust growth. There were 349 newly licensed projects, a 23.8% increase year-on-year, with total registered capital reaching $1.49 billion, up 15.7%.

Regarding the sectoral structure of these new projects, processing and manufacturing led the way with $1.05 billion, accounting for 70.8% of the new capital, while the real estate business followed with $243.2 million, or 16.3%.

During the period, 35 countries and territories invested in new projects in Vietnam. Singapore was the largest investor with total newly registered capital reaching $906.1 million, accounting for 60.9% of the total. Other major contributors included mainland China with $169.6 million (11.4%), Japan with $140.8 million (9.5%), the United States with $85.5 million (5.7%), and Hong Kong (China) with $66.1 million (4.4%).

Vneconomy-Anh Nhi

Joint venture between Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure marks a strategic expansion to explore new development opportunities in Vietnam's real estate market.

Frasers Property, a leading Singapore-based multinational real estate investor, developer, and operator, has strengthened its long-term collaboration with GELEX Infrastructure - a key subsidiary of Vietnam’s prominent GELEX Group - through a new proposed joint venture (JV) to target real estate growth market in Vietnam.

Under the conditional agreement, Frasers Property will hold a controlling 51 per cent stake in the Proposed JV, with GELEX Infrastructure owning the remaining 49 per cent. The partnership aims to capitalize on Vietnam’s growing demand for premium residential properties, as well as other real estate sectors, amid rapid urbanization and economic expansion.

The collaboration builds on a successful track record established over recent years. Since their initial partnership, Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure have jointly developed five industrial and logistics projects totaling approximately 100 hectares in strategic northern locations such as Bac Ninh, Quang Ninh, and Hung Yen. These projects, developed under Frasers Property’s Premium Estates concept, emphasize sustainability and have earned international accreditations in green building standards. They have attracted significant interest from global tenants seeking future-ready, environmentally responsible facilities.

Mr. Edwin Tan, Deputy CEO of Frasers Property Vietnam and Managing Director for Industrial Logistics in Southeast Asia, highlighted the  relationship: “Our partnership with GELEX Infrastructure is built on a long-standing relationship and proven track record, including multiple premium industrial developments in Vietnam. This Proposed JV marks the next phase in our strategic collaboration, extending our partnership into other real estate asset classes that align with our long-term development objectives.”

In line with Frasers Property’s strategy for emerging markets, Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure remain focused on delivering well-planned, well-designed, and high-quality developments that contribute to sustainable urban and economic progress for Vietnam and the region.

Mr. Luong Thanh Tung, General Director of GELEX Infrastructure, emphasized the broader vision: “More than a strategic collaboration, this partnership unites expertise and ambition to set a new benchmark for the industry. By leveraging our combined strengths, we are not only raising the industry standard but also paving the way for sustainable, long-term growth.”

The Proposed JV’s first premium residential project is ANmaison, situated on a rare and valuable land parcel at 226 Le Lai Street in the city’s historic urban core - one of Hai Phong’s most established central thoroughfares. The project is being developed to international standards.

ANmaison features thoughtful master planning, distinctive Indochine-inspired architecture, and sustainable construction practices. Residents will enjoy a rare green living experience in an urban setting, with direct access to a developing 120-hectare riverside park that is progressing in parallel with the project.

ANmaison - first residential project developed by Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure

Another major project is already in the pipeline: a large-scale integrated residential development spanning 113 hectares in Dong Nai province. Strategically positioned at a key infrastructure hub in the eastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, the development will benefit from excellent regional transport links and proximity to the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport. It aims to meet surging demand for high-quality housing, commercial spaces, and supporting services in Vietnam’s fast-growing southern economic corridor.

The expanded partnership between Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure reflects a deliberate, long-term approach to growth in Vietnam’s real estate market. By merging international best practices with local insight, Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure are well-positioned to create lasting value for communities, deliver resilient urban environments, and support Vietnam’s continued economic and urban development.

As Vietnam attracts sustained foreign investment and accelerates its urbanization process, responsible developers like these two partners play a vital role in shaping liveable, sustainable cities for the future.

-Linh San

At the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on their respective development goals and orientations, with a view to enhancing coordination and joint development between Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as among Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

General Secretary  of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam held summit meeting with President of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) Hun Sen in Phnom Penh on February 6, following the official welcome ceremony for the former at the Royal Palace earlier the same day, according to a report from the Government News.

During the meeting, General Secretary To Lam praised the remarkable achievements Cambodia has gained in recent years. He expressed his confidence that under the reign of King Norodom Sihamoni, the leadership of the Senate, National Assembly and Government, and the unity of the Cambodian people, Cambodia will continue to develop robustly, improve living standards, and successfully build a peaceful, harmonious and cooperative nation with sustainable development.

The Vietnamese Party leader briefed Hun Sen on Vietnam's current situation and the outcomes of the 14th National Party Congress. He expressed sincere gratitude for the enduring support of the late King Norodom Sihanouk, Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, King Norodom Sihamoni and the Cambodian people during Vietnam's struggle for national independence and in its current process of national construction and defense.

In reply, President Hun Sen warmly welcomed General Secretary Lam and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation on their state visit to Cambodia, which took place shortly after the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). He emphasized that the visit demonstrated the importance the CPV and Vietnamese leaders attach to the good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation and long-term sustainability between the two countries.

Mr. Hun Sen congratulated Vietnam on the successful organization of the 14th National Party Congress and General Secretary Lam on his re-election. He expressed confidence that under the leadership of the CPV, Vietnam would continue to achieve major accomplishments and fulfil the goals set by the Party, contributing to regional and global development.

He reaffirmed that Cambodia values and seeks to further strengthen bilateral relations, commended Vietnam's socio-economic achievements, and expressed his hope that both sides would further open their markets to deepen economic cooperation and linkages.

The two sides also exchanged views on their respective development goals and orientations, with a view to enhancing coordination and joint development between Viet Nam and Cambodia, as well as among Viet Nam, Cambodia and Laos.

Also on February 6 morning, General Secretary Lam paid a courtesy call on Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk at the Royal Palace.

VGP-Van Nguyen

Manufacturing and processing output increasing 23.6% from a year earlier, accounting for the bulk of overall growth.

Vietnam’s industrial production index (IIP) in January posted a strong growth of 21.5% compared to the same period last year, according to the National Statistics Office.

Manufacturing and processing output rose 23.6% from a year earlier, accounting for the bulk of overall growth. Electricity generation and distribution increased 14.1%, while water supply and waste treatment activities climbed 13.6%. Mining output was up 10.3%.

Several key industrial segments recorded sharp gains, reflecting stronger domestic and overseas demand. Output of non-metallic mineral products jumped 41.9% from a year earlier, followed by motor vehicle production, up 36.6%, and basic metals, up 35.4%. Chemical products rose 35.2%, paper and paper products gained 31.9%, and beverage production increased 26.1%.

Electronics-related manufacturing also showed solid momentum, with output of electronic products, computers and optical products rising 20.9%, while electrical equipment climbed 21.1%. Garment production rose 25.3%, and food processing increased 17.7%.

Industrial production rose in all 34 provinces and cities, with many localities posting strong gains driven by manufacturing and power generation.

VnEconomy-Huyền Vy

Economic, trade and investment partnership between the two countries recorded strong growth, with bilateral trade reaching $11.33 billion in 2025, up 11.7% from 2024.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh on February 6 to review Vietnam-Cambodia cooperation and discuss measures to further advance bilateral relations.

PM Chinh congratulated the Cambodian Government, led by PM Hun Manet, on its significant achievements in national construction and development, expressing his confidence that Cambodia will continue to record further successes in the time ahead.

PM Hun Manet congratulated Vietnam on the success of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), describing it as vivid evidence of the Party’s strong unity and consensus, as well as the Vietnamese people’s firm confidence in the Party’s leadership. He voiced his belief that, under the sound leadership of the CPV headed by General Secretary To Lam, Vietnam will achieve double-digit growth, realise its goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030, and a developed socialist country with high income by 2045.

The two PMs noted that over the past year, the two governments have effectively implemented the conclusions of the meetings in February 2025 between the CPV and the Cambodian People's Party (CPP), and among the CPV, the CPP and the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), proactively and efficiently rolling out cooperation plans and achieving substantive results. Political and diplomatic relations have continued to be strengthened, while bilateral cooperation mechanisms have operated effectively, they said.

Defence and security cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia has become increasingly substantive, while economic, trade and investment partnership recorded strong growth, with bilateral trade reaching 11.33 billion USD in 2025, up 11.7% from 2024.

Positive progress has also been made in border cooperation, reflecting both sides’ goodwill and determination to build a border of peace, friendship, stability, cooperation and development. Cooperation in education, training, health care, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges has further been promoted, the PMs noted.

While acknowledging the benefits of opening border gates, the two PMs stressed the need for close coordination in border management to ensure security and order, prevent cross-border crimes and smuggling, and address illegal activities. They agreed to expedite the signing of an agreement on border gate management and an agreement on border management regulations to facilitate border trade and meet development goals in the new period.

Building on existing achievements and the outcomes of recent bilateral and trilateral meetings among the CPV, CPP and LPRP as well as the meeting of the Vietnamese, Lao and Cambodian PMs, the two governments will further deepen cooperation by enhancing high-level contacts and exchanges at all levels and across all channels, effectively utilising bilateral cooperation mechanisms, strengthening defence and security cooperation, and adhering to the principle of not allowing hostile forces to use one country’s territory against the other. They also agreed to maintain border security and combat transnational crimes.

The two leaders agreed to accelerate efforts to finalise the project on a new economic cooperation mechanism linking the Vietnamese and Cambodian economies through 2035, with a vision to 2050, study plans for expressway connectivity between Ho Chi Minh City/Moc Bai and Bavet/Phnom Penh, and promote cooperation in agricultural product trade and processing.

Emphasising the importance of maintaining a peaceful, stable and sustainably developing border, the two PMs affirmed their commitments to promptly and appropriately addressing emerging issues, including environmental protection in border areas. They agreed to push forward negotiations to resolve the remaining approximately 16% of the land border yet to be demarcated and to strengthen coordination in managing both land and maritime borders in a spirit of mutual understanding and respect, in line with international law.

The two sides reaffirmed their determination to preserve, nurture and further strengthen the traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation and solidarity between Vietnam and Cambodia, regarding this relationship as a valuable asset of both nations, pledging to pass it on to future generations for the long-term interests of their people and for regional peace, stability and sustainable development.

On this occasion, PM Chinh called on Cambodia to continue paying attention to resolving legal status issues for people of Vietnamese origin in Cambodia, enabling them to stabilise their lives and contribute positively to Cambodia’s prosperous development and bilateral friendship. - (VNA)

VNA-

At the invitation of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, His Excellency To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, paid a State Visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia on 6 February 2026.

Vietnam and Cambodia on February 6 issued a joint statement on the occasion of the State visit to Cambodia by General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam.

The following is the full text of the joint statement, released by the Vietnam News Agency:

JOINT STATEMENT

Between  the Socialist Republic of Vietnam  and the Kingdom of Cambodia  on the occasion of the State visit of His Excellency To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, to the Kingdom of Cambodia on 6 February 2026:

1. At the invitation of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, His Excellency To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, paid a State Visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia on 6 February 2026.

2. During the visit, General Secretary To Lam paid a courtesy call on Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk and held a high-level meeting with Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate acting as Head of State. General Secretary To Lam also laid wreaths and paid homage at the Independence Monument, the Monument of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk “Preah Borom Ratanak Kaudh”, the late King Father of Cambodia, and at the Vietnam – Cambodia Friendship Monument.

3. Samdech Techo Hun Sen commended the significant achievements that Vietnam has recorded in the course of national construction, reform and development as well as the country's remarkable accomplishments in socio-economic development of reaching over 8% in economic growth in 2025. Samdech Techo Hun Sen extended warmest congratulations to General Secretary To Lam on the successful conclusion of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and his re-election for second term as General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his best wishes to the Government and the people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the realization of their goals of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030 and becoming a high-income, industrialized country by 2045.

4. General Secretary To Lam commended the remarkable achievements that the Government and the people of Cambodia have achieved under the wise reign of His Majesty the King of Cambodia and the far-sighted leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, particularly in advancing socio-economic development. He expressed his best wishes for Cambodia’s success in realizing its long-term vision of becoming a high-income country by 2050.

5. On the occasion of the visit of General Secretary To Lam, Cambodia’s Leadership appreciated the assistance extended by Vietnam in the field of education, including the Vietnam - Cambodia friendship school in Dangkor District, Phnom Penh, which reflects the spirit of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

6. His Excellency To Lam also had candid discussions with Cambodia’s leadership focusing on further deepening warm and friendly relations and expanding beneficial cooperation between the two countries. They also shared their views on regional and international matters of common interest.

7. The two sides expressed satisfaction with the positive development of the close ties and comprehensive cooperation between Cambodia and Vietnam over the past years, yielding tangible benefits for both peoples. They welcome the sustained momentum of high-level exchanges and engagement across all levels and sectors, which has further strengthened the traditional friendship and expanded bilateral cooperation in a substantive and effective manner.

8. They reiterated their consistent position of attaching special importance to the good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, long-lasting stability relations between Vietnam and Cambodia, committing to supporting and assisting each other for development, peace, stability and prosperity.

9. Against the backdrop of complex regional and global developments, the two sides shared a deeper essential mutual understanding that their good neighborliness and traditional friendship were inseparable and their mutual assistance for shared prosperity equality and peaceful coexistence constituted an everlasting truism shared by the two nations.

10. Reaffirming their commitment to bolster mutual trust and understanding, laying the solid foundation for managing and settling the remaining issues and all differences while maintaining the positive momentum of overall ties, the two sides agreed on the following fundamental principles to manage the issues without affecting their broader bilateral ties while setting new directions toward a more substantive and effective cooperation between the two countries:

Respecting each other's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in each other's internal affairs; and handling all issues with diligence to avoid being taken advantage of, or complicating the situation;

Settling difference through frank and constructive dialogue, earnest and good-intentioned cooperation, anchored in respect for each other's legitimate core interest, building on commonalities while minimizing and narrowing differences;

Enhancing information sharing and fostering timely consultation on matters of common interest, especially issues related to national boundary, communities, cooperation programs and projects;

Maintaining a consensus not to permit any issues, that might affect the overarching relations, comprehensive cooperation or the solidarity and friendship between the two countries; and

Bolstering information exchange and coordination in a constructive and responsible spirit, and handling emerging issues in a timely manner, so as to reinforce trust and sustain a stable, lasting bilateral relationship.

11. The Cambodian side expressed sincere gratitude for the sacrifice of the Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and people in the liberation of the Cambodian people from the genocidal regime of Democratic Kampuchea in the 1970s and 1980s, and the support of Vietnam for Cambodia’s national construction and development. The Vietnamese side expressed sincere gratitude for the sacrifice of the Cambodian people in Vietnam’s past struggle for territorial unification and national independence in the 1960s and 1970s, and Cambodia’s support for Vietnam’s national construction and development. In this respect, the two sides committed to further strengthening this traditional friendship, underscoring that warm relations between Vietnam and Cambodia remained steadfast and unchanged despite the evolving dynamics and complexities of the regional and international landscape.

12. The two sides pledged to harness their complementary strength to bolster bilateral and regional economic integration, particularly in the areas of strategic infrastructure and supply chains connectivity, agriculture and agro- processing, energy and logistics, border economic cooperation; and facilitating the smooth flow of goods, services and investment between the two economies.

13. Encouraged by the recent robust growth in the two-way trade and the commitment towards achieving the agreed bilateral trade target of 20 billion USD in the future, the two sides agreed to further promote and facilitate cross-border trade. The two sides also underscored the importance of the effective implementation of the Arrangement on Bilateral Trade Enhancement 2025-2026, the Agreement on Border Trade and the Agreement on the Transit of Goods as well as trade-related agreements between the two countries.

14. The two sides welcomed the official inauguration of the Meun Chey – Tan Nam International Border Checkpoint on 8 December 2025, and agreed to expedite the early inclusion of this international border checkpoint into the Designated Border Gates for transit, through the signing of the Protocol to Amend the Agreement on the Transit of Goods between the Government of Vietnam and the Government of Cambodia, signed in 2013. The Vietnamese side also agreed to advance the upgrading of the Chrey Thum (Kandal) – Khanh Binh (An Giang) bilateral border checkpoint to an International Border Checkpoint and opening a new inland waterway border checkpoint in Khanh Binh. Both sides also agreed to encourage the competent authorities to fully implement the Agreement between the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Royal Government of Cambodia on Waterway Transportation signed on 17 December 2009 and its amendment in 2019. To this end, both sides encouraged the relevant authorities of the two countries to cooperate closely to simplify the cross-border transport procedures at the International Border Gates. They also agreed to expedite the identification of the connecting point of the Phnom Penh – Bavet – Ho Chi Minh City – Moc Bai Expressway.

15. Driven by the joint efforts to further strengthen economic ties between the two countries, the two sides continued discussions on the joint study of the New Economic Mechanisms to more closely link the economies of Vietnam and Cambodia, building upon and integrating the Master Plan on Vietnam –Cambodia Economic Connectivity to 2030.

16. The two sides pledged to continue improving the investment and business environment, incentivizing and assisting their respective businesses to expand cooperation in areas of potential and complementarity, including telecommunications, agro-processing and agritrade, renewable energy, infrastructure, digital transformation, finance and banking and tourism. The two sides committed to promote investment and trade promotion activities, and endeavor to reach the bilateral trade target of US$20 billion in the near future to match the two countries' potential, scope and comprehensiveness of cooperation.

17. Both sides stressed the importance of defense and security cooperation, pledged to further deepen this collaboration with greater effectiveness, and agreed to intensify relations between the two armed forces, including capacity building. They resolved not to permit any hostile actors to make use of each country's territory to conduct subversion against the other.

18. Both sides emphasised the importance of cooperation in consular protection of citizens of both countries in accordance with the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Vietnam expressed its appreciation to the Kingdom of Cambodia for the consistent support for and non-discrimination against people of Vietnamese origin currently residing in Cambodia over the past years. Both sides agreed to facilitate the other's citizens residing, studying, working and doing business legally within their respective countries.

19. The two sides commended ongoing efforts of the Vietnam – Cambodia, Cambodia – Vietnam Joint Border Commissions to find mutually acceptable solutions to approximately 16% remaining un-demarcated land boundary, with priority given to resolving the 6% related to land exchange, in accordance with all border treaties concluded between the two countries with a view to building a land boundary of peace, stability and development between Vietnam and Cambodia. The two sides agreed to accelerate the process of building, negotiating and signing of the agreement on the management of land border checkpoints and the agreement on the management regime of land boundary to replace the 1983 Agreement on Border Statute in the near future.

The two sides discussed and exchanged views on maritime related issues. Pending maritime delimitation, the two sides are fully committed to respecting and effectively implementing all the relevant border related agreements, including the 1982 Vietnam – Cambodia Agreement on Historical Waters.

20. Both sides agreed to strengthen mutual trust and understanding, stressing the importance of promoting information, communication and education regarding the tradition of bilateral relations within their respective population across all strata, especially among the youth, so that they would have an accurate understanding of the history of the traditional friendship between the two countries. They agreed to strengthen joint efforts to preserve, restore and enhance the Vietnam - Cambodia Friendship Monuments, considering them invaluable historic values that would contribute to the education on such traditions, bolster the social foundation, and advance bilateral relations towards a stable, long-term development trajectory.

21. The two sides agreed to strengthen educational and training links with a long-term outlook, viewing that education and training provide an important bridge connecting their respective youths and fostering mutual understanding, trust and lasting friendship between the two countries' young generation. The two sides committed to facilitating such cooperation to the greatest extent possible, including through the provision of scholarships in accordance with the existing Memorandum of Agreement on Education Cooperation between their respective Ministries of Education.

22. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of public health. Cambodia expressed deep appreciation to Vietnam for the continued provision of the same healthcare and treatment for Cambodian patients in major public hospitals in Ho Chi Minh city and border provinces as applicable to Vietnamese citizens and in accordance with the Vietnamese regulations and Vietnamese hospitals’ payment schemes for uninsured patients.

To further enhance cooperation on healthcare professional, the two sides agreed to discuss the possibility of providing the capacity building for Cambodian medical student studying at Vietnamese medical universities allowing them to continue their clinical practice in Vietnam's hospital after completing their courses, in accordance with Vietnamese laws and regulation.

23. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the areas, including culture, sport, tourism, energy, science and technology, agriculture and fisheries, post, telecommunications and ICT, and digital economy for enhanced partnership, complementarity and shared prosperity. Both sides would make efforts to complete their respective domestic procedures regarding the United Nations Convention on Cybercrime and to promote cooperation in combating cybercrime, recognizing that the Convention’s early entry into force would contribute to fostering regional and international cooperation in this field.

24. The two sides encouraged their respective border provincial authorities to further promote cooperation activities in border trade, culture and arts, education and people-to-people exchange, and to collaborate closely in resolving differences and avoid any activities which may complicate those differences in the spirit of friendship, good neighborliness and mutual interest so as to contribute to promoting socio-economic cooperation and other areas of collaboration between the two countries in accordance with the treaties and agreements between the two countries and the laws and regulations of each country.

25. Both sides reaffirmed the strategic importance strengthening ASEAN Centrality and unity, and the full and effective implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 to realise a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred ASEAN. In this regard, the two sides pledged to work closely with each other and other ASEAN Member States to uphold the shared commitment to maintaining and promoting peace and stability in the region by upholding the purposes and principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, ASEAN Charter, the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) and other ASEAN instruments and international law. The two sides underscored the importance of peaceful dialogue, constructive consultation, confidence-building and self- restraint, the settlement of disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the Charter of the United Nations and the ASEAN Charter, without resorting to the threat or use of force.

26. The two sides agreed to strengthen their close cooperation within the framework of the Mekong River Commission and other relevant mechanisms, and with other countries along the Mekong River and development partners for the sustainable and effective management, utilization, development and conservation of water and related resources of the Mekong River Basin. The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to fully adhere to the 1995 Agreement on the Cooperation for the Sustainable Development of the Mekong River Basin and its Procedures and guidelines. Both sides also agreed to continue to cooperate closely with Mekong subregional countries to leverage Mekong cooperation mechanisms, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and sustainable development in the subregion and the whole region.

27. The two sides reaffirmed ASEAN’s principled position on the South China Sea. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, security, stability, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. Both sides reaffirmed the need to enhance mutual trust and confidence, exercise self-restraint, in the conducts of activities that would complicate the situation, and the need to settle disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety, and looked forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.

28. His Excellency General Secretary To Lam expressed deep gratitude to His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni for the invitation, Cambodian Leaders and the Cambodian people for the warm hospitality extended to the Vietnamese high-level delegation. He cordially extended an invitation to His Majesty the King to pay a State Visit to Vietnam at the convenient opportunity.

Phnom Penh, 6 February 2026.

VNA-

The three PMs agreed to continue adopting policies and measures to facilitate trade, investment and cooperation on a complementary and win-win basis, shifting from expansion in scale to improvement in quality and efficiency.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held a working session with Cambodian PM Hun Manet and Lao PM Sonexay Siphandone in Phnom Penh (Cambodia) on February 6 to implement the outcomes of the meeting among the leaders of the three countries' ruling parties held the same day.

PM Chinh underscored that the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam clearly identified maintaining a peaceful and stable environment as a prerequisite, pursuing fast yet sustainable development, placing people at the centre and as both the driving force and ultimate goal, and attaching great importance to relations with neighbouring countries, particularly the countries with which Vietnam shares close and time-honoured ties forged through shared struggles for national independence and carried forward in today's cause of national construction and defence.

Vietnam will continue to steadfastly pursue the foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of external relations, and treasuring the bonds with neighbouring countries, with priority given to the ties with Cambodia and Laos.

PM Chinh expressed satisfaction that since the high-level bilateral and trilateral Party-to-Party meetings, as well as the visits and meetings of the three countries' key leaders since February 2025, ministries, sectors and localities of the countries have actively coordinated to implement the assigned tasks, with objectives basically fulfilled.

The three PMs welcomed the strong and substantive development of trilateral cooperation, which has helped further consolidate and deepen the traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation among Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

Emphasising the strategic importance of the close bonds, political trust and solidarity among the three countries, they agreed to continue promoting youth exchanges and training for young leaders. They agreed to step up communications about the historical significance and enormous value of the trilateral relations among all strata of society, especially younger generations. Particular importance was attached to upcoming milestones, including the 70th anniversary of Cambodia – Laos relations (June 15, 1956–2026), the 65th anniversary of Vietnam – Laos relations (September 5, 1962–2027) and the 60th anniversary of Vietnam – Cambodia relations (June 24, 1967–2027).

They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination in safeguarding national security and promoting national development, maintaining regular high-level engagements across all channels, enhancing cooperation among localities, particularly border provinces, and increasing people-to-people exchanges. They agreed to effectively implement the signed cooperation mechanisms and agreements, boost information sharing and tighten coordination among the countries' ministries and sectors.

On defence and security, the three Government leaders agreed to step up cooperation in border security protection and the fight against transnational crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking and money laundering. They reiterated the principle of not allowing any individual or force to use one country’s territory to harm another’s security, while jointly building borderlines of peace, friendship, stability and development.

On economic collaboration, the three sides agreed to continue adopting policies and measures to facilitate trade, investment and cooperation on a complementary and win-win basis, shifting from expansion in scale to improvement in quality and efficiency. They agreed to promote connectivity among the three economies, with connectivity in transport, logistics and border gate infrastructure identified as a breakthrough; create favourable conditions for trade, investment and tourism; strengthen value chain linkages, leverage each country’s comparative advantages; and foster tourism cooperation, particularly the “One Journey, Three Destinations” initiative.

The Lao and Cambodian PMs agreed with PM Chinh to identify five breakthrough areas in the coming period – transport, energy, education and training, tourism and youth connectivity, with a particular focus on raising younger generations' awareness of the traditional relations among the three countries.

Discussing regional and international issues of mutual concern, the three PMs agreed to enhance information sharing and mutual support at regional and international forums, and to work together with other ASEAN members to build a united and resilient ASEAN Community, reaffirming the bloc's central role in maintaining peace, stability and promoting cooperation and development in the region.

They also agreed to continue close coordination in strengthening trust among Mekong countries, prioritising resources for development, addressing non-traditional challenges and other latent risks, and maintaining cooperation between Mekong countries and development partners. – (VNA)

VNA-

The figure marking a year-on-year increase of 9.3%.

Vietnam's total revenues from retail sales of consumer goods and services in January 2026 reached VND632.4 trillion ($24.15 billion), increasing 2.6% compared to the previous month and 9.3% year-on-year, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO).

Of which, total retail sales of consumer goods are estimated at VND487.4 trillion ($18.6 billion), up 9.3% over the same period last year.

Revenue from accommodation and food services in January stood at VND75.4 trillion ($2.88 billion), soaring 9.4% year-on-year.

Travel revenue recorded the highest growth with total revenue of VND7.5 trillion ($286 million), surging 14% year-on-year.

Other service revenue is estimated at VND62.1 trillion ($2.37 billion), up 8.9% year-on-year.

VnEconomy-Vũ Khuê

Exports rising 29.7% year-on-year to $43.19 billion.

Vietnam’s total import and export revenue is estimated at $88.16 billion in January, skyrocketing 39% compared to the same period last year, figures from the National Statistics Office (NSO) show.

Exports rose 29.7% year-on-year to $43.19 billion, while imports soared 49.2% to $44.97 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $1.78 billion.

Nine export items recorded turnover of over $1 billion, making up 72.4% of total exports. Processed industrial goods led Vietnam’s exports with $38.43 billion, accounting for 89% of the total, followed by agro-forestry products at $3.65 billion (8.5%), seafood at $1.01 billion (2.3%), and fuels and minerals at $0.1 billion (0.2%).

The US remained the largest buyer of Vietnamese goods with a turnover of $13.9 billion, while China was its biggest import market, recording $19 billion.

VnEconomy-Huyền Vy

At the meeting held on February 6, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam’s Central Committee To Lam underscored Vietnam’s consistent policy of attaching great importance to consolidating and developing the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation among the three countries.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) To Lam, President of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) Hun Sen and General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Thongloun Sisoulith co-chaired a meeting of the chiefs of the three Parties at the CPP headquarters in Phnom Penh on February 6, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.

Also attending the meeting were the Prime Ministers of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos; the Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly; and the President of the Cambodian National Assembly.

Held in a warm and friendly atmosphere, the leaders noted that the meeting took place as the CPV and the LPRP had successfully concluded their national congresses, while the CPP was effectively implementing its political platform for the 2023–2028 period, providing an important foundation for strengthening strategic exchanges, consolidating political trust and agreeing on major orientations for trilateral cooperation in a new stage of development.

General Secretary To Lam briefed the participants on Vietnam’s situation and the important and strategic outcomes of the 14th National Congress of the CPV, stressing that the congress reaffirmed the country's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of external relations, with priority given to the friendly neighbourliness and special traditional ties with Laos and Cambodia, as well as proactive and active contributions to peace, stability and cooperation in the region and the world.

The Party chief underscored Vietnam’s consistent policy of attaching great importance to consolidating and developing the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation among the three countries.

CPP President Hun Sen and LPRP General Secretary Thongloun Sisoulith thanked General Secretary To Lam for sharing Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements and the success of the 14th National Congress of the CPV. They lauded the CPV’s comprehensive reform policy, strategic mindset and leadership capacity in the new development period, expressing their confidence that under the CPV's sound leadership headed by General Secretary To Lam, Vietnam will successfully implement the congress’s resolution, becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030 and a developed socialist nation with high income by 2045.

Reviewing the past year, the three leaders agreed that the trilateral cooperation reaped positive achievements and has been strengthened and developed across all fields. Political and diplomatic relations remained the core pillar, while defence and security cooperation played a key role, with notable outcomes including the joint meeting of the defence ministers and a trilateral search-and-rescue exercise in Laos.

VNA-

Vietnam proved to be one of only a few economies to better the global average GDP growth in recent years, but its strategic economic pillars need strengthening to maintain development in the 2026-2030 period.

While many economies have posted negative growth in recent times and taken years to regain their footing, Vietnam managed to maintain positive growth even in its toughest period. Following the pandemic, Vietnam’s economy not only recovered but quickly regained its high-growth pace, underscoring strong domestic fundamentals and effective policy management. GDP in 2025 is projected to reach about $510 billion, rising five places year-on-year to rank 32nd worldwide and fourth in ASEAN. Economists believe the country stands out as one of the few to rebound faster than the global average.

Towards a higher-growth future

While global growth in the 2022-2023 period stood at just 3.5 per cent, Vietnam remained prominent as one of the economies with the most impressive recovery capacity during this time. Experts believe the target of 8.3-8.5 per cent growth for 2025 is entirely achievable, especially as all three quarters of the year have recorded positive results, with GDP growth of 6.93 per cent in the first quarter, 7.96 per cent in the second, and 8.23 per cent in the third.

Mr. Nguyen Nhu Quynh, Director of the National Institute for Economics and Finance at the Ministry of Finance, emphasized that the most important driver stems from the government’s determination to build a solid foundation for recovery and to promote growth across key pillars of the economy.

Industry continues to play a leading role, maintaining stable expansion with 9.5 per cent growth in the third quarter. The services sector has also accelerated strongly, rising 8.56 per cent, with many service subsectors achieving double-digit growth, reflecting a strong rebound in domestic demand and improving international demand. Agriculture has sustained its role as the economy’s stabilizing force, with 3.74 per cent growth, continuing to support market stability and production.

Alongside sector-based drivers, macro-economic stability remains a crucial foundation ensuring Vietnam’s sustainable recovery. Inflation has been maintained at a reasonable 3.1-3.5 per cent, creating confidence among businesses and citizens to continue production and commercial activities.

In addition, trade and FDI flows have continued to maintain stable growth despite global economic volatility. These results further strengthen Vietnam’s position in the eyes of foreign investors and within global supply chains.

These drivers are creating an important launch pad for Vietnam to move towards higher growth targets in the new era. Nevertheless, the economy will still need to unlock and develop additional new growth drivers to maintain its strong momentum. “Over the past two years, Vietnam’s economy has relied heavily on consumption, public spending, and public investment for recovery,” Mr. Quynh emphasized. “This raises an urgent requirement for us to expand new growth drivers in the coming period to ensure sustainable and long-term development.”

Headwinds for momentum

Despite achieving a range of positive results, Vietnam still faces a series of challenges, both external and internal, that could create significant headwinds for growth in the time to come.

On the international front, the global landscape is becoming more unpredictable than ever as geopolitical conflicts and instability intensify, competition between major powers grows increasingly fierce, and the rules-based order of globalization and free trade faces potential disruption. In addition, new tax policies are exerting strong impacts on the global economy, while growth in global trade and international investment is forecast to decline in the years ahead.

Notably, the global boom in new technologies is accelerating rapidly, bringing both opportunities and major pressures for Vietnam. According to Mr. Quynh, this is a critical moment for Vietnam to seize the opportunity for innovation. Yet it also represents a challenge, as the country’s capacity for technological innovation and application remains limited. Without stronger acceleration in innovation and high technology, Vietnam risks falling behind.

Vietnam’s economy continues to grapple with several structural weaknesses. The growth model remains outdated and competitiveness is low, and these issues represent not only short-term risks but also long-term challenges that could cause Vietnam to lag behind and fall into the middle-income trap.

Additionally, Vietnam’s population is aging faster than anticipated, while institutional bottlenecks, infrastructure constraints, and limitations in workforce quality have yet to be fully resolved. “Though Vietnam has made major breakthroughs in infrastructure development, labor quality has seen almost no significant improvement,” he noted.

Mr. Jochen Schmittmann, Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, observed that Vietnam’s Total Factor Productivity (TFP), including institutional quality, national governance effectiveness, corporate governance, and technological capability, remains significantly lower than that of many emerging economies. This indicates that Vietnam is not yet making optimal use of its resources, as capital, labor, and technology are not being allocated to sectors that can generate the highest value, thereby limiting market efficiency.

At the same time, the current labor structure and credit allocation remain misaligned, causing Vietnam’s private sector to lose many opportunities to break through. The workforce lacks the skills required for new technological demands, while private enterprises face significantly higher borrowing costs compared with FDI enterprises and State-owned enterprises (SOEs). “Expensive capital makes it difficult for them to scale up, invest in technology, or improve productivity, which in turn undermines the long-term competitiveness of the entire economy,” Mr. Schmittmann said.

New mindset for 2026-2030

Experts warn that meaningful breakthroughs will be hard to achieve without a shift in approach. What Vietnam needs most, they argue, is a new development mindset, one that reshapes leadership, the growth model, resource mobilization, and the nation’s overall development space.

Vietnam has set an ambitious goal of moving towards double-digit annual growth in the 2026-2030 period. This will be the pivotal stage for realizing the vision of becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle-income status by 2030 and a developed, high-income country by 2045. These goals demand bold breakthroughs in mindset and in the growth model.

According to Mr. Quynh, Vietnam will need major breakthroughs across all growth drivers to achieve high growth during this “acceleration” phase. Several sectors must post double-digit growth, with manufacturing and processing maintaining more than 12 per cent to remain the economy’s anchor. Digital transformation, the digital economy, and innovation-led industries offer key opportunities to close the technology gap with leading economies. But success, he noted, ultimately hinges on political will and effective policy execution.

A second strategic priority for 2026-2030 is restructuring the country’s economic and social development space. This involves rezoning, expanding growth hubs, and establishing North-South and East-West economic corridors to improve regional connectivity. Stronger links between growth centers, seaports, and strategic transport routes would help optimize capital, trade, and logistics flows.

At the same time, a selective FDI attraction strategy must be prioritized. Vietnam should target high-technology projects with strong spillover potential and adherence to ESG (environmental, social, and governance) standards. Such projects must promote technology transfer, support innovation, enhance the capabilities of domestic enterprises, and generate high added value, rather than concentrating on labor-intensive or high energy-consumption industries.

Experts believe that prioritizing “next generation” FDI aligns with global trends, as international corporations increasingly value sustainability and transparent governance. This approach will not only help Vietnam maintain investment attractiveness but also elevate its position within regional and global supply chains, moving towards a greener, more modern, and more self-reliant economic model.

Many free trade agreements (FTAs) currently remain at the level of framework commitments, without the deep liberalization of services, procedural reforms, or significant reductions in non-tariff barriers. In the years to come, Vietnam will need to leverage FTAs more effectively, enhance the standardization of certification processes, and increase utilization rates so that domestic enterprises can fully benefit from these agreements.

Finally, narrowing the gap between Vietnam’s domestic enterprises and FDI companies in global supply chains is an urgent requirement. Currently, 73 per cent of Vietnam’s export turnover belongs to the FDI sector, while domestic enterprises struggle to access international buyers.

VET-Phuong Hoa

Their total registered capital reaching VND180.9 trillion ($6.9 billion), up 92.3% year-on-year.

Nearly 24,200 new enterprises were established in Vietnam in January, representing a remarkable increase of 126.8% compared to the same period last year, according to an announcement released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) on January 6.

Meanwhile, over 24,500 enterprises resumed operations, reflecting a  year-on-year rise of 7.6%.

Overall, the total number of businesses entering and re-entering the market in January reached 48,700, up 45.6% year-on-year.

On average, the economy welcomed more than 1,500 businesses daily, indicating a strong optimism within the business community regarding economic recovery and growth in 2026.

The total registered capital of newly established businesses reached VND180.9 trillion ($6.9 billion), surging 92.3% year-on-year.

In January, nearly 54,300 businesses registered for temporary suspension, up 2.8% year-on-year, while another 4,609 businesses completed dissolution procedures, soaring 128.1%.

VnEconomy-Anh Nhi