Vietnam to be subjected to import tariff of 46%.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested immediate establishment of a rapid response team after the US Administration announced universal tariff range from 10- 49% country by country.

The response team will be headed by Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son.

Chairing a meeting on April 3 to discuss immediate and long-term measures relating to the issue, PM Chinh emphasized the current situation shows that trade competition is becoming fiercer, complicated and unpredictable.

Vietnam hopes that the US would have a policy that is consistent with the good relations between the two countries, the wishes of the people of both sides and Vietnam's efforts in recent times, in line with the conditions and circumstances of Vietnam as a developing country, still having to continue to overcome the severe and prolonged war consequences, the PM said.

He assigned Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc to direct ministries and agencies to collect opinions from businesses, including large export enterprises.

The PM also reiterated the Government's GDP growth target of at least 8% for 2025 remains unchanged

According to the universal tariff announced by the US Administration, 
Cambodia is subject to the highest tariff rate of 49%, followed by a 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam.

Meanwhile, the European Union faces a 20% tariff, and China would have an additional tariff of 34%. 

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-Tiến Dũng

Tourism emerged as the city's standout economic sector during this period, with nearly 1.5 million tourist arrivals

Hue City's Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) growth rate for the first quarter of 2025 is estimated at an impressive 9.9%, according to the city's Department of Finance.

Tourism emerged as the city's standout economic sector during the period, with nearly 1.5 million tourist arrivals, representing a remarkable 62% increase compared to the same quarter last year, thanks to the successful organization of numerous unique cultural events and festivals.

In addition to tourism, the city's export turnover showed strong performance.

March 2025 export turnover was estimated at $104.3 million, reflecting a 7% increase from the previous month and a 20% year-on-year growth. Hue City's total export turnover for Q1 2025 reached $318 million, marking a 23% year-on-year rise and fulfilling 22% of the annual target.

Key developments also took place in the industrial and infrastructure sectors during Q1. The city worked to support investors and resolve challenges for them, thus enabling the commencement of several major projects, including the Creanza high-tech quartz sand processing plant, the Dat Phuong patterned white glass factory, the Chan May Logistics Center, and two social housing projects in the An Van Duong urban area. These projects represent a total investment capital of approximately VND6 trillion (nearly $233 million).

Furthermore, Hue City celebrated the technical traffic opening of the Huong River Overpass, a vital component of the Nguyen Hoang Street - Huong River Overpass project.

-Nguyễn Thuấn

Vietnam and Armenia have open economies where exports play a crucial role, and both possess the capacity to adapt to international trade principles.

As part of his official visit to Armenia, Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Tran Thanh Man and the high-level delegation of the NA attended the Vietnam-Armenia Business Forum in  Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, on April 2 (local time).

Addressing the forum, the NA Chairman stated that Vietnam and Armenia have open economies where exports play a crucial role, and both possess the capacity to adapt to international trade principles.

To fully leverage the potential for cooperation, he outlined specific directions for businesses from both countries to consider.

Regarding information technology and digital transformation, Armenia is known as a "Silicon Valley" of the region with a strongly developing IT sector. Meanwhile, Vietnam is also promoting digital transformation across all sectors. Therefore, the NA Chairman encouraged businesses from both sides to cooperate in developing software, artificial intelligence (AI), and technological solutions for education, healthcare, and smart city management.

Regarding agriculture and food processing, according to the NA Chairman, Vietnam can supply tropical agricultural products such as coffee, cashew nuts, and seafood, while Armenia can share its expertise in processing high-quality agricultural products, especially wine and dried fruits.

Regarding renewable energy, he proposed that businesses from both sides jointly research and invest in projects for solar, wind, and small hydropower, leveraging Armenia's advanced technology and Vietnam's abundant resources.

To enhance deeply and comprehensively the cooperation between the business communities of the two countries, with a focus on investment and trade, the NA Chairman made the following proposals:

First, both sides should actively create opportunities for Vietnamese and Armenian businesses to regularly exchange, seek, and capitalize on cooperation and investment opportunities, especially in fields with high potential and demand.

Second, the two countries need to increase the exchange of delegations at all levels, especially high-level ones, to strengthen political trust and promote cooperation in potential areas.

Third, competent authorities should facilitiate businesses cooperate deeply and comprehensively, enhance competitiveness, jointly tap into each other's markets and regional ones, and participate more deeply in regional and global value and production chains.

Fourth,  both governments are urged to continue efforts to improve the investment and business environment, creating maximum favorable conditions for businesses of two sides to enhance cooperation and successfully implement investment and business activities, in accordance with legal regulations.

Fifth, the business communities of both countries should support each other in tapping into their respective markets, as well as expanding into the ASEAN and Central Asian regional markets.

-Quang Trung

Efforts urged to improve market access for goods from both sides, including agricultural products, seafood, dairy products, transportation vehicles, agricultural machinery, and equipment.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien and Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Anatoly Sivak co-chaired the 16th Session of the Vietnam-Belarus Intergovernmental Commission on Economic-Trade and Scientific-Technical Cooperation in Hanoi on April 1.

The session reviewed the progress of previous agreements and acknowledged positive developments in traditional sectors such as diplomacy, trade, industry, agriculture, science, culture, sports, and education. Discussions also explored new areas of cooperation, including construction, health care, and information technology.

While acknowledging several positive outcomes in bilateral collaboration, both sides recognized that their current cooperation falls short of the potential and strengths both countries possesses.

To address this, Minister Nguyen Hong Dien proposed a series of measures to deepen collaboration, including:

First, continue effectively executing high-level agreements reached during Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko's visit to Vietnam in December 2023.

Second, strengthen information sharing and policy consultations at all levels to address challenges and obstacles during implementation. This includes finding flexible solutions to boost bilateral trade turnover.

Third, continue efforts to improve market access for goods from both sides, including agricultural products, seafood, dairy products, transportation vehicles, agricultural machinery, and equipment.

Fourth, provide favorable conditions for businesses from both countries to participate in fairs, exhibitions, and trade exploration opportunities; and promote the effective use of preferential treatment offered by the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Fifth, research and propose partnerships in emerging and high-tech sectors where one country has advantages and the other has needs. Potential areas include foundational industries like processing, manufacturing, mechanical engineering, materials, chemicals, and advanced sectors such as semiconductor chips, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, green transition, and circular economy.

Sixth, Vietnam requested that Belarus create optimal conditions for Vietnamese businesses, including Belarusian entrepreneurs of Vietnamese origin, to operate and invest in Belarus.

Deputy PM Anatoly Sivak,  for his part, reiterated Belarus’s recognition of Vietnam as a key partner in the region, stressing the need for enhanced collaboration between ministries and businesses to maximise trade and investment opportunities.

-Nguyệt Hà

Measures including development of institutions that ensure transparency, reduce administrative procedures, and eliminate unnecessary steps that cause inconvenience or bottlenecks for businesses.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has urged for more efforts to encourage the development of the private sector, and create favorable conditions for private businesses to participate in major national programs and projects.

Chairing the second meeting of the National Steering Committee for building the private economic sector development project, PM Chinh, who is head of the committee, stressed that it must fully unleash the productive capacity and resources of the country through the private sector; and mobilize all private resources for national development.

The PM asked for the development and implementation of institutions that ensure transparency, reduce administrative procedures, eliminate unnecessary steps that cause inconvenience or bottlenecks for citizens and businesses, and minimize compliance costs to the highest extent possible.

It was also necessary to mobilize resources, and diversify markets, products and supply chains to help people and businesses to get better access to business opportunities.

The Government leader stressed the need to have measures to promote sustainable business, and develop green economy and digital economy.

Private enterprises must be mobilised and assigned tasks to participate in the implementation of the three strategic breakthroughs that the Party and State are carrying out, especially in major infrastructure projects such as high-speed railways, airports, seaports, and expressways, he stressed.

 

-Tiến Dũng

The port in HCM City can accommodate vessels ranging from 30,000 DWT to 50,000 DWT.

The Ministry of Construction has approved a pilot program allowing international cruise ships to dock at Saigon - Hiep Phuoc Port in Nha Be district, Ho Chi Minh City.

Located on the Soai Rap River, Saigon - Hiep Phuoc Port features three berths totaling 800m in length, along with two mooring buoys, and can accommodate vessels ranging from 30,000 DWT to 50,000 DWT.

Approved by the Ministry of Transport (now the Ministry of Construction) in October 2024, the port is allowed to receive the international cruise ship Viking Orion, which has a capacity of 3,640 DWT and transporting 1,400 passengers.

 The pilot program for international cruise ship arrivals is expected to boost HCMC’s cruise tourism industry.

 

-Hoài Niệm

Situated in Phuoc An Commune, Nhon Trach District, the industrial park is bordered by the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway on one side, and the Thi Vai River on the other.

The People's Committee of southern province of Dong Nai has officially approved the 1/2000 scale zoning plan for Phuoc An Industrial Park.

Situated in Phuoc An Commune, Nhon Trach District, the 330-ha.industrial park is bordered by the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway on one side, and the Thi Vai River alongside a planned railway line on the other.

It is designed as an eco-oriented industrial park, aiming to attract projects in supporting industries and high-tech sectors. The park takes advantage of its proximity to Phuoc An Port—Dong Nai's largest seaport—which began operations in mid-February.

Under the plan, Phuoc An Industrial Park is divided into two distinct sub-zones. 

Sub-zone A covering over 58 ha, this area will prioritize high-tech industrial models, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supporting industry businesses, and innovative enterprises.

Sub-zone B spans nearly 272 ha,  focusing on supporting industries, multi-sector high-tech industries, services, and trade facilities. It will also serve as a hub for key technical infrastructure for the park. Additionally, functional land plots in this zone will be allocated for security headquarters and fire prevention and fighting facilities, adhering to current regulations.

-Thiên Di

SUEZ and Sonadezi join forces to enhance wastewater and environmental solutions at Vietnam’s largest industrial park, supporting sustainable industrial growth.

SUEZ has teamed up with Sonadezi, a State-owned developer managing 11 large-scale industrial parks across Vietnam, to introduce integrated environmental solutions at Chau Duc Industrial Park - the largest in South Vietnam. This marks SUEZ’s first industrial park project in Vietnam and its 22nd in Asia, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth through circular and resilient water and waste management.

Strategic move toward sustainability

"This partnership marks a major step for SUEZ into Vietnam’s industrial park sector.” Mr. François Fevrier, CEO Water and RR of SUEZ Asia, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “We have proven expertise and technical know-how in industrial parks across Asia, providing state-of-the-art environmental services to 22 parks in the region. We are pleased to join hands with Sonadezi to write the next chapter of our story in Vietnam. As the country continues to develop its industrial landscape, SUEZ is committed to supporting its vision for a more sustainable future, by providing innovative water and waste solutions."

Since establishing its first industrial park in 1963, Vietnam has developed over 400 such parks. To address industrial water and wastewater challenges, such as improving wastewater quality, stabilizing effluents from wastewater treatment plants, and enhancing pipe network conditions, the government has introduced robust environmental and discharge policies, pushing for higher-quality development. As part of the country’s environmental transition, 40% to 50% of localities in Vietnam aim to convert existing industrial parks into eco-industrial parks by 2030. Leveraging its expertise and extensive experience, SUEZ is well-positioned to play a role in advancing this transformation further.

Strategically situated just over an hour's drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Chau Duc Industrial Park - the largest of its kind in South Vietnam - is a vital hub for industrial activities. It serves as a gateway for international businesses looking to invest in Vietnam's flourishing industrial sectors, such as semiconductors, mechanics, and automotive accessories, and plays a crucial role in national economic development.

Chau Duc Industrial Park, the largest of its kind in South Vietnam, plays a crucial role in the national economic development.  

Driving real impact

The first phase of the collaboration between SUEZ and Sonadezi will involve upgrading and operating the maintenance (OM) of existing wastewater treatment facilities, providing comprehensive wastewater solutions to over 100 industrial clients within Chau Duc Industrial Park. With the park's rapid development and the country’s increasing environmental standards, the new joint venture will also explore opportunities to strengthen water and waste services through cutting-edge facilities and technologies.

The phase-1 collaboration will provide comprehensive wastewater solutions to over 100 industrial clients within the Park.  

With over 160 years of expertise in water and waste management, SUEZ has a strong track record in Asia, providing environmental solutions to major industrial parks for more than two decades. In Vietnam, the company has been working with local partners since 1955, delivering sustainable drinking water and wastewater services through over 20 projects.

This partnership with Sonadezi marks another step toward supporting Vietnam’s sustainability goals by providing industrial clients with efficient and reliable environmental solutions.

-Diep Linh

Total outstanding tourism credits reaching VND57 trillion ($2.2 billion) by the end of February.

Total outstanding tourism credits in Ho Chi Minh City reached nearly VND57 trillion ($2.2 billion)  by the end of February, making up 1.5% of the city’s total loans, according to the State Bank of Vietnam's (SBV) Regional Branch No.2.

The figure represents a growth of 10%.

The credit growth was attributed to the recovery of tourism activities after the Covid-19 pandemic over the past two years.  

In the first three months of this year, the local tourism sector recorded total revenue of over VND56.66 trillion ($2.19 billion), a year-on-year rise of 26.7%, figures from the city’s Tourism Department show.

 

-Minh Huy

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-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy

The industrial park benefits from its prime location near the Van Phong seaport system and key expressways, such as Van Phong - Nha Trang and Khanh Hoa - Buon Ma Thuot.

The People's Committee of the south-central province of Khanh Hoa  broke ground on the Doc Da Trang Industrial Park on April 2.

The project spans an area of 288 ha and boasts a total investment capital exceeding VND1.8 trillion (over $72.2 million).

It is located in the Van Phong Economic Zone (Van Ninh District and Ninh Hoa Town).

The industrial park benefits from its prime location near the Van Phong seaport system and key expressways, such as Van Phong - Nha Trang and Khanh Hoa - Buon Ma Thuot, thus providing a significant competitive edge and attracting secondary investors.

Under the master plan on development of Khanh Hoa Province by 2030, with a vision to 2045, the locality is prioritizing industries such as clean energy, processing, high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering, and electronics.

Moreover, the development of synchronized industrial infrastructures like Doc Da Trang Industrial Park is essential to meet the growing demands of secondary investors.

Once operational, the industrial park is expected to generate over 16,000 jobs, attract substantial investment to the Van Phong Economic Zone, and play a critical role in accelerating the local economic restructuring process, further solidifying the province’s industrial growth and development.

-Phạm Long

The expo showcases over 400 businesses across 500 booths from 18 countries and territories.

The 34th Vietnam International Trade Fair (Vietnam Expo 2025) officially opened in Hanoi on April 2.

Running until April 5, Vietnam Expo 2025 embraces the theme "Accompanying Businesses in the Digital Era".

This year’s event highlights the transformative power of technology in trade promotion, empowering Vietnamese and international enterprises to optimize digital platforms and technological solutions.

The expo showcases over 400 businesses across 500 booths from 18 countries and territories.

As a premier event for Vietnam's industry and trade sector, it features key zones such as International Pavilions, the Vietnam Export Promotion and Investment Zone, the Electronics, Machinery, and Supporting Industries Zone, the Digital Technology and E-commerce Zone, and the Agri-food and Beverage Zone.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan was quoted by Radio the Voice of Vietnam as emphasizing the expo's vital role in fostering Vietnam's industrial and trade development over its 33-year history.

He highlighted its contributions to economic growth, export promotion, and international integration, stating: "Vietnam Expo 2025, alongside its traditional activities, will introduce online B2B matchmaking. These activities will facilitate year-round engagement, enabling businesses to connect with partners remotely, expand networks, and strengthen their competitiveness for sustainable development."

The event also includes various high-level forums, promotional conferences, and seminars, offering invaluable information and networking opportunities for domestic and international enterprises. A highlight of the expo is the Supply Link Program, which fosters collaboration between supporting industries and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) enterprises through a dedicated 1-on-1 meeting area.

Vietnam Expo 2025 and its associated activities are expected to attract over 20,000 visitors.

-Phạm Long

Mr. Le Chi Phuc, CEO of SGI Capital, tells Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy’s Phan Linh how institutional reform can maximize the potential of the private sector and drive sustainable growth opportunities for Vietnam over the next decade.

The private sector is considered one of the key drivers of Vietnam’s economic growth. What are your thoughts?

After decades of observing listed companies, we have seen that those with a high level of State ownership tend to have lower capital efficiency and slower growth rates compared to private enterprises.

State-owned enterprises (SOEs) often hold significant land resources and enjoy monopolistic positions, yet their operational efficiency, cost control, innovation, and ability to seize opportunities are far lower than those of private enterprises. Just over a decade ago, the leading companies in most industries were SOEs. Today, private enterprises have risen to the top in many sectors, demonstrating strong competitiveness not only domestically but also in replacing imports and expanding into global markets.

Mr. Le Chi Phuc, CEO of SGI Capita

We frequently compare Vietnamese private enterprises with their counterparts in ASEAN and worldwide. Despite operating in a business environment that is not always favorable and receiving limited policy support, many Vietnamese private enterprises perform remarkably well, posting strong growth rates. In fact, when assessed against various financial efficiency and growth criteria, some even surpass regional standards and are on par with top global corporations in their industries.

Compared to other countries in the region, Vietnamese entrepreneurs are highly intelligent, dynamic, and quick to adapt. Therefore, if the government implements mechanisms to further activate the private sector, Vietnam could achieve even higher growth rates.

Will Vietnam’s future growth drivers turn out to be institutional reform, the private sector, and workplace productivity?

In this new era, we have reason to hope for strong institutional reforms. In just the past few months, we have witnessed a high level of determination for change. Things are progressing rapidly, with groundbreaking policies that have never been considered since Vietnam’s economic opening. These include initiatives such as streamlining the government apparatus, digitalizing administrative management, establishing digital asset exchanges, building international financial centers, and developing special economic zones.

This is not just about constructing buildings and central hubs or meeting hard infrastructure needs. More importantly, it is about institutional reform, creating a more open legal framework that facilitates free capital flows, emphasizes technology and high productivity, and offers comprehensive incentives in taxation, fees, and labor policies. If realized, these initiatives could mark a turning point, stimulating domestic investment while attracting additional foreign capital into Vietnam.

In the short term, any major change will have both positive and negative impacts. However, I believe that strong institutional reform will make Vietnam’s economy more dynamic and improve capital circulation. The key is to direct capital into areas that enhance productivity and ensure sustainable growth quality.

One important lesson from both Vietnam’s past and other countries’ experience is that accelerating public investment disbursement while simultaneously easing monetary policy can immediately drive GDP growth. Infrastructure development can also stimulate a vibrant real estate market, attracting speculative capital through debt financing. While this model can sustain high growth for two to three years, it lacks long-term sustainability, as it carries risks of asset bubbles, inflationary pressure, and exchange rate instability. Therefore, the quality of growth matters far more than just the growth figures.

To achieve the government’s target of 8 per cent economic growth in 2025, the banking system must supply approximately VND2,500 trillion ($100 billion) in credit to the economy, equivalent to credit growth of 16 per cent. How would you assess the challenges and opportunities that banks will face this year?

Looking at the banking sectors of countries that have gone through similar economic cycles as Vietnam, such as Thailand, Malaysia, and China 15-20 years ago, credit growth slowed to around 10-12 per cent a year after a period of economic boom.

Credit growth must be in keeping with the economy’s absorption capacity, as reflected in the credit-to-GDP ratio. Vietnam’s ratio has risen to approximately 140 per cent, and if corporate bonds held by banks were to be included, the figure is even higher. This is a significant number compared to economies of similar size or even those that were ahead of Vietnam by 15-20 years in development terms.

Every 1 per cent GDP growth requires 2 per cent credit growth. With projected credit growth of 16-20 per cent per year in 2025 and beyond, the credit-to-GDP ratio will rise even further. This presents a major challenge for the banking sector in the years to come.

From an investor and market observer’s perspective, I believe the banking system has limited room left for credit expansion. Looking back at the period of interest rate cuts during Covid-19, in 2021 and 2022, credit growth was already quite high, at 15-16 per cent. In 2022, banks exhausted their credit limits in the first half of the year. In 2024, banks continued to lend at a rate about 5 per cent higher than deposit growth, preventing improvements in their liquidity and capital adequacy ratios. At the end of 2022, an external interest rate shock led to a sharp exchange rate surge, combined with the corporate bond crisis and the SCB incident, pushing the banking system into a liquidity crisis.

Currently, the global and macro-economic environment remains volatile and full of risks. If banks do not accelerate deposit mobilization and reduce their loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR), they will struggle to maintain liquidity while expanding credit as expected, and they will also be vulnerable to sudden shocks.

However, reducing the LDR is also a challenge for banks, as they must simultaneously maintain low interest rates while global interest rates, especially in the US, remain high. When deposit interest rates are low, bank savings become less attractive to both individuals and businesses. Capital will instead flow into other, more profitable investment channels such as gold, real estate, USD holdings, or even cryptocurrencies.

How would you assess the relationship between credit growth quality and the economy’s capacity to absorb capital?

We have conducted statistical analyses on the borrowing demand of both listed and non-listed enterprises across the manufacturing, trade, and service sectors. The results indicate that corporate borrowing demand has been on a continuous decline over the past 5-7 years.

The main reason is that well-performing publicly-traded companies in manufacturing, trade, and services have scaled up their operations, strengthened their market position, and built strong cash flows. They have also accumulated sufficient equity to reinvest and expand without relying heavily on loans. Furthermore, their growth rates have slowed compared to the high average recorded between 2005 and 2015, leading to a decreased need for financing.

Looking at credit growth data from the banking system, we see that the highest credit expansion has been concentrated in two sectors: consumer lending, and real estate (including mortgages and loans to property developers).

I believe that capital absorption capacity in manufacturing, trade, and services may remain low in the immediate future for two reasons: (1) the global economy has yet to show significant signs of recovery, and trade tensions could disrupt international commerce; and (2) domestic consumption is recovering but at a slow pace, making businesses cautious about investing in production and expansion.

As a result, it is likely that credit will continue to flow into the real estate sector or industries related to infrastructure development.

 

-Phan Linh

This marks a significant milestone in agricultural trade relations between the two countries and is expected to boost Vietnam's export turnover for livestock products.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has officially approved the import of various poultry meat and egg products from Vietnam, the Vietnam News Agency quoted the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore as announcing on April 1.

The approved products include heat-processed poultry meat from CPV Food Co., Ltd. and Meatdeli Hanoi Co., Ltd., as well as canned poultry eggs and meat (excluding beef) sterilized at high temperatures and pressures, following recommendations from the Department of Livestock and Veterinary Affairs.

This approval marks a significant milestone in agricultural trade relations between the two countries and is expected to boost Vietnam's export turnover for livestock products.

To secure approval for export to Singapore, Vietnamese ministries and enterprises worked closely with the SFA, conducting thorough surveys, inspections, field evaluations, and online assessments. The two companies involved have invested in modernizing production processes and technology to meet SFA's stringent requirements, including food safety standards, operating procedures, traceability, and worker training.

A representative of the Trade Office remarked, as quoted by the State-run news agency, "This achievement demonstrates Vietnam’s capability and immense potential in penetrating demanding markets. It represents a significant milestone for Vietnam’s livestock industry, laying the groundwork not only for the companies licensed this time but also for other enterprises aiming to enter the highly regulated Singapore market."

However, the representative also acknowledged the challenges ahead for businesses in maintaining product quality and stable output to remain competitive in such a stringent market environment.

-Phạm Long

The initiative aims to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to a world where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent, thus preparing a workforce and a society for the AI-driven future.

The National Innovation Center (NIC) (under the Ministry of Finance), in collaboration with Intel, launched the “AI for all” program on April 2.

“AI for all” is a self-learning program designed for all Vietnamese citizens, including students, office workers, parents, and even senior citizens.

The initiative aims to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to a world where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent, thus preparing a workforce and a society for the AI-driven future.

The program will help popularize and disseminate knowledge of AI,  while raising public awareness about it, in line with Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW issued by the Politburo on December 22, 2024. 

Speaking at the launching event of the program, Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc emphasized the urgent need to make fundamental AI knowledge accessible to the entire population in a simple and internationally standardized manner, given the rapid development of AI.

Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc speaks at the event.

“Therefore, the implementation of the program at this time is crucial and directly addresses the urgent and practical need for learning, disseminating AI knowledge, and enhancing AI application skills across government agencies, socio-political organizations, businesses, and the general public as a whole,” the Deputy Minister stressed.

Discussing Vietnam’s strengths in AI development and application, Ms. Sarah Kemp, Vice President, International Government Affairs for Intel, noted that Vietnam is embarking on an ambitious digital transformation journey, aiming to rank among the top four ASEAN nations in AI research and development by 2030. 

Additionally, Vietnam’s AI market is projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 15.8 per cent. The country currently ranks 39th out of 139 countries and territories in AI Readiness Index. The number of AI startups in Vietnam has surged from just 60 in 2021 to 278 in 2024.

“For these reasons, Vietnam has the potential to become a leading AI nation. With strong collaboration, targeted education, and a forward-thinking digital mindset, I am confident that Vietnam will not only reach the top four in ASEAN  about AI development but also emerge as a global AI powerhouse,” Ms. Sarah emphasized.

-Phuong Hoa

When fully completed, the expressway will feature four lanes and two emergency stop lanes, with a roadbed width of 24.75 m, and an allowed maximum speed limitted to 100 km/h.

The People's Committee of the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong has approved an investment policy for the Bao Loc - Lien Khuong expressway (phase 1) under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The projected 73.62 - km expressway will begin in Loc Phat ward, Bao Loc city, and end at its connection with the Lien Khuong - Prenn expressway in Hiep Thanh commune, Duc Trong district. 

When fully completed, the expressway will feature four lanes and two emergency stop lanes, with a roadbed width of 24.75 m, and an allowed maximum speed limitted to 100 km/ha.  

The project (phase 1)'s total investment capital is estimated at VND17.718 trillion (nearly $691 million), including VND7.761 trillion (around $303 million), or 43.8% of the total, to be sourced from the State budget. The remaining VND9.957 trillion (over $388 million), or 56.2% will be mobilized by investor.

The Provincial People's Committee will select an investor through open domestic bidding, with incentives provided according to current regulations. The investor selection process is expected to conduct in 2025.

Upon completion, the Bao Loc - Lien Khuong Expressway will be a key segment of the expressway network from Dau Giay (in southern province of Dong Nai) to Lien Khuong, as outlined in a plan which had been approved by the Prime Minister.

The project aims to enhance connectivity with the national transport system, reduce travel time between the Central Highlands and the Southern Key Economic Region, which includes Ho Chi Minh City and the provinces of Dong Nai, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc and Tay Ninh; and improve access to economic and industrial hubs along National Highway 20. It is expected to contribute significantly to regional economic development and integration.

-Gia Huy

Under a revised plan, the total investment capital has increased from VND971 billion ($38 million) to over VND1.85 trillion ($72 million)

The People's Committee of the Mekong Delta province of Long An has announced an adjusted investment policy for upgrading provincial road 830C (the project), which connects the province to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC).

Under the revised plan, the project timeline has been extended to the 2024–2027 period; and the total investment capital has increased from VND971 billion (approximately $38 million) to over VND1.85 trillion (around $72 million), with site clearance costs estimated at VND1.1 trillion (nearly $43 million).

The project was initially approved by the Long An Provincial People's Committee under Decision No. 11543/QD-UBND, dated December 7, 2022. It covers a 9-kilometer route, starting at the intersection with Nguyen Huu Tho Street in Ben Luc Town, Ben Luc District, and ending at the border with HCMC.

The upgrade and expansion of the provincial road  aim to facilitate smoother goods transportation and promote the development of trade and services.

The project is also expected to enhance connectivity between Long An and HCMC, reduce travel time, and alleviate traffic congestion on neighboring routes. These improvements are anticipated to boost economic growth and attract investment to the region.

-Thanh Thủy

The Vietnam Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) posting above the 50.0 no-change mark for the first time in four months during March.

The Vietnamese manufacturing sector returned to growth in March amid renewed increases in both output and total new orders, according to the latest report released by the SP Global on April 1.

The SP Global Vietnam Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) posted above the 50.0 no-change mark for the first time in four months during March, thereby signaling an improvement in business conditions at the end of the first quarter of 2025. At 50.5, the PMI was up from 49.2 in February and pointed to a slight strengthening in the health of the sector.

Manufacturing production increased for the first time in three months during March, and to the largest degree since August last year.

 According to respondents, the rise in output in part reflected improvements in the availability of goods, but also a renewed increase in new orders, which likewise expanded following a two-month sequence of decline.

Growth of new orders was recorded amid signs of improving customer demand, but was only slight amid ongoing weakness in international demand.

-Huyền Vy

China remaining the biggest importer, accounting for 44.5% of the total export volume.

Vietnam’s exports of fruit and vegetable in the first quarter of the year earned $1.14 billion, down 11.3% year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

In March alone, the export revenue reached $450 million.

China remains the biggest importer, accounting for 44.5% of the total export volume of fruit and vegetable in the three-month period. It was followed by the US and the Republic of Korea with a market share of 9.6% and 6%, respectively.

Meanwhile, the country imported fruit and vegetable worth nearly $578 million, up 17% compared to the same period last year, as a result of high demand for local consumption and processing.

A target of gaining $8 billion in fruit and vegetable exports has been set for this year.  

Last year, export value of fruit and vegetable reached over $7 billion.

 

-Chu Khôi

The SJC-branded gold bars skyrocketing to a historic high of VND102.6 million ($3,976) per tael on April 1 morning.

Gold prices in the domestic market reversed to plummet on April 1 afternoon after skyrocketing to a historic high in the morning session.

The SJC-branded gold bars were sold by the Saigon Jewelry and Gem Stone Co. (SJC) for VND102.1 million ($3,876) per tael, dropping by VND500,000 ($19.3) per tael compared to the morning session.

One tael equals 37.5 grams, or 1.2 ounces.

Meanwhile, in the global market, the gold price hit $3131.9 per ounce on April 1, increasing by $10.7 per ounce compared to the previous day.

At this level, gold prices in Vietnam stand at around VND3.6 million ($139) a tael higher than the global price.

 

 

-Phương Linh