Vietnam News
Focus of community tourism
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Vietnam is currently among countries posting the highest tourism growth globally, at approximately 21 per cent in 2025, which far exceeds the global average of 5 per cent and the Asia-Pacific average of 8 per cent this year.
At the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2025, held in Bahrain on December 6, Vietnam was honored in 16 global categories. This was the sixth time it won the title of “World’s Leading Heritage Destination,” recognizing its consistent efforts in preserving and promoting heritage values in line with sustainable tourism development.
Distinctive advantages
Mr. Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), said the 2020-2025 period was full of upheaval and challenges, as the tourism industry was heavily impacted initially by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, with the decisive involvement of its government, ministries, localities, and business community, Vietnam’s tourism industry has recovered strongly.
It is expected that, in 2025, international visitors to Vietnam will total some 22 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, while domestic travelers will reach about 140 million, with total tourism revenue exceeding VND1 trillion ($38.5 billion). “Tourism products associated with local identity have contributed to enhancing the quality of experiences and the attractiveness of Vietnam’s destinations, despite limitations in infrastructure, regional connectivity, and competitiveness,” Mr. Khanh said.
Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Deputy Director General of VNAT, assessed that many new types of tourism offerings have been created and robustly developed. The network of tourism products is increasingly diverse, closely linked with utilizing Vietnam’s distinctive advantages such as culture, nature, cuisine, heritage, and community life. As a result, tourist numbers and revenue have maintained their positive growth momentum, contributing to enhancing the image and appeal of Vietnam’s destinations on the regional and global tourism map.
Vietnam has five villages recognized by UNWTO as “Best Tourism Villages in the World,” including Tan Hoa village in central Quang Tri province, Thai Hai village in northern Thai Nguyen province, Tra Que Vegetable Village in central Da Nang city, Lo Chai village in northern Tuyen Quang province, and the Quynh Son community tourism village in northern Lang Son province. This award is not only a source of pride for localities but also well-deserved international recognition of Vietnam’s efforts in preserving and conserving indigenous cultural values, and developing community-based, sustainable tourism types.
Mr. Phung Quang Thang, Chairman of the Vietnam Green Tourism Association, said these are community tourism villages boasting unique, distinctive features that attract tourists with their rich indigenous culture blended with pristine and green natural spaces.
Developing community tourism
Community tourism is a type of tourism that local people themselves actively build, organize, manage, and benefit from. In Vietnam, the model is considered an important “boost” for many remote and rural areas, particularly in mountainous provinces, where it has proven its role as a sustainable solution in poverty reduction.
By utilizing available resources such as natural landscapes, traditional stilt houses, handicrafts, festivals, and indigenous cultural activities, localities not only create new economic value but also contribute to preserving and spreading the local cultural identity. “Global tourism is shifting strongly towards sustainability and developing based on indigenous communities, emphasizing experience, cultural preservation, and improving livelihoods for the people,” Mr. Thang said. “Following the pandemic, tourists no longer simply seek crowded destinations but are more inclined towards peaceful, authentic spaces where they can deeply connect with nature and local culture.”
In Vietnam, developing community tourism is not only a requirement of the tourism industry but also an important solution to create sustainable livelihoods for ethnic minorities and mountainous areas. Tourists find appeal in experiencing authentic local life, while local people will have more opportunities to increase their earnings right in their homeland. As a result, community tourism has gradually asserted itself as a suitable development model for rural Vietnam.
The Thai Hai Reserve Area of Ecological Houses-on-Stilts Ethnic Village, in Tan Cuong commune, Thai Nguyen province, is a well-known community tourism villages both domestically and internationally. It features 30 hundred-year-old traditional stilt houses, restored to their original state, and is home to more than 160 residents of many generations. The villagers focus on preserving the cultural identity of the Tay ethnic group and community cultural activities.
“What makes Thai Hai distinctive in its tourism development is the well-planned zoning of different areas, including for traditional herbal medicine, cuisine, accommodation, and education,” said Ms. Le Thi Nga, Deputy Head of Thai Hai village. In 2022, the village received international recognition when it was honored by UNWTO as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages. In addition, its signature product, “Tay Ethnic Cultural Tourism at Thai Hai Village,” was certified as a 5-star national One commune, One product (OCOP) offering, while the village’s accommodation model was also awarded the prestigious ASEAN Homestay Award.
Dr. Tran Huu Son, Director of the Institute for Applied Cultural and Tourism Research, said community tourism in regions with Thai, Tay, Dao, and Hmong residents succeeds when there is selective planning, not mass development, closely combining the community, businesses, consultants, and management agencies. “Accommodation, entertainment, experiences, and handicraft production services must meet tourist needs, preserve the culture, develop the economy, and contribute to sustainable poverty reduction,” he added.
However, community-based tourism in Vietnam has yet to develop in proportion to the country’s rich potential and advantages in tourism resources. Infrastructure and facilities remain underdeveloped, tourism products are not yet diverse or sufficiently attractive, and human resources have not fully met the demands of sustainable growth.
Dr. Son also emphasized that community-based tourism in ethnic minority areas plays a vital role in rural development and poverty reduction. “To effectively develop community-based tourism, localities must capitalize on the unique cultural identities of its ethnic communities to create distinctive tourism products suited to each region,” he explained. “This should not be pursued as a mass, trend-driven model, but rather developed in a selective, well-planned, and sustainable manner.”
On the other hand, the development of community-based tourism requires careful research to design attractive tourism products tailored to different visitor segments. These products must embody distinct local identities, drawing on each area’s unique tourism resources, and avoid the current situation in which offerings appear similar and indistinguishable from one destination to another.
Associate Professor Pham Hong Long, Chairman of the Scientific Council of the Faculty of Tourism Studies at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (VNU Hanoi), believes that community-based tourism development should go far beyond the simple provision of accommodation and food services, and instead integrate local cultural activities in a meaningful and authentic way. “Leveraging culture does not mean ‘selling’ culture, but rather sharing and spreading its values,” he emphasized. “The community itself must be the central actor in this process. When local people are empowered to take ownership and receive fair benefits, community-based tourism can truly take flight.”
With the strong determination of the government, the coordinated efforts of ministries and sectors, the proactive approach of localities, and the companionship of the business community, Vietnam’s tourism industry has a solid foundation to accelerate, break through, and develop sustainably. The industry aims to become a spearhead economic sector, while enhancing Vietnam’s position on the world tourism map.
VET-Anh Hoang
Hanoi targets citywide 6G, IoT coverage under digital transformation strategy
Hanoi aims to universalize 6G connectivity and the Internet of Things (IoT) across the city under its Digital Transformation Strategy to 2030, with a vision to 2035, recently approved by the municipal People’s Committee.
At the core of the strategy is the development of a modern digital government operating on big data and artificial intelligence (AI). The city seeks to build an intelligent governance model capable of proactive administration, forecasting, and delivering high-quality public services tailored to citizens’ needs.
Human resources development is also a key pillar. Hanoi targets 100% of officials, civil servants and public employees to acquire digital skills and apply technology effectively in management and administration. For residents, the city aims to ensure that all adults have access to digital services in essential sectors such as healthcare, education, insurance and transportation.
To achieve these goals, Hanoi plans to digitalise 100% of administrative procedure records and results.
The capital city will prioritise the development and enhancement of core digital infrastructure systems, including the information system for handling administrative procedures, the system supporting direction and management, an integrated data analytics platform, and a data integration and sharing platform.
The city’s AI platform is also being developed to integrate and expand the capabilities of its big data analytics system and the national virtual assistant platform.
VnEconomy-Song Hà
Candidates for 16th National Assembly election announced
Under Resolution No. 151/NQ-HDBCQG, dated February 14, 2026, signed by Chairman of the National Assembly and Chairman of the National Election Council Tran Thanh Man, the official list of candidates for deputies to the 16th National Assembly by electoral unit nationwide has been officially announced.
According to the resolution, which took effect on February 14, a total of 864 candidates will run in 182 electoral units nationwide for election of 500 deputies to the 16th National Assembly.
The 16th National Assembly election is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
vneconomy-Ha Le
Vietnam Economic Times TET Special edition 2026
Dear readers,
In Vietnam, every time Tet (the Lunar New Year) approaches and Spring comes into view, the country seems woven with brocade and embroidered with flowers. Spring, the season marking the beginning of a new year, is like youth: always full of vitality. Trees sprout and flourish, and countless flowers compete in color and fragrance in the cool weather, thus providing inspiration for every family to celebrate Tet and for everyone to enjoy Spring with a joyful and eager mindset, waiting for the best of a new year filled with happiness and prosperity.
This Tet marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse, with great faith in and aspirations for a “soaring” Vietnam, as the country transforms and enters a new era of development, following the strategic orientation and vision approved by the 14th National Party Congress, which successfully concluded on January 23.
The Year of the Horse also marks the 96th Spring since the Communist Party of Vietnam was founded. During these 96 Springs under the Party’s leadership, the country has undergone miraculous transformations. Under the Party’s guidance, our nation, from the status of a “national slave,” “emerged from blood and fire, shaking off mud, standing bright,” as described by Poet Nguyen Dinh Thi in his well-known poem “Homeland,” then reclaimed its independence and freedom, unifying the homeland, and gradually developing. As a result, after nearly 40 years of “Doi Moi” (Economic Renewal), Vietnam has escaped from the group of the 20 poorest countries in the world and become a nation with a GDP of $514 billion and foreign trade turnover of more than $930 billion in 2025 - the final year of the five-year socio-economic development plan, per the Resolution of the 13th Party Congress.
During this time, across Vietnam’s three regions - northern, central, and southern - everywhere is adorned with flags and flowers celebrating Tet, with joy multiplied many times over by the successful outcome of the 14th National Party Congress that marked the start of a new era of development for the country, “The era of the nation’s rise,” as stated by Party General Secretary To Lam.
The great and comprehensive achievements attained in 2025 and in the 2021-2025 period created both a premise and a solid foundation for Vietnam to continue to rise in the early years of the new era of development.
In the new year, new opportunities in development will open up for Vietnam, which will, with strength and potential resulting from the success of 40 years of “Doi Moi”, overcome all inevitable “headwinds” from unpredictable global fluctuations.
Coincidentally, Vietnam’s new era of development begins with the Year of the Horse, which symbolizes dynamism, freedom, strength, and enthusiasm, promising many breakthrough opportunities.
It is hoped that in this Year of the Horse, the year that marks the beginning of the five-year socio-economic development plan (2026-2030), approved by the 14th Party Congress, Vietnam’s economy will achieve growth of at least 10 per cent, according to the goals set by the Congress. And if this becomes a reality, the Year of the Horse 2026 will be marked as the first year in the nation’s history that Vietnam achieved double-digit economic growth, laying the groundwork for similar growth targets in the years to follow.
The business community in Vietnam - both domestic and foreign - plays a key role in the collective effort to successfully achieve the double-digit growth target. Resolutions No. 68-NQ/TW and 79-NQ/TW from the Politburo (13th term) on the development of the private and State economies, respectively, serve as both a guiding principle and a motivating force to encourage all types of enterprises, both private and State-owned, to continue developing and boost production and business as the main force in the country’s socio-economic development.
Dear readers,
As a reliable source of economic information for all readers, including businesspeople, Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy wishes you and your family a prosperous, happy, and thriving Year of the Horse!
Happy New Year to all!
Warmest regards,
Dr. CHU VAN LAM,
CHAIRMAN OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD
-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy
Da Nang International Airport master plan approved for 2021–2050
The Ministry of Construction has approved a master plan for Da Nang International Airport in central Da Nang city for the 2021–2050 period, marking a significant milestone in Vietnam’s transport infrastructure development strategy, particularly for the central region.
The plan aims to enhance the airport’s service capacity while ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
Under the approved blueprint, Da Nang International Airport will be upgraded to Category 4E in accordance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). During the 2021–2030 period, the airport is expected to handle around 20 million passengers and 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually. By 2050, cargo throughput is projected to reach 330,000 tons per year, meeting the region’s growing socio-economic development needs.
As part of the plan, the domestic passenger terminal (T1) will be expanded to accommodate approximately 14 million passengers per year. Meanwhile, the international terminal (T2) will be renovated and upgraded to raise its capacity to around 6 million passengers annually.
The long-term development roadmap is expected to strengthen Da Nang’s role as a key aviation gateway for central Vietnam and a regional hub for tourism, trade and logistics.
VnEconomy-Ngô Anh Văn
Manufacturing and processing remains a driver for Nghe An's industrial growth
In 2026, the global economic landscape remains fraught with uncertainties, from geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions to inflationary pressures and exchange rate fluctuations. Amidst this backdrop, Nghe An province's industrial production results in the first month of the year stand out as a noteworthy highlight.
According to statistics, the central province's industrial production index (IIP) for January 2026 is estimated to have increased by 20.62% compared to the same period last year. This is a relatively high increase, projecting a positive recovery in production activities after the Tet holiday, and demonstrating the capacity of local enterprises to maintain their output.
In the overall growth structure, the province's mining industry increased by 30.69%; manufacturing and processing increased by 20.95%; and electricity and gas production and distribution increased by 14.21%. Notably, while mining continues to grow strongly, the main driver of the entire sector remains the manufacturing and processing industry—a sector that creates high added value and plays a key role in industrial restructuring.
The nearly 21% increase in the manufacturing and processing industry indicates that the internal strength of industrial zones in Nghe An is being effectively utilized. Instead of relying primarily on resource extraction, Nghe An's industrial structure is shifting towards a more sustainable direction, increasing the proportion of industries with high technology content and added value.
This recovery stems from the proactive efforts of businesses in seeking orders, expanding export markets, and effectively leveraging opportunities from international trade policies. Domestic consumption has recovered strongly, along with positive signals from key export markets, creating additional growth space for many industry groups.
Some industrial products recorded outstanding growth in the first month of the year, such as fish sauce increasing 2.7 times; wireless earphones increasing by 89.27%; construction stone increasing by 75.90%; and Tien Phong plastic pipes increasing by 51.41%. These figures indicate that both production for export and the domestic market are showing signs of prosperity.
Notably, the electronics and electronic components sector continues to be a bright spot in the industrial production landscape. The strong increase in high-tech products reflects the increasingly clear role of foreign-invested enterprises in the production value chain in Nghe An.
Meanwhile, the presence of large FDI corporations in the electronics sector, such as Luxshare-ICT and Goertek, has significantly contributed to the industrial production growth of Nghe An. Wireless earphones increased by 89.27% and charging docks increased by 28.85%, clearly demonstrating the operational efficiency of large-scale FDI projects.
One of the important factors helping FDI enterprises maintain stable orders is effectively utilizing tariff preferences from the US market. The US's reduction of countervailing duties from 46% to 20% has enhanced the price competitiveness of goods produced in Nghe An, thereby expanding orders and elevating the province's role in the global electronic component supply chain.
Not only export industries, but the strong recovery of domestic consumption is also becoming an important driver of industrial production. Increased demand for goods has helped many factories increase capacity, while also creating positive ripple effects in the intra-provincial supply chain.
Accordingly, supporting industries and packaging have grown in line with the recovery of domestic consumption. The paper packaging industry increased by 56.69%, and beer can packaging increased by 24.78%, indicating increasingly tight linkages between production sectors, from food and beverage processing to packaging and logistics.
Additionally, the recovery of the construction materials production group, such as construction stone increasing by 75.9%, cement increasing by 27.63%, and plastic pipes increasing by 51.41%, are indicators that public investment activities and the construction market are moving.
In the context of high electricity prices and input material costs, the significant increase in the industrial production index shows that businesses have gradually optimized production processes, reduced costs, and diversified supply sources. Along with that, the provincial leadership's close guidance in resolving interest rate and exchange rate difficulties has helped businesses feel secure in maintaining output and stabilizing operations.
However, the industrial production landscape still has some dark spots. Some items, such as carton boxes decreasing by 16.41%, fresh milk decreasing by 5.76%, and bottled beer decreasing by 0.96%, still face difficulties due to declining export orders and high input costs. These are sectors heavily dependent on the purchasing power of the low-end segment or facing significant competition from imports, requiring businesses to continue innovating designs, improving quality, and controlling costs to regain growth momentum.
vneconomy-Nguyen Thuan
Legal framework for carbon market to be finalized
Carbon pricing methods such as carbon markets and carbon taxes have become increasingly popular policy tools in recent years, gaining momentum worldwide as governments seek to reduce emissions and promote green growth.
At the “Navigating Global Vietnam’s Carbon Market: Post-COP30 Insights and the Way Forward” seminar, held in Hanoi on November 25-26, Mr. Nguyen Tuan Quang, Deputy Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), noted that the Law on Environmental Protection 2020 provides the legal foundation for establishing and operating a carbon market in Vietnam.
Following this, the government issued Decree No. 06/2022/ND-CP and Decree No. 119/2025/ND-CP amending Decree No. 06, which set out a clear roadmap for carbon market development. Under this plan, Vietnam will pilot the carbon market through 2028, before moving to full-scale operations from 2029 and linking with international carbon markets.
Groundwork for carbon trading
To further strengthen the policy framework in line with this roadmap, the MAE is leading the drafting of a decree on the international exchange of mitigation outcomes and carbon credits, along with a decree on forest carbon sequestration and storage, which were submitted to the Prime Minister in December. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance has been tasked with drafting a decree on a domestic carbon exchange.
According to Mr. Quang, decisions adopted at COP30 have not only reshaped the global climate finance landscape but also created new opportunities and challenges for both the global carbon market and Vietnam in the years ahead.
Many countries, both globally and within the region, have already adopted these tools. The EU, for example, has operated a carbon market for nearly two decades. In Asia, countries such as China and South Korea have established Emissions Trading Systems (ETS), while within ASEAN, Singapore has implemented a carbon tax. Other countries, including Vietnam and Indonesia, remain in the early stages of carbon market development.
Carbon markets are generally divided into compliance markets and voluntary markets. Compliance markets operate through ETS, while voluntary markets encourage organizations and businesses to implement emission reduction projects and generate carbon credits.
At the same time, a growing number of countries are introducing climate-related technical barriers, such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The US and the UK are also considering similar measures. These developments were among the key topics discussed at COP30 in Brazil. Participation in carbon markets can help enhance the competitiveness of enterprises, particularly exporters to markets applying climate-related trade measures.
In Vietnam, the government has clearly defined the carbon market’s primary role as supporting emission reductions in line with the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), while contributing to the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Carbon markets are also seen as a cost-effective mechanism for emission reductions, helping build a low-carbon economy that is more resilient to climate change.
To ensure effective market operations, the government has assigned the MAE to draft decrees on international carbon credit exchanges and forest carbon sequestration and storage, while the Ministry of Finance is responsible for preparing a decree on a domestic carbon exchange. Together, these regulations will form the legal basis for enterprises to participate in trading emissions allowances and carbon credits.
The decree on forest carbon sequestration and storage is currently being finalized and will include provisions on registering carbon credit generation projects and trading forest-based carbon credits. This is expected to create new revenue streams for enterprises investing in afforestation and forest protection.
Experts emphasize that carbon markets are not only a climate policy tool but also an economic opportunity to enhance the value of forest resources and promote low-emissions development. However, to fully capitalize on this opportunity, Vietnam will need a transparent, comprehensive legal framework aligned with domestic conditions and capable of meeting emerging global standards in the post-COP30 era.
The Department of Climate Change added that the decree on the international exchange of mitigation outcomes and carbon credits, expected to be issued in 2025, will provide a legal basis for Vietnamese enterprises to participate in international carbon markets while safeguarding national NDC commitments.
In parallel, ministries and agencies have issued technical guidance, particularly on Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas inventories and mitigation outcomes, helping businesses familiarize themselves with emissions accounting and generating critical data for the effective operation of the carbon market.
Roadmap and key considerations
Under Decision No. 232/QD-TTg issued by the Prime Minister on January 24, 2025, on the establishment and development of Vietnam’s carbon market, a clear roadmap was defined.
In the period prior to June 2025, the focus was on developing and finalizing the legal framework for trading carbon allowances, carbon credits, and offset mechanisms, ensuring a legal basis for piloting a carbon exchange. This phase also included building the infrastructure needed to operate the carbon market, strengthening the capacity of regulatory authorities, and raising awareness among businesses and individuals about participation in the market.
From June 2025 to 2028, the preparation and pilot phase continued to expand market infrastructure and pilot a domestic carbon exchange. At the same time, the legal framework governing carbon market operations was further refined, regulatory capacity enhanced, and awareness among businesses and individuals further improved. The stated objective is for Vietnam to officially operate its carbon market from 2029.
During the pilot phase, around 150 major-emitting facilities and enterprises, primarily in steel production, cement manufacturing, and thermal power generation, were included in the carbon market. These facilities will be allocated emissions allowances free of charge at 100 per cent. Greenhouse gas emissions from these three sectors account for nearly 40 per cent of Vietnam’s total national emissions.
Experts have noted that across all three phases, the continued development and refinement of policies and legal regulations is essential for effective carbon market operation, as this remains a relatively new and specialized market in Vietnam.
In terms of market principles, facilities are required to surrender greenhouse gas emissions allowances based on emissions inventory results for the 2025-2026 period. Facilities may borrow up to 15 per cent of the emissions allowances allocated for the subsequent compliance period to meet their current surrender obligations. Unused allowances after compliance in the current period may be carried over to the next period. Notably, facilities are allowed to use carbon credits to offset no more than 30 per cent of their allocated emissions allowances.
At a recent roundtable discussion on the issue, Dr. Nguyen Sy Linh, Head of the Department of Climate Change at the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Agriculture and Environment (ISPAE), noted that Decree No. 119 includes a particularly important provision setting the offset ratio at 30 per cent. Enterprises subject to emission reduction quotas during the pilot phase may purchase carbon credits to offset up to 30 per cent of emissions exceeding their allocated allowances. This provision directly concerns carbon credit suppliers and creates an opportunity for carbon credits to participate in the compliance market.
According to experts, Vietnam’s carbon market is attracting growing interest not only from domestic enterprises but also from international organizations and partners. To participate, facilities must first conduct greenhouse gas inventories. This is a critical step in understanding their emissions profile and determining whether and how to engage in the carbon market. To participate in carbon credit projects, facilities must invest in project development costs, hire third-party verifiers, and prepare greenhouse gas emission reduction plans, among other requirements.
From framework to function
Vietnam’s carbon market is in the formative stage and gradually moving into operation. Dr. Linh noted that, depending on the development phase and maturity of the carbon market, Vietnam will make appropriate adjustments related to carbon credit pricing and support policies to create a more enabling environment for market participants.
To promote the carbon market, he said that for the compliance market, specifically the ETS, Vietnam needs to promptly develop and issue detailed regulations on emissions allowance allocation and the allocation roadmap, moving from free allocation to auctioning. At the same time, systems should be put in place to register greenhouse gas emissions inventory results, permitted emissions allowances, and carbon credit generation projects. Clear guidance is also needed for stakeholders participating in the domestic carbon exchange, covering both emissions allowances and carbon credits.
For the voluntary market, Vietnam should develop and issue carbon standards for different sources of carbon credit generation, such as agriculture, forestry, and energy. Regulations should also clarify the rights and responsibilities of both credit generators and credit users in the voluntary market and within the ETS.
Drawing on the experience of countries that have already implemented carbon markets, Dr. Linh emphasized that building a transparent and effective institutional framework and ensuring the market operates in line with its objectives requires the active participation of State management agencies, businesses, and financial institutions. Their involvement is essential to provide financial flows that support trading activities in the carbon market.
Effective market operation also depends on robust supervision and evaluation. MRV is critical not only for carbon credit generation but also for emission reductions under the compliance market.
A clear MRV system, integrated with digital transformation and online implementation, makes it possible to identify which enterprises are performing well and which are not, thereby enabling timely market adjustments. This is particularly important during the transition from free allocation to auctioning, when enterprises must assess their emission reductions potential in order to bid at an efficient cost while achieving genuine emission reductions.
Experts stress that for a carbon market to function effectively, both the volume and the quality of tradable assets are crucial. Transparency throughout the process helps safeguard the environmental integrity of each carbon credit.
Professor Terry Sunderland from the University of British Columbia said a clear and robust legal framework strengthens governance and lays the foundation for a credible carbon market. Institutions play a central role, with clearly defined responsibilities and sufficient capacity to ensure effective implementation. He also highlighted the importance of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement in promoting nature-based solutions through international cooperation and carbon finance.
The carbon market is expected to expand further in the future as demand for credits increases. However, experts note that demand will increasingly shift towards high-quality credits, while lower-quality credits are likely to decline, as standards for carbon credits continue to become more stringent.
VET-Nhi Anh
Spring Fair 2026 wraps up in Hanoi
The first Glorious Spring Fair 2026 concluded in Hanoi on February 13 after 12 days of vibrant activities and strong public engagement.
The event featured more than 3,000 booths showcasing tens of thousands of high-quality Vietnamese products from across the country.
Held under the theme “Connecting Prosperity – Welcoming a Glorious Spring,” the fair attracted over 500,000 visitors, including numerous international delegations who attended for sightseeing, shopping, and the signing of trade and investment agreements.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh highlighted that the fair’s success was reflected not only in its positive economic, trade and investment outcomes, but also in its significant cultural and social impact.
He stressed that the event served as an effective channel for stimulating domestic consumption — one of Vietnam’s key growth drivers — and acted as a dynamic bridge linking domestic and international markets. The fair also demonstrated the growing transformation and global reach of Vietnamese goods and brands, earning positive feedback and opening up new export opportunities.
VnEconomy-Vũ Khuê
VIATT 2026 to showcase global textile innovations in HCM City
Hundreds of enterprises and leading brands in textiles and garments, accessories and materials, machinery, and advanced technologies will converge at the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT 2026), scheduled for February 26–28 in Ho Chi Minh City, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.
The fair will showcase a comprehensive range of products, including yarn, fabrics, garments, accessories, trimmings, as well as machinery, technologies and services for the textile and garment industry.
This year’s event is expected to expand its exhibition space by 20% year on year, from 15,000 sq.m to 18,000 sq.m. Nearly 1,000 booths representing more than 450 domestic and international companies from 21 countries and territories are set to participate.
VIATT 2026 aims to advance Vietnam’s textile and garment industry by promoting technological innovation, enhancing sustainability practices, and expanding the development of technical textiles.
The event is also expected to create opportunities for international businesses to tap into the growth potential of Vietnam and the broader ASEAN market, while enabling local enterprises to strengthen connections with global buyers.
A series of thematic forums and conferences will be held alongside the exhibition, including a textile industry forum addressing trade volatility in 2026 and a summit on Vietnam’s textile and garment development strategy. Discussions will focus on artificial intelligence applications, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards, and compliance with international requirements.
VNA-Van Nguyen
Clear validation required for retail sector
According to SHS Research, the period from 2025 to 2030 will be the “golden years” for Vietnam’s retail sector, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of up to 12.05 per cent per year - among the highest in the region - expected to be recorded. The main drivers are the country’s large population, young demographic structure, and improving income levels.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued Decision No. 2326/QD-TTg on October 21, 2025, approving the Strategy for the Development of Vietnam’s Retail Market to 2030, with a Vision to 2050, aiming to make retail a driving force of economic growth. The goal is to achieve an average annual increase of 11-11.5 per cent in total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue from 2025 to 2030.
Information transparency
However, counterfeit goods, imitations, and trade fraud have caused significant damage to businesses and eroded consumer confidence in the industry. In this context, the market has witnessed growing demand for clear validation of product quality, alongside increasingly deep integration of technology into traceability and information verification systems.
Information transparency is playing an increasingly important role in market management, combating commercial fraud, and enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese enterprises. Transparency in traceability is not only a condition for gaining customer trust but also a mandatory legal requirement as new management frameworks are gradually forming.
Amid numerous scandals related to counterfeit, imitation, and low-quality products, consumer trust is being significantly eroded. In this context, building a clear and transparent traceability system not only helps prove the actual quality of products but also provides a basis for consumers to make informed choices. Transparency in origin and quality control thus becomes a prerequisite, helping businesses restore market trust and promote the development of modern consumption.
Through the application of digital technologies, businesses are now able to present transparent and verifiable information on raw materials, production processes, certifications, and the unique strengths of their products. At the same time, consumers gain easier and more comprehensive access to the true value of goods and services, strengthening their trust in product authenticity at the point of purchase and use. This shift not only reinforces market confidence but also empowers consumers to make more informed and responsible purchasing decisions.
Faced with increasing demand for information transparency, many businesses have pioneered the implementation of high-tech traceability solutions, which enable companies to standardize and disclose product data while also helping consumers easily access the information necessary to make informed decisions.
For example, the product traceability solution developed by the Checkee Technology Joint Stock Company has been evaluated and certified by the National Numbering and Barcodes Center as successfully connected to the national product and goods traceability information portal. By digitizing the entire product journey - from planting, production, inspection, and packaging to distribution - the system allows data to be stored and managed in electronic records, thereby supporting consistent tracking, comparison, and authentication of each product’s information.
Mr. Pham Van Quan, CEO of Checkee, observed that, in recent years, large enterprises, particularly in the food and industrial sectors, have been the most active in successfully implementing traceability systems, both in the domestic market and internationally. He added that this trend reflects not only regulatory requirements but also growing consumer expectations for transparency and safety.
According to an analysis by Emergen Research, in the food sector alone, the global traceability market is projected to reach $9.75 billion by 2028, underscoring the accelerating role of traceability as a critical pillar of modern consumption and sustainable business development.
In Vietnam, Vinamilk has been among the early adopters of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, implementing the platform as early as 2007. Its ERP system enables the dairy company to comprehensively manage its operations - from production, finance, warehousing, and distribution to human resources - while establishing a centralized, synchronized data foundation with full end-to-end traceability.
By integrating its ERP platform with a product traceability system, Vinamilk is able to store and manage data throughout the entire product lifecycle, covering everything from raw materials and manufacturing processes to packaging, transportation, and points of sale. This integrated approach ensures that product information is systematically controlled and transparently disclosed, allowing consumers, regulatory authorities, and business partners to verify and authenticate product data whenever necessary.
According to Mr. Nguyen Quoc Khanh, Executive Director of Research and Development at Vinamilk, transparency in product origin is not merely a regulatory requirement but an integral part of the company’s sustainable development strategy. “Transparency and traceability are not just about compliance, they represent a long-term commitment to sustainability,” he affirmed. “We believe that every product should carry a ‘transparency passport’, one that safeguards consumer trust and reinforces the standing of Vietnamese brands in the global marketplace.”
Meanwhile, the Khanh Hoa Bird’s Nest Company has adopted a closed-loop production management model covering the entire value chain, from harvesting bird nests in natural island caves and purpose-built birdhouses to preliminary processing, refined production, packaging, and distribution.
Each product batch is assigned a dedicated production dossier linked to a centralized traceability database, while products are affixed with anti-counterfeit labels and QR codes, enabling consumers to independently verify origin and authenticity. “In the future, I hope businesses will recognize that product traceability is not simply a box to be checked, but a commitment to brand credibility and product quality in the marketplace,” Mr. Quan said.
Consumers at the center
Markets with strong consumer protection mechanisms consistently demonstrate higher competitiveness indices. Businesses in these markets not only comply with the law but also view respect for consumers as a sustainable brand development strategy.
In Vietnam, many businesses are shifting towards publicizing product information, implementing traceability systems, deploying multi-channel customer care centers, and proactively recalling defective products. These measures not only help strengthen customer trust but also create long-term competitive advantages.
Raising awareness of product quality is crucial. Being vigilant in every purchasing decision, prioritizing products with clear origins, refusing to use low-quality goods, and being ready to report and denounce violations not only help protect consumers’ rights but also demonstrate support for businesses that comply with the law and maintain transparency in their production and business activities, thereby contributing to the filtering and sanitizing of the market.
From a business perspective, several brands have taken a proactive role in coordinated efforts to raise public awareness in the fight against counterfeit goods. In Vietnam, Unilever has partnered with the Market Surveillance Agency at the Ministry of Industry and Trade to conduct training programs and capacity-building initiatives, helping improve consumer skills in identifying counterfeit products and goods that infringe intellectual property rights.
Alongside these efforts, product display and comparison programs showcasing genuine versus counterfeit household care products have also been implemented. These initiatives provide consumers with practical information and essential skills, empowering them to more confidently distinguish authentic products during purchasing decisions.
At the core of the market ecosystem, consumers remain the most critical link in the entire supply chain. As Associate Professor Pham Ngoc Linh, Vice President of the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA), aptly observed: “If we view the market as a living organism, consumers are its ‘heart’ - the force that keeps it functioning.”
Every activity in production, business, and service provision ultimately exists to meet consumer needs. When consumer rights and interests are properly safeguarded, trust in the market is reinforced, allowing the economy to operate in a healthier, more transparent, and sustainable manner. This perspective underscores a fundamental truth: a transparent and trustworthy market begins, and ends, with the consumer.
VET-Anh Hoang
Hanoi targets to attract $4.5bln in FDI in 2026
Hanoi has set out plans to attract around $4.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) this year, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.
The plan has been approved under the municipal People’s Committee’s Decision issued recently on international economic integration in 2026, aiming to create momentum for rapid and sustainable growth, while simultaneously enhancing the competitiveness and position of the capital city in the context of deep integration.
According to the plan, the city sets the goal of significantly improving the investment and business environment; expanding and diversifying export markets; reducing dependence on traditional markets; and linking economic integration with the political, cultural, social, scientific and technological, and defence and security sectors.
Besides a goal of welcoming 8.6 million international tourists to the capital in 2026, Hanoi also plans to increase the rate of key export businesses achieving green and sustainable certifications to 15-20%, while maintaining and improving its ranking in the FTA implementation index. This is a step to enhance the prestige and integration capacity of the capital's business community on the international stage.
VNA-Van Nguyen
PM instructs to accelerate development of power sources
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on February 12 underscored the importance of accelerating the development of power sources, including nuclear energy, while chairing the fifth meeting of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Power Plant Construction, according to a report from the Vietnam News Agency.
PM Chinh, who is head of the steering committee, stressed that ensuring national energy security is an urgent requirement and a key foundation for economic development, alongside the need for energy transition in a green, clean and environmentally friendly manner.
He requested that within two days, ministries and agencies under the direct guidance of Deputy PM Bui Thanh Son finalise a report to competent authorities on the negotiation results of the agreement on the construction of Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant with Russia and the deployment of the Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear power plant project.
The Ministry of Science and Technology was tasked with reviewing, building and perfecting standards, regulations and procedures related to nuclear power plants, while Khanh Hoa province was asked to coordinate with relevant ministries and sectors to expedite compensation, site clearance and resettlement work, ensuring legitimate rights and interests of residents, with the principle that living conditions in new locations must be equal to or better than previous ones. Oversight must also be strengthened to prevent corruption and wastefulness.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was assigned to coordinate closely with ministries and sectors in discussions with partners on the Ninh Thuan 2 project. The PM emphasised that all reports submitted to competent authorities must adhere to the principle of “six clarities”: clear assignment of persons, tasks, responsibilities, authority, timelines and outcomes.
Vietnam News Agency-Vân Nguyễn
Emission standards for cars to be tightened
Vehicle inspection centers nationwide will impose stricter technical regulations on emissions for vehicles, especially cars operating on roads.
The new regulations will be applied from March 1, 2026.
The Vietnam Register was quoted by the Govvernment News as noting that vehicles reaching their inspection deadlines must meet the corresponding minimum emission standards.
To comply with the requirements, vehicle owners should carry out regular maintenance, change the engine oil and air filters, clean the fuel injectors and combustion chamber, inspect the exhaust treatment system, and use fuel that meets quality standards.
Last November, the Prime Minister signed Decision No. 43/2025/QD-TTg specifying a roadmap for implementing national technical regulations on emissions for automobiles operating on Vietnam's roads.
Traffic emissions are among the sources of air pollution affecting public health, with over 74.3 million motorcycles and 6.3 million cars nationwide by the end of 2023.
According to the latest proposal, motorcycles in Hanoi and HCM City must undergo emission inspections from July 2027. Emission inspections for motorcycles in other municipal cities like Hai Phong, Da Nang, Can Tho and Hue will begin from July 2028.
VGP-
EPC contract signed for $972 mln Quang Trach II LNG power project
Vietnam Electricity (EVN), the Power Project Management Board 2, and a consortium of contractors comprising POWERCHINA and the Vietnam Machinery Erection Corporation (LILAMA) have officially signed the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for Component Project 1 (the Power Plant) of the Quang Trach II Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Thermal Power Project.
The contract is valued at more than VND25.2 trillion (over $976 million).
The Quang Trach II LNG Thermal Power Project is located in the Hon La Economic Zone in Phu Trach, Quang Tri Province. EVN serves as the primary investor, with Power Project Management Board 2 overseeing the direct management and implementation of the project.
As a critical national energy project under the Power Development Plan 8 (PDP8), the plant will have a total capacity of 1,612.8 MW (comprised of two 806.4 MW units).
By utilizing advanced combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) technology, the project is expected to play a pivotal role in shifting Vietnam’s power structure toward a "green transition," enhancing national energy security, and helping the country meet its international commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The total investment for the entire project is over VND52.49 trillion (over $2 billion), structured with 20% equity and 80% commercial loans. The development is divided into two main components: Component project 1 - power plant with total investment capital of VND40.12 trillion (nearly $1.55 billion); and Component project 2 – LNG storage and port with estimated total investment capital of VND11.8 trillion (over $456 million).eThe project is being co-financed by a consortium of four major domestic commercial banks: Vietcombank, VietinBank, BIDV, and Agribank.
Under the terms of the EPC contract, the POWERCHINA-LILAMA Consortium will execute a turnkey package including design, procurement, construction, installation, testing, and commissioning. The consortium has committed to ensuring the project is completed on schedule as mandated by PDP8, while meeting rigorous standards for quality, safety, and environmental protection.
The investor and the contractors have selected turbine technology from GE Vernova (USA), one of the world's leading suppliers. All parties noted that significant efforts have been made to ensure the project meets its goals for both progress and efficiency.
Once operational, the Quang Trach II LNG Thermal Power Plant is projected to supply approximately 10 billion kWh of electricity annually to the national grid. This contribution will be vital for safeguarding energy security, increasing the proportion of clean energy, and achieving the energy transition objectives outlined in the national strategy.
Vneconomy-Huyền Vy
Government designates Dong Nai as lead agency for Tan Hien Bridge project
Following the commencement of the Cat Lai and Long Hung bridges, the Government has officially assigned the Dong Nai Provincial People's Committee as the governing body for the construction of the Tan Hien Bridge, a new overpass connecting the province to Ho Chi Minh City.
The Tan Hien Bridge project spans the Dong Nai River, connecting Thuong Tan Commune (Ho Chi Minh City) with Tan Trieu Ward (Dong Nai). According to the approved planning, the bridge will feature an investment scale of four motor vehicle lanes and two non-motorized lanes.
This project is part of a list of eight road bridge works that Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Nai have agreed to co-invest in to strengthen regional transport connectivity. These include: Cat Lai, Long Hung, Phu My 2, Hieu Liem 2, Thanh Hoi 2, Tan Hien, Tan An, and Xom La.
Regarding project management, the Dong Nai Provincial People's Committee is the governing body for the Cat Lai, Long Hung, and Tan Hien bridge projects. Meanwhile, the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee serves as the lead agency for the Phu My 2 Bridge project.
On January 15, the Dong Nai Provincial People's Committee coordinated with relevant units to hold the groundbreaking ceremony for the Cat Lai and Long Hung (Dong Nai 2) bridges.
At the same time, Ho Chi Minh City held the groundbreaking for the Phu My 2 Bridge. Approximately 6.3 km long with eight lanes, this bridge connects the southern part of the city with Dong Nai and Long Thanh International Airport.
Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy
FedEx: Advancing Vietnam’s air cargo future
Over the past decade, Vietnam has rapidly evolved from a fast-growing manufacturing hub into a strategic gateway connecting Southeast Asia and major global markets, including Europe and North America. This rise has been supported by the government’s strong focus on infrastructure development, expanding expressways, upgrading deep-water ports, and accelerating multimodal transport projects. With national strategies prioritizing connectivity through 2030, cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong are poised to play even larger roles as trade gateways.
These efforts underscore why resilient logistics infrastructure and seamless global connectivity are essential for sustaining Vietnam’s ambitions in the years ahead.
Preparing Vietnam’s air cargo ecosystem for a higher value economy
FedEx Vietnam ground operations, pick-up and deliveryVietnam’s economic trajectory today differs markedly from earlier growth cycles. Rising incomes, now surpassing $5,000 per capita, have propelled the country firmly into the upper-middle-income category and reshaped consumption patterns and business expectations. At the same time, Vietnam’s export mix is shifting toward higher-value, more time-sensitive sectors such as electronics and semiconductors. These industries demand precision, predictability, and resilience across supply chains, not just speed.
Vietnam’s national semiconductor strategy illustrates this transition, with the country aiming to move deeper into assembly, testing, and eventually more advanced stages of the value chain. To support this ambition, logistics providers must build integrated, future-ready networks that can scale with increasing trade volumes while meeting the needs of high-value manufacturers.
In 2026, FedEx will invest and expand its operations in Vietnam, collaborating with local logistics players including Viettel Post Joint Stock Corporation (Viettel Post), Aviation Logistics Corporation (ALS), and Tan Son Nhat Cargo Services and Forwarding Co., LTD (TECS) — a joint venture company of Vietnam Airlines. Combining global standards with deep local expertise, these partnerships will strengthen reach and customer experience across ground pickup and delivery, air freight logistics, and customs clearance services — creating a more seamless and resilient logistics ecosystem that supports Vietnam’s long-term trade growth.
Sharing insights on this collaboration, Mr. Dinh Thanh Son, Deputy CEO of Viettel Post Joint Stock Corporation (Viettel Post), stated: “Today’s handshake between Viettel Post and FedEx is built on a win-win collaboration that amplifies the strongest capabilities of both organizations. By integrating Viettel Post’s technology-enabled postal and last-mile network, reaching deep into every locality nationwide, with the strength of FedEx’s global connectivity and advanced digital tools including sophisticated tracking and routing systems, we are empowering local businesses with greater visibility, reliability, and faster end-to-end service. Together, we are opening doors for Vietnamese enterprises to access more global markets than ever before. The combined infrastructure and expertise of both organizations will deliver breakthrough value for the logistics industry and significantly enhance customer experience.”
FedEx Vietnam air cargo operationsEnhancing services with a customer-centric focus
As Vietnam’s economy matures, businesses and consumers expect logistics services that are faster, more reliable, and more transparent. Digital accessibility, real-time visibility, and simplified documentation are no longer optional, they are fundamental.
Our focus in Vietnam reflects this shift. We are enhancing network efficiency, strengthening digital integration, and expanding access to tools that help customers manage shipments and payments more easily. By improving transparency and streamlining processes, we aim to help Vietnamese businesses compete more effectively in global markets.
“Collaboration-driven improvements remain critical here,” as Mr. Dang Hoa Binh, General Director of Tan Son Nhat Cargo Services and Forwarding Co., LTD (TECS), noted. “Sectors such as semiconductors, medical devices, and advanced electronics require increasingly specialized ground handling and regulatory compliance.”
Mr. Truong Vinh Hung, CEO of Aviation Logistics Corporation (ALS), added: “Our collaboration with FedEx enhances customs capabilities and ground operations, supported by newly developed air cargo facilities that enable more specialized handling, faster throughput, and greater operational flexibility.”
Looking ahead
Vietnam’s trajectory as a key trade and logistics hub is clear, and the opportunities ahead are significant. Realizing this potential will require continued investment, strong collaboration, and a shared commitment to building resilient, future-ready supply chains.
For FedEx, Vietnam is not just an important market today; it is a strategic pillar of Southeast Asia’s future. By investing in infrastructure, connectivity, talent, and local partnerships, we are committed to supporting our customers’ growth while contributing positively to Vietnam’s evolving role in the global trade ecosystem.
-By Mr. Masamichi Ujiie, President of FedEx North South Pacific
HCMC launches first-ever cross-sea drone delivery route
Ho Chi Minh City officially inaugurated an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) delivery route connecting Can Gio Commune and Vung Tau Ward on February 12, according to a report from Radio the Voice of Vietnam.
The activity was jointly conducted at the Can Gio Ferry Terminal by the City Department of Science and Technology, in collaboration with Vietnam Post and CT UAV Joint Stock Company.
The implementation of UAV delivery is considered a pioneering step in applying smart transportation solutions. This initiative contributes to enhancing the digital economy index, reduces pressure on the city's road infrastructure, and marks the birth of the first-ever cross-sea unmanned postal route.
During the launch on February 12, a live direct flight was activated to transport a parcel from Can Gio to Vung Tau. The entire process—from loading and takeoff to the maritime flight and the final landing and handover—was executed safely. The flight path connects the takeoff point at the Can Gio Ferry Terminal to the landing site at the Vung Tau maritime ferry terminal on Tran Phu Street.
In the initial phase, Vietnam Post will prioritize small parcels weighing under 5kg, including documents, records, and e-commerce goods.
The Department of Science and Technology serves as the primary coordinator for the project, working in conjunction with the City High Command to oversee daily operations following the launch.
The UAV postal delivery route not only significantly shortens delivery times between two areas with unique geographical conditions but also provides customers with faster shipping options and real-time tracking capabilities.
Furthermore, it enhances service reliability during traffic disruptions and serves as a controlled pilot model. This allows regulatory authorities to gather essential data to refine policies for smart logistics and the development of the "low-altitude economy."
VOV-
New criteria for evaluating the maturity level of smart urban areas
The Ministry of Construction has provided guidance on evaluating the maturity level of smart urban areas.
Accordingly, the evaluation process must adhere to principles of transparency, objectivity, and consistency in applying criteria and indicators as per regulations. The evaluation must be responsible, honest, and based on data, records, and actual results at the time of assessment; it should not be based on orientations, proposals, or plans without specific outcomes.
The criteria and indicators for evaluating and recognizing the maturity level of smart urban areas are divided into three ascending levels: foundational development, system integration, and governance innovation. People's Committees at provincial level will integrate these criteria and indicators to serve local development goals or apply standards set by reputable international organizations. They will also identify tasks and solutions to develop towards sustainable urban levels after completing the governance innovation criteria.
The criteria and indicators are assessed as either "met" or "not met." If there is no suitable evidence for the criteria and indicators, they are considered not met. For provincial urban areas and new urban areas, the evaluation is based on 19 basic indicators (B1, B2) and additional advanced indicators prioritized according to relevant fields, conditions, scale, and development stage. For urban areas and new urban areas within provinces, the evaluation is based on 9 basic indicators (B2) and additional advanced indicators prioritized according to relevant fields, conditions, scale, and development stage; simultaneously, 10 basic indicators (B1) are evaluated by the province.
Urban areas and new urban areas are recognized according to the maturity level achieved or recognized in specific fields. If recognized by maturity level, urban areas and new urban areas must meet all basic criteria (B1, B2) of that level and preceding levels, and all advanced criteria in the evaluated fields. If recognized by field, urban areas and new urban areas must meet the basic criteria (B1, B2) of that level and preceding levels, and advanced criteria in one or several prioritized fields during evaluation and recognition.
Regarding implementation, provincial People's Committees select qualified organizations or units to conduct evaluations, recognize, and prepare dossiers for evaluation and recognition of provincial urban areas or those spanning two or more administrative units at commune level. Similarly, commune-level People's Committees select qualified organizations or units and prepare dossiers for urban areas within a single administrative unit.
Once selected, the organization or unit conducts evaluations according to the publicized process. If the urban area meets the conditions, the evaluating organization issues a recognition document and sends it to the relevant provincial and commune-level People's Committees, the Ministry of Construction, and the national smart urban information portal. Conversely, if conditions are not met, the evaluating organization sends the results to the requesting agency.
The Ministry of Construction has recently guided the implementation of certain contents of the Governemt's Decree No. 269/2025/ND-CP on smart urban development, including principles, criteria, and indicators for evaluating and recognizing the maturity level of smart urban areas.
vneconomy-Anh KHoa
HCMC approves 28 more pilot sites for commercial housing projects
The Ho Chi Minh City People's Council has passed a resolution approving a list of 28 out of 30 proposed land plots for pilot housing projects across the city, covering a total area of over 750,613 sq.m.
These 28 new plots will bring the total number of sites included in the pilot program to 182, with a combined area of nearly 14.2 million sq.m. This is a significant step toward meeting the city’s growing housing demand while creating favorable conditions for real estate enterprises to implement their projects.
The new land plots are distributed throughout the city, with a primary concentration in the Southern and Eastern regions.
The implementation of these projects must strictly adhere to the principles of openness and transparency while ensuring project timelines are met. This is particularly crucial as the city faces various challenges regarding land funds and housing needs.
Looking ahead, the city plans to continue reviewing and adding eligible land plots to the pilot list. This initiative is expected to not only increase the housing supply but also provide a stronger legal framework for businesses to launch projects, ultimately contributing to the city's socio-economic development.
Vneconomy-Hồng Quang
Vietnam maintains long-term edge in APAC real estate investment wave
Savills forecasts that real estate investment in Asia-Pacific will increase by approximately 7% in 2026, reflecting a more stable cycle compared to the US and Europe. However, as global investors become increasingly cautious and selective, markets offering real growth, strong domestic demand, and improving legal frameworks—like Vietnam—are poised to maintain a long-term advantage.
Data from the General Statistics Office and international organizations show that Vietnam’s GDP growth maintained a positive trajectory throughout the 2022–2025 period. Specifically, following an 8% growth rate in 2022, GDP reached 5.1% in 2023 before rebounding to 7.1% in 2024 and hitting 8.02% in 2025. Vietnam remains among the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region.
Growth has improved not only in speed but also in quality. GDP per capita rose from $3,700 in 2022 to nearly $5,026 in 2025. Rising incomes and an expanding middle class have solidified the domestic market while driving demand for infrastructure, logistics, urban development, and commerce—factors that have a powerful spillover effect on the real estate sector.
In the broader regional picture, Savills notes that demand for Grade A office space in Asia-Pacific remains positive, particularly in emerging talent hubs such as India, Vietnam, and Malaysia. In these markets, multinational corporations are expanding their presence to access high-quality labor at competitive costs. Additionally, the retail real estate segment is being bolstered by recovering consumption, tourism growth, and the return of international brands.
According to Mr. Neil MacGregor, CEO of Savills Vietnam, regional trends are clearly reflected in the Vietnamese market but with increasing depth and quality.
Vietnam has moved past the stage of attracting investment primarily based on cost advantages. Capital flows are now shifting strongly toward high-value sectors such as high-tech manufacturing, electronics, modern logistics, and industries integrated into global supply chains. This is redefining real estate demand toward higher quality, sustainability, and a longer-term focus, Mr. Neil said.
A key driver reinforcing the long-term outlook for Vietnam’s real estate market is the steady influx of high-quality Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). According to 2025 data, total registered FDI in Vietnam reached approximately $38–40 billion, while disbursed capital hit a record high, reflecting the long-term confidence of foreign investors in the domestic business environment.
Notably, capital from Europe is becoming more selective, focusing on high-value-added sectors such as technology, electronics, advanced processing, and logistics. In particular, the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA)—which will see import duties on over 99% of tariff lines for goods exported to the EU eliminated by 2027—is expected to further solidify Vietnam’s position in global supply chains and increase its appeal to long-term investors.
Parallel to FDI, large-scale public investment in infrastructure is seen as a pivotal growth engine for the economy and the real estate market in the medium and long term. The accelerated implementation of key projects—such as the North-South Expressway, Long Thanh International Airport, and ring road systems in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, along with various logistics and energy projects—will improve regional connectivity, encourage urban decentralization, and create new growth poles along strategic infrastructure axes.
Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân