Vietnam calls on the relevant parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately cease any actions that escalate tensions, protect civilians and essential infrastructures, and resolve differences through peaceful means in strict accordance with international law, the United Nations Charter and the relevant Resolutions of the United Nations, said the Vietnamese Foreign Ministry's Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang.

Vietnam expresses deep concern over escalating and complex conflict situation in the Middle East, which seriously threatens the lives and safety of its people, as well as peace and stability in the region and the world, the Government quoted the Vietnamese Foreign Ministry's Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang as stating  on February 28 in response to reporters' query on Vietnam's reactions to current escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Vietnam calls on the relevant parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately cease any actions that escalate tensions, protect civilians and essential infrastructures, and resolve differences through peaceful means in strict accordance with international law, the United Nations Charter and the relevant Resolutions of the United Nations, said the Spokesperson.

The relevant parties must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations and create favorable conditions for peace negotiations to ensure security, safety, peace, and stability in the region, she added.

The same day, the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Vietnamese people should not travel to Iran or Israel at this time, or to neighboring areas affected by the conflict unless absolutely necessary.

Vietnamese nationals currently in Iran, Israel, and conflict-affected neighboring areas need to maintain regular contact and closely monitor updates from Vietnamese representative missions in the two countries; strictly comply with local government regulations regarding travel and adhere to all safety warnings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

VGP-Van Nguyen

Rising numbers of newly-registered enterprises in 2025 were matched by overall optimism within the business environment while the growing number of companies seeking dissolution provides food for thought.

Vietnam’s business landscape in 2025 was marked by a surge in newly-registered enterprises and large capital inflows but the “shakeot” was equally remarkable, forcing companies to rethink their strategies in order to survive as others fall by the wayside.

According to data from the National Statistics Office (NSO) at the Ministry of Finance, nearly 17,200 new enterprises were set up nationwide in December alone, for a striking 71.6 per cent increase year-on-year. This not only reflects efforts to complete annual business plans but also signals strong investor expectations for a new growth cycle in 2026.

Encouraging indicators

In 2025 as a whole, the total number of newly-registered enterprises reached 195,100, up 24.1 per cent against 2024. On average, around 16,300 new companies were created each month, injecting fresh energy into the labor market and production activities. Alongside this came a corresponding rise in registered capital, totaling VND1,919 trillion ($73.8 billion), and employment, with more than 1.15 million jobs added.

Notably, it was not only new enterprises that contributed to the vibrancy of Vietnam’s business landscape last year. The revival of many companies that temporarily suspended operations also played an important role, with 102,300 such companies resuming operations, up 34.3 per cent against 2024 and bringing their total number to 297,500. This record figure underscores the resilience and adaptability of Vietnam’s business community in the face of economic headwinds.

According to Ms. Phi Thi Huong Nga, Head of the Industry and Construction Statistics Department at the NSO, the return of temporarily inactive companies suggests that constraints related to capital, markets, and the legal framework have been at least partially eased, creating more favorable conditions for production to restart.

Another important aspect of last year’s business landscape is that the average registered capital of newly-registered enterprises remained at VND9.8 billion ($376,925), unchanged from 2024 despite the ongoing economic challenges. At this level, total additional registered capital injected into the economy stood at nearly VND6,400 trillion ($246.2 billion), up 77.8 per cent compared to 2024.

In particular, additional capital from existing enterprises exceeded VND4,400 trillion ($169.2 billion), surging 118.3 per cent. This points to strengthening internal capacity at Vietnamese businesses, as enterprises increasingly move beyond small-scale operations towards expansion and deeper investment.

By economic sector, 2025 saw a clear structural shift. The services sector continued to assert its role as a pillar of the economy, with 149,300 newly-registered enterprises, up 25.6 per cent. Wholesale and retail trade, transportation and warehousing, and accommodation and food services all recorded growth of more than 30 per cent in new registrations, driven by the recovery of tourism and domestic consumption.

Conversely, the construction sector exhibited worrying signs. It was one of just a few sectors to post a decline in newly-registered enterprises, of 0.5 per cent, while the rate of business dissolutions surged 83.3 per cent.

While the manufacturing and processing sector saw a sharp increase in dissolutions, of 68.5 per cent, it still maintained strong growth in new registrations, of 35.8 per cent. This suggests a sector characterized by intense competition and high attrition yet offering significant opportunities for firms with advanced technology and strong management capabilities.

Business exits

Alongside the bright spots in new business formation and reactivation, the high level of business exits in 2025 was another notable feature of the business landscape. On average, 18,900 enterprises exited the market each month. The number of companies temporarily suspending operations reached 114,400, up 14.3 per cent against 2024. Most strikingly, 35,900 enterprises completed dissolution procedures, a sharp increase of 66.1 per cent.

Explaining why record-high market entry coincided with a surge in dissolutions, the NSO pointed to the harsh selection mechanism inherent in a modern market economy. First, small and micro-sized enterprises often lack sufficient working capital and risk management capacity, making them vulnerable to even minor market fluctuations. Second, rising input costs, particularly labor and raw materials, have eroded profit margins for businesses operating under traditional models. Third, digital and green transitions are imposing new standards.

In addition, the growing number of enterprises ceasing operations while awaiting dissolution procedures, totaling 76,900, highlights persistent legal bottlenecks and debt burdens that remain difficult obstacles for inefficient businesses.

An analysis by the NSO of factors affecting production and business activities in the fourth quarter of 2025 also points to several key challenges. Though interest rates have stabilized, access to low-cost capital remains problematic for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Moreover, while the number of service enterprises has increased, consumers remain circumspect when it comes to purchases, leading to inventory build-ups in certain sectors.

Optimistic outlook

Despite these challenges, surveys on business trends in the fourth quarter show that enterprises remain cautiously optimistic about their near-term prospects. Some 75.8 per cent of respondents expect their business performance to improve or remain stable compared with the previous quarter; an important sign that market sentiment is gradually stabilizing.

By ownership type, State-owned enterprises and foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) displayed stronger optimism. Their balance indices - the percentage of respondents reporting improvement minus those reporting deterioration - stood at 5.5 per cent and 5.3 per cent, respectively, positioning these sectors as economic anchors.

The stability of the FDI sector indicates that Vietnam continues to be an attractive destination within global supply chains, despite the geopolitical uncertainties. By contrast, non-State enterprises, while accounting for the majority of firms, recorded a balance index of just 0.2 per cent, reflecting ongoing competitive pressures and financial risks facing the private sector.

By sector, manufacturing and processing emerged as the most optimistic, with a balance index of 14.3 per cent, driven by a recovery in export orders towards year’s-end and stronger consumption during the holiday season. Conversely, trade and services, despite high rates of new business registrations, posted a negative balance index of -2.5 per cent. This serves as a warning about weak purchasing power in certain segments and mounting pressure from cross-border e-commerce on traditional retail models.

Assessing the overall business landscape in 2025, the NSO noted that although nearly 300,000 enterprises entered or re-entered the market, the sharp rise in dissolutions underscores the need for more effective support measures to foster sustainable business development in 2026. These include credit guarantee mechanisms for SMEs, administrative reforms, particularly in dissolution and suspension procedures, and stronger promotion of digital transformation in services and retail to boost productivity and competitiveness.

VET-Ngan Ha

What makes Hanoi particularly special in the eyes of international tourists is its blend of the East and the West in architecture, the old and the new in its rhythm of life, and street food that is simple yet so appealing it becomes iconic, acncording to Condé Nast Traveler.

Condé Nast Traveler has included Hanoi in its list of the top 50 most beautiful cities in the world.

According to Condé Nast Traveler, Hanoi is not the type of city that dazzles with skyscrapers or glittering boulevards. Its beauty lies in its layers of history, with a serene green lake in the heart of the city,  slanted brown tiles of houses in the old quarter, French-era wrought iron balconies, and old trees casting shadows on autumn streets...

What makes Hanoi particularly special in the eyes of international tourists is its blend of the East and the West in architecture, the old and the new in its rhythm of life, and street food that is simple yet so appealing it becomes iconic.

From an economic tourism perspective, appearing on Condé Nast Traveler's list can be seen as a "soft power endorsement." Rankings from prestigious magazines in the US and Europe often have a direct impact on attracting high-spending tourists who seek deep cultural experiences rather than just short visits.

Hanoi's inclusion in Condé Nast Traveler's list of the 50 most beautiful cities in the world is not surprising to international tourism observers, but it holds special significance in the increasingly fierce global competition for destination image. Unlike cities that impress with modern skylines, Hanoi captivates visitors with its slow pace and urban structure intertwined with water and greenery. In the global trend towards "livable cities," this aspect is increasingly valued.

Cuisine is also a pillar of Hanoi's image. From pho and bun cha to egg coffee, Hanoi's street food culture is seen as a "living heritage" – where the experience lies not in luxury but in local authenticity and the subtlety of flavors. Many international tourism experts believe this is what sets Hanoi apart from industrialized tourism centers.

When Hanoi appears in Condé Nast Traveler's global media ecosystem, three economic impacts are evident: First, it increases the destination's credibility. Recognition from an international brand shortens the "decision-making process" for tourists, especially those visiting Vietnam for the first time. Second, it stimulates investment in high-end services. Boutique hotels, unique cuisine, specialized cultural tours, and personalized experiences will have room to grow, rather than relying on mass tourism. Third, it raises the average spending per visitor. A growth model based on "value rather than volume" aligns better with the sustainable development direction of the industry.

However, with recognition comes the pressure of preservation. The rapid development of real estate, infrastructure, and mass tourism poses a challenge to balance growth and maintaining identity. Hanoi is beautiful not only for what it has but for the layers of memory preserved in its urban space. In the global shift towards green and responsible tourism, balancing development and preservation is crucial.

The issue is not how many more tourists are attracted, but how much of the city's original value is retained when opening its doors to visitors. A city is truly "beautiful" in the long term when its beauty is genuinely unique and not eroded by its own success. With the right direction, Hanoi can transform media recognition into a sustainable economic advantage where tourism growth goes hand in hand with preserving historical and cultural heritage, distinctive style, and urban quality of life.

According to the official gallery published by Condé Nast Traveler, some notable cities in this list include: Amsterdam – Netherlands; Barcelona – Spain; Buenos Aires – Argentina; Cape Town – South Africa; Cartagena – Colombia; Chiang Mai – Thailand; Copenhagen – Denmark; Dublin – Ireland; Edinburgh – Scotland; Florence – Italy; Hanoi – Vietnam; Paris – France; Porto – Portugal; and Prague – Czech Republic; among others.

Vneconomy-Bang Son

As of February 23, the central province had approved investment policies or granted investment registration certificates to 10 new projects and capital adjustments to 26 others.

In the first two months of 2026,  the economy of the central province of Nghe An showed several "bright spots," most notably a surge in total newly registered and adjusted investment capital. 

This data was released during the Nghe An Provincial People’s Committee's regular meeting on February 27, where officials evaluated the socio-economic performance for February and outlined tasks for the upcoming period.

Official reports indicate that as of February 23,  the province had approved investment policies or granted investment registration certificates to 10 new projects and capital adjustments to 26 others. The total registered and additional capital reached over VND64.34 trillion (over $2.51 billion).

A major highlight of this period was the provincial approval of both the investment policy and the designated investor for the Quynh Lap LNG Thermal Power Plant. With a total investment of VND59.372 trillion VND (approx. $2.3 billion), this is the largest project ever recorded in the province. It is expected to create significant momentum for the local energy industry and attract a wave of auxiliary projects.

In addition to large-scale investments, the province’s business  showed strong growth, with 816 enterprises newly established in the first two months—a 68.2% increase compared to the same period last year.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

The projected plant in the central province is designed with a capacity of processing 100,000 tons of raw materials annually, with a total investment of approximately $31 million.

The Ha Tinh Economic Zone Management Board in the central provincc of the same name has recently granted an investment registration certificate for a projected high-tech  metallurgical plant.

To be located in the Phu Vinh Industrial Park within the Vung Ang Economic Zone, the projected is designed with a capacity of processing 100,000 tons of raw materials annually, with a total investment of more than  VND781 billion (nearly $30 million).

The project's operational period extends until September 30, 2060.

The plant will focus on producing high-quality metals and alloys such as copper, nickel, and cobalt, as well as processing metal compounds including tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium. During production, the plant will  aim to recover precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum, along with by-products such as sulfuric acid, sodium sulfate, and calcium sulfate, enhancing the efficiency of raw material usage.

Within 36 months from the date of receiving the investment registration certificate, the investor will complete legal procedures, construct the factory, install technology lines, and commence operations.

In recent years, the Vung Ang Economic Zone has been identified as a growth hub for heavy industry in Vietnam's North Central region, associated with metallurgy, thermal power, and deep-water seaports. The addition of the high-tech metallurgical project is expected to gradually complete the local industrial value chain, promote deep processing, increase product value, and contribute to the industrial restructuring of the area.

Vneconomy-Nguyen Thuan

To achieve this goal, the capital city is developing mechanisms and policies to encourage and support taxi companies in proactively converting their fleets.

Under the Hanoi People's Committee's recently-issued plan, all gasoline and diesel taxis operating in the capital city will be transitioned to electric and green energy vehicles by 2030 at the latest. 

To achieve this goal, the city is developing mechanisms and policies to encourage and support taxi companies in proactively converting their fleets.

Specifically, the Hanoi People's Committee will draft and present a resolution to the City Council, outlining policies to support the transition to clean energy road vehicles and measures to limit the use of polluting vehicles. The city will subsidize part of the interest on commercial bank loans for contracts aimed at converting traditional taxis to electric and green energy vehicles. Additionally, it will facilitate access to preferential capital from the city's Development Investment Fund.

Taxi businesses will receive support in the form of reduced registration fees and initial license plate issuance for electric and green energy taxis. The city will also consider offering preferential parking rates for electric and green energy taxis at public parking lots and incentives for investors in public charging infrastructure. Authorities are urged to extend the 100% exemption on registration fees for electric and green energy vehicles, with a particular focus on taxis used for passenger transport.

The transition timeline for converting gasoline and diesel taxis to electric and green energy vehicles sets targets of 64% by 2026, 68-70% by 2027, 74-77% by 2028, 88-96% by 2029, and 100% by 2030. Post-2030, the city will focus on maintaining stable conditions for electric and green energy taxis, prioritizing improved access to charging infrastructure, parking, and suitable traffic organization.

Currently, Hanoi has over 14,300 active taxis, with nearly 8,800 being electric. Additionally, around 13,600 taxis are inactive and awaiting replacement. The total number of vehicles expected to transition by 2030 is nearly 28,000. The city has tasked the Hanoi Department of Construction with leading, coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating the implementation of the plan. This department is responsible for expediting the review and installation of charging stations and arranging stops and parking for electric taxis.

In terms of management, the Hanoi Police is tasked with reviewing procedures related to the registration and issuance of identification license plates for vehicle conversion, providing unified guidance to shorten processing times and ensure no disruption to transport businesses. Concurrently, relevant authorities will research and implement an intelligent traffic monitoring system, utilizing automatic license plate recognition technology to manage vehicles and control violations in low-emission zones.

Vneconomy-Song Hoang

As the digital age takes hold, developing capabilities in the workplace has become imperative for employees to maintain their skills and, hence, their competitiveness in the labor market.

Digital technology is reshaping how value is created across the economy, from operating processes and business models to modes of labor coordination. Developing work capabilities suited to the digital age is no longer an auxiliary advantage; it has become a prerequisite for maintaining professional competitiveness in a volatile environment.

The convergence and diffusion of AI, big data, cloud computing, and automation are rapidly shifting occupational capability requirements. Many repetitive tasks are being replaced or standardized, while new roles are emerging that demand digital skills, critical thinking, and adaptability.

In practice, the labor market is increasingly segmented by skill levels and access to learning opportunities. Highly-skilled workers tend to move into higher positions - such as analysis, design, management, and digital operations - while another segment congregates in flexible service jobs with low barriers to entry.

Three pillars

In the digital age, the key question is no longer “What do you know?” but “What can you do in a digital environment?” and “How quickly can you relearn?” To address this, the knowledge-skills-attitudes (KSA) framework remains useful, though the substance of each pillar has evolved.

First, knowledge is no longer merely about “knowing” but about the ability to continually update, filter, and restructure knowledge amid constant information flows. Second, skills are not just about “being able to do” but about performing effectively on digital platforms, using data, and collaborating efficiently with tools and AI. And third, attitudes are no longer simply about being “positive” but about digital professional discipline - data responsibility, security standards, rapid relearning, and openness to feedback. When combined effectively, these three pillars generate work capabilities that can be measured through efficiency, quality, and adaptability in practice.

The ways in which knowledge, skills, and attitudes are developed and applied have changed significantly. Knowledge is no longer confined to textbooks or lecture halls; it extends to online learning platforms, AI tools, and global knowledge communities. As a result, knowledge has become a high-speed, continuous flow, requiring learners to constantly update, filter, and restructure what they absorb. Simply “knowing a lot” is no longer a decisive advantage without critical thinking, questioning ability, and the capacity to connect information to create new value.

Capability formation is not linear - “learn first, then work” - but cyclical: absorption, practice, feedback, and adjustment. In digital environments, this loop accelerates due to data, platforms, and support tools, while simultaneously widening the gap between self-directed learners and passive learners.

From knowledge to skills

The expansion of digital technology in the workplace requires that workers possess relevant technological knowledge within their professional fields, along with an understanding of safety, cybersecurity, and legal frameworks related to digital technology. A marketing professional, for example, must go beyond traditional advertising to master search engine optimization (SEO), digital advertising, and customer data analytics.

Knowledge is foundational, but without being translated into skills it remains abstract theory. Skills are what operationalize knowledge and optimize work performance. A marketing professional must not only understand marketing concepts but also be able to analyze data using Google Analytics and leverage AI to personalize content.

Alongside the growth of digital platforms, a capability to work remotely has become a common requirement. The core issue is not simply “knowing how to use Zoom or Slack” but the ability to coordinate work in digital environments: communicating context, objectives, and deadlines clearly; providing timely progress updates; managing documents and versions transparently; and formalizing decisions in writing to minimize misunderstandings. These capabilities help sustain productivity and execution discipline when teams are not co-located.

Technological innovation and new business models are shortening skill lifecycles. Some skills become obsolete quickly, while new demands emerge around data, platforms, and human-AI collaboration. As a result, professional advantage increasingly depends on the ability to relearn quickly and upgrade skills cyclically rather than relying solely on initial training. Workers must therefore be prepared to step beyond their “comfort zone” and continually refine their skill sets if they do not wish to be left behind.

Skills help operationalize knowledge, but without the right attitudes, application can be ineffective or misdirected. Attitudes are the core factor shaping how knowledge and skills are used, determining levels of contribution, creativity, and adaptability in the face of change.

As technology continues to evolve, workers must cultivate positive attitudes towards technology adoption, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to collaborate in environments built on shared knowledge and data. A learning-oriented mindset, which includes a willingness to adapt, change working methods, and step outside the “comfort zone” is essential for sustaining work capabilities in a rapidly-changing context.

Developing work capabilities

At its core, developing work capabilities is a transformation process, from input knowledge to output capability. This process takes place both in educational settings and in real-world practice. It unfolds through five steps and represents a continuous journey requiring persistence, proactive learning, and constant adaptation.

Step 1: Information acquisition

Learners absorb new information about their desired industry or occupation through education, work, and everyday experience. In the digital age, information is an asset, but without proper filtering it can be misleading. The goal is not to consume more information but to identify reliable sources and reduce errors in professional decision-making.

Step 2: Knowledge development

Turning information into personal knowledge requires memorization, comprehension, explanation, assessment, and real-world application. These processes deepen understanding and reveal knowledge gaps. While the digital age enables faster and more flexible access to knowledge, it also demands initiative and strong self-learning skills.

Step 3: Skills development

Skills are formed by applying knowledge in specific contexts. Frequent and structured practice is essential. Each skill requires tailored development methods, and in the digital age skills must be continually updated through strategic practice, data use, AI tools, and digital platforms. Linking skills to tangible outputs - such as reports, dashboards, case studies, or short projects - helps transform “knowing” into “doing well.”

Step 4: Attitude cultivation

In digital contexts, attitude means digital professional discipline: respect for data, adherence to security standards, transparency in digital workflows, openness to feedback, and continuous improvement. Attitude functions as the “operating system” of capability, ensuring stable and trustworthy outcomes.

Step 5: Capability formation

At this stage, knowledge, skills, and attitudes are integrated into cohesive and flexible performance. This marks the transition from learning to professional execution. While these five steps establish essential work capability, specialization and practical experience further shape distinctive occupational competence. In a digitally-transformed labor market, capability is no longer defined by credentials alone, but by the ability to create measurable value in digital environments.

In the digital age, sustainable workers are not those who “know the most” but those who relearn the fastest and create the clearest value. To prepare, individuals can begin with three actions: identify the minimum digital capability set required in their field and address gaps; build evidence of capability through projects and portfolios rather than certificates alone; and establish short learning-doing-feedback cycles to continuously upgrade skills.

(*) Dr. Pham Manh Hung and Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Quy are Lecturers at the University of Economics and Business, Vietnam National University, Hanoi

VET-Dr. Pham Manh Hung Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Quy (*)

During a meeting in Hanoi on February 27 with Portugal's Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh proposed that both sides strengthen cooperation in maritime affairs, port development, shipbuilding, and logistics...

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on February 27 hosted a reception for Portugal's Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Paulo Rangel, who is on a visit to Vietnam.

The Prime Minister welcomed Minister Rangel's visit, emphasizing its significance as a milestone in concretizing the commitments of the two countries' high-level leaders and opening new avenues for collaboration.

Highlighting the historical ties of over 500 years between Vietnam and Portugal and Portugal's establishment of its embassy in Vietnam, the Prime Minister noted that these are favorable foundations for promoting comprehensive cooperation in the new phase.

The Prime Minister underscored the vast potential in maritime economic development and proposed that both sides strengthen cooperation in maritime affairs, port development, shipbuilding, and logistics, aligning with each country's maritime development strategy.

He praised Portugal's achievements as an active member of the European Union and affirmed Vietnam's desire to deepen the multifaceted friendship and cooperation.

Both parties agreed to enhance political trust, increase delegation exchanges, especially at high levels, and explore cooperation mechanisms to create a stable, long-term framework for bilateral relations.

Emphasizing the complementary nature of the two economies, the Prime Minister suggested making economy, trade, and investment the pillars of cooperation, leveraging each side's strengths to expand scale and improve the quality of collaboration.

Vietnam encourages Portuguese businesses to participate in offshore wind power, solar energy, and energy infrastructure projects based on the principles of "risk-sharing, harmonizing benefits," ensuring effectiveness and sustainability, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister also proposed effectively utilizing the Vietnam-EU free trade agreements, urging EU countries to soon ratify the Vietnam-EU Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), and expanding cooperation in digital transformation, innovation, healthcare, education, tourism, and exploring visa exemption possibilities for citizens of both countries.

Minister Paulo Rangel highly valued Vietnam's international standing and development orientation, affirming that Portugal considers Vietnam an important partner in Southeast Asia. He expressed readiness to promote high-level delegation exchanges, connect businesses, and aim for a bilateral trade turnover target of $1 billion, while expressing interest in Portuguese businesses participating in renewable energy and maritime economy projects in Vietnam.

Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination at multilateral forums, support multilateralism, and respect international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to maintain peace and stability.

Vneconomy-Ha Le

Each residential real estate will have its own unique electronic identification code from March 1, 2026.

Many new policies on real estate, registration of foreign representative offices, penalties for administrative violations in the field of archiving shall come into effect from March, according to a report from the Government News.

New policy on real estates

Under the Government's Decree 357/2025/ND-CP of December 31, 2025, that will take effect on  March 1,  each residential real estate will have its own unique electronic identification code, which is a string of alphanumeric characters, up to a maximum of 40 characters, assigned uniquely to each house or real estate unit within construction projects managed in the housing and real estate information system and database.

The new decree stipulates that  Departments of Construction at provincial/municipal level shall be responsible for attaching electronic identification codes to housing development projects on their territory. This will be done simultaneously with the issuance of notices confirming that the housing meets sales conditions, for housing projects in the future.

The national real estate database system is designed to be open and interconnected, complying with technical standards for databases, application programming interfaces (API), and access permission models. The system must fully meet security and information safety requirements under the national data architecture framework.

New regulations on licensing time for foreign representative offices in Vietnam

Under the Government’s Decree 62/2026/ND-CP of February 13, 2026, that amended and supplemented  Decree 06/2005/ND-CP regarding the establishment and operation of representative offices for foreign research and cooperation organizations, foreign organizations can now submit their applications through the National Public Service Portal, in addition to direct submission or postal services.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required to verify the validity of the application within one working day of receipt.  From March 1, the timeframe for the ministry to grant or deny a license shall be officially halved from 30 working days to just 14. In cases where an application is rejected, the ministry must provide a written explanation to the applicant.

Administrative fine for using archived documents to defame and offend individuals

Under the Government ‘s  Decree 31/2026/ND-CP of January 21, 2026,  penalties for administrative violations in the field of archiving will be applicable from March 1, 2026.

Accordingly, the maximum fine for individuals committing administrative violations in the field of  archiving shall be VND30 million (more than $1,150). Meanwhile, the maximum fine for organizations shall be VND60 million.

New level of penalties for road traffic violations

Under the Government’s  Decree No. 336/2025/ND-CP of  December 22, 2025, new  administrative sanctions for violations in road operations will  be applied from March 1, 2026, with  maximum fine to VND75 million ($2,850) for individuals and to VND150 million for organization for violating road traffic regulations.

Meanwhile, a fine of VND3–5 million and VND6–10 million will be imposed on individuals and organizations, respectively,  in case they commit one of the following acts: arbitrarily transferring terminal cards from one vehicle to another; destroying, forging, deleting data or interfering with terminal card content; opening or maintaining anonymous or impersonated traffic accounts.

Decree 336 also stipulates many other levels of penalties. Specifically, fines from VND10–20 million shall be imposed for acts such as: not disclosing information as prescribed; selling and checking tickets that cause harassment to ticket buyers; not selling fully or limiting the selling time of monthly and quarterly tickets; receiving cash but not delivering tickets or delivering tickets improperly; lax professional procedures so that vehicles that do not buy tickets still pass through the station.

Vneconomy-Pham Long

Projects that yield positive environmental impacts, contribute to greenhouse gas emission reductions, and demonstrate resource efficiency are highly encouraged by the central city.

Under its development strategy through 2030, Hue City in central Vietnam has established a rigorous selection process for investment projects, focusing on key criteria such as technology, environmental impact, and socio-economic efficiency.

Moving away from chasing quantity, the central city is now prioritizing quality, favoring projects that utilize modern, clean technologies, conserve resources and energy, and generate high added value within production and business chains.

Projects that yield positive environmental impacts, contribute to greenhouse gas emission reductions, and demonstrate resource efficiency are highly encouraged by the central city. Priority sectors include renewable energy, green urban development, waste management, and coastal eco-tourism integrated with landscape conservation. Conversely, any projects posing potential risks of environmental pollution will be rejected.

In addition to developing green industries and services, Hue aims to establish green value chains through recycling, material reuse, and waste management under a circular economy model. Beyond economic returns, projects must guarantee sustainable employment, improve worker incomes, and make meaningful contributions to the local community.

In the agricultural sector, Hue is pivoting toward organic, circular, and high-tech models to adapt to climate change and meet evolving consumer demands. Various support policies have been enacted to attract investment into high-tech and organic farming, as well as digital transformation in production.

Specifically, high-tech crop cultivation and aquaculture facilities are eligible for support of up to VND500 million (over $19,000). Large-scale livestock farms or breeding facilities can receive incentives ranging from VND500 million to VND1.5 billion (over $57,000).

Substantial support is also provided for organic livestock models and high-tech, environment-friendly poultry slaughtering facilities. Projects implementing circular technology or digital transformation may qualify for even higher levels of assistance. Furthermore, the city encourages linkages between production and consumption—particularly in organic and VietGAP sectors—to build sustainable "farm-to-market" value chains.

Currently, Hue City is home to approximately 6,700 active enterprises, over 97% of which are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This corporate sector contributes nearly 40% of the local budget revenue and provides jobs for approximately 120,000 workers.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Demand is heavily concentrated in Industrial Parks (IPs) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs), which account for over 80% of all registered vacancies.

Following the Lunar New Year (Tet) period, businesses in Ho Chi Minh City are projected to recruit nearly 60,000 employees, with demand concentrated in unskilled labor, manufacturing, and service sectors.

In terms of the recruitment structure, unskilled labor accounts for the largest share at nearly 40%. By sector, processing and engineering industries represent 23.2%, followed by trade and services at 8.9%, while finance, accounting, and real estate make up approximately 6.3% of total demand.

Data from the HCMC Employment Service Center shows that 978 businesses have already registered to recruit for over 36,000 positions. Demand is heavily concentrated in Industrial Parks (IPs) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs), which account for over 80% of all registered vacancies.

According to the city's Department of Home Affairs, to maintain a stable workforce, businesses and authorities are prioritizing the improvement of salary, bonus, and allowance systems. Simultaneously, support policies are being implemented to assist migrant workers returning from other provinces after the Tet holiday. Efforts are also being ramped up to improve working conditions, ensure social security and welfare benefits, and enhance vocational skills training.

Labor management agencies have also organized job fairs and increased coordination with neighboring provinces to bridge the gap between labor supply and demand, ensuring businesses' recruitment needs are met.

The city labor market is expected to remain stable through the first quarter of 2026, particularly during peak production and service periods driven by holiday consumption and the fulfillment of export orders.

Forecasts for the second quarter of 2026 suggest that recruitment demand in HCMC’s established districts will shift toward the service and technology sectors, including office administration, finance, information technology, e-commerce, retail, tourism, and customer care.

Vneconomy-Thi Nguyễn

Hanoi Innovation Center JSC is envisioned as a catalyst to help Hanoi attract global talent, capital, technology, and expertise.

The Hanoi People’s Committee announced the establishment of the Hanoi Innovation Center Joint Stock Company (Hanoi Innovation Center JSC) on February 26.

The Center is envisioned as a catalyst to help Hanoi attract global talent, capital, technology, and expertise. It also aims to provide a platform for young Vietnamese founders to grow, laying the foundation for sustainable growth in the medium and long term.

Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, Mr. Truong Viet Dung, asserted that “The establishment of the Hanoi Innovation Center JSC is not merely about adding another unit or launching an administrative project. We are creating a ‘State-oriented, Enterprise-run’ model, shifting from a policy-based approach to a market-driven one, centered on two major breakthroughs.”

The first breakthrough is the organizational structure. For the first time, Hanoi has designed an innovation body as a joint-stock company with state capital, yet it operates entirely under modern corporate governance standards: financial transparency, risk control, and accountability to shareholders and the law. While the State holds a 70% stake, this ownership is not intended for the micro-management of business operations but to ensure the company serves the overarching development goals of the capital city.

This also marks a fundamental shift from an administrative grant-based mechanism to a co-investment and risk-sharing model; from fragmented support to ecosystem coordination; and from a startup "movement" to an organized, standardized value chain measured by tangible results.

“Only when innovation is placed within a clear, disciplined, and accountable market structure can it truly become a new productive force for the Capital,” Mr. Dung said.

The second breakthrough lies in the operational method: the company is designed as a centralized hub to coordinate the innovation ecosystem, replacing the previous model of dispersed support.

Instead of individual departments and localities implementing disjointed and unlinked programs, the company and its innovation network will reorganize the flow of innovation according to market logic. This involves bringing urban development challenges closer to the research capabilities of institutes and universities, connecting startups with investors and markets, and pairing technological initiatives with controlled testing mechanisms (sandboxes).

Mr. Dung believes that when these components are integrated into a unified structure, innovation will no longer be a mere slogan or movement. Instead, it will become a standardized value chain, evaluated by results and driven toward successful commercialization.

Vneconomy-Nhĩ Anh

A transition from a presumptive taxation regime to a declaration-based regime on household and individual businesses got underway on January 1, 2026.

From January 1, Vietnam’s presumptive tax regime on household and individual businesses will be replaced by a declaration-based system anchored in actual revenue, making revenue the core determinant of tax obligations, calculation methods, and accounting requirements. The shift promises greater transparency, fairness, and improved access to credit, but also brings new challenges related to legal liability, inventory management, input invoices, and longstanding habits in manual bookkeeping.

Beyond presumptive taxation

According to the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Vietnam currently has around 3.6 million active household and individual businesses, up 106 per cent over the last year. Budget contributions from the segment are also rising sharply. In 2024, tax revenue from household businesses reached nearly VND26 trillion ($1 billion), up about 20 per cent from the previous year. In the first half of 2025 alone, collections totaled VND17.1 trillion ($658 million), far exceeding the same period of 2024.

While these figures underscore the sector’s growing fiscal importance, they also expose the limitations of the traditional presumptive tax model. Built on estimated revenue, presumptive taxation was suitable when household businesses were small and simple. Today, amid the rapid expansion of e-commerce, digital payments, and multi-channel sales, the “estimate first, collect later” approach struggles to reflect actual revenue, creates unequal tax burdens among similar businesses, and weakens overall fairness.

As a result, many experts view the shift to declaration-based taxation as inevitable - not only to standardize tax administration but also to help household businesses strengthen governance, access credit, and expand more sustainably.

At a recent seminar jointly organized by the KiotViet Technology Corporation and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), Ms. Nguyen Thi Cuc, Chairwoman of the Vietnam Association of Tax Consultants, warned that continuing with presumptive taxation carries growing legal risks.

Under current rules, presumptive tax levels are set annually or monthly for seasonal businesses. If actual revenue changes by 50 per cent or more, businesses must adjust their tax obligations from the time the change occurs. In practice, however, many businesses with declining revenue continue paying the original amount, while those with rising revenue who fail to adjust may face back taxes, late-payment interest, or penalties.

More seriously, failure to declare and pay tax as required may be classified as tax evasion. Under current law, tax evasion of VND100 million ($3,845) or more can trigger criminal liability, including prison sentences of up to seven years, in addition to back taxes and fines. Even tax arrears lasting more than three months without declaration may be deemed tax evasion. Presumptive taxation, Ms. Cuc stressed, is no longer the “safe zone” many businesses assume it to be.

Mr. Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice Executive President of VCCI, emphasized that the reform is not intended to burden small businesses but to create a stable and sustainable foundation for household businesses in line with their expanding role in the economy.

Despite this intent, the transition faces significant resistance. A VCCI survey revealed that 49 per cent of household businesses fear higher costs and time burdens associated with managing invoices and documentation under the declaration regime. Limited digital skills, entrenched manual record-keeping, upfront investment costs, and anxiety over new procedures remain major obstacles.

In reality, most concerns stem not from tax rates but from changes in management methods. Whether under presumptive or declaration-based taxation, tax is still calculated as revenue multiplied by the applicable rate. The key difference lies in accurately identifying and fully declaring revenue.

Under the declaration regime, businesses must proactively determine their tax obligations based on actual performance. However, some individuals still use multiple bank accounts to disperse cash flows, leaving revenue underreported. To address this, the second draft decree on tax declaration and e-invoice usage requires household and individual businesses to disclose all bank accounts used for business activities, not only those used for tax payments. The aim is to ensure transparency and fairness, while reducing the risk of tax reassessments, back payments, and penalties.

Revenue as the core axis

As revenue becomes fully transparent, legal responsibility increases accordingly. Under self-declaration, the revenue figures determined by businesses themselves form the basis of all tax obligations, from calculation methods and accounting regimes to declaration frequency.

Ms. Le Thi Duyen Hai, Deputy Secretary General of the Vietnam Association of Tax Consultants, said the first critical step in minimizing transition risks is for businesses to assess their position by reviewing actual 2025 revenue and estimating revenue for 2026. Correct classification from the outset will determine compliance requirements not only in 2026 but in subsequent years as well.

Household businesses with annual revenue below VND500 million ($19,230) will be exempt from tax and accounting administrative procedures. Instead of declaring in advance, they will declare based on actual revenue, with a deadline of January 31 the following year. This approach reduces estimation risks while preserving the small-scale nature of micro businesses.

Even when revenue is expected to exceed the threshold, businesses are not required to declare immediately and will not incur late-payment interest. The policy introduces a time buffer, allowing businesses to adapt. If the threshold is exceeded late in the year, the declaration deadline remains January 31, 2027. If exceeded in the first half of the year, deadlines fall on June 30 or July 30, 2026.

For businesses with revenue above VND500 million ($19,230), tax declarations will be quarterly, or monthly if revenue reaches VND50 billion ($1.9 million). A major shift occurs at the VND3 billion ($115,385) threshold, where businesses must apply the revenue-minus-expenses method, requiring proper documentation of input goods and operating costs. While this method better reflects actual profitability, poor habits in collecting input invoices remain a major hurdle.

To ease the transition, businesses with revenue between VND500 million and VND3 billion may continue using the simpler revenue-based method, allowing time to build proper documentation practices.

While revenue is the policy axis, accounting is the technical factor shaping compliance behavior. The MoF plan to reduce the required accounting books from seven to four is widely seen as a positive step, though further tiered simplification is needed. Micro businesses would only need a revenue book, while those using the revenue-minus-expenses method would add an expense book.

As revenue becomes central, concerns over inventory and undocumented inputs have intensified. Longstanding reliance on cash transactions and small-scale purchases has left many businesses without input invoices, creating uncertainty under the new regime.

According to tax authorities, much of this concern reflects a misunderstanding of tax thresholds and methods. Only businesses applying the revenue-minus-expenses method need to factor inventory into personal income tax calculations. For businesses using the direct revenue-based method, inventory without input invoices does not affect tax obligations, provided the goods are legal and not linked to smuggling or trade fraud. Tax will be calculated based solely on sales revenue, typically at a 1.5 per cent rate.

Businesses may still issue sales invoices even without input invoices, using standard sales invoices connected to point-of-sale systems, without any requirement for input-output deduction.

A related issue involves purchases from small-scale producers, such as agricultural products bought directly from farmers who do not issue VAT invoices. In such cases, the key requirement is to correctly identify the seller’s legal status.

To have these expenses recognized as deductible costs, particularly under the revenue-minus-expenses method, businesses should prepare detailed purchase lists accompanied by payment evidence, such as cash vouchers or bank transfer documents acknowledged by the seller. Proper documentation, experts note, is not only a matter of compliance, but also a safeguard that helps household businesses reduce risk and optimize their tax obligations over the long term.

VET-Phuong Linh

In tandem with these efforts, the Ministry of Construction will focus on stabilizing the real estate market to ensure safe, healthy, and sustainable growth.

The Ministry of Construction (MoC) has announced its Action Program to implement Government Resolution No. 01, which outlines key tasks and solutions for the 2026 Socio-Economic Development Plan and State Budget Estimate. A standout objective within this program is the completion of more than 110,000 social housing units.

Regarding specific indicators, one of the central tasks is to ensure that the public investment disbursement rate for 2026 reaches over 95% of the plan assigned by the Prime Minister. Alongside this, the ministry aims to raise the national urbanization rate to 45%, deliver over 110,000 social housing units, and increase the national average housing floor area to 27 sq.m per capita.

In the field of urban technical infrastructure, the construction sector is targeting a 95% coverage rate for concentrated clean water supply to the urban population. Furthermore, 50% of urban water supply systems are expected to establish and implement safe water supply plans. The MoC also strives for an 18% rate for domestic wastewater treatment meeting national technical standards and regulations, aimed at gradually improving the quality of the urban environment.

For the transport sector, the 2026 goals include a 15% increase in both freight and passenger transport volumes compared to 2025. Additionally, freight turnover is projected to grow by approximately 13.5%, while passenger turnover is expected to rise by about 14%. The ministry is also proactively researching and proposing mechanisms to encourage the development of key infrastructure, green transport, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), and the railway industry.

Notably, the development of social housing continues to be identified as a vital mission. The MoC will drastically implement the national project: “Investment and construction of at least 1 million social housing units for low-income earners and industrial park workers for the 2021–2030 period.” In tandem with these efforts, the ministry will focus on stabilizing the real estate market to ensure safe, healthy, and sustainable growth.

Vneconomy-Anh Khoa

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is the sole authority empowered to issue and manage domestic codes and serial numbers for greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits on the National Registry.

Under its recently-issued circular,  the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) has regulated the management and operation of the National Registry System for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission quotas and carbon credits.

The National Registry System is designed to enhance management and facilitate organizations and agencies participating in GHG emission reduction activities, as well as the trading and offsetting of carbon credits.

The system will serve as a centralized database to record and store critical information, including: lists of owners, quantities, domestic identification codes, serial numbers, current status, and a full history of all activities performed within the registry.

The registry will be integrated and exchange data with carbon trading platforms, as well as custody and payment systems. All operational requests from registered accounts must be authenticated via the National Public Service Portal. Once verified, these transactions carry a legal validity equivalent to documents signed by the account holder’s legal representative.

Under the new regulations, each agency or organization is entitled to only one registered account on the National Registry System, even if they oversee multiple facilities listed for GHG emission quota allocation. Organizations will use this single account to manage, track, and fulfill compliance obligations for each of their respective facilities.

The account identification code will be linked directly to the entity’s tax identification number. To ensure smooth coordination and operation, account holders are responsible for registering and maintaining at least two contact persons to act as liaisons with the Ministry through the system.

Facilities are permitted to conduct transactions such as transfers, borrowing, and using carbon credits to offset GHG emissions in accordance with the law. The Circular also provides clear guidelines for the de-registration and handling of carbon credits or emission quotas that are revoked or failed to meet compliance obligations.

The MAE is the sole authority empowered to issue and manage domestic codes and serial numbers for GHG emission quotas and carbon credits on the National Registry.

Domestic codes are used to uniquely identify quotas or credits within Vietnamese territory. These are stored as electronic data and will not be re-issued once canceled. Specifically, GHG emission quota codes will consist of 6 characters, while carbon credit codes will consist of 9 characters.

Vneconomy-Tùng Dương

In a recent Directive from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, the State Bank of Vietnam was asked to closely monitor the gold market and synchronously implement solutions to manage gold trading activities.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) to soon establish a national gold exchange or trading floor, according to a report from the Government News.

In Prime Ministerial  Directive  06/CT-TTg, dated February 23, 2026,  the SBV was asked to closely monitor the gold market and synchronously implement solutions to manage gold trading activities.

The SBV was assigned to work with relevant agencies and localities to effectively monitor monetary policy, fiscal policy and other macroeconomic policies, while steadfastly maintaining the 2026 average inflation target of around 4.5 per cent.

The SBV was tasked to direct credit institutions to ensure safe and effective credit growth, channeling credit into production and business activities, priority sectors, and key economic growth drivers.

The central bank needs to take measures to control and resolve bad debts, improve credit quality, limit the emergence of new bad debts, and ensure the safe and stable operation of the credit institution system, according to the Directive from the Prime Minister.

According to SBV Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung, the proposed gold trading floor is a coordinated policy step to complete market infrastructure and regulations as directed by the Party General Secretary and the Prime Minister, aiming to unlock gold reserves held by Vietnamese households, enhance transaction transparency, and strengthen the State's management of the market.

Additionally, the gold exchange will provide transparent data for analysis, forecast, and policy making. When integrated and processed in a timely manner, the data will serve as a valuable supplementary source of information for monetary policy governance.

VGP-Van Nguyen

Data gleaned from a recent survey has Vietnam leading Southeast Asia for Australian business expansion, topping its peers in growth considerations and near-term investment plans.

Vietnam has strengthened its position as the leading destination in Southeast Asia for Australian business expansion and investment, according to the Australian Business in Southeast Asia Survey 2025. This makes the 2025 edition the largest dataset in the survey’s nine-year history, providing a robust snapshot of Australian business sentiment, performance, and strategic intent across ASEAN.

One of the most significant findings is that 61 per cent of respondents identified Vietnam as a market they are considering for future growth; the highest share recorded by any Southeast Asian economy in the survey. This places it at the top of the regional rankings for future expansion consideration, well ahead of other ASEAN markets competing for Australian investment.

Strong position

The survey showed that 44 per cent of Australian businesses have plans to expand into Vietnam this year; again the highest proportion in Southeast Asia. These figures indicate that Vietnam is not only attracting attention as a market of potential but is also emerging as the primary destination for near-term investment decisions among Australian businesses.

Taken together, the data suggests that Vietnam has moved beyond being one of several attractive options in the region to become the most prominent focal point for Australian companies seeking growth in Southeast Asia, both for those already operating in the country and for those with a presence elsewhere in ASEAN.

The strong position Vietnam holds reflects broader optimism among Australian businesses about growth prospects in Southeast Asia, even as global economic uncertainty persists. Across the region, 33 per cent of respondents expect significant revenue growth of more than 10 per cent over the next five years, indicating that many continue to view ASEAN as a key driver of medium-term expansion.

Respondents also reported that trade activity across Southeast Asia has expanded over the past two years, suggesting that business momentum has been sustained despite challenges such as inflation, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions. Within this regional context, Vietnam stands out as the market most closely associated with future growth ambitions.

While the survey does not provide a full country-by-country breakdown of revenue performance, the high proportion of companies considering Vietnam for growth and planning expansion in the country suggests that Australian businesses associate it more strongly than other markets with their future revenue expectations. This positions it as a perceived growth leader within ASEAN.

The survey also highlighted the operational challenges Australian businesses face in Southeast Asia. Government bureaucracy was identified as having a high impact by 40 per cent of respondents, making it the most frequently cited challenge, followed by access to skilled labor (27 per cent) and corruption (24 per cent).

Despite these constraints, the survey data indicates that Australian businesses continue to pursue expansion, suggesting that perceived opportunities outweigh the risks. Vietnam’s leading position in both future growth consideration and planned expansion implies that Australian businesses view it as better positioned than other ASEAN markets to manage these challenges while still delivering growth.

Market scale is an important underlying factor in this assessment. Vietnam’s large population and rising domestic demand align closely with respondents’ growth expectations, particularly for companies operating in consumer-facing sectors alongside export-oriented activities. Though the survey did not quantify sector-specific outcomes by country, Vietnam’s dominance in future expansion intent suggests that Australian businesses see its market fundamentals as especially supportive of long-term growth.

From interest to action

According to the survey, Vietnam’s economy is among the fastest-growing in Southeast Asia, powered by surging exports, strong manufacturing, services, and robust inflows of FDI. For Australian businesses, the country is a key trade partner offering ripe opportunities in manufacturing, the digital economy, infrastructure, renewables, and education - all buoyed by expanded trade agreements, strategic reforms, and ambitious infrastructure investment programs.

Furthermore, in capitalizing on its gradual integration into the global trade and investment system, Vietnam’s economy is becoming more market-oriented. Ongoing reforms have strengthened trade openness, enhanced investment freedom, and improved regulatory efficiency, positioning the country as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and competitive emerging markets.

Vietnam’s 44 per cent expansion-by-2026 figure indicates a comparatively strong conversion from strategic intent to operational planning. This is particularly notable in a regional environment characterized by elevated uncertainty.

The survey showed that Australian businesses are making selective decisions about where to allocate capital and resources, prioritizing markets that combine growth potential with a degree of predictability. Vietnam’s top ranking on both future growth consideration and planned expansion suggests that it meets these criteria more convincingly than other Southeast Asian destinations.

Survey data also points to the importance of regional integration in shaping business decisions. A substantial majority of respondents agreed that ASEAN’s economic integration supports business activity in the region. Vietnam’s participation in regional trade frameworks such as the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) enhances its appeal as a base for serving both domestic and wider ASEAN markets, reinforcing its position in Australian businesses’ regional strategies.

At the same time, the data also points to a clear set of risks and operational challenges facing Australian businesses in Vietnam. The most significant identified by respondents were political instability globally (39 per cent), followed by disruptions to international cooperation (27 per cent), impediments to trade such as tariffs and quotas (26 per cent), and changes in the regulatory environment (26 per cent).

At the operational level, corruption and poor governance emerged as the leading challenge, as cited by 38 per cent of respondents in Vietnam, ahead of barriers to ownership and investment (24 per cent) and the quality and ease of banking services (23 per cent). Infrastructure gaps (21 per cent) and the time and cost of import-export procedures (20 per cent) were also notable concerns.

Overall, the quantitative evidence from the Australian Business in Southeast Asia Survey 2025 presents a clear conclusion: Vietnam has emerged as the leading destination in Southeast Asia for Australian business expansion. In a region offering both opportunity and complexity, the survey data shows that Vietnam is the market where Australian businesses are most prepared to commit capital, resources, and long-term strategic focus.

Box

The Australian Business in Southeast Asia Survey 2025, conducted by AusCham ASEAN in partnership with RMIT University, received responses from more than 300 Australian businesses operating in, or considering entry into, Southeast Asian markets.

VET-Diep Linh

This is one among key tasks outlined by the Government leader to boost science and technology development, innovation, and digital transformation.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged for early commercialization of low-Earth-orbit satellite internet services in 2026, while chairing a meeting of the Government Steering Committee on science and technology development, innovation, digital transformation and Project 06, held in Hanoi on February 25.

He also called on telecom firms to speed up 5G deployment to ensure nationwide coverage this year.

PM Chinh instructed the Ministry of Science and Technology to finalize the selection and assignment of priority strategic technology products, focusing on artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicles, nuclear energy, digital transformation, green transition, the creative economy, the low-altitude economy and high-speed rail.

The Ministry of Public Security was tasked with launching National Data Center No. 1 within the year and working with enterprises to label data to support the development of an autonomous AI platform.

The Government leader also ordered ministries to reserve at least 3% of annual state budget spending for digital transformation, thus  making data and artificial intelligence core growth drivers.

VnEconomy-Hạ Chi

The strategy aimed at building a modern, sustainable sector integrated into global value chains.

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son has signed a Prime Ministerial decision, approving Vietnam’s Dairy Industry Development Strategy through 2030, with a vision to 2045, with a roadmap aimed at building a modern, sustainable sector integrated into global value chains.

The strategy targets the creation of a self-reliant dairy ecosystem, spanning from herd development to high-value finished products.

By 2030, the industry is expected to grow at an annual rate of 12–14%, with processed liquid milk output reaching 4.2 billion liters per year. Domestic fresh milk production is projected at 2.6 billion liters, meeting 60–65% of processing demand and reducing reliance on imports.

Looking ahead to 2045, per capita milk consumption is forecast to reach 100 liters annually. Processed milk output is expected to climb to 9.7 billion liters, with local raw milk supplying up to 85% of industry needs.

Technology will play a pivotal role, with digitalization, blockchain and artificial intelligence encouraged in herd management and traceability systems. The strategy also promotes green production, circular economy models and stricter food safety standards aligned with Codex, ISO and HACCP benchmarks.

Vietnam will diversify products, strengthen global market access through free trade agreements, and promote a national dairy brand while expanding school milk programs to improve child nutrition.

VnEconomy-Vũ Khuê

The gap between domestic and global gold prices down 26.7% from the peak recorded on January 30.

Gold prices in Vietnam edged lower on February 26, the 10th day of the first lunar month, known as the God of Wealth Day, despite gains on the global market.

Prices of SJC-branded gold bars dropped by VND300,000 (US$11.5) per tael compared to the previous day, settling at VND182 million ($6,980) per tael for buying and VND185 million ($7,089) per tael for selling.

One tael equals 37.5 grams, or 1.2 ounces.

Globally, gold prices rose by more than 0.5% from the previous session to $5,191.5 per ounce. At this level, domestic gold prices remain approximately VND18.77 million ($716) per tael higher than international prices. The gap has narrowed by more than VND1 million ($38) per tael compared to the previous day and is down 26.7% from the peak recorded on January 30.

VnEconomy-Mai Nhi