Positive capital mobilisation growth, improved asset quality, safety ratios maintained at optimal levels

As of June 30, 2026, VIB's total assets reached over $22.31 billion, up 4 per cent from the start of the year. Deposit mobilisation reached over $12.19 billion, up 8 per cent, providing a solid foundation for the bank to expand its business and meet customers' credit demands. Notably, low-cost funding sources – including current account savings account deposits and foreign currency deposits – accounted for 19 per cent of total customer deposits, helping to support net interest margin amid ongoing market volatility.

By the end of June 2026, the bank's outstanding credit balance reached over $15.27 billion, up 4 per cent from the beginning of the year. The credit portfolio continued to develop under a diversification strategy, with the retail and small-and-medium enterprise segments remaining the core drivers, accounting for 67 per cent of total outstanding loans. At the same time, corporate customer loans grew 22 per cent and loans to financial institutions grew 11 per cent, reflecting a selective expansion strategy into potential segments while maintaining balance in the credit structure.

One of the notable highlights of the first half was continued improvement in asset quality. The non-performing loan ratio fell to 2.10 per cent, down 6 basis points from the start of the year, demonstrating the effectiveness of risk management, credit control, and debt recovery efforts. Maintaining asset quality amid continued credit expansion is an important foundation for the bank's sustainable development over the medium and long term.

Safety ratios remained at optimal levels: the Capital Adequacy Ratio under Basel II reached nearly 12 per cent (regulatory requirement: above 8 per cent); the Loan-to-Deposit Ratio stood at 79 per cent (regulatory requirement: below 85 per cent); the ratio of short-term funding used for medium- and long-term loans was 28 per cent (regulatory requirement: below 30 per cent); and the Net Stable Funding Ratio under Basel III reached 103 per cent (Basel III standard: above 100 per cent). All four ratios remained within regulatory safety thresholds.

Approved to increase charter capital to over $1.43 billion

On June 24, 2026, VIB received approval from the State Bank of Vietnam for a plan to increase charter capital to over $1.43 billion, strengthening the bank's financial capacity and headroom for business expansion in the coming period. This marks another in a series of consecutive charter capital increases for VIB in recent years, with a compound annual growth rate of over 22 per cent during 2019–2026, significantly expanding the bank's charter capital scale compared to previous years.

This strengthened capital base gives VIB more room to boost credit issuance, invest in technology infrastructure, and expand its business network, while maintaining optimal operational safety ratios as required, even as the bank continues to expand its total assets and credit scale.

Positive business performance

In the first six months of 2026, VIB's total operating income (TOI) reached $430 million, up 16 per cent on-year, while pre-tax profit reached over $199.23 million, up 3 per cent on-year.

At the same time, VIB strengthened its provisioning buffer, moving towards safe growth and prudent risk management. Despite continued competitive interest rate conditions, the bank maintained a net interest margin of 3.1 per cent, reflecting effective management of funding costs and optimisation of the earning asset structure.

The revenue structure continued to diversify, with non-interest income accounting for 22 per cent of total operating income, driven by positive contributions from bancassurance, credit cards, and recovery of previously written-off debts. Effective cost control brought the cost-to-income ratio down to 34 per cent. Credit cost was maintained at 1.2 per cent, while return on equity reached 16 per cent.

VIB's financial capacity, governance quality, and transparency continued to be recognised by reputable domestic and international organisations. During the period, Moody's upgraded VIB's credit rating outlook to Stable; IFC honoured VIB as the "Outstanding Issuing Bank in the East Asia and Pacific Region," and the bank also achieved the 2026 Information Disclosure Standard under the IR Awards Programme. These accolades help reinforce VIB's market reputation while strengthening the trust of customers, partners, and investors.

Expanding financial solutions towards personalisation

In the credit card segment, VIB continued to maintain a prominent position with nearly 1.2 million cards in force, while total card spending in the first half of 2026 reached over $2.6 billion. Notably, the Max Card recorded nearly 80,000 cards issued in just under four months since launch, an early indication of positive market reception for the membership-package credit card model. The product allows customers to actively select the benefit tier that suits their spending needs, thereby personalising the experience and optimising the value of benefits on a single card.

Building on the membership-package model introduced through Max Card, VIB extended this approach from card spending to customers' entire personal financial journey with VIB Up. The solution is designed with three benefit tiers – Plus, Pro, and Elite – connecting needs around cash flow management, savings accumulation, borrowing, spending, and priority banking services. Through this, VIB is gradually shifting from providing individual products to building needs-based financial solutions, helping to increase multi-product usage and deepen customer engagement.

The first-half 2026 business results show that VIB continues to pursue a development strategy that pairs growth with quality, prioritising risk management, strengthening financial capacity, and continuously innovating the customer experience. With a solid capital foundation, improved asset quality, and an increasingly comprehensive product ecosystem, VIB is well-positioned to enter the second half of the year with new growth momentum, aiming for sustainable growth and continued value creation for customers, shareholders, and the economy.

VIB Up offers an interest rate of up to 2 per cent per annum for monthly deposits VIB is offering VIB Up as a package solution to upgrade membership benefits with preferential interest rates for monthly i-1Depo deposits and a wide range of membership privileges.

VIB launches subscription-based Max Card On March 30, Vietnam International Bank (VIB) launched Max Card on the Max app.

VIB approves dividend of nearly 19 per cent On April 8, VIB held its AGM in Ho Chi Minh City, approving a dividend of nearly 19 per cent, including cash dividends and bonus shares, along with a pre-tax profit target of VND11.55 trillion ($444.23 million) for 2026.

VILOG 2025. Photo: VINEXAD

The exhibition also brings together many of the industry’s leading logistics and supply chain companies, such as Gemadept, ITL Corporation, Giao Hang Nang, Transimex, Long An International Port, Vinafco, U&I Logistics, Bee Logistics, Konoike Vinatrans Logistics, among others.

A defining feature of the show this year is the industry’s rapid shift from traditional logistics services to smart logistics ecosystems. VILOG 2026 will showcase leading providers of warehouse robotics, electric forklifts, AGV/AMR solutions, AI-powered technologies, smart warehousing systems, material handling equipment, and next-generation commercial vehicles. Notable exhibitors include HYUNDAI Thanh Cong Commercial Vehicles, ISUZU, HINO, FOTON, LIBIAO Robotics.

Beyond being an exhibition showcase, VILOG 2026 also serves as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and innovation in the logistics industry through a series of international forums, specialised seminars, and industry dialogues.

Key highlights include a logistics forum ASEAN-Vietnam, jointly organised by the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations, the ASEAN Federation of Forwarders Associations, and the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA).

The exhibition will also feature a series of air cargo hosted by the International Air Transport Association, providing updates on the latest trends, industry standards, and innovative solutions in air cargo transportation.

Another featured event is a forum on strengthening linkages between fruit and vegetable export enterprises and logistics service providers to reduce operational costs, jointly organised by the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association and VLA. The session aims to strengthen collaboration between logistics service providers and agricultural exporters, fostering more efficient and competitive supply chains.

In addition, a dialogue on 'smart and green logistics – lessons from practical case studies' will bring together industry experts to share practical models, innovative solutions, and valuable experience in accelerating digital transformation, advancing green logistics, and enhancing business competitiveness.

Complementing the high-level policy forums and international conferences, a series of specialised seminars jointly organised by ITL Logistics, Sotrans Logistics (members of ITL Corporation), and LogTecHub will offer practical insights into the trends shaping the future of the logistics industry.

Moreover, VILOG Talk serves as a dedicated platform connecting solution providers, industry experts, and the business community. The discussion sessions will focus on commercial transportation solutions, maritime technologies, warehouse automation, and technological innovation, offering practical insights to help businesses strengthen their competitiveness.

During the exhibition, the VILOG insight tour will provide participants with exclusive site visits to AJ Total Vietnam Cold Storage and Tan Cang Hiep Phuoc Terminal. The programme is expected to offer businesses first-hand exposure to modern logistics operations, including advanced cold chain warehousing technologies and smart port operations, enabling them to identify practical solutions for optimising their production, logistics, and supply chain activities.

VILOG 2026 will be held concurrently with the Vietnam International Cold Chain Exhibition and the Vietnam International Robotics and Smart Factory Exhibition, creating a comprehensive exhibition ecosystem that connects technologies, infrastructure, equipment, and intelligent supply chain operations.

Expected to attract more than 25,000 trade visitors, VILOG 2026 continues to reinforce its position as Vietnam’s premier integrated logistics platform, bringing together the domestic and international logistics community, fostering business-to-business connections, linking technology with market opportunities, and creating new partnerships that contribute to the development of a modern, smart, and sustainable logistics industry in Vietnam.

Logistics giants to join VILOG 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City Domestic and international logistics giants will bring their extensive expertise and international reputation to the Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2024 (VILOG 2024) from August 1-3 in Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition to open in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2025 (VILOG 2025) will take place from July 31 to August 2 in Ho Chi Minh City, highlighting the transformative power of digital solutions and strategic partnerships in fostering a greener, more efficient logistics sector.

VinFast partners with Bespoke Logistics in Philippines VinFast signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Bespoke Logistics, a Philippine automotive logistics provider, to establish an integrated mobility processing centre and authorised distribution network for electric motorcycles.

Logistics firms see diverging Q2 earnings Local logistics companies posted mixed second-quarter earnings, with recovering global trade, expanding port infrastructure and resilient shipping demand expected to underpin stronger growth in the coming quarters.

Yusen Logistics opens Hung Yen Logistics Centre On July 21, Yusen Logistics (Vietnam) Co., Ltd. officially opened its newest flagship facility, the Yusen Hung Yen Logistics Centre.

The Politburo's Resolution No.57-NQ/TW identifies sci-tech and digital transformation as key drivers of rapid and sustainable economic growth. Prime Minister's Decision No.21/2026/QD-TTg also classifies cybersecurity and quantum technologies as strategic technologies, with quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing designated as priority technologies for development.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam has reiterated the need for Vietnam to pursue quantum technology with a long-term strategic vision, describing it as a critical foundation for advancing science, technology, innovation, national competitiveness, and technological self-reliance.

Against this backdrop, the finals of the 2026 Quantum Computing for Social Good International Hackathon opened on July 24, bringing together researchers, developers, and students to explore real-world applications of quantum technology. Organised by the National Innovation Centre (NIC), Gia Lai People's Committee, and the Vietnam Quantum Innovation and Technology Experts Network (VNQuantum), the event is supported by a wide range of domestic and international partners.

The event aims to connect scientists, technology companies, startups, experts, and young innovators from Vietnam and abroad to develop quantum computing solutions to address socioeconomic challenges. Beyond a technology competition, the programme follows a 'training–mentorship–investment matching–incubation' model designed to help promising ideas evolve into commercially viable projects.

After nearly six months of global recruitment, the competition attracted more than 500 applications from 30 countries and territories, making it the largest quantum hackathon of its kind in the region to date. Organisers selected 27 finalist teams, comprising nearly 100 contestants, to compete in Gia Lai under the guidance of around 50 domestic and international experts and mentors.

Speaking at the ceremony, former Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung said the participation of scientists, experts, and young talent from around the world reflected Vietnam's ambition to play an active role in frontier technologies. He recognised the NIC's role in bringing together the quantum innovation ecosystem, praised Gia Lai's commitment to hosting the Gia Lai Quantum Year 2026, and acknowledged the contributions of VNQuantum and ICISE in developing Vietnam's quantum research community.

"Quantum technology is creating opportunities across multiple industries. Competition in this field extends beyond technology itself to talent, research capability, and innovation ecosystems. Vietnam must engage early, gradually master these technologies, and build competitive advantages through Vietnamese innovation and expertise," he said.

The competition focuses on applying quantum computing to challenges in AI, cybersecurity, logistics, finance, energy, agriculture, healthcare, and sustainable development. These problem statements are based on real-world industry and societal needs, encouraging teams to develop practical solutions that contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Vo Xuan Hoai, deputy director of the NIC, said quantum technology is becoming a core enabling technology for many strategic industries. He noted, "Vietnam must simultaneously strengthen fundamental research, talent development, application-driven research, and collaboration among government agencies, businesses, universities, research institutes, and international partners to participate more effectively in global value chains."

"The hackathon serves as a platform connecting education, research, incubation, and investment while supporting the growth of Vietnam's quantum technology ecosystem," he added.

As Vietnam's national innovation hub, the NIC has established and supported 15 domestic and overseas expert networks with more than 2,000 members, while expanding partnerships with leading global technology companies, universities, and research institutions. It also runs programmes on talent development, startup incubation, investment promotion, and technology transfer.

In the quantum sector, the NIC has supported the establishment of VNQuantum, creating a platform that connects researchers, businesses, and international partners to accelerate the development of Vietnam's quantum ecosystem.

Lam Hai Giang, Vice Chairman of the Gia Lai People's Committee, said hosting the Gia Lai Quantum Year 2026 and the hackathon finals reflects the province's commitment to working with the government and the NIC to advance strategic technologies.

"Gia Lai aims to become a destination for science, technology, and innovation activities while attracting researchers, technology companies, and highly skilled talent to support the development of a knowledge-based economy," he said.

From July 24 to 28, finalist teams will participate in intensive training, technical mentoring, solution development, and product demonstrations before an expert judging panel during Demo Day. Alongside the competition, the VNQuantum Dealroom will connect teams, research groups, and startups with corporations, investors, and technology partners to foster research collaboration, investment opportunities, and commercialisation.

Following the finals, the NIC and VNQuantum will continue supporting promising projects through the end of 2026, helping teams refine their technologies, strengthen business models, and connect with enterprises, investors, and domestic and international partners to accelerate real-world deployment.

Vietnam AI Innovation Challenge 2026 finals open The final round of the Vietnam AI Innovation Challenge 2026 will take place from July 17-19 at the FPT Tower in Hanoi.

VAIC 2026 honours new generation of 'AI builders' The 2026 Vietnam AI Innovation Challenge has concluded, recognising a new generation of AI builders whose solutions address real-world challenges.

The agreement was signed on July 24, with BIDV and VietinBank providing a credit package worth VND7.3 trillion ($281 million) to Petrovietnam for the investment and construction of the plant. The deal marks a significant milestone in arranging financial resources for downstream projects under the Block B - O Mon gas-to-power chain.

The O Mon IV Thermal Power Plant is a component venture of the Block B - O Mon gas-to-power project chain invested by Petrovietnam. Located in the O Mon Thermal Power Centre in Can Tho city, the plant has a capacity of 1,050 MW and utilises modern combined-cycle gas turbine technology.

Works on the O Mon IV Thermal Power Plant started in August 2025. The engineering, procurement, and construction contract has been signed. Many items are being implemented, with completion scheduled for 2028.

Once operational, the O Mon IV Thermal Power Plant is expected to utilise natural gas efficiently from the Block B field, converting domestic energy resources into electricity. The project will supply a large-scale source of electricity to the Mekong Delta, contributing to ensuring national energy security, promoting green growth, and creating more jobs and revenue for the national budget.

Le Ngoc Son, chairman of the Board of Directors of Petrovietnam, explained that, "Offshore natural gas can only realise its full value when downstream power plants are ready to receive it. The partnership of Vietnam’s two largest state-owned commercial banks in providing a $281 million credit package is the key to unlocking capital flows, ensuring that the entire value chain – from extraction and transportation to power generation – is implemented in a coordinated manner and according to the established timeline."

Le Ngoc Lam, chairman of the Board of Directors of BIDV said that the successful arrangement of a large local-currency capital source for a large-scale energy project is vivid proof of the strong financial capacity, profound understanding, and spirit of readiness to shoulder national responsibilities demonstrated by BIDV and VietinBank.

"The event is not merely a business lending decision but also demonstrates the pioneering role of leading financial institutions in promoting the mobilisation of the economy’s internal strengths, as well as prioritising projects that are significant in the process of developing green energy in accordance with BIDV’s environmental, social, and governance standards," Lam noted.

Petrovietnam starts O Mon IV plant to power energy future Petrovietnam has started work on a flagship power project in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho, pushing forward Vietnam’s gas-to-power development.

JICA and BIDV launch $50m sustainable financing for rural MSMEs Japan International Cooperation Agency and BIDV have announced a sustainable financing facility to support rural micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam.

Petrovietnam signs deal with Doosan-PECC2 consortium Petrovietnam signed an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract on June 6 with a consortium to advance the O Mon IV thermal power plant.

In a market segment report released on July 26, the global credit rating agency said Vietnam's positive macroeconomic performance has been underpinned by buoyant electronics exports and increasing foreign direct investment, driven by the global investment boom in AI-related technology and infrastructure. Strong macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to drive commercial insurance demand and support operating earnings, despite increasing competition.

“Vietnam’s non-life market has been attractive to foreign insurance groups and domestic financial conglomerates seeking growth and diversification. As market competition intensifies, insurers’ underwriting discipline faces challenges from these new entrants and incumbents seeking growth,” said Ken Lau, senior financial analyst of AM Best.

According to the report, operating earnings in 2025 exhibited a strong recovery from the prior year, due in large part to favourable underwriting earnings as the market recovers from the impact of Typhoon Yagi in 2024. Vietnam’s non-life insurance market also showed strong top-line growth in 2025, and the positive trend extended into the first half of 2026.

AM Best expects the market’s overall operating performance to remain resilient, underpinned by stable investment returns and positive underwriting results, along with easing reinsurance market conditions.

“Non-life insurers in Vietnam continue to benefit from ample reinsurance capacity and more favourable renewal terms in 2026 and are increasingly well-positioned to optimise their reinsurance programmes to protect against the potential impact of severe catastrophic events,” said Chris Lim, director of AM Best.

Hanoi Re named “Best (Re)Insurer” as record profits and ratings upgrade mark 15th anniversary Vietnam’s Hanoi Re was named “Best (Re)Insurer” at the Country Awards for Excellence – Vietnam 2026, presented by InsuranceAsia News on July 20 – a date that coincided with the reinsurer’s 15th anniversary.

NNX opens first insurance centre in Hanoi Following the launch of its new brand, NNX Insurance opened its first insurance centre in Hanoi on July 8.

Non-life insurers rebound on strong first-half results The insurance industry is showing signs of a broad recovery, with stronger first-half earnings at major non-life insurers and market indicators pointing to improving business momentum.

Brokerage firms are typically among the first groups of companies to report quarterly earnings. The industry's profit picture has gradually become clearer as most of the market's leading firms have published their financial statements.

This year's Q2 highlighted an increasingly pronounced divergence, with the largest securities firms continued to reinforce their market positions as both revenue and profit maintained strong growth.

Among the industry's top market-share leaders, the trio of Techcom Securities JSC (TCBS), VPS Securities JSC, and SSI Securities Corporation all posted double-digit earnings growth, with each reporting more than $40 million in quarterly profit.

TCBS reported Q2 pre-tax profit of $83.88 million, the highest quarterly figure in its operating history, up 21 per cent from a year earlier.

In the first six months of 2026, its cumulative pre-tax profit reached $142.20 million, fulfilling 47 per cent of its full-year profit target and remaining in line with its 2026 business plan.

The company said margin lending and cash advance services continued to serve as its primary growth engine, generating net income of $55.20 million, up 66 per cent on-year and accounting for 42 per cent of total net income.

At SSI, higher interest income from lending and receivables also drove earnings growth. This business segment generated more than $43.6 million in Q2 alone, an increase of more than 31 per cent.

The company’s net profit after tax attributable to SSI's parent company reached $60.4 million, up more than 32 per cent.

VPS followed closely behind SSI, reporting second-quarter pre-tax profit of $55.1 million, representing 57 per cent on-year growth.

Beyond these familiar industry giants, the market was surprised when VPBank Securities JSC (VPBankS), a brokerage with a smaller market share, rapidly climbed to the top and overtook TCBS as the industry's most profitable firm.

The brokerage, part of the VPBank banking ecosystem, recorded an exceptional profit surge, with Q2 earnings reaching $86.3 million, up 293 per cent from the same period last year.

According to the company, total revenue nearly quadrupled on-year, driven by strong performance across its core business segments.

Margin lending generated $76.1 million, nearly three times higher than a year earlier.

Meanwhile, proprietary trading capitalised on favourable market conditions to deliver $138.4 million, almost doubling its Q2/2025 result. Other businesses, including brokerage and investment banking, also recorded solid growth.

VPBankS was not the only standout performer. The second quarter also saw a number of brokerage firms backed by banking ecosystems significantly outperform the market, posting robust earnings growth and reshaping the industry's overall profit landscape.

One notable example was HD Securities Corporation (HDS), whose pre-tax profit surged to $44.7 million, marking the first time in its history that quarterly earnings exceeded the VND1 trillion mark to touch $40 million.

In addition to gains from proprietary trading and lending growth, HDS recognised more than $24 million in revenue from securities underwriting and issuance agency services during Q2. This helped lift the company’s total revenue by 171 per cent on-year to $57.08 million.

With these new entrants, Vietnam's securities industry now has six firms reporting quarterly pre-tax profit exceeding $40 million mark: VPBankS, TCBS, SSI, VPS, HDS, and VNDirect. VNDirect also delivered impressive second-quarter results, with pre-tax profit rising more than 126 per cent to surpass $44.20 million.

On the other hand, several major brokerage firms suffered sharp earnings declines. Not only did these companies report negative profit growth, but the magnitude of the declines also drew attention, particularly at VIX Securities JSC and Saigon-Hanoi Securities JSC (SHS).

VIX Securities posted one of the industry's steepest declines, with second-quarter 2026 pre-tax profit falling more than 95 per cent on-year to just $3.01 million.

One of the main reasons behind the decline was weaker performance in financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL).

Income from FVTPL assets decreased by $30.76 million, while losses on FVTPL assets increased by $34.63 million. The company's proprietary trading portfolio is currently incurring losses.

Also weighed down by proprietary trading losses and a sharp rise in financial expenses, Q2 pre-tax profit at SHS plunged 75 per cent to only $3.59 million. During the first six months of the year, SHS completed just 21 per cent of its annual profit target.

Many smaller-cap brokerage firms also reported weaker business performance, with profits declining across the board, including Thien Viet Securities (down 76 per cent), DSC Securities (down more than 63 per cent), and Wall Street Securities (down 92 per cent).

Looking at the broader picture, margin lending continues to be the industry's ‘golden goose’.

Outstanding margin loan balances at many brokerage firms have continued to hit record highs as demand for leverage increased alongside the market's upward momentum. Both industry leaders and many mid-sized brokerages reported substantial growth in outstanding margin loans compared with the beginning of the year.

Although Vietnam's stock market remains in a phase of consolidation and sideways trading, analysts continue to express confidence in its medium- and long-term growth prospects.

Supported by favourable macroeconomic fundamentals, the market is also approaching its anticipated upgrade to emerging market status, a move expected to attract additional foreign capital into Vietnamese equities and, in turn, provide a direct boost to the business performance of securities firms.

2025 profits mixed amid strong energy and farming results Corporate earnings in 2025 showed a sharp divergence, with energy and agriculture companies posting strong profit growth, while several firms in other sectors fell short of annual targets.

Securities firms step up tech race to capture market share Securities firms are accelerating technology investment – from AI-driven advisory to integrated digital platforms – transforming competition, strengthening system capacity, and positioning for rising liquidity and global market standards.

Securities firms revive IPO plans as Vietnam market upgrade nears As the timing for FTSE Russell’s anticipated upgrade of the Vietnamese stock market draws closer and market liquidity continues to improve, a new wave of IPOs among securities firms is regaining momentum.

As one of the most successful Premier League clubs of the 21st century, Chelsea FC boasts a passionate global fan base. This pre-season tour marks the club's return to the Asia-Pacific region, with the Men's First Team set to play high-profile fixtures across Australia, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia and Malaysia. Chelsea FC will face Italian giants Juventus at Hong Kong's Kai Tak Stadium on 5 August before taking on Malaysian champions Johor Darul Ta'zim at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Johor Bahru on 9 August. The two fixtures provide an exciting platform for GAC and Chelsea FC to engage with football fans across the region.

As a Fortune Global 500 company, GAC has continued to accelerate its global expansion in recent years. Through collaborations with renowned football clubs, including Sydney FC (Australia), Deportivo Toluca (Mexico), Flamengo (Brazil), and Millonarios (Colombia), GAC has further enhanced its international brand influence.

This partnership is underpinned by GAC's growing presence in Hong Kong (China) and Malaysia. In Hong Kong (China), GAC ranked No.1 in the private electric vehicle market in April 2026, while its cumulative market share exceeded 10% during the first half of the year, further reinforcing its leadership in the city's new energy vehicle sector. Meanwhile, the GS3 EMZOOM and EMKOO, locally assembled in Malaysia through CKD production, have continued to gain strong market recognition among local consumers.

GAC stated that the speed, passion and team spirit embodied in football closely align with the brand's pursuit of driving excellence and its unwavering commitment to exceeding customer expectations. By partnering with a world-class football club like Chelsea FC, GAC aims to enhance its brand presence across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, showcasing its innovation, quality and commitment to smarter mobility. Looking ahead, GAC will continue to strengthen its global footprint through innovation, quality and collaboration, creating greener, smarter and more sustainable mobility solutions for customers worldwide.

Digital Jingdezhen is part of a broader cultural innovation initiative that applies Tencent's AI and game technologies. Guided by Tencent's vision of "Tech for Good", the initiative leverages digital preservation to keep Jingdezhen's thousand-year-old porcelain culture alive and relevant today, creating a living heritage with sustainable value and broad public engagement, and building a model that could be carried to heritage sites around the world.

Digital Preservation: Restoring and Unlocking Heritage with AI

Jingdezhen has a thousand years of living heritage; centuries of tradition are still active in its kilns today. To preserve this legacy, a cornerstone of the project was the Jingdezhen Porcelain Cultural Heritage Multimodal AI Dataset.

Over decades, historical records, heritage information, and craft specifications have accumulated into a massive volume of data. Tencent applied Optical Character Recognition (OCR), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and knowledge graph technologies to transform these dispersed materials into structured digital resources that can be analyzed, extracted, verified, and traced back to their original sources.

The dataset contains more than 30,000 documentary records, over 5,000 ceramic gene specimens, and data on nearly 1,000 representative ceramic artifacts in collections worldwide. It provides a digital foundation for cultural research, exhibition development, public interpretation and AI-powered heritage applications.

Building on this foundation, Tencent has developed a range of industry- and public-facing applications, including the Jingdezhen Ancient Ceramics Gene Database, the World Ceramics Interactive Map, and the Digital Jingdezhen AI Companion, providing researchers, heritage professionals, and the public with innovative AI-powered tools to explore and understand porcelain heritage.

Digital Activation: Bringing Jingdezhen's Porcelain Heritage to Life Through AI and Games

To bring the public closer to Jingdezhen and its porcelain-making traditions, Digital Jingdezhen: Porcelain Craft Adventure utilizes AI-assisted Procedural Content Generation (PCG) to create the first large-scale digital recreation of the city's five major porcelain heritage sites and historical production scenes. By rapidly mapping out town layouts and automatically generating architectural structures, decorative elements, and pedestrians, the technology brings Jingdezhen's historic townscape back to life in the digital world.

The game also features high-quality AI digital humans built on large language models and the Jingdezhen Porcelain Cultural Heritage Multimodal AI Dataset. Through AI voice-driven facial expressions and Tencent Games' proprietary animation technology, it creates warm, human-centered interactive experiences that make historical knowledge tangible and relatable. At the same time, AI-powered 3D generation allows users to quickly transform an uploaded image into a 3D porcelain form, lowering the barrier to participation and enabling anyone to turn creative inspiration into tangible ceramic forms in the digital space.

Continuing Heritage: Mobilizing the Community

Ensuring the longevity of Jingdezhen's legacy requires active public participation. Tencent developed the Digital Heritage Guardian (Jingdezhen), a volunteer program built within the Weixin ecosystem. The program enables the public to support the upkeep and stewardship of physical heritage sites, creating a practical channel for community involvement in heritage protection.

"Our work in Jingdezhen is a testament to how 'AI for Good' can breathe new life into ancient traditions," said Zhan Shu, Head of Digital Culture Lab, Tencent. "Working alongside dedicated heritage experts, we have contributed our capabilities in AI and digital technologies to unlock decades of dormant archives for this incredible new UNESCO site. We are proud to help bridge the gap between the thousand-year porcelain heritage and the digital era, creating new ways for the global public to connect with Jingdezhen's living history, and a model for heritage sites worldwide."

Thai action superstar Tony Jaa's choice reflects the trust of 30 million customers worldwide. That trust is built not on showmanship, but on GAC's solid manufacturing "true craftsmanship."

From Guangzhou to the world, there are no shortcuts – quality speaks for itself. While the industry runs standard "three-high" tests, GAC pushes further with "five-high, one-mountain, one-dust" extreme vehicle trials. New models undergo at least "two winters and one summer" of validation – a minimum 18 months of real-world road testing, covering 12 major categories and over 1,500 sub-items across wind tunnel labs and proving grounds.

For each overseas market, GAC conducts additional adaptive testing for local climate and road conditions – from Middle Eastern desert heat to Southeast Asia's humidity and heavy rains.

Quality consistency starts at the smart manufacturing front. GAC's AION Intelligent Eco-Plant is the world's first "Lighthouse Factory" for new energy vehicles, featuring full-process digital quality monitoring. Automated robots with AI vision systems deliver millisecond response and millimeter-level precision – ensuring uniform quality whether vehicles roll off lines in Guangzhou or overseas plants.

Safety comes first. GAC's magazine battery has been deployed in 1.5 million vehicles, accumulating over 160 billion kilometers of safe driving. The Starlink Safety Protection System serves nearly 2 million users, preventing 6.28 million potential incidents.

With this commitment to quality and safety, GAC has established a presence in 110 countries and won the trust of 30 million users. Standing at this new milestone, GAC will continue to refine its craftsmanship and deliver worry-free, high-quality mobility experiences to every customer worldwide.

For further information about GAC, please visit: https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social media.

The event brought together approximately 150 attendees, including Executive Chair Chung, business leaders from major Korean companies, executives from leading U.S. technology firms, startup representatives and students.

At the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented the Group's roadmap for advancing Physical AI and outlined strategic collaboration plans with global technology leaders.

"Hyundai Motor Group is evolving beyond the traditional boundaries of automotive manufacturing by expanding into autonomous driving, robotics and AI Defined Factories, accelerating our transformation into a Physical AI solution company." — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung

Accelerating the Transition to a Physical AI Solution Company

Hyundai Motor Group's Physical AI vision extends beyond intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI seamlessly connects and optimizes entire operations. Ultimately, the Group envisions integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is organically connected and operated through AI.

A key differentiator for the Group is its ability to create a data flywheel that continuously connects real-world operations with AI advancement. Drawing on extensive experience in large-scale manufacturing, mobility, robotics and service operations, the Group is positioned to deploy, refine and scale Physical AI technologies in real industrial environments.

Executive Chair Chung also outlined strategic partnerships with leading technology companies, including NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics' strategic partnership with Google DeepMind, to further advance Physical AI capabilities.

By combining Hyundai Motor Group's manufacturing competitiveness, mobility and robotics technologies and extensive operational data with the AI infrastructure and algorithm capabilities of global technology leaders, the Group aims to help foster a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era.

Executive Chair Chung also introduced initiatives designed to support the growth of Korea's robotics and AI ecosystem, including the development of a Robot Reference Platform with NVIDIA that combines Hyundai Motor Group's and NVIDIA's Physical AI capabilities, as well as investments in initiatives such as the Saemangeum AI Valley.

Physical AI Vision: From Intelligent Devices to Integrated Intelligence at the City Level

During the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented Hyundai Motor Group's Physical AI vision.

"The ultimate Physical AI vision Hyundai Motor Group pursues begins with intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots, expands to intelligent spaces such as AI factories, and ultimately realizes integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is seamlessly connected and operated." — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung

The Group's vision begins with intelligent devices, where AI capabilities enhance vehicles and robots. It then expands to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI autonomously integrates logistics, production and quality management across entire operations.

Ultimately, Hyundai Motor Group envisions city-level intelligence, where critical infrastructure and assets — including energy, mobility and robotics systems — are connected and optimized in real time.

Executive Chair Chung also highlighted the Group's key strengths in realizing its Physical AI vision:

• World-class manufacturing competitiveness: Hyundai Motor Group has built extensive expertise through decades of operating global manufacturing facilities, managing quality systems and optimizing supply chains. This foundation enables the Group to apply AI technologies to products, processes and services while rapidly validating and scaling innovations in real-world environments.
• Leading robotics capabilities: Hyundai Motor Group has established robotics as a key pillar of its future business portfolio. Boston Dynamics' quadruped robot Spot®, logistics robot Stretch®, and Hyundai Motor Group Robotics LAB's next-generation mobile robot platform MobED are recognized for combining technological competitiveness with real-world applicability.
  
  In particular, the humanoid robot Atlas® is emerging as a representative example of Physical AI, supporting and collaborating with people across manufacturing, logistics and mobility environments.
• Establishing a data flywheel system: Hyundai Motor Group is establishing a data flywheel system that leverages data generated across manufacturing operations, vehicles, logistics systems and robotics demonstrations to continuously advance AI models. Enhanced algorithms are then reapplied to real-world operations, creating a virtuous cycle that improves performance and strengthens Physical AI capabilities.

Accelerating the Future of Physical AI Through Partnerships with Global Tech Leaders

Executive Chair Chung also outlined concrete initiatives to position Hyundai Motor Group as a leader in human-centered Physical AI through strategic collaborations with NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics' strategic partnership with Google DeepMind.

"By combining Hyundai Motor Group's strengths in manufacturing, robotics and data with the capabilities of global technology leaders, we can help create a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era." — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung

• NVIDIA – Advancing Physical AI infrastructure and talent development

Hyundai Motor Group is expanding collaboration with NVIDIA to strengthen Physical AI infrastructure and cultivate AI talent. Building on a supply agreement for 50,000 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs and a memorandum of understanding signed last year to advance Korea's Physical AI capabilities, the Group is pursuing a range of initiatives, including the establishment of Hyundai Motor Group Robot Application Center, as well as various collaborations aimed at strengthening Korea's Physical AI infrastructure and AI talent ecosystem, including the NVIDIA's AI Technology Center.

In manufacturing, the Group is leveraging NVIDIA's platform to create more sophisticated digital twins of production facilities, enhancing process design, operational optimization and validation efficiency. The collaboration also includes the integration of NVIDIA's autonomous driving solutions, including automotive semiconductors, sensors and architecture, with Hyundai Motor Group vehicle platforms.

• Waymo – Strengthening autonomous driving collaboration

Hyundai Motor Group continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with Waymo in the autonomous driving sector to support the development of a safe and innovative autonomous driving ecosystem. Autonomous driving vehicles require a wide range of specialized capabilities, including redundant systems for steering, braking, power and communications, dedicated features such as power-operated doors, as well as enhanced functional safety and cybersecurity technologies.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to produce IONIQ 5 vehicles with specific autonomous-ready modifications at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia.

• Google DeepMind – Accelerating next-generation humanoid robotics

Boston Dynamics has established a strategic partnership with Google DeepMind to accelerate the development of next-generation humanoid robots. Advanced AI models and training systems are essential for robots to perform complex tasks in real-world environments and collaborate effectively with people. Through this partnership, Boston Dynamics robots are expected to achieve greater autonomy and adapt more effectively to complex operating environments.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to establish a robot production facility in the U.S. with an annual capacity of up to 30,000 units by 2028. The Atlas humanoid robot will first be deployed at production facilities including HMGMA before broader deployment is expanded through phased validation.

Building an Open Ecosystem Through the Robot Reference Platform and Continued Investment in Korea's Physical AI Future

Executive Chair Chung also outlined initiatives aimed at supporting the growth of Korea's Physical AI ecosystem through open collaboration and continued investment.

"The outcomes of collaboration with global technology leaders should contribute to the growth of Korea's Physical AI industry. To that end, Hyundai Motor Group plans to foster an open ecosystem that supports innovation in robotics and AI technologies." — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung

Key initiatives to build an open ecosystem for robotics and AI innovation include:

• Robot Reference Platform: Hyundai Motor Group and NVIDIA are collaborating to develop a Robot Reference Platform that combines Hyundai Motor Group's and NVIDIA's Physical AI capabilities.
  
  The platform will provide research robot models to universities, research institutes and startups, helping foster an open ecosystem that supports technological innovation and the development of Physical AI talent while contributing to the broader growth of Korea's robotics and AI industries.
• Supporting universities, research institutes and startups: The Robot Reference Platform is expected to provide universities, research institutes and startups with a standardized hardware and software environment, enabling them to more easily develop and validate Physical AI technologies. The initiative aims to help address challenges faced by organizations with innovative ideas but limited access to commercialization opportunities and validation infrastructure.

Hyundai Motor Group is also continuing large-scale investments aimed at driving the next leap forward in Korea's industrial and technology ecosystem. Continued investments in Korea's industrial and technology ecosystem include:

• Saemangeum AI Valley: In the Saemangeum region of Jeonbuk State, the Group is developing Saemangeum AI Valley, which includes an approximate KRW 9 trillion investment in AI data centers, robotics manufacturing clusters, electrolyzer plants and AI hydrogen city infrastructure.
  
  In particular, the robotics manufacturing cluster will serve not only as a production base for the Group's own robotics products, but also as a robotics foundry that provides manufacturing services for small and medium-sized enterprises that lack manufacturing expertise.
• Advanced industrial hubs in the Yeongnam region: Hyundai Motor Group plans to invest a total of KRW 42 trillion over the next decade to foster advanced industrial hubs focused on AI-driven manufacturing, future aerospace industries and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Through these initiatives, Hyundai Motor Group aims to strengthen key foundations for the Physical AI era, including data and energy infrastructure, robotics production capabilities and real-world validation capabilities. The Group also expects these investments to contribute to enhanced industrial competitiveness, balanced regional development, job creation and broader economic vitality in Korea.

More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Newsroom, Genesis Newsroom

HD Hyundai Samho, a shipbuilding subsidiary of HD Hyundai, is now launching the Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation initiative, known as the MASGA (Make American Shipbuilding Great Again) project, through its entry into the U.S. port crane market.

The contract was signed as part of a terminal modernization project to replace aging cranes at WUT, the U.S. subsidiary of HMM, South Korea's largest shipping company, and expand the terminal's capacity to accommodate larger container vessels.

WUT currently operates eight quay cranes at the Port of Tacoma, four of which were supplied by HD Hyundai Samho in 1999. The project involves replacing two aging quay cranes with new cranes and adding two new yard cranes. Through the project, both companies expect to enhance port cargo-handling capabilities, expand capacity for larger vessels, and improve operational reliability.

Under the agreement, HD Hyundai Samho will carry out the entire project on a turnkey basis, including the design, manufacturing, transportation, installation, and commissioning of two quay cranes and two yard cranes, with all equipment scheduled for delivery by 2028.

The order reflects HD Hyundai Samho's advanced design and manufacturing capabilities, as well as its understanding of U.S. port operations and the trust it has built with customers. Since 1985, HD Hyundai Samho has supplied a total of twenty port cranes to major ports across the United States.

With growing emphasis from the U.S. government and industry on port supply chain resilience and security, Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation through the MASGA project is expected to continue expanding. This order is expected to further strengthen HD Hyundai Samho's business foothold in the United States.

"The port crane order for the Port of Tacoma is a meaningful achievement that reflects the recognition of our technological expertise and quality competitiveness, built through a wide range of domestic and international projects," an HD Hyundai Samho official said. "Going forward, we will support the MASGA project through the development of eco-friendly, high-efficiency port equipment."

Meanwhile, HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Kisun met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in May last year to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between South Korea and the United States in the shipbuilding industry. During the meeting, Chung introduced HD Hyundai Samho's crane manufacturing capabilities and proposed areas for collaboration.

• Quay Crane: A crane used to load and unload containers to and from vessels berthed at the port.
• Yard Crane: A crane used to load and unload containers onto and off vehicles within the terminal yard.

Announced during Korea President Jae Myung Lee's AI Summit visit to San Francisco, the planned 200-megawatt expansion will be built with the NVIDIA DSX platform at NAVER's GAK Sejong hyperscale data center in Sejong, South Korea. The expanded infrastructure will provide Korea- and U.S.- based AI innovators with access to production-scale AI compute for building next-generation models, agents and AI-powered services.

Under the terms of the agreements, Brookfield will fund up to $9 billion as the exclusive capital partner, NVIDIA will invest $1 billion and NAVER will fund the remaining amount to finance the $10 billion project.

This builds on NAVER's June announcement to extend its GAK Sejong data center with NVIDIA DSX, with a long-term path to gigawatt-scale sovereign AI infrastructure serving Korea's enterprises, industries, government organizations and global AI cloud customers. Combining Brookfield's capital with NVIDIA's computing platform, the investment supports NAVER's AI factory deployment.

"NVIDIA's strategic investment and our infrastructure supply agreement with Brookfield have propelled NAVER's vision for the AI Factory business into a robust execution phase," said Haejin Lee, Founder and Chairman of NAVER. "Leveraging the solid partnerships with our global partners, we will drive technological innovation, foster a sovereign AI ecosystem, and spearhead efforts to strengthen South Korea's AI competitiveness."

AI Factory Expansion and Open Model Collaboration to Fuel AI Innovators

NAVER, as an NVIDIA Cloud Partner, provides deep expertise in operating hyperscale infrastructure powered by the full-stack NVIDIA AI platform. The 200-megawatt AI factory, featuring NVIDIA Vera Rubin and Blackwell platforms, will establish a dedicated resource pool for emerging AI companies, providing the compute, software and support needed to develop and deploy competitive AI models and applications at scale.

This expanded infrastructure also builds on NAVER and NVIDIA's collaboration on open model development for agentic and physical AI. NAVER is advancing its HyperCLOVA X models to be based on NVIDIA Nemotron™ 3 Ultra open models with its proprietary data and training expertise. NAVER is also the first Korean company to join the NVIDIA Nemotron Coalition, contributing to open model development across pretraining, post-training and reinforcement learning.

NAVER plans to launch an AI agent platform in Korea in the second half of the year, powered by NVIDIA Agent Toolkit software including NVIDIA NemoClaw™ blueprints. NAVER is also developing a Seoul World Model using proprietary urban street-view and spatial modeling data, built on NVIDIA Cosmos™ world foundation models.

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Following its sweep of six Ookla^® Speedtest^® awards in the second half of 2025, Netvigator has once again earned a series of fixed broadband accolades, demonstrating its high-speed, reliability, ultra-low-latency, and seamless network performance.

Ookla^® Speedtest^® awards for the first half of 2026:

• Fastest Fixed Network in Hong Kong
• Best Fixed Network in Hong Kong
• Best Fixed Gaming Network in Hong Kong
• Top-Rated Fixed Network in Hong Kong
• Fastest Fixed Network in East Asia
• Best Fixed Network in East Asia

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For more information, please visit www.hkt.com.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Signed on July 24, the sales contract aligns with Decision No.876/QD-TTg and the government's net-zero emissions goal, supporting the transition to clean-energy public transport.

Under the agreement, Kim Long Motor Hue JSC will supply 100 electric buses to Phuong Trinh JSC with three lines, namely KIMLONGB30-EV, KIMLONGB40-EV, and KIMLONGB60-EV. The vehicles are researched, designed, and manufactured at Kim Long's manufacturing and assembly plant. Produced on a modern production line, the vehicles meet stringent standards for quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

Developed specifically for the public passenger transport sector, KIMLONGB30-EV (30 seats), KIMLONGB40-EV (40 seats) and KIMLONGB60-EV (60 seats) boast modern design, smooth performance, zero emissions, and optimised operating costs.

All three vehicle lines are equipped with advanced BYD batteries, providing a travel distance of approximately 270 km, 300 km, and 350 km, respectively, on a single charge. These buses also feature many amenities, including high-capacity air conditioning, surveillance cameras, and electronic route displays. The vehicles cater to diverse demands from inner-city routes to routes connecting urban areas, residential zones, and tourist areas.

Kim Long Motor has become a reliable partner for transport companies and regulatory agencies in advancing green transportation. Its electric bus lines are already in operation in Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, and Dak Lak, and the company continues to expand across other localities to improve public passenger transport quality.

At the signing ceremony, Mai Tien Phat, member of the Board of Directors at Kim Long Motor, said, "As a vehicle supplier for Phuong Trinh, Kim Long Motor continues to affirm its quality, production capability, and brand prestige in Vietnam's commercial vehicle market."

"Beyond delivering high-quality products, we are committed to comprehensive after-sales service, warranty, maintenance, and technical support to ensure stable vehicle operation," he added. "We believe this partnership will advance green transportation in Vietnam, creating tangible benefits for businesses, communities, and the environment."

Phuong Trinh JSC, which operates bus routes in Ho Chi Minh City, has extensive experience in public passenger transport. The investment in 100 electric buses reinforces its sustainable development strategy towards building a modern, environmentally friendly public transport system that better serves passengers' commuting needs.

Nguyen Thi Diem Van, chairwoman of Phuong Trinh JSC, said, "After a careful research and partner selection process, we highly appreciate Kim Long Motor's research and manufacturing capabilities. We are particularly impressed with the quality of Vietnamese-branded buses."

“The investment in 100 electric buses will contribute to improving the quality of public passenger transport services. The move also reflects Phuong Trinh JSC's commitment to green transportation, emissions reduction, and environmental protection. We expect the Kim Long electric bus fleet to be put into effective operation soon, providing people with safe, convenient, and civilised travel experiences,” she added.

For Kim Long Motor, the contract represents more than a commercial milestone in its strategy to develop the new-energy commercial vehicle market. The move also encourages the company to invest, research, innovate technologies and improve product quality. With the

With a gradually developing automotive industry ecosystem and increasing localisation rates, Kim Long Motor is steadily asserting its position as one of Vietnam's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. The efforts contribute to the realisation of the Party and government's policies on developing the automotive industry, promoting a green economy and circular economy, and accompanying Vietnam's emission reduction roadmap.

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"Global supply chains are no longer operating under the traditional centralised model. Instead, they are becoming increasingly diversified to enhance resilience against market disruptions. This presents both challenges and opportunities for countries with strategic locations, stable investment environments, and strong manufacturing capabilities," Thang said at a logistics forum on global supply chain restructuring in Ho Chi Minh City on July 24.

"For Vietnam, this is a critical opportunity to leverage its geostrategic location, extensive network of free trade agreements, and an increasingly attractive investment environment to attract shifting investment flows, expand manufacturing, and diversify export markets," Thang said.

Experts discuss matters at the logistics forum on global supply chain restructuring in Ho Chi Minh City on July 24

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the country's economic growth targets for the coming period will place significant demands on import and export activities. The government is aiming for annual economic growth of at least 10 per cent, with trade identified as one of the key growth drivers and export growth targeted at 15–16 per cent.

Despite ongoing global economic uncertainties, Vietnam's trade performance remained resilient in the first half of 2026, reflecting the adaptability of the country's manufacturing and export sectors within regional and global supply chains. However, the continued expansion of trade volumes also requires the logistics sector to scale up accordingly to meet growing demand for the efficient movement of goods.

"Logistics capabilities determine not only the speed of goods movement but also a country's ability to attract investment, expand markets, and strengthen its position in global supply chains," Thang said. "This is why the Vietnam Logistics Services Development Strategy sets targets of increasing the sector's value-added contribution to 5–7 per cent of GDP, achieving annual growth of 12–15 per cent, and reducing logistics costs to 12–15 per cent of GDP from the current level of around 17 per cent."

Nguyen Loc Ha, Standing Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, said the ongoing restructuring of global supply chains is creating significant growth opportunities for the city.

“Ho Chi Minh City is well positioned to develop into an international logistics services centre, serving as a key gateway for coordinating and connecting regional and global supply chains. The city's expanded development space also provides stronger conditions for building a highly integrated logistics ecosystem, spanning transport infrastructure, logistics hubs, and value-added services,” Ha said.

He added that to capitalise on these advantages, the city has identified four strategic priorities: developing a modern, integrated logistics infrastructure with strong regional connectivity; accelerating digital transformation to improve supply chain transparency; promoting green logistics in line with evolving international standards; and strengthening the logistics workforce while developing a high value-added logistics services ecosystem.

"Logistics is inherently a highly regional industry, and no locality can develop it in isolation. Ho Chi Minh City is therefore seeking to strengthen cooperation with ministries, sectors, and neighbouring localities in planning and investing in transport corridors and logistics hubs, sharing data, and encouraging businesses to shift from competing individually to collaborating in order to enhance the competitiveness of the entire supply chain," Ha said.

While Ho Chi Minh City is expected to emerge as the supply chain coordination hub for southern Vietnam, Quang Tri and Haiphong are well positioned, thanks to their strategic locations and transport infrastructure, to develop large-scale logistics hubs and strengthen their integration into regional and global supply chains.

Le Duc Tien, Vice Chairman of Quang Tri People's Committee, said the province sits at the intersection of the East-West Economic Corridor and Vietnam's North-South transport corridor, while also serving as the closest gateway linking the Greater Mekong Subregion to the East Sea and international shipping routes. This strategic location provides Quang Tri with a significant advantage in integrating more deeply into regional logistics networks.

"Quang Tri's development strategy is to create a new growth space where transport infrastructure is closely integrated with logistics, industry, trade, and services, enabling goods to be transshipped and stored, processed, and upgraded through value-added activities," Tien said.

Meanwhile, Haiphong continues to strengthen its position as northern Vietnam's logistics gateway, supported by an increasingly advanced seaport system and integrated transport infrastructure.

Pham Tuan Hai, deputy director of Haiphong Department of Industry and Trade, said the growing emphasis on green logistics, green ports, and digital transformation is creating both opportunities and challenges for major maritime hubs.

"As northern Vietnam's largest maritime gateway, with all five modes of transport and a strategic location along two international economic corridors, Haiphong has a strong foundation to develop into an international logistics and seaport hub," Hai said.

In recent years, the city's logistics infrastructure has expanded rapidly. Its port system, comprising the Lach Huyen deepwater port and 50 port terminals, has a combined handling capacity of around 170–180 million tonnes annually. Container throughput capacity has reached 7.5–8 million TEUs per year, accounting for nearly 40 per cent of Vietnam's total container volume.

At the same time, Cat Bi International Airport is undergoing further upgrades, while an expanding expressway network and major transport infrastructure projects are helping to reduce transit times and strengthen regional connectivity.

According to Hai, one of Haiphong's key priorities is to accelerate both digital and green transformation. The city plans to develop digital ports and digital logistics systems by applying AI, big data, and automation to logistics management, while establishing a shared data platform linking ports, businesses, and government agencies.

In parallel, Haiphong is promoting the development of green ports, green logistics, and clean energy infrastructure. The city is also investing in internationally qualified human resources and strengthening regional cooperation to build a modern, integrated, and globally competitive logistics network.

Speaking to the media on July 21 in Hanoi, Chia said Vietnam has emerged as one of the most advanced electric vehicle (EV) markets in Southeast Asia, not only because of rising EV adoption but also because domestic companies are increasingly developing and designing automotive technologies.

"I would say Vietnam is doing very well. In many other ASEAN countries, the focus is still mainly on EV consumption through imports or local assembly. However, when it comes to developing and designing automotive technologies, I have not seen the same level of activity elsewhere," he said.

He attributed the momentum to a combination of supportive government policies, a growing technology ecosystem, and the presence of a strong domestic EV manufacturer that is accelerating innovation.

"Vietnam has a strong government commitment to technology development and innovation. At the same time, I see a vibrant startup ecosystem and many Vietnamese engineers returning from overseas to build technology companies. That combination creates strong momentum," he said.

Chia said one of the biggest technology shifts in the automotive industry is the transition towards software-defined vehicles (SDVs), in which software increasingly controls vehicle functions and enables continuous upgrades throughout a vehicle's lifetime.

Modern vehicles are evolving into high-performance computing platforms equipped with multiple cameras, digital displays, advanced driver assistance systems, premium audio systems, and increasingly sophisticated connectivity.

As vehicle electronics become more complex, manufacturers are moving away from traditional domain-based electronic architectures, where each function has its own controller, towards zonal architectures managed by centralised computing systems.

The new approach reduces wiring, lowers vehicle weight, improves manufacturing efficiency, and enables software updates to introduce new features after vehicles have been sold.

"The amount of data inside vehicles is increasing rapidly. Industry experts expect the volume of data processed in each vehicle to grow from around 20GB today to more than 200GB over the next decade," he said.

Rather than developing central computing systems themselves, ADI focuses on the technologies that connect cameras, sensors, displays, speakers, and other electronic systems throughout the vehicle.

"You can think of our technology as the veins and blood vessels in the human body. The central computer may be the brain, but without the network connecting everything together, the brain cannot communicate with the rest of the body," Chia said.

The company highlighted three automotive connectivity technologies supporting SDV architectures:

• GMSL (Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link), which enables high-speed, low-latency transmission between cameras, displays, and central processors for ADAS and infotainment systems;
• A2B (Automotive Audio Bus), which simplifies vehicle audio networks by carrying audio, control signals, and power over a single cable; and
• E2B (Ethernet to the Edge Bus), designed to connect sensors and actuators within zonal vehicle architectures.

According to Chia, GMSL technology has been deployed for more than two decades, with over one billion integrated circuits shipped globally. He confirmed that VinFast is among the automotive manufacturers already using ADI's GMSL technology.

Looking ahead, Chia said Vietnam's EV market is likely to be shaped by two parallel trends: improving user convenience and strengthening local technology capabilities.

On the consumer side, expanding charging infrastructure for electric cars and battery-swapping networks for electric motorcycles will remain essential to accelerate adoption.

"Convenience is one of the most important factors in encouraging consumers to adopt EVs. Once that foundation is in place, consumers will naturally begin to expect higher levels of comfort and premium experiences inside the vehicle," he said.

At the industry level, Chia believes Vietnam's biggest long-term opportunity lies in developing more domestic engineering and design capabilities. He noted that most Tier-1 automotive suppliers operating in Vietnam remain foreign companies, while local manufacturers still rely heavily on externally developed modules and technologies.

"The opportunity is how Vietnamese companies can gradually build their own engineering and design capabilities instead of only purchasing complete modules. In the long run, design capabilities create much higher value than manufacturing alone," he said.

Developing proprietary technologies and intellectual property would enable Vietnamese companies to move further up the automotive value chain, he added, although he acknowledged the transition would take time.

Chia also identified English-language proficiency as an area that could further strengthen Vietnam's technology sector. "Having stronger English skills allows engineers to access technical documentation more quickly, collaborate internationally, and absorb new technologies faster," he said.

Despite that challenge, Chia said Vietnam currently holds a strong position within Southeast Asia's automotive technology landscape because of the combination of government support, domestic industry leadership, and an increasingly capable engineering workforce.

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The conference was organised by Hanoi Sub-Department of Livestock, Fisheries and Veterinary Medicine (under Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Environment), in coordination with Soi Dog Foundation and Vietnam Social and Behaviour Change Communication for Sustainable Development Company (SBCC Vietnam).

The conference brought together representatives of state management agencies, experts in veterinary medicine, public health and sustainable economic development, together with households currently engaged in the slaughtering and trading of dog and cat meat across the project's 14 pilot wards.

This session builds on three previous livelihood transition training conferences and three online selling skills workshops held earlier under the project. At this fourth conference, the Organising Committee introduced additional hands-on vocational training programmes in food processing and beverage preparation, diversifying employment opportunities and giving participating households more options suited to current market demand as they transition to new occupations.

The project “Pilot Model for Rabies Prevention, Sustainable Economic Development – Phased - Transitioning the Dog and Cat Meat Trade in Selected Wards of Hanoi City,” approved by Hanoi People’s Committee in 2025, has achieved a number of positive results to date.

According to a review conducted by the people’s committees of the participating wards and the Project Management Board as of last month, 28 dog and cat meat slaughtering and trading facilities have ceased operations, and 25 facilities have registered to transition their business models.

Notably, Giang Vo ward has become the first locality within the project’s scope confirmed, based on local review results, to have no remaining dog and cat meat trading facilities in operation. This outcome reflects the combined effect of multiple measures, including strengthened communication and outreach, livelihood transition support, improved state management of veterinary medicine, food safety and food traceability, rabies prevention and control, and the consensus of residents.

A baseline survey conducted before the project began had also found no dog and cat meat trading facilities in Cua Nam ward. However, Giang Vo is the first locality to achieve this result as an outcome of the project’s support activities, demonstrating the initial effectiveness of a model that combines state management, behaviour change communication, and livelihood transition support.

To support households in transitioning to sustainable occupations, the Organising Committee introduced vocational training programmes suited to current market demand, requiring reasonable initial investment, straightforward to implement, and well-matched to the experience of households already working in food and beverage services.

Speaking at the conference, Nguyen Dinh Dang, director of Hanoi Sub-Department of Livestock, Fisheries and Veterinary Medicine, said, “The project’s early results show that combining stronger state management with livelihood transition support is the right direction, gradually changing public awareness and helping residents move into stable, sustainable occupations."

"Going forward, the Sub-Department will continue to work with local authorities, organisations and businesses to expand support activities, contributing to more effective rabies prevention and control, food safety assurance, animal disease control, and the development of civilised, sustainable livestock farming.”

Representatives of Soi Dog Foundation and SBCC Vietnam commended the project’s early results and reaffirmed their continued commitment to working with city agencies on vocational training, startup support, market linkages, and ongoing support for households throughout their livelihood transition.

Beyond Giang Vo ward, the project has also seen positive change in areas such as Tu Liem and Tay Mo, which previously had a relatively large number of dog and cat meat trading facilities. According to review results, many facilities in these areas have either ceased operations or are progressively transitioning their business models.

Phasing out the slaughter and trade of dog and cat meat will support households in shifting to sustainable livelihoods, while strengthening veterinary and food safety management, improving rabies control and food traceability, reducing zoonotic disease risks, and fostering a more civilised urban environment.

Going forward, Hanoi Sub-Department of Livestock, Fisheries and Veterinary Medicine will continue to work with relevant departments, people’s committees, international organisations, businesses, vocational training institutions and job placement providers to expand livelihood transition support, creating opportunities for residents to pursue stable, sustainable careers, while contributing to implementation of the national rabies control programme.

Hanoi transition: four dog cat meat traders proactively exit the trade for sustainable careers following training A training initiative is helping dog and cat meat traders in Hanoi transition to more sustainable livelihoods.

Hanoi trains veterinary officers in humane euthanasia standards A first-of-its-kind training conference on international standards for humane euthanasia of cats and dogs has been held within Vietnam's public veterinary system.

Hanoi steps up rabies prevention through public awareness A mass communications campaign on rabies prevention and animal welfare has been launched in Hanoi to raise public awareness and promote a safer, more civilised urban environment.

According to a notice issued by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR), the additional duties apply to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from bonded warehouses for consumption, from 12:01 a.m (US time) on July 24, 2026. The new tariff rates of 10 and 12.5 per cent officially took effect at midnight on July 24, replacing the temporary 10 per cent tariff that expired simultaneously.

According to a USTR document released on July 23, the new tariffs will cover 99.4 per cent of US trade. CNBC reported that the agency said it is not yet able to estimate the amount of revenue the new duties will generate.

The tariffs will apply to all goods imported from economies subject to the investigation, with several exceptions. These include raw materials facing potential supply shortages, products whose taxation could disrupt the broader economy, and goods that cannot be produced in sufficient quantities in the US and for which there are no viable alternative sources.

Products already subject to tariffs under Section 232 national security measures introduced last year, including automobiles, aluminium, steel, and copper, will also be exempt from the new duties. In addition, certain products that meet the rules of origin under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement will not be subject to the new tariffs, reflecting the high degree of integration within North American supply chains and the significant US value content of these goods.

USTR Jamieson Greer also pledged that, for countries that have concluded trade agreements with the US, the new tariffs will not cause total tariff levels to exceed the ceilings agreed between the two sides.

According to the USTR announcement, the 10 per cent tariff will apply to imports from countries including Cambodia, Indonesia, Argentina, Bangladesh, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Jordan, and Mexico.

Meanwhile, for the European Union, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland, the new tariff, when combined with the existing most-favoured-nation duty, will result in a total tariff rate of either 10 or 12.5 per cent, depending on the economy.

A total of 38 economies will face the 12.5 per cent tariff, including Vietnam, China, Thailand, and the Philippines.

The new tariffs are widely viewed as the latest step in the US efforts to restore the near-universal tariff policy championed by President Donald Trump during his election campaign.

In February 2026, the US Supreme Court struck down the reciprocal tariff policy of 10 to 50 per cent that President Trump had introduced last year under national emergency legislation to reduce the country's trade deficit.

Following the ruling, President Trump invoked Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 to impose a temporary 10 per cent tariff for 150 days. That measure officially expired at 12:01 a.m (US time) on July 24, with the new tariff rates taking effect immediately afterwards. Goods already in transit will remain exempt until 12:01 a.m on July 28 (US time).

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The minister said that the first pillar is institutions and policies, with the overarching view that laws should not be obstacles, but rather a solid foundation for creating development.

The second pillar is human resources and talent, with talent being the most important factor, the core element determining the success or failure of AI development.

Minister Vu Hai Quan at the APEC Ministerial Meeting on Digital and AI. Photo: MST

The third pillar is AI infrastructure, data, and startups, aiming to build a comprehensive ecosystem with infrastructure, data, and a young startup community at its core.

Minister Quan proclaimed that AI development is a journey requiring cooperation among countries and economies. Vietnam is committed to strengthening cooperation with China and APEC member economies to build a safe AI future.

The minister stated that in 2027, Vietnam is honoured to assume the role of APEC host country and respectfully extends an invitation to ministers and leaders in charge of digital and AI fields from member economies to visit Vietnam and participate within the framework of APEC Year 2027.

The ministry is now strengthening cooperation with countries, organisations, and businesses on AI. In early July, during a working session with Maroun Kairouz, executive director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), Minister Quan said that Vietnam prioritises the development of AI and semiconductor technology as key drivers for growth.

Photo: MST

Both sides agreed to soon finalise an MoU between the WEF and the government of Vietnam, serving as a solid coordination framework to realise commitments and creating leverage to propel Vietnam's digital economy forward.

At a meeting with Qualcomm on July 17 in Hanoi between Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh and Durga Malladi, EVP and general manager of Technology Planning, Edge Solutions and Data Centres at Qualcomm, the two sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in AI, semiconductors, research and development, workforce development, and innovation.

Vietnam encourages Qualcomm to broaden cooperation in AI, semiconductors, and research, while stepping up support for technology commercialisation, talent development, and the innovation ecosystem.

Both sides agreed to continue discussions on specific areas of cooperation, contributing to the development of a stronger AI, semiconductor, and innovation ecosystem in Vietnam.

Vietnam holds potential for robot, AI development: insiders Vietnam holds huge potential in the application and development of new technologies amid the wide utilisation of robot and artificial intelligence (AI) in daily life activities.

Vietnam keeping pace with world’s AI development: expert With the development of several language models designed specifically for Vietnamese users like PhoGPT, Vietnam has caught up with the world’s AI trend, an expert from VinAI under Vingroup conglomerate said on December 19.

Huawei keen on AI development in Vietnam Chinese tech giant Huawei is interested in developing 5G networks, digital transformation, AI, and more in Vietnam.

Advantech Edge Impulse 2025: AI Development Speed-Up Partnership New collaboration targets industrial IoT, giving AI blogs Advantech Edge AI keywords and joint solution brief.

Human-centred governance seen as key to AI development Drawing on both international experience and Vietnam’s policy trajectory, experts agreed that AI can deliver lasting value only when it is designed and deployed within a clear, human-centred governance framework.

The event brought together policymakers, businesses, and industry representatives to discuss solutions for reducing plastic waste in the retail sector.

Nguyen Trung Thang, deputy director of ISPAE, said the event aimed to update stakeholders on policies related to the circular economy and plastic pollution reduction.

"The workshop also provides an opportunity to share successful models for reducing single-use plastics while strengthening connections between regulators, businesses, manufacturers, development organisations, and consumers to promote sustainable production and consumption," Thang said.

Plastic pollution remains a major global environmental challenge. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, between 19 and 23 million tonnes of plastic waste enter aquatic ecosystems each year, damaging ecosystems, reducing their resilience to climate change, and threatening livelihoods, food security, and human wellbeing.

Vietnam has introduced a number of policy frameworks to strengthen plastic waste management and promote sustainable consumption, including the National Strategy on Integrated Solid Waste Management to 2025 with a vision to 2050, the National Action Plan on Sustainable Production and Consumption for 2021-2030, Prime Minister's Directive No.33/CT-TTg, and Decision No.1316/QD-TTg on plastic waste management.

Under these policies, Vietnam aims to ensure that plastic bags and packaging used in shopping centres and supermarkets are environmentally friendly, while gradually phasing out non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastic products.

Quach Thi Xuan, representative of Pacific Environment, said reducing single-use plastics in retail requires more than replacing conventional materials with greener alternatives.

"For these models to be effective in Vietnam, close coordination is needed between the government, businesses, and consumers to improve policies, invest in reuse infrastructure, standardise packaging, and raise public awareness," Xuan said.

She noted that many countries are shifting from waste management towards waste prevention through product and packaging redesign. Measures increasingly adopted include restrictions on single-use plastics, extended producer responsibility schemes, deposit-return systems, and reusable packaging networks.

Retailers worldwide have introduced refill stations, encouraged customers to use reusable bags and containers, replaced plastic packaging with sustainable materials, and offered incentives to encourage greener consumption habits.

The European Union has banned a range of single-use plastic products and tightened packaging requirements, while France has introduced strict rules limiting disposable plastic packaging. China has also implemented nationwide restrictions on non-biodegradable plastic bags and packaging.

According to Dr. Kim Thi Thuy Ngoc of ISPAE, reducing plastic consumption in supermarkets should be a starting point for promoting the circular economy in retail.

Research by the institute shows that each supermarket distributes an average of 1,454 plastic bags per day, equivalent to around 1.6 bags per customer transaction. In Hanoi alone, supermarkets provide approximately 200,000 plastic bags daily, or nearly one tonne of plastic.

"To reduce plastic waste generation, 16 major retailers have joined the Retailers Alliance for Plastic Bag Reduction, committing to replace non-biodegradable plastic bags with environmentally friendly alternatives while encouraging customers to limit single-use plastics. Businesses are also increasing the use of recycled paper and sustainable packaging across their supply chains," Ngoc said.

From a business perspective, Le Thi Hong Nhi, deputy general director of Communications, External Affairs and Sustainability at Unilever Vietnam, outlined the company’s proposed 4C framework for accelerating the circular economy.

The framework comprises Collaboration, fostering shared responsibility across the value chain; Connection, strengthening data sharing and stakeholder coordination; Circulation, creating closed-loop systems spanning product design, waste collection, recycling, and the use of recycled materials; and Change, encouraging more sustainable consumer choices.

“Policies should also support the wider adoption of eco-labels for environmentally friendly products and packaging, helping consumers identify and prioritise green products while encouraging businesses to invest in sustainable development," Nhi said.

Circular economy becoming architectural foundation The circular economy is increasingly becoming a driving force and playing a central role in Vietnam’s dual transition towards digitalisation and green transformation, serving as an essential pathway to achieving sustainability goals.

Driving double-digit growth through green and circular transformation in Vietnam The circular economy has been identified as a strategic pillar of Vietnam's new green growth model. At the same time, it is considered as a strategic key enabling Vietnam to seize opportunities for breakthrough development.

Green finance and circular economy as drivers of growth As low-cost, sustainability-driven green capital increasingly flows into circular business models, the circular economy is set to evolve into a new driver of Vietnam’s economic growth. Long Viet Nguyen, partner in Consulting for EY Vietnam, spoke to VIR about unlocking green finance for such business models.

200 participants trained on circular economy Over 200 attendees, including managers and specialists from ministries, departments, localities, and businesses, attended a training course about circular economy and sustainable production and consumption in Hanoi on March 10.

Milk cartons and the circular economy: when schools become agents of change Billions of beverage cartons are consumed every year – a vast, underutilised source of recyclable material waiting to be properly harnessed.

Advancing the circular economy: opportunities for Germany-Vietnam cooperation The circular economy, sustainable manufacturing, and industrial competitiveness were at the centre of discussions at the Germany-Vietnam Business Forum 2026 held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 11.

Mondelez Kinh Do continues to win accolades with two sustainability awards Driven by its commitment to responsible growth and circular economy leadership, Mondelez Kinh Do Vietnam continues to earn recognition for its sustainability initiatives and community contributions.

Retailers step up circular economy efforts to curb plastic waste Vietnam’s leading retailers are accelerating efforts to reduce single-use plastic bags and promote circular economy practices, as businesses increasingly position sustainable consumption as a key component of their long-term growth.

Japan's Sharp Energy Solutions Corporation (SESJ) has completed the acquisition of all shares held by NSN Construction & Engineering JSC in Sharp NSN Energy Solution JSC (SNES), a joint venture established in Vietnam by SESJ and NSN, as of June 30, 2026.

As a result, SNES has become a wholly owned subsidiary of SESJ. In addition, SNES changed its company name to Sharp Energy Solution Vietnam Co., Ltd. (SESV) on May 28.

Since its establishment in March 2020, SESV has been engaged in engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services–covering engineering, procurement, and construction of solar power plants–as well as operation and maintenance (O&M) services, including operation and maintenance, within Vietnam.

Amid continued growth in demand for renewable energy in Vietnam, the full acquisition is expected to accelerate decision-making and enable more integrated business operations.

Centred on SESV, expansion into new business areas will be pursued, including rooftop solar power systems for factories and commercial facilities, as well as solar power plants combined with Battery Energy Storage Systems.

Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a clean energy hub, supported by growing industrial demand, tighter carbon compliance standards, and the declining cost of solar power. Increasing electricity demand and higher power prices are boosting the appeal of rooftop solar as a cost-effective, cleaner energy source, while battery storage is gaining traction as businesses seek to optimise electricity use and strengthen energy resilience.

Dawn Medical acquires Vietnam's Pinnacle Health Equipment Dawn Medical Technologies has acquired a controlling stake in Pinnacle Health Equipment, one of Vietnam's largest medtech distributors, marking its entry into the Vietnamese market.

Kredivo Group takes over digital banking platform Timo On May 5, digital financial services platform Kredivo Group announced the acquisition of Timo Digital Bank, a Vietnamese platform developed by BV Bank.

Nissha completes share acquisition of USM Healthcare Nissha Co., Ltd. on May 21 announced that the share acquisition of USM Healthcare Medical Devices Factory JSC has been completed.

Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee will be responsible for the overall state management of the FTZ. The site is located approximately 50 km northwest of downtown Ho Chi Minh City and around 25 km north of Long Thanh International Airport.

The Ho Chi Minh City FTZ covers more than 4,170 hectares and will comprise three functional zones and eight contiguous sub-zones.

These include the existing container port; Cai Mep Ha Container Terminal; the downstream Cai Mep Ha Container Terminal; Cai Mep Ha railway station on the Bien Hoa–Vung Tau railway line; an inland waterway port; the southern section of Cai Mep Industrial Park; Cai Mep Ha Logistics Centre; and an integrated industrial, urban, and service area.

The FTZ linked to Cai Mep Ha Seaport is intended to serve as a pioneering pilot model for implementing breakthrough institutional mechanisms and creating an international-standard free trade and investment environment. It is also envisioned as a strategic gateway connecting the city's manufacturing, trade, and service sectors with regional and global markets.

It will also become a new growth driver, supporting Ho Chi Minh City's ambition to emerge as a leading maritime economic hub in Southeast Asia. At the same time, it will create new space for rapid and sustainable development while strengthening connectivity across the Southeast region and the country.

Under the development plan, the FTZ will prioritise the digital economy, green economy, and circular economy, anchored by a green logistics hub, a seaport cluster, and an international transshipment port. The zone will be closely integrated with the Cai Mep-Thi Vai deepwater port cluster, Can Gio International Transshipment Port, and Long Thanh International Airport.

In addition to serving as a logistics and green manufacturing hub, the FTZ aims to foster high value-added industries that apply advanced, environmentally friendly technologies. It is also envisioned as an innovation hub, attracting global talent and serving as a regional headquarters location for multinational corporations in logistics, maritime services, and international trade.

Ho Chi Minh City Export Processing and Industrial Zones Management Authority has been assigned to undertake direct state management of the zone, while assuming certain functions, responsibilities, and powers transferred from specialised departments under the municipal people's committee.

Under the development roadmap, during 2026–2030 the city will focus on enhancing the operational efficiency of existing facilities, including seaports, warehouses, and factories within Cai Mep Industrial Park.

Priorities will include strengthening the governance framework, developing digital platforms for management, operations, and supervision, implementing planning, expanding transport and infrastructure connectivity, carrying out site clearance, and attracting strategic domestic and international investors.

During 2031–2035, Ho Chi Minh City will continue developing the FTZ on the foundation of current infrastructure, while completing a highly competitive maritime economic ecosystem and advancing the zone's transformation into a green free trade zone. The remaining functional zones will also be completed in line with the approved master plan.

Beyond 2035, the city aims to establish the FTZ linked to Cai Mep Ha Seaport as the nucleus of the southeast region's maritime economy. It is envisioned to become one of Vietnam's leading cargo transshipment hubs with regional and international significance.

Cai Mep Port. Photo: Le Toan

Cai Mep Ha Port project wins approval with $1.95bn investment A major port investment has been approved as part of efforts to strengthen Vietnam’s logistics and maritime infrastructure.

Cai Mep Terminal delivers first pipeline gas to Phu My Power Complex AG&P LNG, a leading LNG terminals and downstream infrastructure company, on July 17 announced that Cai Mep Terminal has begun delivery of first pipeline gas to the Phu My power complex via the new Cai Mep–Phu My gas pipeline.

PVI Insurance's performance was driven by growth in direct insurance, reinsurance and related services.

In addition, revenue collected on behalf of social insurance system reached $85.9 million, up 30.2 per cent on-year, helping expand the company's customer base and strengthen service touchpoints.

Motor insurance continues to be the core business line for many non-life insurance firms

At DBV Insurance (formerly Vietnam National Aviation Insurance), gross written premiums reached $123.6 million during the first half of 2026.

Motor insurance remained the company's core business line, accounting for 66 per cent of total gross written premiums and rising 94.4 per cent from a year earlier, enabling DBV to move into the market's leading group in this segment.

Meanwhile, property and engineering insurance posted growth of 68.5 per cent, marine insurance increased 55.8 per cent, and personal accident and health insurance rose 85.1 per cent.

This marked the first time DBV's gross written premiums exceeded approximately $120 million during the first six months of a year.

According to an industry expert familiar with the company's operations, the results reflect a broad restructuring programme following the completion of DB Insurance's acquisition of controlling stakes in Vietnam National Aviation Insurance (now DBV) and Sai Gon-Hanoi Insurance Corporation in early 2024.

The restructuring included reorganising the branch network, adjusting underwriting operations and redefining the business roles of the two insurers.

DBV's improved market position has been most evident in motor insurance. Based on data compiled by DBV from the Insurance Association of Vietnam, the company ranked first in motor insurance gross written premiums during the first five months of 2026, generating $65.9 million, nearly double the $34.6 million recorded by second-ranked Bao Viet Insurance.

DBV's 2026 business plan targets gross written premiums of approximately $248 million, up more than 48 per cent from 2025, underscoring the company's aggressive growth strategy from the outset of the year.

Meanwhile, PVI Insurance said it is accelerating efforts to become Vietnam's first non-life insurer to achieve annual revenue of $1.2 billion in 2026.

The positive momentum extends beyond individual companies, with broader market indicators suggesting that Vietnam's insurance industry is gradually recovering after a prolonged period of adjustment.

At the Ministry of Finance's second-quarter 2026 regular press briefing, Pham Thu Phuong, deputy director general of the Insurance Supervisory Authority, said Vietnam's insurance market is showing signs of recovery, particularly following the life insurance sector's confidence crisis during 2022-2023 period.

Total insurance market revenue is estimated to have increased by around 2 per cent in the first half of 2026.

Non-life insurance revenue rose by more than 12 per cent, while life insurance revenue declined by about 4 per cent, indicating that the pace of contraction has slowed considerably.

Insurance management bodies are also stepping up digital transformation, strengthening inspections and supervision, and enhancing dialogue with insurers to address challenges, improve regulatory effectiveness and support the market's sustainable development.

Supported by the government's and the Ministry of Finance's policy measures, alongside the country's ambition to achieve double-digit economic growth, the insurance market is expected to continue its recovery and gradually move towards the 2030 target of insurance premium revenue equivalent to 3.3-3.8 per cent of the country’s GDP.

Insurers juggle with market share shifts and moderate gains Despite severe economic impacts caused by the health crisis, non-life insurers continue to manoeuvre through the turmoil.

AAA Insurance rebrands on journey towards top 10 non-life insurers AAA Insurance Company, a prominent player in Vietnam's insurance sector, has undergone a transformation and rebranded itself as AAA Insurance Corporation.

Non-life insurers face mounting pressure after typhoon hits motor sector Typhoon Bualoi has triggered a wave of motor insurance claims in Vietnam, with hundreds of vehicles damaged by floods and debris, pushing compensation costs and insurance pressure to new highs.