The Thanh Cong Viet Hung plant mainly producing and assembling commercial vehicles under the Skoda brand - one of the oldest automobile manufacturers from the Czech Republic.

Vietnamese automaker Thanh Cong Group inaugurated its Thanh Cong Viet Hung automobile manufacturing plant in Quang Ninh province on March 26.

This is the first automobile manufacturing plant in the northern province.

The project started in early 2023 with an estimated investment capital of over VND8.67 trillion ($336 million).

The plant will mainly produce and assemble commercial vehicles under the Skoda brand - one of the oldest automobile manufacturers from the Czech Republic.

It covers 36.5 ha at Viet Hung Industrial Park with a designed capacity of 120,000 vehicles per year.

The first model, Skoda Kushaq, is set to hit the domestic market in the second quarter of 2025. 

-Nguyễn Hiền

Fully harnessing the potential of technology and innovation is critical in developing smart and sustainable agriculture.

Investing in high-tech agriculture not only enhances the value of Vietnam’s agricultural products but also contributes to environmental protection, meets the stringent requirements of international markets, and builds a sustainable agriculture sector for the future. Compliance with international regulations on sustainable agricultural production is key to enabling Vietnamese agricultural products to access new and expand existing export markets.

Politburo Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW dated December 22, 2024, on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, along with a National Assembly (NA) resolution on piloting specific mechanisms and policies to address challenges in scientific and technological activities, holds significant importance for high-tech industry. These policies have a broad impact on the development of high-tech and smart agriculture in Vietnam, and create favorable conditions for research and the application of modern technologies, attract investment in smart agriculture, improve productivity and product quality, and help Vietnam’s agriculture sector meet international standards for sustainable development.

The application of high technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, automation, and sensors in agricultural production optimizes production processes, reduces cost, conserves resources, and enhances land-use efficiency.

Sustainable smart

A key solution for sustainable and smart agricultural development is to enhance research and technological innovation, particularly in precision farming, smart supply chain management, and production system optimization. Policies should focus on encouraging businesses to invest in agricultural technology, supporting cooperatives in accessing capital, and applying modern technology in production.

The implementation of pilot projects on digital agriculture, such as utilizing sensors and real-time monitoring systems for land, water, and crop management, will improve productivity while minimizing any environmental impact. The government should establish mechanisms to encourage businesses to develop technological solutions for agriculture while facilitating technology transfer to farmers and agricultural cooperatives.

Compliance with international regulations on sustainable agricultural production is crucial for Vietnam’s agricultural products to access and expand export markets. The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which mandates that agricultural products imported into the EU must not be associated with deforestation and strictly adhere to traceability requirements, presents significant challenges. However, it also creates a chance for Vietnam to promote sustainable agricultural models, leveraging technology to monitor and certify product origin.

The country must develop a transparent traceability data system and adopt blockchain technology to manage supply chains, ensuring that products meet international standards. Supporting farmers in transitioning to sustainable production models, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, and adopting environmentally-friendly farming practices will also enhance the global competitiveness of Vietnamese agricultural products.

Research and innovation in smart agriculture have made notable progress around Vietnam but challenges remain. Leading players such as VinEco, TH True Milk, and HAGL Agrico have pioneered the adoption of technology in agricultural production, but most smallholder farmers and small enterprises face difficulties in accessing advanced technology due to constraints in capital, human resources, and technical infrastructure. Thus, the government needs to introduce financial support policies, provide skills training, and expand international cooperation to accelerate digital transformation in agriculture.

Learning from EU programs such as Horizon Europe and the Digital Europe Programme, particularly projects leveraging big data and smart sensors for agricultural monitoring, will enable Vietnam to rapidly develop a smart and sustainable agriculture sector.

Digital agricultural models must be promoted to enhance the efficiency of high-tech agriculture, utilizing data platforms for analyzing farming conditions, weather forecasting, and supply chain optimization. The integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and cloud computing into farm management systems will improve production efficiency, mitigate climate change risks, and optimize resource utilization.

It is also essential to build a smart agricultural ecosystem by connecting researchers, businesses, cooperatives, and farmers, facilitating the sharing of information, expertise, and technological applications in real-world production.

Comprehensive strategy and multilateral coordination

With support from Resolution No. 57 and the NA’s reform policies, Vietnam’s agriculture sector has a significant opportunity to develop in a more sustainable and smart direction.

This requires close coordination between the government, businesses, research institutes, and science and technology organizations to implement comprehensive solutions, from financial support and workforce training to technology transfer and expanding export markets. Investing in high-tech agriculture will enable Vietnam to enhance the value of its agricultural products, contribute to environmental protection, meet the stringent requirements of international markets, and build a sustainable agriculture sector for the future.

Firstly, Vietnam must accelerate research, innovation, and capacity building in smart and sustainable agriculture, leveraging science and technology as the foundation for development. Drawing lessons from programs like Horizon Europe, the country should focus investments in AI, IoT, big data, cloud computing, and automation in agricultural production. These solutions will optimize production processes, reduce resource losses, increase productivity, and ensure sustainable development. Additionally, establishing a real-time agricultural data monitoring system will help farmers and businesses make more precise decisions, thereby improving production efficiency.

Secondly, developing digital infrastructure and a shared data space for the agriculture sector will strengthen connectivity and information sharing between stakeholders. Inspired by European models, Vietnam can establish a national agricultural data platform where real-time information on climate, soil, supply chains, yields, and traceability is stored and analyzed. This will enhance forecasting capabilities, ensure transparency, and elevate the export standards of Vietnamese agricultural products.

Thirdly, the government should support farmers and businesses in accessing digital technology through agricultural innovation centers and technology testing hubs. Following EU models and establishing advanced testing facilities for AI, agricultural robotics, and environmental sensors, will facilitate the evaluation, verification, and effective deployment of technology. At the same time, investing in innovation centers in key agricultural production regions will bridge the gap between businesses, research institutes, and farmers, accelerating the transition from research to practical application.

Fourthly, enhancing digital skills training for the agricultural workforce is crucial to ensuring a successful digital transformation. Comprehensive training programs in agricultural technology, covering data management, automated machinery operation, and AI applications, will help workers improve their skills and adapt to modern production trends. Specialized courses for farmers should also be developed, to guide them in utilizing advanced technologies in cultivation, preservation, and product distribution.

Fifthly, Vietnam must actively implement circular economy models and ecological agriculture to minimize any environmental impact. Applying technology in water resource management, waste treatment, and renewable energy development for agricultural production will optimize resource use, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and meet international sustainability standards, especially the new requirements in the EUDR.

Sixthly, fostering international cooperation in high-tech agriculture will allow Vietnam to leverage resources and expertise from developed countries. It will be able to participate in collaborative projects with Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Israel to access cutting-edge technology, expand markets, and enhance research capabilities. The government should establish mechanisms to support businesses in accessing international funding programs such as Horizon Europe and the Digital Europe Programme to finance innovation projects in smart agriculture.

Overall, developing smart and sustainable agriculture in Vietnam requires a comprehensive strategy with coordinated effort from the government, businesses, research institutes, and the farming community. Only by fully harnessing the potential of technology and innovation can Vietnam’s agriculture sector compete internationally, meet increasingly stringent standards, and move toward a greener, more efficient, and sustainable production system.

(*) Associate Professor Nguyen Dinh Tho and Ms. Dinh Thu Trang are from the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and Environment (ISPONRE)

-Associate Professor Nguyen Dinh Tho Ms. Dinh Thu Trang (*)

Total investment capital estimated at VND8.71 trillion ($387 million).

Ho Chi Minh City plans to build a route linking the Cat Lai – Phu Huu inter-port road to the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway and the city’s Ring Road No.3 to facilitate cargo transportation activities.

The municipal People’s Committee has assigned the city’s Department of Transport to make a feasibility study for the project.

The 6-km road will start from Nguyen Thi Dinh Street and end at the Ring Road No.3. It will have 12 lanes with a roadbed width of 60m.

Total investment capital is estimated at more than VND8.71 trillion ($387 million).

Traffic congestion often happens along roads to Cat Lai and Phu Huu ports, hindering transport activities.  Cat Lai is one of key ports in the southern region, accounting for 85% of total container cargo throughput of ports in the region and 50% of ports across the country.

 

-Thiên Ân

By 2030, Quang Ngai Seaport is projected to handle between 47.2 million and 48.2 million tons of cargo and accommodate 1.13 million to 1.26 million passengers.

The Ministry of Construction has officially approved a detailed development plan for the land and water areas of Quang Ngai Seaport for the period 2021-2030, with a vision toward 2050.

The investment capital required for the seaport system by 2030 is estimated at VND 10.83 trillion ($423.54 million), including VND 2.87 trillion ($112.24 million) for public maritime infrastructure and VND 7.96 trillion ($311.3 million) for port terminal development, specifically for cargo handling services.

Quang Ngai Seaport comprises multiple port clusters, including Dung Quat Terminal, Sa Ky Terminal, My A Terminal, and Ben Dinh Terminal (Ly Son Island), alongside other potential ports aligned with the Dung Quat Economic Zone development strategy.

These facilities are expected to enhance connectivity between the mainland and Ly Son Island, foster regional trade, and drive local socio-economic growth. The plan also outlines anchorage areas, cargo transshipment zones, and storm shelters to ensure the seaport’s long-term operational efficiency.

By 2030, Quang Ngai Seaport is projected to handle between 47.2 million and 48.2 million tons of cargo (excluding shipments from new or expanded steel production projects) and accommodate 1.13 million to 1.26 million passengers.

The port infrastructure will consist of 11 terminals with a total of 41 berths, stretching 8,251.5 meters in length (excluding additional ports under development). The plan includes expanding port capacity to support an annual cargo growth rate of 4.5 per cent to 5.5 per cent until 2050.

The infrastructure plan for 2030 ensures that existing navigational channels remain accessible to vessels of up to 200,000 tons. If additional funding from socialized investment sources is mobilized, maritime waterways may be upgraded to align with planned port expansion projects. 

Additionally, the transportation network will be strategically integrated, connecting roadways, railways, inland waterways, and coastal routes in accordance with the approved national infrastructure framework.

The plan also details several specialized port facilities, including the Dung Quat Shipyard Terminal, featuring a 420m outfitting pier capable of receiving ships of up to 300,000 tons without cargo (or larger if conditions permit), as well as two material import berths totaling 292m in length for vessels up to 10,000 tons.

Other facilities include a yacht marina for tourism, government-operated berths, research, training, and maritime service docks, and auxiliary terminals designed to support cargo collection and distribution via water routes. Additional functional areas such as pilotage zones, quarantine stations in Dung Quat, Sa Ky, and Ly Son island are also included in the development plan.

Regarding land use, the Quang Ngai Seaport development area will require approximately 217 hectares by 2030, excluding industrial zones and logistics hubs linked to the port. Meanwhile, the total water surface area designated for the seaport system will cover approximately 28,650 hectares, which includes all regulated maritime zones within the port’s jurisdiction.

-Viet An

The second project involves the renovation of Passenger Terminal T1, which will enhance the terminal's capacity to accommodate 3–3.5 million passengers per year by 2030.

The People's Committee of Nghe An Province has approved a plan for three projects to expand Vinh Airport.

The plan will address the region's increasing travel demands and enhance air transport infrastructure, aligning with the development objectives of the central province and the broader North Central region.

The first project focuses on the expansion and renovation of the aircraft apron, ensuring the operation of nine parking positions for Code C aircraft. Construction is set to begin before April 30, 2025, with completion anticipated by December 2025. This project has a total investment of over VND236 billion (approximately $9.3 million).

The second involves the renovation of Passenger Terminal T1, which will enhance the terminal's capacity to accommodate 3–3.5 million passengers per year by 2030. Approved by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam - JSC, this project will commence construction before April 30, 2025, and is expected to be completed by December 2025. The total investment for this renovation stands at over VND68 billion (around $2.66 million).

The third project addresses the renovation of the existing runway. For this endeavor, the airport will temporarily cease operations during the project's implementation. The upgraded runway is scheduled to reopen for service by December 31, 2025. This project entails an investment capital exceeding VND623 billion (roughly $24.4 million).

-Nguyễn Thuấn

The city attracting nearly 1.64 million foreign visitors in the three-month period.

The tourism industry of Ho Chi Minh City posted a revenue of over VND56.6 trillion ($2.19 billion) in the first quarter of the year, increasing 26.7% year-on-year, according to the city’s Department of Tourism.

In March alone, tourism revenue is estimated to reach more than VND19.24 trillion ($745 million), up 20.5% year-on-year.

During the three-month period, the city welcomed nearly 1.64 million foreign visitors and over 8.57 million domestic tourists, surging 18.2% and 6.3% year-on-year, respectively.

To attract more visitors, the department will continue introducing the city's destinations and distinctive tourism products, and take measures to improve tourism service quality.

To boost waterway tourism, the department has surveyed routes linking Ho Chi Minh City with provinces in the Mekong Delta and the southeastern region, re-launching 14 routes featuring tourist speedboats and cruise ships from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta provinces, including two connecting to Cambodia. The city plans to develop 22 new routes between Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Cambodia.

-Phạm Vinh

MobiFone becoming the third 5G services provider in Vietnam.

MobiFone, one of leading telecommunications providers in Vietnam, has officially commercialized its 5G services, the company announced on March 26.

The company will initially focus on major urban centers and plans to expand its coverage to all 63 centrally-run cities and provinces nationwide.

MobiFone's 5G network operates on the 3,800 - 3,900 MHz frequency band, which allows for optimal data transmission speeds.

MobiFone becomes the third network operator in the country to commercialize 5G services, following Viettel and Vinaphone.

Under the digital infrastructure strategy to 2025 with a vision to 2030, the coverage of 5G mobile network is expected to reach all cities, provinces, high-tech zones, research and development centers, industrial parks, stations, ports and international airports by 2025 and 99% of the population by 2030.

-Nam Anh

Japanese cities dominate the list of markets with the most expensive construction costs.

Despite rising material, raw material, and labor costs driving construction expenses higher in many markets, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain among the most affordable cities for office construction in the Asia-Pacific region.

The findings came from the "Office Construction Costs 2025" report announced by global real estate services firm Cushman Wakefield.

Analyzing data from 33 key cities across the region, the report highlighted that office construction costs range from $195 per square foot (approximately VND53.7 million or $2,000 per square meter) in Tokyo—the highest in the region—to $58 per square foot (about VND15.9 million or $621.5 per square meter) in Jakarta, which has the lowest costs.

Japanese cities dominate the list of markets with the most expensive construction costs, while cities in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, boast the most competitive rates.

In Hanoi, the average cost to construct a new office is about VND17.2 million or $672 per square meter, while in Ho Chi Minh City, it is slightly lower at VND16.7 million or $652 per square meter.

Meanwhile, the cost to upgrade and renovate an existing office is approximately VND9 million/$352 per square meter in Hanoi and VND8.7 million/$340 per square meter in Ho Chi Minh City.

-

The proposed complex spans approximately 425 ha and encompasses a variety of components, including luxury resort hotels, high-end residential areas, a hospital, an international school, and two international-standard golf courses

Binh Thuan province authorities on March 26 held a meeting with the PDSI Group (headquartered in Dubai, UAE) to discuss plans for a Service Complex project, according to a report from Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

During the meeting, Mr. Peter Dalkeith Scott, Chairman of PDSI Group, elaborated on the company’s vision for the project. After conducting thorough surveys and research, the group submitted a formal request to the Provincial People's Committee in November 2024 to gain approval for their ambitious plan.

The proposed complex spans approximately 425 ha in the Tien Thanh commune, Phan Thiet city, and encompasses a variety of components, including luxury resort hotels, high-end residential areas, a hospital, an international school, and two international-standard golf courses. The total estimated investment for the project is around $2.6 billion.

If the proposed investment is approved, phase 1 of the project will cover approximately 180 ha with an initial investment of VND25 trillion ($979 million).

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Do Huu Huy, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, highlighted the potential feasibility of the project: "The province highly values the feasibility of the proposal. I urge PDSI Group to finalize their survey dossier in accordance with the provincial Department of Finance's guidelines."

"The Department of Finance, along with relevant units and particularly Phan Thiet city, must proactively collaborate on this matter. Thorough reviews of land funds, project scale, objectives, and overlapping plans are essential to ensure seamless implementation," he noted.

-Phạm Long

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-Vietnam Economic Times - VnEconomy

The Prime Minister's decision allows SpaceX to conduct a limited rollout of satellite-based telecommunications services in Vietnam.

Deputy Prime Minister  Nguyen Chi Dung signed Prime Ministerial Decision No. 659/QD-TTg on March 23, approving a controlled pilot program for deploying telecommunications services using low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology.

Notably, the program imposes no restrictions on foreign ownership, equity participation, or capital contributions, marking a significant shift in Vietnam’s approach to attracting international investment in the telecommunications sector.

Under the decision, SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, has been granted approval to conduct a pilot rollout of its Starlink satellite telecommunications services in Vietnam.

The initiative will allow SpaceX to operate without limitations on foreign ownership or investment contributions, ensuring greater flexibility in its business strategy within the country. The pilot phase is set to run for five years from the date the company officially establishes its presence in Vietnam, but it must conclude no later than January 1, 2031.

The deployment of these satellite telecommunications services will be implemented nationwide, offering both fixed and mobile satellite services. Fixed satellite services will include Internet access and private leased lines for mobile base stations, while mobile satellite services will enable Internet connectivity at sea and on aircraft, addressing the growing demand for seamless global communication.

Beyond frequency regulations, the decision outlines a set of strict requirements and conditions that must be met during the pilot phase. The total number of subscribers will be capped at 600,000, ensuring that the initial rollout remains within controlled parameters.

Moreover, all national security and defense requirements must be strictly observed. One of the key conditions mandates that SpaceX establish a ground gateway station within Vietnam, ensuring that all satellite-generated traffic from users within the country is routed through this gateway and integrated into Vietnam’s domestic public telecommunications network. 

Additionally, all user data originating in Vietnam must be stored locally, aligning with the country’s stringent data sovereignty regulations. To further safeguard the digital infrastructure, the provider must also implement robust cybersecurity measures to prevent the spread of malware, cyberattacks, and harmful content.

The Ministry of Science and Technology will take the lead in overseeing the program’s implementation, working in close coordination with the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security. These agencies will be responsible for monitoring compliance with Vietnamese laws and regulatory requirements, as well as conducting inspections of SpaceX’s telecommunications operations to ensure adherence to national security and industry standards.

SpaceX’s Starlink satellite Internet had previously been tested in Vietnam during an innovation event held in October 2023 in Hanoi's Hoa Lac area, where trial speeds reached approximately 200 Mbps.

-Viet An

The project covering 333ha in northern Thai Binh province.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park in the northern province of Thai Binh (VSIP Thai Binh) on March 26, the Government News has reported.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong attended the ceremony, held at the Government Office in Hanoi, as part of the Singaporean leader’s ongoing official visit to Vietnam.

The project will cover 333ha in Thai Thuy district.

It is being developed by the Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park and Township Development Joint Stock Company, with total investment exceeding VND4.9 trillion ($221 million).

The project, focusing on infrastructure development and business operations, plays a crucial role in attracting investment and driving economic growth in the province.

With over 4,000 investment projects in Vietnam and a total capital of more than $80 billion, Singapore is the second-largest foreign investor in Vietnam.

 

 

 

-Vân Nguyễn

The Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association and the Singapore International Foundation signed a new Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation.

The Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association (VSFA) and the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 26.

The MoU is one of several bilateral agreements signed to enhance multifaceted collaboration between Vietnam and Singapore within the framework of Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s ongoing official visit to Vietnam.

The MOU aims to promote the exchange of information and insights to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation between the two countries. It seeks to facilitate partnerships in areas such as climate adaptation, youth engagement, and development needs, while supporting the identification and engagement of relevant stakeholders to participate in each other’s programs, projects, and initiatives.

Through this collaboration, both parties will strengthen knowledge exchange and dialogue between Singaporean and Vietnamese communities, identify and engage strategic partners, and co-curate impactful initiatives that drive positive social change. VSFA and SIF will also continue to facilitate knowledge-sharing, engage stakeholders, and support initiatives that contribute to sustainable development.

The signing of the MOU underscores the two sides' continued commitment to strengthen people-to-people ties between Vietnam and Singapore through collaborative programs and initiatives that foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

This year marks SIF’s 31 years of collaboration with the Vietnamese community. Since 1994, Singaporean and Vietnamese people from different cultures and background have shared knowledge, skills, and resources with each other through various projects. The SIF’s work in Vietnam over the years – comprising projects in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City – centred on healthcare, education, arts and culture, and social entrepreneurship.

Building on the initial agreement between VSFA and SIF, initially signed in 2017 and renewed in 2019.

Mr. Lian Wee Cheow, Vice Chairman, SIF, said: “We are honoured to reaffirm our partnership with the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association. This MOU reflects our shared commitment to foster meaningful connections and collaborations between our peoples. Our longstanding partnership has created valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and lasting friendships. We look forward to deepening this collaboration in the years ahead. Together, we can deepen mutual understanding, strengthen community ties, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future.”

Mr. Nguyen Duc Hung, Vice Chairman and General Secretary, VSFA, said: “We are pleased to renew our partnership with the Singapore International Foundation. Our collaboration has facilitated meaningful exchanges and strengthened the ties between our communities. Moving forward, we look forward to expanding our cooperation and working together on initiatives that enhance mutual understanding and drive sustainable development for the benefit of our peoples.”

-Ngoc Lan

The Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association and the Singapore International Foundation signed a new Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation.

The Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association (VSFA) and the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 26.

The MoU is one of several bilateral agreements signed to enhance multifaceted collaboration with Vietnam within the framework of Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s ongoing official visit to Vietnam.

The MOU aims to promote the exchange of information and insights to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation between the two countries. It seeks to facilitate partnerships in areas such as climate adaptation, youth engagement, and development needs, while supporting the identification and engagement of relevant stakeholders to participate in each other’s programs, projects, and initiatives.

Through this collaboration, both parties will strengthen knowledge exchange and dialogue between Singaporean and Vietnamese communities, identify and engage strategic partners, and co-curate impactful initiatives that drive positive social change. VSFA and SIF will also continue to facilitate knowledge-sharing, engage stakeholders, and support initiatives that contribute to sustainable development.

The signing of the MOU underscores the two sides' continued commitment to strengthen people-to-people ties between Vietnam and Singapore through collaborative programs and initiatives that foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

This year marks SIF’s 31 years of collaboration with the Vietnamese community. Since 1994, Singaporean and Vietnamese people from different cultures and background have shared knowledge, skills, and resources with each other through various projects. The SIF’s work in Vietnam over the years – comprising projects in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City – centred on healthcare, education, arts and culture, and social entrepreneurship.

Building on the initial agreement between VSFA and SIF, initially signed in 2017 and renewed in 2019.

Mr. Lian Wee Cheow, Vice Chairman, SIF, said: “We are honoured to reaffirm our partnership with the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association. This MOU reflects our shared commitment to foster meaningful connections and collaborations between our peoples. Our longstanding partnership has created valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and lasting friendships. We look forward to deepening this collaboration in the years ahead. Together, we can deepen mutual understanding, strengthen community ties, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future.”

Mr. Nguyen Duc Hung, Vice Chairman and General Secretary, VSFA, said: “We are pleased to renew our partnership with the Singapore International Foundation. Our collaboration has facilitated meaningful exchanges and strengthened the ties between our communities. Moving forward, we look forward to expanding our cooperation and working together on initiatives that enhance mutual understanding and drive sustainable development for the benefit of our peoples.”

-Ngoc Lan

Vietnam needs to prioritize training AI engineers and allocate resources for developing AI scientists.

Vietnam should focus on developing specialized AI solutions for specific fields as a more practical and effective approach, stated Mr. Nguyen Duc Lam, Policy Advisor at the Institute for Policy Studies and Media Development (IPS).

According to experts, the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in Vietnam could follow three major pathways:

First, startups capable of securing substantial funding, similar to OpenAI in the US, or large corporations, may focus on building extensive AI models.

Second, AI-specialized businesses will concentrate on optimizing AI models to deliver specific technology solutions tailored to customer needs.

Third, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in established industries will prioritize applying AI models and solutions in business governance, commerce, and service sectors.

However, Mr. Lam pointed out that the first pathway poses significant challenges. He highlighted the high costs associated with developing large-scale AI models, which pose a challenge for a developing country like Vietnam.

Limited financial and human resources, alongside constraints in infrastructure, data accessibility, and processing capabilities, further exacerbate these difficulties.

In terms of human resources, Mr. Lam stressed the need for Vietnam to prioritize training AI engineers and allocate resources for developing AI scientists. Currently, Vietnam not only faces a shortage of AI scientists but also lacks experienced and skilled AI engineers.

Moreover, industries outside of the information technology sector are struggling with a lack of personnel equipped to integrate AI into business administration, commerce, and service delivery. Most company employees have yet to receive adequate training in AI.

A recent survey revealed that approximately 2,000 AI experts are working in Vietnam, primarily based in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, where AI-related businesses are concentrated. However, the demand for AI personnel is expected to rise dramatically, with an estimated 100,000 AI professionals needed within the next five years to meet market requirements.

-Bảo Bình

Vietnam holds a commanding 73.5% share of the market.

The Philippines' rice imports are projected to decline this year, yet Vietnam continues to dominate as the country’s primary supplier during the early months of 2025.

This information was shared by the Federation of Free Farmers of the Philippines (FFF) on March 25, according to a report from Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

According to FFF National Manager Raul Montemayor, the Philippines imported 504,727 tons of rice from January 1 to February 27—a significant 34.5% drop compared to the same period last year. These figures are based on data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). The current volume of rice imports accounts for approximately 12% of the FFF’s projected total imports for 2025.

Vietnam continues to lead as the Philippines' top rice supplier, holding a commanding 73.5% share of the market. Pakistan has emerged as the second-largest supplier with 12%, overtaking Thailand, which now holds a 10% share. Other notable rice exporters to the Philippines during this period include Myanmar, India, and South Korea.

The year 2024 marked a milestone in trade between Vietnam and the Philippines, with bilateral import and export turnover exceeding the $8 billion mark for the first time. A major contributor to this achievement was Vietnam's rice exports, which reached an impressive turnover of over $2.6 billion.

-Phạm Long

The facility able to handle ships of up to 45,000 DWT and container ship of 4,000 TEUs.

The Wharf No.3 of Vung Ang port in central Ha Tinh province has been put into operation recently with the capacity of handling ships of up to 45,000 DWT and container ship of 4,000 TEUs, according to the Ministry of Construction’s Department of Maritime and Inland Waterway Administration.

The wharf, invested by the Lao-Viet International Port JSC, has a total length of 225m. It serves the import and export activities, and boost trade exchanges between Vietnam and Laos, as well as the northeastern region of Thailand.

Its construction started in 2015 with an estimated investment capital of nearly VND1 trillion ($38 million).

The project is expected to help increase total cargo volume handled by Vung Ang port to 5-7 million tons per year.

 

-Nguyễn Thuấn

These efforts seek to ensure successful implementation of Vietnam's Law on Protection of Consumer Rights.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade’s National Competition Commission, and the British Embassy in Vietnam signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 25 focused on enhancing consumer protection collaboration.

Accordingly, the United Kingdom will partner with Vietnam to conduct research aimed at identifying the most effective communication methods for disseminating information related to product recalls, defective goods, and product safety.

The research will also outline strategies for consumer protection enforcement agencies to engage effectively with manufacturers, businesses, consumers, and other relevant organizations. These efforts seek to ensure  successful implementation of Vietnam's Law on Protection of Consumer Rights.

The UK's Office for Product Safety and Standards will provide training and capacity-building initiatives, sharing best practices and valuable lessons through courses, survey programs, and practical experience exchanges. These activities aim to support Vietnam in developing robust consumer protection measures and ensuring transparency in both traditional markets and e-commerce platforms.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang highlighted the significance of the MoU, describing it as a milestone in the bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and the UK.

She also underscored Vietnam's continuous efforts to enhance its legal framework, improve enforcement capabilities, and expand international collaboration to foster a safe, transparent, and sustainable consumer environment.

This partnership is part of the UK-ASEAN Economic Integration Program (EIP), which aims to promote economic reform and sustainable development across the region. The MOU will remain in effect until March 2028.

-Vũ Khuê

The project is designed to treat domestic waste in Con Dao District while recycling select materials to enhance environmental protection..

Southern Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province is inviting investors to participate in the Con Dao Waste Treatment Plant project, aimed at addressing domestic waste management, protecting the environment, and fostering sustainable development in the island district.

The Con Dao Waste Treatment Plant project has received in-principle approval from the Provincial People’s Committee under Decision No. 3319/QD-UBND dated December 26, 2022, with amendments introduced under Decision No. 373/QD-UBND dated February 17, 2025.

The project is designed to treat domestic waste in Con Dao District while recycling select materials to enhance environmental protection.

It seeks to create a clean environment conducive to waste management and attract investment from domestic and international organizations and businesses.

Located in the Ben Dam area, the project site spans approximately 1.92 ha. Waste treatment capacity is planned to expand in phases: around 36 tons per day  by 2030,  and 50 tons per day by 2040, and then 66.23 tons per day by 2045.

The total investment capital for the project exceeds VND78 billion ($3 million).

-Thanh Thủy

The second key driving force identified by 62.2% of surveyed businesses is the improved legal framework.

Recent survey findings by Vietnam Report indicate that 73.3% of real estate businesses believe the primary factor shaping the development of the real estate industry in 2025 will be the recovery speed of the economy.

Following the challenging period of 2022-2023, characterized by high inflation, elevated interest rates, and tightened credit, Vietnam's economy began recovering in 2024 with a growth rate of 7.09%. Looking ahead, the Government aims to achieve 8% growth in 2025 and is targeting double-digit growth in the subsequent years.

The second key driving force identified by 62.2% of surveyed businesses is the improved legal framework. Efforts to address legal obstacles have led to amendments to three critical laws—the Law on Housing, the Law on Real Estate Business, and the Land Law.

These reforms, which were implemented ahead of schedule in August 2024, mark a significant turning point for the real estate market and are expected to create a more favorable environment for investment and development.

Another major factor driving the real estate industry is increased public investment and infrastructure development in 2025.

Aligned with the Government's economic growth targets, a record public investment budget of VND878.3 trillion (nearly $34.3 billion) has been allocated for key infrastructure projects. These include the North-South Expressway, Long Thanh Airport, ring road systems, and metro lines in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Additionally, plans for transformative projects such as nuclear power plants and the North-South high-speed railway are in the pipeline, signaling robust potential for the real estate sector.

-Phan Nam