At a nationwide conference, held by the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat on February 25, the Politburo’s Resolution No.79-NQ/TW on developing the state-owned economic sector and Resolution No.80-NQ/TW on developing Vietnamese culture were studied…

The Party Central Committee’s Secretariat held a nationwide conference in Hanoi on February 25 to study, disseminate and implement the Politburo’s Resolution No.79-NQ/TW on developing the state-owned economic sector and Resolution No.80-NQ/TW on developing Vietnamese culture. 

The conference was  connected to 27,284 sites nationwide, attracting more than two million participants. It was broadcast live on  Vietnam Television and Radio the Voice of Vietnam, and streamed on digital platforms.

Party General Secretary To Lam attended and delivered a keynote address. Also present were State President Luong Cuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, Permanent member of the Secretariat Tran Cam Tu, along with many other leaders.

Participants included members of the Politburo, the Secretariat and the Party Central Committee; leaders of ministries, agencies and mass organizations; representatives of the armed forces and public security; executives of state-owned groups, corporations and banks; and a wide range of cultural managers, artists, authors and researchers. Local Party leaders and officials joined from provincial and grassroots sites nationwide.

Under the program, participants heard thematic presentations on the core contents of Resolution No.80-NQ/TW on cultural development, Resolution No.79-NQ/TW on the state-run economic sector, and the Government’s action program to implement the two resolutions, delivered by Party and Government leaders. 

At the conference, Politburo member, Secretary of the Central Party Committee, and Head of the Party Central Committee’s  Policy and Strategy Commision Nguyen Thanh Nghi presented key contents of Resolution79.

Politburo member, Secretary of the Central Party Committee, and Head of the Party Central Committee’s  Policy and Strategy Commision Nguyen Thanh Nghi presents key contents of Resolution79. - (Photo: Nhan Dan)

According to Mr. Nghi, Resolution 79 marks an important renewal in the theoretical thinking and awareness of the Party regarding the state economy. For the first time, the content of the state economy is defined comprehensively and systematically in a specialized resolution, clarifying its position and expanding the scope of this economic sector within the socialist-oriented market economy.

The state economy is identified as a particularly important component of the economy, viewed as a unified whole, encompassing all resources held, managed, and controlled by the State to achieve socio-economic development goals, macroeconomic stability, and ensure national defense and security.

These resources include land, mineral resources, water resources, airspace, maritime areas, underground space; infrastructure systems invested in by the State; state budget; national reserves; state financial funds outside the budget; state-owned enterprises; state credit institutions; state capital in enterprises and public service units.

The resolution affirms that throughout 80 years of construction and development, especially in the 40 years of Doi Moi (Renewal) policy, the state economy has always played a leading role. This sector directly participates in production and business while also serving as an important material resource foundation and a strategic tool for the State to perform its role in guiding, leading, and regulating economic activities.

Through the state economy, the State promotes growth, stabilizes the macroeconomy, maintains major balances of the economy, ensures national defense and security, enhances self-reliance and resilience, and lays the foundation for rapid and sustainable socio-economic development in the socialist orientation.

In addition to the achieved results, the resolution also points out many limitations and shortcomings of the state economy. Policies and laws regarding the state economy are slow to innovate and have not kept pace with practical requirements. The management, exploitation, and use of many state resources and assets have not been truly effective, lacking full accounting according to economic principles, with wastefulness and loss still occurring, and the leading and controlling role not clearly demonstrated.

The operations of state-owned enterprises still face many limitations, with effectiveness not commensurate with the scale of resources held, low competitiveness, and a failure to play a pioneering role in innovation and leading key sectors and fields. The restructuring process of state-owned enterprises is still slow.

The system of public service units has not been streamlined, the operational mechanism and financial autonomy are slow to innovate, the proportion of fully autonomous units remains low, the quality of public services does not meet requirements, and many long-standing issues have not been resolved definitively.

To fully promote the role of the state economy and contribute to achieving the two strategic goals of national development by 2030 and 2045, Resolution No. 79 sets out five systematic, comprehensive, and holistic guiding viewpoints.

First, the resolution requires the renewal, supplementation, and specification of the content of the leading role of the state economy in the socialist-oriented market economy, in line with development requirements in the new era.

Second, it clearly defines the mutually beneficial relationship between the state economy and other economic sectors, aiming to fully promote the role of each sector and create a comprehensive driving force for the economy. The resolution sets a goal that by 2045, the state economy will become a solid foundation ensuring strategic autonomy, resilience, and comprehensive competitiveness of the economy; modern, transparent, and effective governance; deep integration into the global economy; and the provision of high-quality public services.

Third, it emphasizes enhancing the effectiveness of management, exploitation, and use of state economic resources.

Fourth, it raises the mission of the state economy in connection with the requirement to innovate the growth model.

Fifth, it strengthens the Party's leadership role, enhancing the capacity, effectiveness, and efficiency of state management over the state economy, especially in directing resource use and organizing implementation.

Based on that, the resolution sets out general goals and specific targets for the development of the state economy by 2030, with a vision toward 2045. The general goal focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of promoting the leading, pioneering, and strategic orientation role of the state economy in key sectors; leading and supporting economic sectors to develop together; contributing to promoting rapid and sustainable growth, ensuring national defense and security, social progress and equity, and improving the people's living standards.

The resolution also identifies specific targets by 2030 for six components of the state economy, including land and resources; infrastructure assets; budget, national reserves, and state financial funds outside the budget; state-owned enterprises; state credit institutions; and public service units.

Notable quantitative targets are specified, such as: the budget mobilization rate reaching about 18% of GDP; budget deficit around 5% of GDP; public debt not exceeding 60% of GDP; investment expenditure accounting for about 35–40% of total budget expenditure. For state-owned enterprises, striving to have about 50 enterprises among the 500 largest enterprises in Southeast Asia and 1–3 enterprises among the 500 largest enterprises in the world.

Vneconomy-Ha Le

Convenience chains such as Circle K, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, and GS25 remained operational throughout the holiday, while major retailers including Aeon, MM Mega Market, GO!, and Saigon Co.op have already reopened for the new season

Since the second day of the Lunar New Year (Tet) - February 18, the market has gradually regained its vibrancy as traditional markets and retail outlets began partial reopenings. This year, several convenience store chains operated 24/7 throughout the holiday, while major retail systems resumed operations early with adjusted spring schedules.

According to the Domestic Market Authority (under the Ministry of Industry and Trade), the post-Tet market for essential goods has seen positive momentum. Although citizens continue to prioritize spring outings, New Year greetings, and family reunions, the demand for shopping—particularly for fresh food—has increased compared to the peak holiday days.

A survey of traditional markets in Hanoi on February 23 (the 7th day of Tet) revealed that vegetable prices remained stable, with some items dropping by 15–20% compared to the pre-Tet period. Prices for livestock, poultry, and seafood also saw reductions of VND10,000–15,000 per kilogram compared to the holiday peak. Conversely, fresh flowers for spiritual offerings continued to be sold at significantly higher prices than on ordinary days.

Reports from supermarkets indicate that inventory has been fully replenished with a wide variety of goods. Numerous spring promotion programs have been launched simultaneously, focusing on essential items, processed foods, household appliances, and cosmetics to stimulate consumer demand. Thanks to abundant supply and early stockpiling plans, prices for basic commodities have remained stable, with no reports of shortages or price spikes.

Modern distribution networks continue to play a key role in market stabilization. Convenience chains such as Circle K, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, and GS25 remained operational throughout the holiday, while major retailers including Aeon, MM Mega Market, GO!, and Saigon Co.op have already reopened for the new season.

Experts predict that as daily life and production return to normal, purchasing power will gradually rise. However, given the ample supply and the stable operation of distribution systems, the market is likely to maintain a balanced state, effectively meeting consumer needs.

Regarding consumption trends, current demand is concentrated on fresh food groups such as green vegetables, seafood, and meat (pork and beef). Meanwhile, spiritual items such as fresh flowers and fruits for New Year offerings maintain steady purchasing momentum.

Outlining post-Tet priorities, the Domestic Market Authority stated that the focus will be on stringent market and price management. This includes maintaining seamless distribution networks and ensuring a balance between supply and demand for essential goods and services to prevent shortages, hoarding, or unreasonable price hikes. Authorities will also continue to implement solutions to stimulate domestic consumption and promote the "Vietnamese People Prioritize Using Vietnamese Goods" campaign.

Following the holiday, market surveillance forces will intensify inspections and controls at festival sites, on e-commerce platforms, and along key transportation routes.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) aims to strictly penalize violations regarding pricing, smuggling, counterfeit goods, products of unknown origin, and food safety issues to protect consumer rights and stabilize the market from the beginning of 2026.

Vneconomy-Tuệ Mỹ

A high-peak inspection plan has been launched, with seven ministries and the Government Inspectorate assigned to conduct inspections in 15 key localities from now until March 9, 2026.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha chaired the 31st meeting of the National Steering Committee on Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing on February 24.

The session was held via video conference with representatives from coastal provinces and cities across the country, according to a report by Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

According to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), a high-peak inspection plan has been launched, with the ministries of Agriculture and Environment, Justice, Public Security, National Defense, Science and Technology, Industry and Trade, and the Government Inspectorate assigned to conduct inspections in 15 key localities from now until March 9, 2026. The inspection methods and content will mirror the protocols used by the European Commission (EC).

The MAE has also issued Official Dispatch No. 1289 to the chairpersons of coastal provinces and cities, urging them to intensify local inspections and finalize preparations for the EC's 5th inspection visit. The ministry noted that software systems for monitoring fishing vessel activities have been synchronized and integrated.

Emphasizing that the EC inspection team is scheduled to arrive in less than two weeks, the Minister of Agirculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang stressed that the ministry is currently coordinating with various sectors to review, cross-check, and finalize all necessary documentation.

"I urge the chairpersons of the 22 coastal provinces to conduct self-inspections and develop comprehensive, detailed master plans to work with the inspection team upon request," the minister said.

"Localities must strictly review and categorize the handling of vessels that lose VMS connection or cross maritime boundaries, ensuring that documentation is consistent with the data provided to the MAE and the EC. Provinces must also conclusively handle cases where there is sufficient information to penalize captains and owners of seized vessels."

Reporting at the meeting, Lieutenant General Le Quang Dao, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army, noted that no Vietnamese fishing vessels were reported seized or handled by foreign authorities over the past week. Patrols also found no "three-no" vessels (no registration, no license, no certificate). However, Border Guard and Coast Guard forces detected and handled 13 domestic violations, resulting in fines exceeding VND1 billion ($38,000). Primary violations included VMS disconnections, failure to report positions every six hours, and fishing in the wrong zones.

"In the coming week, Border Guard forces will continue to coordinate with functional agencies to strictly manage the entry and exit of fishing vessels," Mr. Dao said. "The Ministry of National Defense requests that local authorities coordinate patrols to strictly monitor vessels not registered in the national database."

Concluding the meeting, Deputy PM Ha requested that all ministries and localities fulfill the 123 specific tasks previously outlined by the Prime Minister. He ordered a thorough review of all explanatory reports addressing the EC’s concerns.

With only two weeks remaining, the Deputy PM mandated that all sectors continue implementing the high-peak inspection plan under MARD’s Decision No. 515. He emphasized that responsibilities must be clearly assigned to both local authorities and central ministries. Beyond comprehensive inspections, each ministry must focus on its specific area of expertise—particularly the Ministry of Science and Technology, which is tasked with working with MAE to ensure the connectivity and transparency of tracking systems.

VOV-

The figure representing an increase of 36.93% year-on-year.

Vietnam’s total foreign trade turnover reached $41.67 billion in the first half of February, rising 31.77% year-on-year, according to the Vietnam General Department of Customs.

The latest figures brought the country’s total trade value so far this year to $130.18 billion, representing an increase of 36.93% compared to the same period last year.

Export revenue in the first half of February stood at $20.36 billion, up 12.79% from the first half of January. The growth was largely driven by the manufacturing and processing sector, particularly high-tech products. The foreign-invested sector contributed $15.8 billion, accounting for nearly 78% of total exports.

Meanwhile, import turnover reached an estimated $21.31 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $947.92 million for the period.

VnEconomy-Hoàng Sơn

HAUS Da Lat appoints Mr. Michael Sheren as Chairman, reinforcing governance and ESG commitments while advancing a landmark luxury development in Da Lat. Mr. Michael Sheren, Chairman of the Board, HAUS Da Lat

The developer of the HAUS Da Lat real estate project has appointed Mr. Michael Sheren as Chairman of its Board of Directors, marking a significant step in strengthening corporate governance and reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to ESG principles from the outset.

Mr. Sheren, a British national, is widely recognized as a global leader in green finance, governance, and public policy. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Banking Environment Initiative, is a Fellow at the Cambridge University Institute for Sustainability Leadership, and a Senior Advisor to the UNDP Sustainable Finance Hub.

Prior to these roles, Mr. Sheren was a member of the World Economic Forum’s Expert Group on Sustainable Governance. He also served as a Senior Advisor at the Bank of England, where he provided strategic counsel and independent challenge to senior management on risk, governance, and operational matters within the financial system, particularly regarding climate change and sustainability standards.

In his climate-related work, he has been deeply involved in efforts to “green” the global financial system. He co-chaired the G20 Sustainable Finance Study Group; served as a UK delegate to the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS); contributed to digital green bond initiatives within the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub; and was a co-founder of the Bank of England’s Fintech Accelerator.

Mr. Michael Sheren is a global leader in green finance, governance, and public policy.

With more than 25 years of experience in international capital markets, Mr. Sheren specializes in the structuring, distribution, and trading of private equity, commercial real estate, and structured debt for leading financial institutions in New York and London. This background provides a strategic advantage in bridging traditional finance with the ESG standards shaping the industry’s future.

Mr. Sheren holds master’s degrees from Harvard University, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and New York University (NYU), as well as a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University.

In his capacity as Chairman of HAUS Da Lat, Mr. Sheren said he will work alongside the developer and the HAUS brand to strengthen the governance foundation, advance green finance initiatives, promote sustainable development, and implement the planned ESG roadmap.

HAUS Da Lat is a pioneer in Vietnam’s ESG-driven real estate

The One Destination is a pioneer in developing ESG-oriented real estate models in Vietnam, with a nationwide portfolio of large-scale projects and land holdings, including HAUS Da Lat on the shores of Xuan Huong Lake, a cultural and heritage landmark of Da Lat.

The project features 68 freehold Sky Villas and Sky Mansions, a commercial center, and the five-star InterContinental HAUS Da Lat resort complex. Construction of the various components is underway, with HAUS Residences scheduled for delivery in late 2027.

HAUS Residences - a limited collection of 68 Sky Villas and Sky Mansions enters the market

Lam Dong provincial authorities expect HAUS Da Lat to help place Da Lat and Lam Dong on the global tourism map, supported by collaborations with world-leading brands: architectural and landscape design firm Kengo Kuma and Associates (KKAA); Isometrix Lighting Design; 1508 London, interior designers for high-end residences; Chiva-Som, a leading wellness and therapy brand; and Copper Beech, an operational consultant behind private residential projects for world leaders, billionaires, and royalty.

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Hoi An's Lunar New Year celebrations offer a gentler take on Tet, unfolding across the lantern-lit streets of its UNESCO-listed Old Town, according to the UK-based Time Out magazine.

The UK-based Time Out magazine has ranked Hoi An in Vietnam’s central city of Da Nang second on its list of the six best destinations in Asia to experience the Lunar New Year, according to a report from the Government News.

According to the magazine, Hoi An's Lunar New Year celebrations offer a gentler take on Tet, unfolding across the lantern-lit streets of its UNESCO-listed Old Town.

"Don't come expecting a mega parade, though. It's mostly a series of cultural rituals and community-led festivities that blend seamlessly into daily life", shared Time Out.

Lunar New Year's Eve sees the Old Town glow with floating lantern releases along the Hoai River, low-altitude fireworks, Lion-Dragon dances, Bai Choi folk singing and the Sac Bua blessing procession.

"While you're there, infuse more depth and texture to your visit by heading to craft-village festivals like the Kim Bong Carpentry Ancestors' Ceremony and Tra Que's Cau Bong Festival", suggested the magazine.

Official statistics showed that Da Nang City took the lead among localities nationwide in welcoming international visitors during the Lunar New Year holiday. During the nine days of Tet, the city was estimated to receive more than 500,000 foreign arrivals.

Total tourism revenue in the city was estimated at over VND 3.96 trillion ($151.35 million), up 34 percent. The city's average hotel occupancy rate reached around 65–70 per cent.

VGP-Pham Long

Record storms battered Vietnam from the north to the south during 2025 but the country’s capacity to respond was more than heartening.

The year 2025 ended as one of the most severe and abnormal periods for natural disasters in Vietnam’s history. Estimates put total economic losses at VND100 trillion ($3.85 billion); the highest level ever and highlighting the growing vulnerability of communities to the escalating impacts of climate change, while underscoring the urgent need to strengthen response capacity and overall resilience.

Unprecedented levels

According to Mr. Nguyen Van Tien, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), a series of records related to typhoons, rainfall, flooding, and damage were set in 2025, reflecting increasingly extreme and unpredictable weather patterns driven by climate change.

Fifteen typhoons and six tropical depressions rolled in from the East Sea last year; the most since records began in 1961. The previous record was set in 2017, with 20 severe weather events in total. Notably, Typhoon No. 9 (Ragasa) reached wind force level 17, with gusts exceeding level 17, making it the strongest typhoon ever recorded in the East Sea and one of the most powerful typhoons globally in 2025.

Typhoon No. 1 (Wutip) formed early, in June; something that had not occurred for more than 40 years. For the first time in meteorological history, a tropical depression formed in the Indian Ocean, moved into the northwest Pacific, and then entered the East Sea, clearly illustrating a disruption of traditional climate patterns. In addition, the seasonal distribution of typhoons shifted, with early-season impacts concentrated in central Vietnam and late-season typhoons striking northern regions in rapid succession.

Beyond these typhoons, the resulting rainfall and flooding hit exceptional extremes. Bach Ma Station in the central region recorded approximately 1,740 mm of rainfall within 24 hours in October; the highest ever observed in Vietnam and currently under review by the World Meteorological Organization as one of the largest 24-hour rainfall events worldwide. Nearby Hue and Quang Tri province experienced unseasonal flooding during the dry season, while Ban Ve Reservoir in north-central Nghe An province also recorded historic water levels.

Severe flooding was seen nationwide, affecting Vietnam’s northern, central and southern regions, including the central highlands and the Mekong Delta, with peak flood levels on the banks of many rivers surpassing records. Never before had major, historic floods been seen in the same year along 20 rivers.

Extreme natural disasters also resulted in heavy human and material losses, with 409 people reported dead or missing. Eighteen rivers in northern and central Vietnam and two in the southern region exceeded record levels, causing prolonged inundation and severely affecting the livelihoods of millions.

Hastening recovery

A significant highlight in disaster recovery efforts during 2025 was the implementation of the “Quang Trung Campaign.” The initiative was not only an emergency response to severe disaster impacts but also a consistent policy of the Party and the State to ensure social security, guided by the principle of “decisive action, clear tasks, clear timelines, and clear accountability,” from the central government to local authorities.

To urgently rebuild and repair homes damaged or destroyed by typhoons and floods and ensure safe housing for residents so they can stabilize their lives and welcome in 2026 and the Lunar New Year in February, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed chairpersons of city and provincial people’s committees from north-central Ha Tinh province to the central highlands’ Lam Dong province to develop detailed plans and simultaneously launch the Quang Trung Campaign from December 1. The Campaign focused on severely affected localities, such as Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Khanh Hoa, and Lam Dong provinces, with the goal of mobilizing all available resources to rapidly construct and repair housing in disaster-hit areas.

According to a consolidated report from the Government Office, the region saw 1,628 houses completely destroyed, requiring reconstruction, and 34,352 houses damaged and in need of repair. Local authorities concentrated resources and implemented comprehensive measures to support residents in disaster recovery and restore living conditions as quickly as possible.

Under the direct and continuous leadership of the Prime Minister, the Quang Trung Campaign was implemented in a spirit of “speed, determination, and leaving no one behind.” In less than three weeks, by December 17, construction had begun on 1,622 houses, reaching 98.1 per cent of the plan, while 32,259 houses had been repaired, accounting for more than 90 per cent of all damaged homes.

A Joint Disaster Response Plan developed by the United Nations, in close cooperation with the Vietnamese Government and domestic and international partners, was also rolled out. Under the plan, response activities extended beyond emergency relief towards sustainable recovery. Key priorities included repairing and rebuilding housing, supporting livelihood restoration, rehabilitating essential public infrastructure, strengthening local institutional capacity and enhancing community resilience.

The principle of “leaving no one behind” was emphasized, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities.

Weathering the impact

According to data from the Plant Production and Protection Department at MAE, in November, Typhoon No. 13, accompanied by heavy rainfall and flooding in the south-central region and the central highlands, caused severe damage to agricultural production. The total affected crop area reached 113,925 ha, including 14,763 ha of rice, 39,663 ha of vegetables, and 59,498 ha of fruit trees, industrial crops, and other perennial crops.

Based on Decree No. 09/2025, the Department advised the Ministry to release more than 3,400 tons of crop seeds from national reserves to heavily-affected localities, with north-central Thanh Hoa and Ha Tinh provinces and central Quang Tri province and the city of Hue receiving the largest allocations. Crop production remained stable as a result. In December and into January, the crop sector continued to closely monitor production conditions, coordinating with local authorities to provide seeds and fertilizers to support recovery.

At the same time, plans for the 2025-2026 Winter-Spring crop were developed and implemented, focusing on expanding acreage and improving yields of key crops to offset losses and achieve agricultural growth targets.

According to the Directorate of Fisheries, during October and November, Typhoons No. 10, 11 and 13, along with widespread flooding, also caused serious damage to aquaculture and fisheries in many provinces, with Khanh Hoa, Dak Lak, and Gia Lai the hardest hit. The total affected aquaculture area was estimated at about 1,848 ha, while more than 23,000 cages and over 331,000 cubic meters of floating cages were damaged or swept away.

In response, the Department dispatched working teams to affected localities to assess damage and directed research institutes to strengthen water environment monitoring to provide a scientific basis for recovery and restocking.

It also proposed that local authorities coordinate with banks to implement debt rescheduling, deferment, and credit support for households reinvesting in production. Measures to stabilize input and seed markets were intensified to prevent speculation and unreasonable price hikes. As a result, the fisheries sector recorded growth driven by strong aquaculture performance. In the first eleven months of 2025, total fisheries output was estimated at 9.0496 million tons, up 2.9 per cent year-on-year.

Over the longer term, to respond to and mitigate disaster-related losses, leaders from the Directorate of Fisheries said the sector will reorganize production toward adaptive and sustainable models. Key priorities include reviewing and re-planning caged aquaculture activities, in particular stocking density; prioritizing infrastructure investment in key farming areas; strengthening environmental monitoring and early warning systems; and accelerating the application of digital technologies.

VET-Chuong Phuong

With an export volume of 24,067 tons, accounting for approximately 34.5% of the market share in China, Vietnam has risen to the top position in green lobster exports to this market.

In 2025, Vietnam’s green lobster exports to China recorded a breakthrough year, reaching a turnover of $840 million—a staggering 131% increase compared to 2024.

With an export volume of 24,067 tons, accounting for approximately 34.5% of the market share in China, Vietnam has risen to the top position in green lobster exports to this market. This achievement surpasses Canada, which held the top spot for many years but saw its exports fall to 15,355 tons, representing roughly 22% of the market share.

One of the primary factors driving this shift was trade policy. Starting March 20, 2025, China imposed an additional 25% tariff on various Canadian seafood products, including lobsters. As a high-value yet price-sensitive commodity, this tariff rendered Canadian products less competitive, forcing importers to seek alternative sources.

At that critical juncture, Vietnam emerged with distinct advantages, including geographical proximity, rapid delivery times, and flexibility in shipment sizes—all of which are essential factors for the live and fresh seafood segment.

According to data from Vietnam Customs, 2025 was a breakout year for Vietnamese lobsters, particularly in the mainland China and Hong Kong markets. The total export value of Vietnamese shrimp and lobster products to these two markets reached $1.3 billion, a 55% increase over 2024. Specifically, green lobsters contributed $840 million to this figure, acting as the primary engine of growth. This momentum continued into early 2026; in January alone, green lobster exports to mainland China and Hong Kong exceeded $100 million, up 6% over the same period last year.

However, the landscape is expected to shift again starting March 1, 2026, as China lifts the 25% tariff on Canadian lobsters and crabs following a bilateral agreement. This move is predicted to ignite a new round of fierce competition, as Canada has a strong incentive to regain its market share, particularly within high-end restaurant chains and the premium gift market.

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) noted that despite the export surge, domestic lobster farmers still face significant hurdles. Intense competition from Australia, Canada, the United States, and Southeast Asian neighbors such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia has placed heavy pressure on domestic procurement prices.

Furthermore, China's decision to lift the ban on Australian lobsters will further squeeze Vietnam’s market share. In addition to price competition, the Chinese market is tightening regulations regarding quality standards and the registration of processing facilities.

To maintain growth momentum, VASEP suggests that Vietnamese enterprises must closely align with market trends by stabilizing quality, standardizing product specifications, optimizing logistics for live goods, and strengthening direct ties with modern distribution systems.

VASEP remarked that while 2025 proved China is willing to "buy big" as the premium segment recovers, 2026 will be a true test of resilience. In an increasingly competitive environment, the suppliers who can maintain quality, delivery speed, and strong ties to distribution channels will be the ones who successfully defend their market share.

Vneconomy-Chu Khôi

The economic zone will span approximately 5,300 hectares, designed to leverage Hai Phong city’s strengths in industrial and service development, with a focus on high-tech and environmentally friendly industries.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has signed a Prime Ministerial decision on establishing the Hai Phong Specialized Economic Zone (EZ) in the northern port city of Hai Phong.

The economic zone will span approximately 5,300 hectares across Thuong Hong, Nguyen Luong Bang, Bac Thanh Mien, Thanh Mien, Hai Hung and Binh Giang communes.

The EZ will comprise multiple functional areas, including industrial parks and clusters, comprehensive trade and service zones, a non-tariff area, logistics service zones, as well as dedicated logistics and innovation centers.

The zone is designed to leverage Hai Phong’s strengths in industrial and service development, with a focus on high-tech and environmentally friendly industries aligned with the city’s economic potential. It also aims to strengthen economic, trade and service connectivity with neighboring regions and international markets, while ensuring national defense and security, preserving cultural and historical heritage, and promoting social welfare.

The economic zone will feature modern and integrated infrastructure, with the goal of becoming a key driver of socio-economic growth for Hai Phong and the wider Red River Delta. It is expected to contribute around 3–4% of the city’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) by 2030, rising to over 5% in the following years.

Under the development roadmap, planning work and detailed 1/2000-scale construction plans for key subdivisions will be completed no later than 2026. From 2026 to 2030, authorities will focus on finalizing procedures and implementing investment and construction projects.

Between 2031 and 2035, the zone is expected to complete its socio-economic infrastructure, accelerate urbanization, and develop into a smart, green urban area with high-quality services, while continuing to attract investment in priority sectors.

VnEconomy-Thanh Xuân

Community-based tourism not only offers rural residents a gainful economic model but also offers rich experiences for tourists.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Vietnam currently stands among the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets, posting growth of some 21 per cent in 2025; far exceeding the global average of 5 per cent and the Asia-Pacific average of 8 per cent.

At the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2025 ceremony on December 6, meanwhile, Vietnam was honored in 16 global categories. Notably, this marked the sixth time it was named “World’s Leading Heritage Destination,” recognizing sustained efforts to preserve and promote heritage in line with a sustainable tourism development strategy.

Boost for rural economies

As demand for deeper, more meaningful travel experiences continues to rise, community-based tourism is emerging as a highly-promising direction for Vietnam’s tourism sector, with tangible and intangible cultural heritage becoming a glittering “treasure trove” that captivates international visitors.

One day in late November, at My Tho Marina in the Mekong Delta’s Dong Thap province, the exhibition space of the Xuan Ron Cacao Co. attracted large numbers of domestic and international visitors. In a small glass house overlooking the Tien River, visitors were able to create a complete chocolate bar themselves, from roasting cocoa beans and grinding them into paste to mixing and molding.

“This is the first time I’ve made a chocolate bar,” said Charlotte, a 38-year-old tourist from France. “The aroma of the cocoa feels stronger and deeper. I think this will be the most memorable experience of my Mekong Delta trip.”

Meanwhile, from a once-poor village in Vietnam’s northern reaches, Lo Lo Chai in Tuyen Quang province has risen to become one of the world’s Best Tourism Villages. Guided by the belief that “to go far, you must go together,” more than 100 households in Lo Lo Chai reached consensus to cooperate, share the benefits, and jointly shoulder the responsibilities of growing the local tourism industry. Each household plays a specific role: operating homestays, cooking food, performing traditional music and dance, serving as local guides, or producing handicrafts and agricultural products. This flexible division of labor has helped curb unhealthy competition.

In Hanoi in recent years, experiential tourism at traditional craft villages has also gained in popularity, offering authentic insights into local life. In Uoc Le, a village famous for its traditional pork sausage (gio cha), Mr. Vu Van Linh, a local resident, said: “When we first became familiar with social media platforms, our initial goal was simply to preserve the hand-pounded sausage-making technique. Later, through social media, many domestic and international tourists found their way here, gradually forming a community-based tourism trend.”

To accommodate visitors, wooden pestles and mortars - tools used for generations in Uoc Le - are displayed in many households’ courtyards. “For visitors to really experience it, we need three to five mortars at a time,” said Mr. Nguyen Viet Minh, another resident. “Usually, we prepare five to seven kilograms of meat, depending on how many guests want to try pounding the sausage themselves.” The joy of visitors has become the joy of local families, creating a unique connection that drives tourism development along a distinctive and effective path.

In practice, by directly leveraging natural and indigenous cultural values, community-based tourism is a model initiated, managed, and benefited from by local people themselves. In Vietnam, it is increasingly seen as a vital catalyst for remote and disadvantaged areas, while also reviving many traditional handicraft techniques.

In northern Ninh Binh province, Ms. Trinh Thi Ly from the Sinh Duoc Cooperative said many local producers have joined the “race” to develop experiential activities for international tourists over the past two years. “Visitors can make herbal soap with their own hands,” she explained. “We also organize tours where guests wear traditional Vietnamese attire, or wellness tours using ancient remedies. These activities both meet international tourists’ demand for deep experiences and align with green, healing, and sustainable values.”

Elsewhere in Ninh Binh, artisan Dao Xuan Ngoc helps visitors make decorative motifs from Vietnam’s Dinh and Le Dynasties on traditional “do” paper, the Bo Bat Pottery Cooperative offers hands-on pottery experiences in Hoa Lu ancient town, and Hoang Thanh Phuong, owner of the Bo De Tay Phuong gallery, organizes calligraphy writing on bodhi leaves. What these models share is the creation of spaces for encounters and storytelling, retelling the country’s cultural identity through fresh perspectives while maintaining deep respect for its heritage.

Sharing and spreading values

The 21st century has witnessed profound shifts in the global economy, with creativity and experience emerging as new engines of growth. In the Asia-Pacific region, the rise of creative hubs such as Seoul, Singapore, Tokyo, Busan, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok shows that creativity is not merely an artistic field but a catalyst linking heritage, technology, design, media, education, the digital economy, and experiential tourism.

These “cultural ecosystem” and “creative destination” models are opening up new approaches to development, grounded in community, identity, and the capacity to generate value from cultural, artistic, and indigenous knowledge assets. Vietnam is emerging as a bright spot, with numerous models in various provinces expanding the country’s “creative map” across heritage, handicrafts, music, film, design, and marine culture.

At a workshop on “Developing sustainable community tourism in ethnic minority and mountainous areas,” Associate Professor Pham Hong Long from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vietnam National University, Hanoi, noted that community-based tourism is not merely about providing accommodation and food and must also integrate indigenous cultural activities. “Leveraging culture does not mean ‘selling’ culture, but sharing and spreading values,” he explained. :The driving force of this process must be the local community. When people are empowered to take ownership and receive fair benefits, community-based tourism can truly take off.”

“The effective development of community-based tourism requires that localities promote the ethnic cultural identity in order to build distinctive tourism products suited to each region,” Dr. Tran Huu Son, Director of the Institute of Applied Folklore Studies, added. “This process demands systematic research to create attractive product systems tailored to different visitor segments. Each product needs clear positioning and a unique identity based on the specific resources of each locality.”

From a business perspective, Ms. Ly said community-based tourism is a journey that requires balance, between tradition and innovation and between preserving core values and meeting the changing demands of modern travelers. “We need to develop tourism based on genuine indigenous values,” she believes. “At the same time, we must creatively ‘stage’ these cultural values so that they retain their traditional essence while also being entertaining and appealing to visitors.”

Crucially, education and communication within local communities are key. Local residents are the central guardians of culture, and need to be equipped with knowledge and skills to tell the stories of their homeland’s unique cultural values with pride and inspiration. Each individual must understand that preserving culture means activating internal resources to create value, ensuring that heritage exploitation is directly and fairly linked to community benefits.

VET-Minh Anh

Direct flights between the capital city of Laos and the central city of Vietnam will be resumed from March 29.

The national carrier of Laos, Lao Airlines, will resume direct flights connecting Laos’ capital, Vientiane, with Vietnam’s central city of Da Nang from March 29, with a frequency of two flights per week, according to a report from the Government News.

The carrier will operate two weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays using a Comac 909 aircraft with 90 economy-class seats. The estimated flight time is approximately one hour and 20 minutes.

Flights are scheduled to depart from Vientiane at 11.20 and arrive in Da Nang at 12.40. Return flights will depart from Da Nang at 13:50 and arrive in Vientiane at 15:10 on the same day.

The proposed round-trip fare listed on the airline's website is $290 for bookings made in April 2026.

In the recent years, Vietnam has been the second biggest number of foreign visitors to the neighboring country, while Laos has remained among the top 15 source markets for Vietnam's tourism sector.

Tourist flows from Vietnam to Laos and vice versa both grew by over 23 per cent in 2024. In the first eight months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed 134,507 Lao visitors, a year-on-year increase of 33.1 per cent.

Meanwhile, in the first half of 2025, Laos received 588,692 Vietnamese visitors, marking a 15 per cent increase year-on-year.

VGP-Van Nguyen

The country targeting 25 million foreign and 150 million domestic holiday-makers in 2026.

Vietnam served 14 million visitors during the nine-day Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday, marking a year-on-year increase of 12%, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT).

Central Da Nang city topped the country in terms of foreign tourist attraction with 510,000 visitors, bringing the total number of tourists to the city during the period to 1.1 million. Total tourism revenue of the city is estimated at VND3.96 trillion ($151 million), up 34% year-on-year.

Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City led the country in terms of tourism revenue with VND12.15 trillion ($463 million), increasing 42.9% year-on-year. The southern city welcomed 4.32 million visitors, including 170,000 international tourists, surging 51.7% year-on-year.

Hanoi received an estimated 1.34 million domestic and foreign visitors, up 36.3%, with total revenue reaching VND4.87 trillion ($185.8 million), up 40.2%.

Vietnam targets 25 million foreign and 150 million domestic holiday-makers in 2026.

VnEconomy-Tường Bách

The Quang Trach I Thermal Power Plant Project is projected to connect the first turbine to the grid in February, with commercial operation expected in May 2026.

During a meeting on February 23, Vietnam Electricity (EVN) leadership requested member units to prioritize ensuring electricity supply during the dry season and to vigorously accelerate the progress of key projects.

For the operation of hydropower sources, proactive plans must be made to ensure water retention and effective use of water resources given the unpredictable weather conditions this year. Additionally, thermal power plants must complete fuel preparation, ensuring there is absolutely no fuel shortage during peak dry season.

Regarding investment in and construction  of new projects, EVN requested units to "immediately regain progress," ensuring milestones, especially for key power source projects. Among them, the Quang Trach I Thermal Power Plant Project is projected to connect the first turbine to the grid in February, with commercial operation expected in May 2026; Quang Trach II Thermal Power Plant aims to break ground in the first quarter of 2026; while procedures for adjusting investment policies and preparing to negotiate related contracts for the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Project will be completed as soon as possible; and  investment preparation for expanded hydropower projects will  be continued.

Regarding power grids, EVN plans to start construction on 295 projects and energize 303 projects in 2026, including 12 projects started  and 11 110kV projects energized in January. Meanwhile, projects connecting electricity sources, releasing capacity from the Northwest hydropower system , and  electricity imports  are required to closely follow the schedule, with land clearance issues to be completed in the first and second quarters of 2026 as scheduled.

Vneconomy-Manh Duc

Decree No. 59/2026/ND-CP details forms of deportation penalties, temporary detention measures, and escort procedures applicable to foreign nationals who violate Vietnamese law during deportation procedures.

Under the Government’s Decree No. 59/2026/ND-CP of February 13, 2026, which will take effects on April 1, deportation penalties, temporary detention measures, and escort procedures will be applied to foreign nationals who violate Vietnamese law during deportation procedures.

Accordingly, such measures  will  be applicable to the following individuals:

- Foreign nationals who commit administrative violations and are subject to temporary detention under administrative procedures;

- Foreign nationals who commit administrative violations and are subject to escort measures; and

- Foreign nationals who commit violations of Vietnamese law and are subject to deportation in accordance with the Law on Handling of Administrative Violations;

Subjects subject to deportation penalties

Under the Decree, deportation applies to foreign individuals who commit administrative violations within the territory, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone, and continental shelf of Vietnam.

Foreign nationals committing violations on board aircraft bearing Vietnamese nationality or vessels flying the Vietnamese flag are also subject to deportation in accordance with the Law on Handling of Administrative Violations and relevant Government decrees governing administrative sanctions in specific sectors.

The authority to impose deportation penalties is implemented in accordance with Article 8 (Clause 6, Point d; Clause 7; and Clause 9) of Decree 189/2025/ND-CP dated July 1, 2025, detailing the Law on Handling of Administrative Violations.

Rights of persons subject to deportation

Individuals subject to deportation have the right to:

- Be informed of the reasons for deportation and receive the deportation decision at least 48 hours before its enforcement;

- Contact and notify the diplomatic or consular representative office of their country of nationality;

- Be provided with an interpreter when working with competent authorities; 

- Request reconsideration of the deportation decision in accordance with the law; 

- Enjoy the regimes specified in Decree 65/2020/ND-CP dated June 10, 2020, which regulates the organization and conditions for persons staying at accommodation facilities while awaiting departure;

- Take their lawful assets out of Vietnamese territory; 

- Lodge complaints or denunciations in accordance with legal provisions

Obligations of deported individuals

Persons subject to deportation shall be required to:

- Fully comply with the deportation decision; 

- Present identification and relevant documents at the request of immigration authorities;

- Comply with Vietnamese law and remain under the supervision of competent police authorities during deportation procedures; 

- Fulfill any outstanding civil, administrative, economic, or other legal obligations (if applicable); and

- Complete exit procedures and leave Vietnamese territory within the timeframe specified in the deportation decision.

vneconomy-Van Nguyen

The proposed center would be tasked with receiving reports, denunciations, and complaints regarding misinformation; announcing and issuing warnings about fake news; and providing support and clarification regarding suspicious information.

The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) is leading the drafting of a Decree on measures to prevent and control legal violations involving fake news and misinformation, currently seeking feedback from agencies, organizations, and individuals.

Under the draft Decree, violations regarding fake news and misinformation include not only direct acts of dissemination but also aiding, colluding, inciting, or deceiving others to commit such acts. These regulations apply when such actions infringe upon the legal rights, interests, health, life, honor, or reputation of individuals and organizations, or impact national security and social order.

Notably, Article 21 of the draft proposes the establishment of a National Database Center for the Prevention and Control of Fake News and Misinformation Violations. This center would be tasked with receiving reports, denunciations, and complaints regarding misinformation; announcing and issuing warnings about fake news; and providing support and clarification regarding suspicious information.

The center will also facilitate data interconnectivity to identify and label fake news through collaboration between the MPS and other ministries, sectors, and People’s Committees at all levels. This system is intended to create a synchronized and unified national database for misinformation management.

The MPS will take the lead in managing and operating the National Database Center. Other ministries, sectors, and local authorities are required to coordinate with the MPS to exchange, update, and link their data to the central system.

According to the MSP, the creation and dissemination of fake news have seen increasingly complex developments. A prominent trend involves misinformation designed to cause disruption, erode public trust, and stir skepticism among officials, party members, and the public regarding the nation's political and socio-economic situation.

Fake news is currently prevalent in cyberspace, often leveraging the influence of high-profile social media accounts. Content is frequently edited to obscure original sources and is supported by the technical features of global platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Snapchat, and TikTok.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Như

The new regulations aim to finalize the legal framework, ensure transparency in fee determination, and enhance the efficiency of state management over apartment operations.

Hanoi has amended and supplemented several provisions of Decision No. 33/2025/QD-UBND, dated April 21, 2025, regarding the price bracket for apartment management and operation services within the city.

The new regulations, effective from February 23, 2026, aim to finalize the legal framework, ensure transparency in fee determination, and enhance the efficiency of state management over apartment operations.

Under the new guidelines, the minimum service fee for apartment buildings without elevators is set at VND700 ($0.02) per square meter per month, with a maximum of VND5,000 ($0.19). For buildings equipped with elevators, the minimum rate is VND1,200 per square meter per month, while the maximum is VND16,500.

The city authorities noted that this price bracket does not include fire and explosion insurance, remuneration for Apartment Management Board members, or revenues from premium services such as saunas, swimming pools, cable TV, Internet, and other high-end amenities.

In addition to adjusting the price bracket, Hanoi has amended Clause 2, Article 4 of the Decision regarding the responsibilities of People’s Committees at the commune and ward levels.

Specifically, these local authorities are tasked with leading inspections into the activities of developers, management units, and Management Boards concerning financial management for public-asset apartment services within their jurisdiction. They are also responsible for resolving disputes related to building operations.

For non-publicly owned apartments, commune and ward-level People’s Committees are responsible for resolving disputes over management and operation fees, as well as the handover, management, and use of maintenance funds for common ownership areas, in accordance with Housing Law No. 27/2023/QH15.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized that science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation are inevitable trends, strategic choices, and top priorities in investment and development.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh worked with the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology  on  February 23 on the implementation of the Resolution of the 14th Party Congress and Resolution No. 57 of the Politburo on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation. 

The PM was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung and leaders of ministries, sectors, and central agencies.

After 50 years of construction and development, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology affirms its position as the core force of the national science system. In 2025, it had 2,300 publications in prestigious journals, and  granted 105 patents and utility solutions, an increase of 2.7 times compared to 2024. In the period of 2021–2025, the Academy published over 12,000 scientific works and  granted nearly 300 patents, 1.5 times more than the previous period. 

Implementing Resolution 57 of the Politburo, out of a total of 45 assigned tasks, the Academy completed 12 tasks on time, with 33 tasks currently being implemented within the deadline, with no tasks delayed. 

Closely following the list of strategic technologies issued together with Prime Ministerial Decision No. 1131/QD-TTg, dated June 12, 2025, the Academy achieved many outstanding results, such as mastering the process of manufacturing modular hardware applications of AI for autonomous electric vehicles; developing AI/IoT solutions for real-time detection and warning of abnormal health conditions in livestock; and developing a model to predict rice plant health based on remote sensing and deep learning. 

The Academy also successfully applied gene editing technology to restore the function of the Rc gene in rice plant; identified new gene variants related to colorectal cancer, serving personalized medicine; and isolated and cultured many cell lines for artificial meat research. Other core technologies developed include water electrolysis to produce hydrogen from renewable energy; nano materials applied in thermal therapy, MRI imaging, and drug delivery; and new generation Lithium-ion battery electrode materials with high storage efficiency. 

In addition, the Academy promotes digital transformation in management and administration; develops shared digital infrastructure and platforms; and trains human resources to serve digital transformation. 

At the working session, the Academy proposed to continue perfecting the institutions and policies for science and technology, especially the management, finance, human resources mechanisms, autonomy in science and technology, and investment in upgrading facilities. The Academy suggested being assigned to lead the implementation of 5 strategic science and technology projects on advanced materials; technology for deep processing of rare earths and strategic minerals; new generation UAVs; nuclear energy technology; and training and developing high-quality science and technology human resources. 

Additionally, the Academy proposed piloting the establishment of an international science and technology organization for advanced functional materials; approving the project to develop human resources and infrastructure for quantum science and technology research; and approving the project to attract outstanding international research groups and Vietnamese people abroad in key technology fields. 

Speaking at the working session, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized that science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation are inevitable trends, strategic choices, and top priorities in investment and development, as they are important drivers to promote rapid and sustainable growth. In this process, the Academy plays a central role as the leading science and technology institution in Vietnam, a place that gathers and crystallizes the intelligence and creativity of intellectuals and scientists. 

The Prime Minister hopes the Academy will achieve breakthroughs, gradually reaching the level of advanced countries in the region and the world, aiming to become a leading scientific and technological research organization in Southeast Asia by 2030, with international competitiveness in several key areas, following the motto: “Elite intelligence – Mastering technology – Strong innovation – Keeping up with the situation – Creating the future.” 

The Prime Minister requested the Academy to implement synchronously four transformations, including: digital transformation, green transformation, energy transformation, and transformation of the structure and quality of human resources; to take the lead in applying artificial intelligence and big data; to build a national database on science and technology; and to focus on mastering core technologies and source technologies, addressing practical issues of the country. 

The Academy is required to “open” laboratories, enhance cooperation with the business sector, making businesses the center of the innovation ecosystem; promote the commercialization of research results, turning inventions into products, specific values in the value chain. 

The Prime Minister directed the Academy to build an action program to implement the Resolution of the 14th Party Congress and the strategic resolutions of the Politburo; to complete the dossier to submit to the Politburo for the project to research and master some strategic technologies before March 15, 2026; to submit to the Prime Minister the project to enhance the Academy's capacity in April 2026; to build a development strategy to 2030, a vision to 2045, and a mechanism for autonomy and comprehensive accountability.  

In governance, the Prime Minister requested a strong shift from “task thinking” to “result thinking”; from “doing many” to “doing right and doing well”; from “having activities” to “having specific products,” “having clear contributions to increasing national productivity, quality, and efficiency.” At the same time, to strengthen the linkage of the “three entities: State – scientists – businesses, and to develop intellectual property, science and technology enterprises, and the innovation startup ecosystem.

vneconomy-Ha Le

Directive No 05 calls for an urgent mobilization of resources to accelerate cadastral mapping, land registration, and the development of a comprehensive national land database.

On behalf of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has signed Prime Ministerial Directive No. 05/CT-TTg, calling for an urgent mobilization of resources to accelerate cadastral mapping, land registration, and the development of a comprehensive national land database.

To achieve the goals of finalizing measurement, statistics, digitalization, and "cleaning" of land data nationwide—while ensuring seamless interconnectivity with other national database systems—the Directive has tasked ministries, sectors, and local authorities with key milestones for 2026.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), in coordination with the Ministry of Public Security and other relevant agencies, must guide localities to complete the National Land Database Enrichment and Cleaning Campaign by March.

Localities are required to focus all resources on finishing cadastral mapping and land records. The construction of land databases must be finalized, with results immediately integrated into the national system for unified management, operation, and exploitation by December.

The MAE is also required to concentrate resources on developing solutions to accelerate the completion of IT infrastructure and software to unify the management, operation, and exploitation of the national land information system and database at the central level by March.

By June, the ministry must complete the construction and updating of regional, national, and centrally managed land data; verify the information of land users and property owners against the national population database; ensure connectivity and data sharing with the National Data Center and other ministerial information systems; and review and deploy online public services within the land sector.

Furthermore, the ministry must restructure administrative processes and review documentation requirements to leverage information already available in the land database. This effort aims to cut red tape by ensuring citizens and businesses are no longer required to resubmit or redeclare information and documents that have already been digitized, with a completion deadline of March.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Security is responsible for assessing the security, safety, and confidentiality of the national land information system and database to facilitate integration with the national population database and other related systems by June.

At the local level, People’s Committees of provinces and cities are directed to lead local departments and communal-level authorities in accelerating cadastral mapping and local land database completion, ensuring all data is synchronized with the Ministry by December.

Vneconomy-Hoàng Bách

Institutional breakthroughs, and particularly legal amendments, are set to take Vietnam’s chemical industry into the future.

Vietnam’s chemical industry has made strong strides forward over recent years, maintaining stable growth from a number of large-scale projects coming on stream. The industry’s scale and pace of development, however, still fall short of its role and potential.6According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), among the country’s ten largest industries at Level-2 classification, the chemical industry ranks third, accounting for around 2-5 per cent of total industrial GDP. Its industrial production value has grown by about 10-15 per cent a year. Several chemical subsectors have largely met domestic demand - such as fertilizers, plant protection chemicals, tires, paints, and detergents - and their exports have also grown.

Holding back potential

At the recent “Institutional breakthroughs as a driver to elevate the chemical industry” seminar, participants agreed that the industry’s development remains misaligned with its inherent potential. One of the biggest challenges is its dependence on imports. Many essential chemical materials and products must still be sourced from overseas, while domestic investment structures remain out of balance, lacking high value added products and failing to establish deeply-integrated value chains at the regional and global level.

Mr. Vuong Thanh Chung, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Chemicals Agency at the MoIT, said the existing legal framework has become outdated after more than 16 years in place. The Law on Chemicals 2007 has not kept pace with major changes in the broader legal framework, sustainability trends, or international commitments and new-generation free trade agreements Vietnam has joined or signed.

In particular, the country’s rapid economic and industrial growth has led to a sharp increase in the production, import, and use of chemicals - both in volume and variety. The number of chemical enterprises has grown quickly, along with the range of activities and the volume of chemicals produced, traded, imported, and used, creating pressure to revise regulations to better reflect real-world practices.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Hoan, Deputy Director of the Bac Ninh Department of Industry and Trade in Vietnam’s northern region, noted that awareness at enterprises remains limited - especially among users of chemicals, who account for up to 90 per cent of entities - but there are still no specific requirements regarding professional qualifications for staff in charge. Moreover, frequent personnel changes mean enterprises often lack consistent access to and understanding of State regulations on chemical activities.

In addition, local technical infrastructure such as warehousing and production equipment remains insufficient and technologically weak. State management staff at the provincial and commune level are thinly stretched and often multitask across sectors, resulting in overlapping responsibilities and a lack of coordination between agencies. Oversight of chemical imports and distribution is also increasingly difficult given the growing variety of chemical types and business models.

From a business perspective, Ms. Vuong Thi Thuy, Deputy Director of Nippon Paint Vietnam, acknowledged that although administrative procedures have improved, enterprises still struggle to fully grasp detailed compliance requirements related to legal application, safety, and inspection due to a lack of in-depth training and information channels.

Four strategic breakthroughs

To address such bottlenecks, Mr. Chung said the amended Law on Chemicals was passed on June 14, 2025, by the 15th National Assembly at its ninth session, and focuses on four major policy pillars to establish a modern and coherent legal framework.

First, it specifies investment incentives for key chemical fields. Products such as basic chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, hydrogen, and ammonia produced from renewable energy will receive special support, providing investors with clearer direction and confidence for large-scale projects.

Second, it strengthens the management of specialized chemical projects by introducing stricter requirements on technology appraisal, safety, and environmental protection from the investment approval stage. Green chemistry criteria and sustainable development goals are embedded to ensure projects deliver economic benefits while minimizing health and environmental risks.

Third, it establishes lifecycle-based chemical management. Instead of focusing on isolated stages, controls will span production, import, circulation, storage, transport, and disposal - the latter being an important step to prevent any leakage of hazardous chemicals into the environment.

And fourth, it adds regulations on safety distances and chemical incident prevention and response plans, addressing risks to public security and social order amid the rapid growth in chemical volumes and varieties used in industrial production.

To ensure the Law’s timely and synchronized implementation from January 1, 2026, the MoIT has led the drafting of decrees detailing provisions and implementation measures. “With these fundamental innovations, the Law and its guiding documents will establish a comprehensive and unified legal framework, enabling the chemical industry to fully play its role as a foundational sector and expand its development space,” Mr. Chung said.

Mr. Hoan added that the amended Law will clarify responsibilities between central and local authorities while promoting digital transformation. A centralized, sector-specific chemical database will ease staffing pressure at regulators and provide enterprises with clear benchmarks for investing in compliant storage infrastructure.

Turning policy into reality

For the Law to truly serve as a catalyst upon taking effect, seminar participants stressed the need for a decisive implementation roadmap and close coordination between stakeholders.

On the regulatory side, Mr. Chung said the Vietnam Chemicals Agency is actively advising on decrees and circulars to avoid legal gaps. Communication, training, and capacity-building for local Departments of Industry and Trade are also being intensified to ensure uniform enforcement nationwide.

In Bac Ninh, the Department plans to organize in-depth training sessions not only for enterprises but also for commune-level officials. Mr. Hoan said it will coordinate to build a data-driven management system connected with the MoIT, enabling timely updates and support for enterprises in fulfilling their reporting obligations.

From the beneficiary side, Ms. Thuy expressed hope that the amended Law would mark a breakthrough in lifecycle chemical management aligned with sustainable development and international integration. She urged authorities to continue streamlining investment procedures and harmonizing processes between central and local levels, adding that State support for technology upgrades and policy dissemination would help enterprises reduce compliance costs and enhance competitiveness.

Experts are confident that with the enactment of the Law on Chemicals 2025, Vietnam’s chemical industry will have sufficient space to attract high-quality investment, integrate more deeply into global value chains, and make a meaningful contribution to the country’s double-digit economic growth target for the 2026-2030 period.

VET-Song Ha

The People’s Committee of the southern city stated that this local planning adjustment aims to realize projects on the priority list and implement policies to attract strategic investors under the National Assembly’s Resolution No. 260/2025/QH15.

Under a recent decision by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, a local adjustment to the General Planning of Thu Duc City (within Ho Chi Minh City) until 2040, with a specifical focus on the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, has been approved. 

According to the decision, the adjustment scope covers four areas within Sub-zone 1, as defined in the Thu Duc City General Planning Project approved by the Prime Minister in Decision No. 202/QD-TTg dated January 21, 2025. The total area subject to these adjustments is approximately 128.51 ha.

The City People’s Committee stated that this local planning adjustment aims to realize projects on the priority list and implement policies to attract strategic investors under the National Assembly’s Resolution No. 260/2025/QH15. Key projects include the construction of the city’s Central Square and Ho Chi Minh City's Political-Administrative Center.

In the immediate future, the city needs to urgently deploy the Political-Administrative Center project on a commensurate scale. This is to meet development requirements following the restructuring and merger of administrative boundaries as per Resolution No 05-NQ/TU of the municipal Party Committee.

Simultaneously, the arrangement of key landmarks within the Thu Thiem New Urban Area such as the Children’s Palace and the Symphony, Ballet, and Opera House is intended to form a multi-functional public complex comprising political, administrative, and cultural functions.

Furthermore, the planning will rebalance land use for public parks, sports facilities, and public services. This is intended to provide supporting functions for Vietnam's International Financial Center in Ho Chi Minh City, in accordance with the 2021–2030 planning, with 2050 vision, that had been  approved by the Prime Minister.

The fundamental principle of this adjustment is to ensure that the total floor area of the entire Thu Thiem New Urban Area remains unchanged, while public service functions, such as green spaces and amenities, are expected to increase after the reorganization. The general nature and functions of the area will continue to strictly follow Decision No 202/QD-TTg regarding the General Planning of Thu Duc City until 2040.

Vneconomy-Thiên Di