Vietnam News
Banks encouraged to join $3.8 bln credit package for agro-forestry and fishery enterprises
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) has required commercial banks to accelerate the implementation of the credit package worth VND100 trillion ($3.8 billion) for businesses operating in the field of agro-forestry and fishery sector.
The move is aimed at increasing the credit program for the sector to over VND100 trillion, as directed by the Government.
So far, 15 banks have registered to participate in the program.
The central bank encouraged other commercial banks to join the initiative to support the development of the sector which is considered one of key industries of the economy, while helping to ensure national food security and boost exports.
The sector involves the operation of many cooperatives and small- and medium-sized enterprises which are eligible for credit priority, according to the central bank.
In 2024, total export revenue of agro-forestry and aquatic products hit a record high of $62.4 billion, up 18.5% year-on-year.
-Kỳ Phong
Vietnam Economic Times April 14, 2025
-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy
Binh Duong greenlights 786ha industrial zone
The People's Council of the southern province of Binh Duong has officially approved the master construction plan for Bac Tan Uyen 1 Industrial Park (IP) project.
The project, developed by Thaco Group, spans an area of 786 ha and boasts an investment capital of over VND 26 trillion (over $1 billion). It will be located across Binh My commune, Tan Lap commune (Bac Tan Uyen district), and Hoi Nghia ward (Tan Uyen City).
Designed to specialize in mechanical engineering and supporting industries, the IP will cater to equipment manufacturing, component production, and high-tech sectors. Additionally, it is expected to attract businesses within the green industry.
Construction of the projected IP is slated to begin in September 2025 and is anticipated to create over 32,000 jobs upon completion.
Binh Duong province continues to stand out as one of Vietnam's most industrialized localities, significantly contributing to the country's export turnover. In 2024, the province achieved a 7.6% increase in its Industrial Production Index (IIP), reported $34.5 billion in exports, and ranked third nationwide for Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) size , exceeding VND520.2 trillion (nearly $20.2 billion).
The province has also attracted over $42 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and is currently planning 10 new industrial parks with a combined area of over 6,500 ha to meet growing investment demands.
-Quỳnh Nguyễn
New Terminal T3 of Tan Son Nhat airport to handle first flights on April 17
The newly built Terminal T3 of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City is scheduled to handle first flights of the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines on April 17.
The terminal is slated for inauguration on April 30.
By the end of April, all of the airline’s domestic flights will be moved to Terminal T3, except for those connecting HCMC to Con Dao, Ca Mau, and Rach Gia, which will continue operating from Terminal T1.
The new terminal will handle nearly 80% of all domestic flights to and from Tan Son Nhat airport. Domestic flights operated by Vietnam Airlines and the budget carrier Vietjet Air will be moved to Terminal T3.
T3 terminal is designed to handle domestic flights and welcome up to 20 million passengers a year.
The project is invested with nearly VND11 trillion ($434 million) by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam.
-Thanh Thủy
Japanese restaurant chain to open first branch in Vietnam
Saizeriya, a casual Italian restaurant chain in Japan, announced on April 15 that it will open its first branch in Vietnam next month, the Vietnam News Agency has reported.
The restaurant will be located at Ho Chi Minh City’s Giga Mall shopping centre in early May.
Saizeriya currently runs around 600 overseas branches, mainly in China. It opened its first international restaurant in Shanghai, China in 2003, and has since expanded its business to other markets in Asia.
With these moves, the company plans to expand its operations and generate new sources of revenue as Japan’s declining population is expected to lead to a contraction of the restaurant market in the medium and long term.
-Vân Nguyễn
Support needed for Vietnam's startup ecosystem
At a discussion session titled “Unlocking investment for early stage startups in emerging economies”, held on the afternoon of April 15 within the framework of the 4th Partnership for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 Summit in 2025 (the P4G Vietnam Summit 2025) in Hanoi, experts emphasized that Vietnam still needs to further enhance its comprehensive support mechanisms for the startup ecosystem in general, and for startups in particular, in the coming time.
According to data from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), by the end of 2024, Vietnam’s innovative startup ecosystem had recorded over 4,000 startups, including two tech unicorns and 11 companies valued at over $100 million.
Specifically, Vietnam has climbed two places in the global startup ecosystem index 2024, moving from 58th to 56th
Ms. Ngo Thuy Ngoc Tu, Co-founder of Touchstone Partners, expressed that Vietnam’s startup and innovation ecosystem holds significant potential, particularly due to its resilience, pragmatic thinking, creativity, and flexibility.
In addition, Vietnam is demonstrating remarkable dynamism in the technology sector, with advanced laboratories, a growing base of intellectual property (IP), and a large volume of valuable research outcomes.
“These factors prove that Vietnam not only possesses innovative ideas but also has the infrastructure and resources to develop breakthrough technologies in support of startup innovation,” Ms. Tu said.
Similarly, Mr. Min Alexander, Co-founder and CEO of RE:HARVEST (South Korea), expressed strong impressions of Vietnam’s efforts and orientation toward sustainable development.
In which, many universities and research institutes in Vietnam have not only actively established startup support centers but also proactively implemented experimental models and proof of concept (POC) projects.
He also noted that Vietnam is making stronger strides than South Korea in building an environmentally friendly startup ecosystem, demonstrated through mechanisms to support innovative startups towards sustainable development.
“These are solid foundations for building a sustainable innovation ecosystem. If Vietnam continues to maintain and develop along its current trajectory, I believe the country will soon establish a startup ecosystem strong and flexible enough to adapt and sustain long-term innovation,” Mr. Alexander emphasized.
However, Mr. Alexander also pointed out that Vietnam still lacks national-scale startup support programs, as well as limited participation from public investment funds. Moreover, the growth rate of early-stage startups remains relatively slow.
In light of this reality, Mr. Alexander proposed that Vietnam should further accelerate the development of a synchronized policy system to create a more favorable environment for startups. This should include not only systematic support programs but also the establishment of state-backed venture capital funds to lead and mobilize private capital.
“With the right and timely support, I believe Vietnam can rise to become a leading sustainable and dynamic innovation startup hub in the region,” Mr. Min Alexander affirmed.
Adding to the solutions for the future, Ms. Tu suggested that one of Vietnam’s strategic priorities should be to strongly promote the transfer and commercialization of intellectual property (IP) and technologies currently in the testing phase.
“If Vietnam can do this, the country will not only increase the value of its innovation initiatives but also rise to become a vital link in the global technology value chain,” she affirmed.
-Phuong Hoa
PM asks State-owned enterprises to take lead in digital transformation
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) to take the lead in digital transformation while chairing a meeting with SOEs in Hanoi on April 15.
He noted that digital transformation is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority in the country's development process, including the development of businesses.
He also suggested SOEs to proactively innovate and drive the three traditional growth engines, including consumption, exports, and investment, focusing on expanding and diversifying markets; promoting new growth drivers such as science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, green transformation, and circular economy; and applying smart governance solutions to reduce management costs and allocate funds for investment.
The Government always supports, creates the best possible conditions for, and stands ready to address difficulties to help SOEs grow rapidly and sustainably, the PM said.
As of the end of 2024, Vietnam had 671 SOEs, with total asset value estimated at over VND5.6 quadrillion (over $216 billion).
-Tiến Dũng
Meiko Electronics plans to operate $200 mln factory in Vietnam in Q2
Meiko Electronics of Japan, an Apple supplier, is accelerating construction of a $200-million printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing factory in northern Hoa Binh province in order to put it into operation in the second quarter of this year.
The facility covers an area of 9.2ha at an industrial zone in the province
Its key products include electronic circuits for peripheral devices, computers, electronic home appliances, audiovisual equipment, solar cells, microprocessor chips, and controllers.
First products are expected to enter the market in October this year, according to President of Meiko GroupYuichiro NAYA.
The group plans to expand the factory, increasing its investment capital to $500 million.
Meiko first invested in Vietnam in 2006, with a factory in Hanoi's suburban district of Thach That.
-Ngô Huyền
An over $38-million industrial cluster to be established in Hanoi
Mai Dinh Industrial Cluster in Hanoi's outskirt district of Soc Son with be established with total investment capital of around VND1 trillion ($38.3 million), according to the municipal People’s Committee.
The projected industrial cluster will be a multi-industry destination, focusing on auxiliary industry, semiconductor, electronics, information technology, automobile manufacturing, and electronic equipment. Priorities will be given to secondary investment projects with clean and high technology and bringing in high added value and sustainable development.
The projected cluster will be implemented in two years.
In 2025, Hanoi targets to complete construction of technical infrastructure for 43 industrial clusters that have been established in 2018-2020; and establish and expand 15 – 20 others.
-Thanh Xuân
Agreements on railway and road transport cooperation between Vietnam and China signed
Vietnam and China have signed seven important cooperation documents in the fields of railway and road transport, contributing to promoting cooperation between the two countries in transportation, according to a report released on April 15 by the Government News.
The documents were inked within the framework of General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President of China Xi Jinping's State visit to Viet Nam from April 14-15.
In the railway sector, four documents were signed, including:
(1) A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Construction of Vietnam and the National Development and Reform Commission of China on the establishment of a Vietnam–China Joint Railway Cooperation Committee to accelerate project implementation.
(2) The minutes of the working session between the Ministry of Construction of Vietnam and the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) regarding field surveys and technical support for preparing a feasibility study report on the investment project for the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway line in Vietnam.
(3) An exchange letter on China's provision of technical support for planning standard-gauge railway routes: Dong Dang–Hanoi and Mong Cai–Ha Long–Hai Phong.
(4) An exchange letter on China's provision of technical support for preparing a feasibility study report on the investment project for the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong standard-gauge rail line.
These railway-related documents play a significant role in accelerating the preparation of railway projects connecting Vietnam and China—an issue that has received great attention from the leaders of both Parties and Governments in recent times.
For road transport, three documents were signed, including:
(1) An agreement between the two governments on jointly developing a cross-border transportation project at the Thanh Thuy (Vietnam)–Tianbao (China) international border gate area;
(2) A protocol between the two governments on simplifying import and export procedures at the Thanh Thuy–Tianbao international border gate for personnel, vehicles, construction equipment, and building materials involved in the joint construction of the cross-border transportation project
(3) A MoU on technical cooperation in road transport between Vietnam's Ministry of Construction and China's Ministry of Transport.
The two documents on the construction of cross-border transportation infrastructure will serve as an important legal foundation for Vietnam's northern province of Ha Giang and China's Yunnan province to implement investment and construction of a cross-border transport project at the Thanh Thuy–Tianbao international border gate area.
It is expected to promote goods trade and meet the growing travel demand for local people at these two localities, in particular, and between the two nations, in general, via Thanh Thuy–Tianbao international border gate pair.
-Vân Nguyễn
Towards net-zero emission ports
In pursuit of its net-zero emissions by 2050 commitment, Vietnam has been implementing various emission reduction measures, including transitioning to renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency across industries, and cutting emissions from road transport, with the development of green ports also playing a crucial role in the process.
Under Vietnam’s Seaport Development Plan: 2021-2030 with a Vision for 2050, it is expected that, after 2030, green port criteria will be mandatory in the planning, investment, construction, and operation of seaports around Vietnam. The development of green ports is divided into different phases, with the most important being the 2023-2025 period, when regulations on the management, investment, and construction of seaports will be adjusted to comply with the criteria of green ports. Therefore, 2025 plays a key role for the country, requiring significant efforts to realize the criteria of green ports and create a foundation for the sustainable development of the maritime industry.
Strategic move
Figures from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) show that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the global maritime shipping industry surged by nearly 9.6 per cent between 2012 and 2018, rising from 977 million tons to 1,076 million tons. During the same period, CO2 emissions alone increased from 962 million to 1,056 million tons, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the industry. It is also projected that, by 2050, GHG emissions in the industry could rise by as much as 50 per cent compared to 2018 levels.
Therefore, the development of green port models, the adoption of clean energy, and the implementation of sustainable logistics and maritime transport solutions have become inexorable global trends. Many countries, including Vietnam, are encouraged to prioritize investments in smart port infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and low-emission transport systems to align with international environmental commitments and enhance long-term economic competitiveness.
According to the Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration (VIMAWA), Vietnam currently has 34 ports serving maritime transport. With its strategic geographical location and a port network that plays a vital role in regional and global supply chains, Vietnam has a pressing need to advance green port initiatives. Specifically, transitioning to green port models not only helps lower greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthens the competitiveness of the logistics sector, attracts greater international investment in green infrastructure, and supports Vietnam’s commitment to achieving a green economy.
Mr. Hoang Hong Giang, Deputy Director of VIMAWA, emphasized that Vietnam’s port network must swiftly adapt to stay competitive or else may miss development opportunities or even fall behind the global industry. “While the transition to green ports presents challenges, it can begin with small, practical steps, such as optimizing queue times and container arrangement, before moving to the adoption of clean energy solutions,” he noted.
Cargo throughput at Vietnam’s ports has been growing at a robust double-digit annual rate, reflecting strong industry momentum, according to VIMAWA’s analysis. Meanwhile, increasing investments in port and maritime infrastructure are positioning Vietnam as a key transshipment hub. Therefore, in order to align with global trends, Vietnam must adopt a sustainable development strategy that ensures environmental responsibility, cleanliness, and long-term resilience.
Mr. Pham Hoai Chung, Chairman of the Member Council at the Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (SBIC), emphasized that developing green ports is not only an inexorable trend but will also offer a sustainable competitive advantage that fosters the growth of maritime enterprises. Developing ports under this port model will help Vietnam attract investors and move towards a synchronized and sustainable port system. “As the port network advances, logistics costs will be optimized, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses in the international market,” he added.
The green maritime transport trend is also increasingly becoming a key criterion for major shipping lines. Many global logistics companies and import-export enterprises prioritize ports that adopt green technologies, operate efficiently, and meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Given this, if Vietnam takes the lead in developing green ports, it will not only attract more international shipping routes but also enhance global supply chain connectivity and strengthen the position of its ports in the region.
Integrating technology
Major ports in Vietnam, such as Cat Lai, Hai Phong, and Cai Mep - Thi Vai, are gradually introducing green solutions for a sustainable port model. Measures such as utilizing renewable energy for engine operations, optimizing logistics processes to reduce fuel consumption, and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions are being actively promoted. These efforts not only help mitigate environmental impacts but also enhance operational efficiency, attract green investments, and drive the sustainable development of Vietnam’s port system in the future.
For Vietnam’s green port development to become more effective in the years to come, enterprises specializing in port construction need to accelerate digital transformation and adopt advanced technologies. According to Dr. Hoang Hiep, Deputy General Director of the Portcoast Consultant Corporation, technology and digital transformation play a crucial role in the green port model. Businesses must continue to promote technological adoption and implement synchronized digital solutions to optimize operations, ensuring the effective development of green ports.
He added that integrating advanced technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) in port management is a key factor in developing green and sustainable ports. These innovations not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon footprints.
AI-powered analytics enable better decision-making in logistics, helping ports anticipate demand fluctuations and optimize resource allocation, while IoT facilitates real-time monitoring of port equipment, energy use, and emissions, allowing for proactive maintenance and energy-saving strategies.
Modern technologies also support the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into port operations, further reducing dependency on fossil fuels. By leveraging these innovations, ports can not only streamline cargo handling and transportation processes but also significantly shorten vessel docking times and lower operational costs. This technological transformation is crucial in maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly-evolving maritime industry while aligning with global sustainability goals.
Moreover, many experts suggest that one of the key methods in developing green ports lies in the mindset and commitment of each enterprise. The shift towards sustainability requires not only investment in technology but also a fundamental transformation in corporate culture and strategic vision. Businesses should begin with foundational steps, such as developing comprehensive training programs to enhance awareness and equip employees with essential knowledge on sustainable development, ensuring alignment with ESG criteria.
Beyond training, fostering a company-wide commitment to sustainability involves appointing dedicated personnel, such as ESG officers, and establishing specialized research teams that bring together key departments, including operations, logistics, and environmental management. These teams play a crucial role in identifying and implementing innovative green solutions, monitoring progress, and ensuring that sustainability initiatives are seamlessly integrated into daily port operations.
Experts also note that businesses should actively engage with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, international organizations, and industry partners, to exchange best practices and leverage global advancements in green port development. By embedding sustainability at the core of their operational strategies, enterprises in Vietnam can not only contribute to reducing environmental impacts but also enhance their competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious global market.
-Bao Tram
HCM City needs nearly $3 bln to develop seaport system by 2030
Ho Chi Minh City needs an estimated VND77 trillion ($2.96 billion) to develop its seaport system by 2030.
This is part of a comprehensive development plan for HCM City’s seaport system for 2021-2030, with a vision towards 2050, which has been approved by the Ministry of Construction.
Of the total investment, around VND74.5 trillion (more than $2.8 billion) will be earmarked for commercial port operations and cargo handling facilities, and the remainder will be allocated for public maritime infrastructure.
By 2030, the southern city's seaport system will consist of some 41- 44 ports with around 89 - 94 wharves. They are expected to handle between 228 and 253 million tons of cargo and 170,600 to 184,400 passengers per year.
The cargo throughput at the city’s seaports is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 3.5 - 3.8%, while the number of passengers is expected to surge 0.9 - 1%.
-Thiên Di
A business fined nearly $38,300 for environmental violations
For four environmental protection violations, a company in the southern province of Dong Nai has been fined VND990 million (nearly $38,300), while its facility's waste-generating system which had run without an environmental permit, has been suspended, under a decision signed recently by the Chairman of the Dong Nai Provincial People's Committee.
According to the decision, Sa Ha Do Ceramic Tile JSC, located in Tan An commune, Vinh Cuu district, had committed four violations of environmental law.
First, the company operated without an required environmental permit from the provincial-level People's Committee.
Second, the company failed to complete the construction and installation of a rainwater collection and drainage system required for an industrial cluster in compliance with environmental protection.
Third, the company failed to complete the construction and installation of a wastewater collection and drainage system required for an industrial cluster.
Fourth, the company accepted new investment projects generating wastewater into the industrial cluster before the completion of its wastewater collection and drainage system as required by law.
-Hằng Anh
PM urges finalization of private sector development plan for Politburo submission
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Head of the Steering Committee for Building the Private Economic Development Project, chaired a meeting between the Government's Standing Board and the Steering Committee on April 14 to gather further opinions and refine the project that will be submitted to the Politburo for approval.
During the meeting, discussions focused on the draft reports, submissions, and the draft Politburo Resolution on private sector development.
Key discussions also focused on the scope and target subjects, the position and role of the private sector, tasks and solutions—particularly legal mechanisms and policies for private sector development—and the role of State management agencies, business associations, and industries in fostering private sector growth.
Delegates emphasized the important role of the private sector in production chains, supply chains, and distribution chains. They also analyzed incentive mechanisms and policies related to science and technology application, human resources, land, finance, and administrative procedures for the private sector.
PM Chinh concluded the meeting by highlighting several key points for finalizing the project for timely submission to the Politburo.
He stressed that the project must adhere closely to the resolutions and conclusions of the Party Central Committee and the Politburo, as well as the writings and directives of General Secretary To Lam, including his closing remarks at the recent 11th Plenum of the Party Central Committee.
The PM emphasized that the project must respect reality, be firmly grounded in reality, originate from reality, and use reality as a benchmark. It should combine theoretical foundations with practical evidence, domestic experience, and international lessons.
According to the PM, the project must ensure continuity, foster development, and achieve breakthroughs. Private sector development should be situated within the broader context of the country's renewal, development, and breakthroughs; aligned with the implementation of the three strategic breakthroughs (institutional reform, infrastructure development, and human resource development); and integrated with the execution of the 'strategic quartet' (comprising breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation; streamlining the political system's organization and apparatus; developing the private economic sector; and international integration in the new context).
The PM underscored the importance of clearly defining the position, role, significance, and contributions of the private sector, as well as identifying bottlenecks and constraints hindering its development from realizing its distinct potential, outstanding opportunities, and competitive advantages. He also emphasized the need to clarify the relationship between the private sector and other economic sectors.
-Tiến Dũng
A plan for 618ha high-tech forestry zone approved
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has signed a decision approving the Master Plan for the High-Tech Forestry Zone in the North Central Coast region, set to extend until 2045.
Under this plan, the 618-hectare zone will span Nghi Lam, Nghi Van, Nghi Kieu, and Khanh Hop communes in Nghi Loc district, along with Dai Son commune in Do Luong district, Nghe An province.
The initiative aims to modernize the forestry sector by integrating high technology into production processes, enhancing the value of forest-based industries, and fostering sustainable economic, social, and environmental growth. By developing the forest economy along the entire value chain—from seed production and sustainable forest management to afforestation, harvesting, processing, and product sales—the plan seeks to maximize the value of forest resources.
Additionally, the project supports Vietnam’s COP26 commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. It is expected to generate employment opportunities, improve human resource training, and contribute to economic and labor restructuring in alignment with industrialization and modernization goals.
The approved decision designates the zone as a high-tech hub for forestry, focusing on the application of advanced research and development (RD) achievements.
The zone will specialize in forestry seed production, afforestation, and the processing of wood and other forest products, serving both Nghe An province and the broader North Central Coast region.
-Thiên Di
Gia Binh airport in Bac Ninh expected to serve 5 mln passengers per year by 2030
Gia Binh International Airport in northern Bac Ninh province is expected to serve 5 million passengers per year by 2030, following the adjustment of the airport planning for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050.
The adjustment has got approval from the Ministry of Construction.
It will also have a capacity of handling 250,000 tons of cargo annually.
Located in Gia Binh district, the airport will be a joint-use airport for civil and security purposes and meet the 4E airport standard (according to the ICAO standard code).
By 2050, the airport’s capacity will increase to 15 million passengers and 1 million tons of cargo per year.
-Gia Huy
Vietnam, South Korea aim for $150 bln bilateral trade by 2030
Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien and South Korean Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Dukgeun on April 14 co-chaired the 14th Meeting of the Vietnam-Korea Joint Committee on Trade, Industry, and Energy Cooperation and the 8th Meeting of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Vietnam-Korea Free Trade Agreement (VKFTA).
At the meetings, the two ministers agreed to continue close coordination to achieve a target of $150 billion in bilateral trade turnover, aiming for greater balance by 2030.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, bilateral trade turnover between Vietnam and South Korea reached approximately $81.5 billion in 2024, reflecting a 7.3% increase compared to 2023.
Acknowledging the impact of protectionism and trade tensions in the world, the ministers affirmed the importance of strengthening cooperation to alleviate challenges for businesses from both countries.
The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in various areas, such as dialogue on distribution and logistics, organizing business matching events, and exchanging trade promotion delegations to attend major fairs and exhibitions in each country. They also committed to addressing obstacles and facilitating investment and production expansion for Korean textile enterprises in Vietnam.
Additionally, the ministers pledged to deepen collaboration and mutual support within multilateral frameworks, leveraging free trade agreements such as the ASEAN-Korea FTA and RCEP, along with other economic frameworks like APEC and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).
Discussions also focused on promoting medium- and long-term cooperation in materials and components through the phase 2 of the Vietnam Technology Advice and Solutions from Korea project (VITASK 2).
Cooperation in human resource training was emphasized, particularly for Vietnam's shipbuilding industry, aiming to connect with career opportunities amid South Korea's labor shortage in this sector. The two sides agreed to enhance investment connectivity and address issues in industries such as automotive, tobacco, and machinery.
On energy cooperation, the two sides discussed and reached consensus on collaboration in electricity, oil and gas, LNG, nuclear power, and clean energy. Vietnam welcomed South Korean investment in LNG and oil and gas projects, provided investments are effective, mutually beneficial, and in compliance with Vietnamese law. It also expressed interest in South Korea’s co-firing ammonia technology currently under trial, suggesting future joint studies for application in Vietnam.
On this occasion, the two ministers signed three key documents: the minutes of the 14th Joint Committee meeting; a joint statement from the 8th VKFTA Implementation Committee meeting; and the Action Plan to realise the $150 billion trade target.
-Nguyệt Hà
Vietnam’s rice to remain Philippines' main import source
Vietnamese rice will continue to be the primary import source of the Philippines in 2025 and beyond, according to Mr. Phung Van Thanh, Commercial Counselor at the Vietnam Trade Office in the Philippines.
In 2025, the Philippines' demand for imported rice is expected to remain high, projected at approximately 4.92 million tons, with the possibility of surpassing 5 million tons.
Policy measures implemented by the Philippine government to reduce retail rice prices may introduce uncertainty or lead to lower-than-expected profit margins for rice importers, potentially affecting Vietnam's exports. However, in reality, the Philippines' reliance on imported rice is unlikely to decrease in the near future. The country faces limitations in significantly expanding domestic paddy production within a short timeframe to meet growing demand.
According to Mr. Thanh, compared to other rice-exporting countries such as India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Japan, Vietnam retains a competitive edge in the Philippine market. Whether by necessity or strategic choice, the Philippines will continue to depend on Vietnam's rice supply in the foreseeable future.
Recent data from the Vietnam Trade Office in the Philippines indicates that Vietnam holds a dominant share in the Philippines's rice market, ranging from 80% to 85%. Thailand accounts for approximately 10%, while the remainder is sourced from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan, and other nations.
Nonetheless, the possibility of the Philippines diversifying its supply sources to reduce its reliance on Vietnam cannot be ruled out.
"Therefore, while exploring new opportunities in emerging markets, Vietnamese rice-exporting businesses must also prioritize securing and maintaining Vietnam's leading position in the Philippine rice market," Mr. Thanh emphasized.
To strengthen Vietnam's presence in the Philippine market, rice exporters from Vietnam should continue collaborating with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Vietnam Trade Office in the Philippines. Efforts should focus on promotional programs, communication strategies, and advertising campaigns to enhance the visibility and competitiveness of Vietnamese rice.
-Vũ Khuê
Hai Phong shifts investment focus to high-tech projects
The northern port city of Hai Phong is advancing its investment attraction strategy, prioritizing high-quality projects, with a focus placed on core technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
The goal extends beyond capital accumulation—it aims to cultivate a modern industrial ecosystem, where technology serves as the driving force for sustainable long-term growth.
The city’s industrial parks and economic zones have already drawn over 840 investment projects, amassing nearly $48 billion in total registered capital. Notably, investment is increasingly directed toward large-scale ventures that are technologically advanced, environmentally friendly, and capable of producing high-value-added products with deep integration into global supply chains.
Hai Phong is making a decisive shift toward ecological and smart industrial parks and economic zones. Digital technology will be embedded in infrastructure management, public service delivery, and business connectivity, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
To further its ambitions, Hai Phong plans to develop additional industrial parks modeled on advanced frameworks, attracting top-tier Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Domestic Direct Investment (DDI). The focus remains on projects that drive significant added value and technological innovation.
By 2030, Hai Phong envisions a network of ecological and smart industrial parks, with widespread digital technology applications across infrastructure management, public services, and business operations.
The city aims for the processing and manufacturing industry to contribute 55% of its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), while high-tech industries are projected to exceed 70%. Additionally, the rate of technological innovation within enterprises is expected to rise by 20–22% annually on average, reinforcing Hai Phong’s role as a leader in industrial transformation.
-Bạch Dương
PM proposes enhancing railway development cooperation with China
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has proposed Vietnam and China to promote the quality and effectiveness of cooperation, particularly in railway development with priority given to credit arrangements, technology transfer, and workforce training.
He made the suggestion during a meeting with visiting General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President of China Xi Jinping in Hanoi on April 14.
PM Chinh proposed the early signing of an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan agreement to commence construction of the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong railway in 2025, alongside advancing other key routes such as Dong Dang-Hanoi and Mong Cai-Ha Long-Hai Phong.
He also called for balanced and sustainable trade growth, urging China to facilitate greater market access for Vietnamese agricultural products and other goods.
PM Chinh called for an accelerated partnership in developing new productive forces, with a primary focus on sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.
For his part, the top Chinese leader suggested the two sides to seize development opportunities in science and technology, leverage the geographical proximity between the two countries to tap into economic cooperation potential, and actively promote railway cooperation mechanism.
He affirmed that China is willing to expand the import of Vietnamese agricultural products and encourage Chinese enterprises to increase high-quality investment in Vietnam.
-Tiến Dũng