Speaking at the ministry’s regular press briefing for the first quarter held in Hanoi on April 9, Nguyen The Huu, deputy director-general of the Electricity Authority of Vietnam, said that extreme weather patterns have already begun to put pressure on the system earlier than expected.

According to Huu, northern Vietnam experienced its first heatwave as early as March 31, driving a sharp increase in electricity consumption.

“The figure of around 1 billion kWh is not a national record, as similar levels have been recorded in previous years, but it is the highest since the beginning of the year up to March 31. By April 7, demand had risen even further,” he said, attributing the surge primarily to prolonged hot weather conditions.

The MoIT has approved the national power supply plan for 2026 based on a baseline load growth scenario of 8.5 per cent, with an extreme dry-season scenario reaching up to 14.1 per cent.

To date, cumulative load growth has exceeded 6 per cent, remaining within planned thresholds. However, officials warned that continued heatwaves, combined with urban heat island effects, could drive demand significantly higher, placing additional strain on the national grid.

To ensure system stability, the MoIT has directed all stakeholders across the electricity value chain to implement coordinated measures.

Hydropower reservoirs, particularly in northern Vietnam, are currently maintaining high water storage levels in preparation for peak demand during the dry season. This has temporarily reduced hydropower’s share in the generation mix, which will be adjusted later depending on inflows during the rainy season.

On the fuel supply side, the PV GAS has doubled its regasification capacity from over 7 million cubic metres per day to approximately 15 million cu.m per day. This upgrade significantly enhances gas supply capability, ensuring sufficient fuel for gas-fired power plants in line with dispatch requirements from the National System and Market Operation Company.

The move is expected to improve flexibility in power generation in the Southeast region, helping meet southern demand, particularly during late afternoon peak hours when solar output declines.

Meanwhile, the Vung Ang 2 thermal power venture has officially entered commercial operation, adding around 1,200 MW to the national grid.

In terms of transmission, the National Power Transmission Corporation has upgraded the capacity of the 500kV Mai Chau substation in Hoa Binh province, strengthening power transfer capability and improving electricity supply to northern Vietnam.

Vietnam’s revised Power Development Plan VIII sets an ambitious target of reaching total installed capacity of 183,000–236,000 MW by 2030, roughly two to three times the current level. However, a number of projects remain behind schedule due to regulatory and implementation bottlenecks.

To address these challenges, the National Assembly has introduced new policies for national energy development in the 2026–2030 period. The related resolution aims to streamline procedures for adjusting power plans and assigning project investors, thereby accelerating implementation.

Deputy Minister Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan added that the MoIT has instructed relevant departments to review the implementation progress of the revised plan, with a focus on expediting delayed projects.

Alongside supply expansion, Tan emphasised the critical role of demand-side management in ensuring power security. He highlighted the importance of promoting efficient and economical electricity use, including optimising consumption patterns by time and location.

“The close coordination between supply and demand will be a decisive factor in ensuring stable electricity provision for both economic development and daily life in 2026,” he said.

According to US Wheat Associates (USW), consumption of wheat-based foods continues to expand in Vietnam, supported by economic growth, urbanisation and favourable demographic trends. Currently, per-capita wheat consumption is increasing by 6 per cent annually, outpacing other markets in Southeast Asia and signalling significant upside potential for additional US wheat exports.

This expansion is particularly visible in the premium baking and fast food sectors – areas where the quality, consistency and functional performance of US wheat provide a clear competitive advantage.

“While competition has intensified for market share in Vietnam, US Wheat has worked to differentiate the end-use value of each of the six classes of US wheat,” said USW president and CEO Mike Spier. “The resulting sustained growth means American wheat farmers are steadily capturing more market share and seeing higher-value market opportunities.”

US wheat exports have nearly doubled in the last 10 years, demonstrating the measurable results delivered by USW’s long-term market development strategies.

Commercial US wheat sales to Vietnam have reached a record in the 2025/2026 marketing year. As of March 19, Vietnam has purchased 586,000 metric tonnes of US wheat, up 3 per cent from the prior year.

To capture growing demand in Vietnam, USW joined the USDA’s Trade Reciprocity for US Manufacturers and Producers (Mission to Vietnam in late March, underscoring ongoing growth in US wheat exports to the Southeast Asian nation. The mission was led by Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural affairs Luke J. Lindberg.

“Spending time with Under Secretary Lindberg during the trade mission provided a valuable opportunity to directly highlight USW’s long-standing market development, technical assistance, trade servicing and relationship-building efforts in Vietnam,” Spier said.

“This direct engagement with senior USDA leadership helps ensure alignment between policy priorities and commercial realities, reinforces the importance of continued investment in overseas market development and, ultimately, supports increased export demand and improved returns for US wheat farmers.”

Vietnamese firms sign 20 MoUs worth $3 billion to buy US agri-goods From June 2 to 6, Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy led a delegation of nearly 50 agencies, agribusinesses, and associations to the US to boost trade and increase imports of agricultural and timber products.

US and Vietnam agree on framework to boost trade and market access The United States and Vietnam have agreed on a framework for a new trade deal designed to boost bilateral commerce and market access.

US launches trade mission to Vietnam for agricultural exports The US Department of Agriculture has launched a trade mission to Vietnam aimed at expanding market access and strengthening export opportunities for American agricultural producers.

The Asian Development Outlook April 2026, Asian Development Bank (ADB)’s flagship annual economic publication, maintains a positive outlook for Vietnam over the near term. Strong exports ahead of the US reciprocal tariff adjustments, expansionary policies, and sustained investment supported the country’s solid economic growth last year. However, evolving US trade measures, conflict in the Middle East, and broader global uncertainties could curb exports and investment inflows.

“The Vietnamese government responded swiftly to the energy supply disruptions triggered by the conflict in the Middle East,” said ADB country director for Vietnam Shantanu Chakraborty.

“Time-bound fiscal measures, including tax relief, use of the stabilisation fund, combined with flexible price adjustments and stronger supply coordination, have helped contain near-term inflationary pressures and support growth. Over the longer term, improving efficiency, diversifying energy sources, and accelerating the transition to clean energy will be critical to reducing vulnerability to future shocks.”

Downside risks remain significant. A prolonged conflict in the Middle East could disrupt flows of oil, gas and fertilisers through the Strait of Hormuz, raising shipping costs and causing delays. Together with the war in Ukraine, these developments are intensifying commodity price volatility and further straining global supply chains. Weaker growth in key trading partners could also narrow Vietnam’s trade surplus and dampen growth.

From a policy perspective, strengthening Vietnam’s corporate bond market will be essential to mobilise long-term financing beyond bank credit and support sustained investment. Enhancing transparency, ensuring consistent regulations, and broadening market participation will be key to improving investor confidence and enhancing market efficiency. If implemented effectively, ongoing reforms in this area can help position the corporate bond market as a stable source of long-term finance for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Vietnamese government sets ambitious growth and income targets for 2026 The government is targeting strong economic momentum in the medium term, with plans to accelerate growth and improve income levels as part of its post-pandemic development strategy.

Double-digit GDP growth within reach with shift to higher-value expansion Vietnam has a credible basis to pursue double-digit GDP growth, but sustaining that pace will hinge on rethinking the drivers of expansion. Hoang Van Cuong, a member of the PM Policy Advisory Council, assesses the export model, reliance on foreign investment, and the shift needed towards higher value-added growth.

Vietnam GDP projected to grow 7.4 per cent in 2026 The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office on April 6 released its annual flagship report, the ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook 2026, projecting Vietnam's GDP growth of 7.4 per cent in 2026.

Do Hong Cam, deputy head of CAAV. Photo: MoC

He said that the fuel supply for flight operations had been calculated and guaranteed to remain stable until the end of April, and to adequately serve the travel needs of the public during the peak of the holiday on April 30.

Hovever, he added that in the context of rising fuel prices, raising the ceiling on airfares was being considered.

The Ministry of Construction (MoC) has reported to the prime minister and recommended that relevant ministries and agencies study appropriate support policies. The option of adjusting and increasing the maximum price for domestic air passenger services is currently being evaluated by the MoC.

Earlier, the MoC requested the CAAV consider options for adjusting the ceiling price of domestic airfares or applying a fuel surcharge to support airlines amid rising fuel costs.

Accordingly, the specialised management agency was tasked with evaluating two options: adjusting the current ceiling price framework and applying a fuel surcharge – an additional charge outside the ceiling price. The surcharge option, in particular, needs clarification regarding its legal basis, issuing authority, and calculation.

In addition, the CAAV is reviewing the current ticket price framework, assessing the operational situation of airlines after the implementation of support policies, and analysing the advantages of each option and its impact on the consumer price index. Another key aspect is to clearly determine whether the proposed surcharge includes VAT.

The MoC has also requested coordination with airport businesses and air traffic control service providers to develop a plan to reduce landing, takeoff, and air traffic control service fees.

Expensive airfares force travellers to rethink holiday plans Destinations near big cities that can be reached by car have become the priority choice for many travellers during the upcoming holiday season due to soaring airline ticket prices.

Surging costs and fleet changes drive Vietnam's airfares up in 2024 The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has reported a notable increase in the average cost of economy class airfares across various routes operated by Vietnamese airlines in 2024, inclusive of taxes and fees.

Ministry of Transport orders measures to lower domestic airfares The Ministry of Transport has ordered better control and management of airfares from State agencies, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the Transport Development and Strategy Institute (TDSI) and the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV).

The “Vietnam Food & Beverage Market Report 2025” is based on research involving over 3,000 restaurants/cafés and 3,000 diners nationwide.

In 2026, Vietnam's F&B market is forecast to maintain a stable growth rate of 4.6 per cent, shifting from rapid growth to substantive development. Rather than opening new outlets following trends, F&B companies will pursue well-structured operating models with effective cost control and clear business thinking.

In 2025, Vietnam’s F&B market experienced a slower and more stable development. By the end of 2025, the total number of F&B outlets in Vietnam was estimated at 329,500, representing a 2 per cent increase on-year.

Total F&B industry revenue in 2025 reached approximately $27.94 billion, up 5.5 per cent compared to 2024. Despite rapid development in the past, the growth rate is more limited recently, but consumer spending is not declining.

The survey shows that 65.58 per cent of companies reported stable or growing revenue compared to 2024. However, 69.38 per cent faced mounting pressure from rising raw material costs.

Meanwhile, 57.11 per cent expressed concerns over electronic invoicing, standardised tax declarations, and compliance with labour obligations. These are increasingly viewed as necessary “maturity” costs, helping to filter out unsustainable models and steer the market towards a more professional and equitable business environment.

Consumers are becoming more selective and pragmatic in their spending. They are willing to spend on worthwhile experiences rather than tightening their belts. In the beverage sector, 57.58 per cent of consumers now prefer drinks priced above $1.35, indicating the growing demand for experiences and space.

A series of food safety scandals in 2025 has led to lower consumer trust. Notably, the Halong Canfoco incident drew attention to Vietnam's F&B market last year. 54.45 per cent of consumers said the incident affected their purchasing decisions. This was followed by the Streptococcus suis infection (41.77 per cent) and bread-related food poisoning.

In the wake of these crises, Vietnamese consumers have developed a new mindset. They no longer trust flashy advertising, relying instead on what they can directly observe at the point of sale.

To rebuild trust, factors such as clean and well-maintained premises, transparent display of food safety certifications, and overall hygiene standards have become decisive benchmarks. This shift is turning operational transparency into a core competitive advantage, enabling F&B companies to recover and thrive after a crisis of confidence.

Vietnam’s F&B market entering more mature phase Our review of industry data indicates that by 2024, Vietnam had around 323,000 active food and beverage (F&B) establishments generating nearly $28.1 billion in revenues, up 16.6 per cent from 2023.

Over 50,000 F&B outlets close in first half of 2025 Vietnam's food and beverage (F&B) sector saw over 50,000 outlets close in the first half of 2025, signalling ongoing volatility in the market.

F&B brands face long-term struggle A raft of food and beverage brands are shutting their doors amid a challenging economic environment.

The contract covers engineering and procurement services, site assistance, and the supply of proprietary burners for the plant’s cracking furnaces. The project will convert the existing steam cracker from naphtha to ethane feedstock using Technip Energies’ proprietary ethylene technologies, including its Ultra Selective Conversion furnace design and Heat-Integrated Rectifier System, delivering high selectivity, enhanced energy efficiency and optimised ethylene recovery.

This initiative will introduce ethane into the existing naphtha and propane feedstock mix, with the aim of improving efficiency, reducing costs, lowering carbon intensity, and strengthening resilience amid global market volatility. The project is among the first in recent years to convert a naphtha-based steam cracker to ethane, reflecting a broader shift among petrochemical producers toward more diversified and lower-carbon feedstocks to support supply security.

As steam crackers are at the heart of petrochemical complexes, improvements in feedstock flexibility can have a significant impact on the overall value chain. They transform hydrocarbon feedstocks such as naphtha, liquefied petroleum gas or ethane into essential building blocks like ethylene and propylene. These molecules are used to manufacture everyday products including plastics, packaging materials, textiles and components for consumer goods.

This new project builds on the long-standing collaboration between Technip Energies and Long Son Petrochemicals. Technip Energies previously delivered the engineering, procurement and construction of the complex’s cracker unit between 2018 and 2023.

Stéphane Mespoulhès, senior vice president of Ethylene, Polyolefins & Fertilisers Product Line at Technip Energies, commented, "We are pleased to be entrusted again by Long Son Petrochemicals in the development of this strategic complex."

"This renewed trust builds on the successful delivery of the original cracker, and this new initiative demonstrates how our ethylene technologies and execution capabilities can help clients adapt their facilities to evolving market dynamics while enhancing flexibility and competitiveness."

Long Son Petrochemicals expected to start commercial operations in August The Long Son Petrochemicals (LSP) complex, which is wholly owned by SCG Chemicals Public Company Limited (SCGC) under SCG, is expected to commence commercial operations in August.

Long Son Petrochemicals complex put into commercial operation Long Son Petrochemicals (LSP), a subsidiary of SCG Chemicals (SCGC) and a member of SCG Group, announced the start of commercial operations at Vietnam’s first integrated petrochemical complex on September 30.

Long Son Petrochemicals resumes full operations at integrated petrochemical complex Long Son Petrochemicals (LSP) resumed full operations at its integrated petrochemical complex on August 21, supported by improved operating margins following recent declines in crude oil prices.

On April 8, Ho Chi Minh City Export Processing Zones and Industrial Parks Management Authority (Hepza) held a conference on 'strengthening the leadership role of the party committee in administrative reform, digital transformation, and enhancing the competitiveness of departments at the provincial level.'

According to the latest regulations, investors may choose to register their investment under the special investment procedure for projects in industrial parks, export processing zones, and high-tech zones.

“Regarding the process of issuing investment registration certificates under the special investment procedure, investors will submit one set of documents to Hepza. Within 15 days of receiving the documents, the agency will evaluate the documents and issue the investment registration certificate. As the project is implemented under the special investment procedure, the investor is responsible for the contents of the documents,” Nguyen Thanh Binh, head of the Division of Construction and Planning at Hepza, spoke at the conference.

“Hepza will strengthen inspection and supervision of the entire implementation process to promptly notify and handle any arising issues. In addition, the management of construction order, environmental protection, and fire safety, strict inspections and monitoring will be implemented to prevent the occurrence of unauthorised or illegal constructions, as well as prolonged violation.,”

In addition, Hepza will utilise the application of IT, building a data system to serve the management of industrial parks and export processing zones, especially in the fields of environment, planning, construction, and fire safety.

Hepza aims to process 100 per cent of applications on time this year, eliminating delays while expanding end-to-end online public services and increasing digitalisation and data reuse in administrative procedures.

To achieve this, it will streamline internal processes to align actual handling with system updates, clarify the role of the document management unit, particularly in digitalisation, issuance, and result attachment, and strengthen monitoring of application progress to ensure accurate tracking of completion times.

In addition, digitalisation is carried out throughout the entire process from receiving applications to delivering results, and data is standardised for reuse.

“Hepza identifies administrative reform as a key factor in the goal of attracting $4.25 billion in investment into industrial parks and export processing zones this year,” Binh said.

HEPZA proposes 30 per cent slash on CIT to relieve burden on businesses Ho Chi Minh City Export Processing Zone and Industrial Zones Authority (HEPZA) has made a number of proposals to the municipal People’s Committee to support businesses and workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, including reducing corporate income tax (CIT).

Vietnam eases policy approval requirements, simplifies foreign and outbound investments The amended Law on Investment, passed by the National Assembly on the morning of December 11, introduces remarkable changes to investment procedures, particularly those related to investment policy approval, procedures for foreign investors, and the management of foreign investment activities.

Unlocking capital flows for strategic and suitable projects The new Law on Investment, which was approved by the National Assembly in December, focuses on increasing decentralisation, standardising authority and procedures, and promoting the shift from pre-inspection to post-inspection, among others, helping to unlock quality capital influx.

Law on Investment takes effect The amended Law on Investment takes effect from March 1, aimed at reducing conditional business lines, shifting towards post-audit management, and enhancing business autonomy.

It predicts the market will continue to show a clear differentiation between segments and regions. Demand is forecast to focus on affordable housing, reasonably priced apartments in major cities, as well as land plots in areas with integrated infrastructure.

Talking about the market performance in the first months of 2026, Hoang Thu Hang, deputy head of the MoC’s Department of Housing and Real Estate Market Management said that the real estate market in the first few months of the year showed many noteworthy signs, especially in the supply of projects.

Illustration photo: MoC

In the first quarter, 51 real estate projects nationwide received investment approval, with a total investment of approximately VND628.07 trillion ($25.12 billion). Of these, commercial housing projects accounted for the largest proportion, with 39 projects. In addition, four land infrastructure projects and eight tourism and resort real estate projects were approved.

Those in the implementation phase, there are 1,195 projects under construction with a scale of over 564,000 units and land plots. Of these, commercial housing accounts for the majority, with 825 projects. Land plot and resort real estate projects also continue to be implemented, but on a limited scale.

Notably, the number of completed projects in the quarter reached 42, comprising nearly 7,900 units, mostly commercial housing. Compared to the same period last year, the number of completed projects increased significantly, improving the supply after a period of stagnation.

In addition, there are 74 projects eligible to sell housing units in the nearly future, totalling over 34,000 units. This contributes to increasing the market supply, especially in the commercial housing segment.

Regarding social housing, the country currently has 737 ongoing projects with a scale of over 701,000 units, reaching approximately 70.1 per cent of the country’s target of having one million social housing units by 2030. However, in the first quarter alone, the implementation progress was slow.

In terms of transaction, the real estate market in the first quarter recorded approximately 115,650 successful transactions, a decrease compared to the previous quarter and the same period in 2025. Of these, the apartment and detached house segment had over 25,600 transactions, while land plots accounted for the majority with nearly 90,000 ones.

The MoC representative shared that the decrease in trading volume indicates that the market is still in the process of correction and has not yet experienced a strong, widespread recovery.

However, overall real estate prices have not decreased. According to the MoC, real estate prices in localities are stable and remain at a high level. Some localities recorded a slight increase compared to the previous quarter, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Khanh Hoa, which increased by about 2 per cent, while Danang and Dong Nai increased by over 1 per cent.

The ministry plans to continue to review and improve legal regulations related to housing and real estate business, while encouraging the development of social housing and building a more transparent market data system.

Vietnam shifts into new real estate cycle A new real estate cycle is taking shape in Vietnam, driven by tighter capital, regulatory reform and shifting buyer behaviour, writes Jerry Nguyen, a board member and deputy general director of Investment and International Market Development at Hoa Binh Group.

Vietnam's real estate market active but cautious Vietnam’s property market is expected to remain active this year, with housing demand continuing to underpin growth despite a more cautious investment climate.

Vietnam moves to improve housing and real estate market Vietnam is amending the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate to create a more favourable, transparent market.

Capital is reshaping Vietnam’s real estate sector Rather than collapsing, Vietnam’s property market is undergoing a quiet but profound shift in which access to capital, not demand, is determining who survives. Jerry Nguyen, a board member and deputy general director of Investment and International Market Development at Hoa Binh Group, delves into the situation.

According to Liney Weishappel, CEO and co-founder of AllMadeViet, to meet green requirements in food production, businesses need to build their production systems around four key pillars: ensuring quality and safety, maintaining transparent traceability, managing environmental impact, and adhering to social ethics.

At the same time, enterprises should adopt a six-step roadmap, including identifying target markets, standardising requirements, assessing current conditions, prioritising resources, implementing cost-optimised solutions, and strengthening collaboration with specialised organisations.

“If implemented systematically, the green transition will not significantly increase costs; on the contrary, it can help businesses optimise operations and improve overall efficiency,” she said.

Beyond technical factors, Weishappel also emphasised the critical role of leadership mindset.

“Green transformation cannot succeed if businesses continue to take a short-term approach focused solely on pricing. Instead, they need to move towards building long-term strategic partnerships based on real value and trust,” she said.

In addition, international trade promotion activities should be carried out in a coordinated manner rather than on an individual basis. Enterprises should engage in broader ecosystems, leveraging support from government agencies, trade promotion organisations, and industry associations to enhance market access opportunities.

According to international reports, the global healthy food market is projected to exceed $860 billion in 2026, with an annual growth rate of over 10 per cent.

At the same time, major markets such as the EU, the United States, and Japan are continuously tightening regulations related to food safety, traceability, packaging, and emissions control across supply chains. These requirements are compelling businesses to shift towards more sustainable production and business models if they aim to maintain and expand their market share.

Ho Thi Quyen, deputy director of Investment and Trade Promotion Centre of Ho Chi Minh City, emphasised that 2026 marks a turning point, as green standards and transparency are becoming mandatory conditions for entering international markets.

“This presents a strategic opportunity for Vietnamese enterprises to reposition their role in the global value chain, moving away from cost-based competition towards competing on quality, value, and credibility, ultimately working towards establishing a ‘green passport’ for their products,” she said.

F&B businesses are currently facing three major pressures. First is the shift in consumer behaviour, with more than 70 per cent of customers willing to pay a premium for environmentally friendly products. Second is the increasingly stringent sustainability criteria imposed by international distribution systems. Third is the growing body of mandatory regulations related to traceability and emissions control.

“However, the sector’s value-added remains largely concentrated in the mid-range segment, with limited deep processing. This means many businesses have yet to fully unlock their potential to enhance product value. Therefore, investing in standards, improving quality, and building strong brands is not only an immediate requirement but also a long-term strategy,” Quyen said.

“Notably, international partners today are no longer seeking the lowest-cost suppliers, but instead prioritising those with stable operations, transparency, and a willingness to improve. This is the time for Vietnamese enterprises to shift from price-based competition to competing on quality, value, and credibility, the core foundation for establishing a ‘green passport’ for their products,” she added.

Vietnam’s agro-forestry-fishery exports earned $70 billion in 2025, surpassing the $65-billion target, heard a conference held on December 31 reviewing the performance of the agriculture and environment sector in 2025 and outlining tasks for 2026. The sector recorded a trade surplus of over $20 billion.

Hoang Van Viet, chairman of the Global Intellectual Business Association, said that the biggest limitation at present is that the share of value-added remains disproportionate to the sector’s potential.

“The core issue does not lie in product quality, but in transparency and governance systems. Businesses need to shift from a ‘good product’ mindset to a ‘good system’ approach, meaning not only creating high-quality products, but also building operational systems that meet international standards,” Viet said.

He also emphasised that there is no single ‘best’ certification, only those that align with each enterprise’s development strategy. Certification should not be viewed merely as an administrative procedure, but as a system of trust that validates products and enhances their value in international markets.

F&B could witness year of transition The food and beverage market in Vietnam is predicted to experience a strong wave of innovation. Nguyen Thai Duong, marketing director at iPOS.vn spoke with VIR’s Oanh Do about the prominent trends in the industry and new prospects for businesses.

US investors see potential in Vietnam’s F&B market For investors, Vietnam’s food processing and food/beverage industries offer wide prospects for American companies. US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper spoke with VIR’s Duc Hanh about potential cooperation between suppliers and investors on both sides.

Vibrant Vietnamese cuisine fit for global tastes As more and more people search high and low for new experiences when it comes to Vietnamese food, luxurious hotels and resorts around the country have highlighted some traditional dishes from their signature menus to serve high-end guests. International hoteliers shared with VIR’s Nhat Ha their insights and priority to support the local art of cuisine.

Illustration photo: CAAV

During this period, the market accommodated 392,480 tonnes of cargo, up 19.2 per cent on-year.

Specifically, domestic transport reached 10.2 million passengers and 56,450 tonnes of cargo, a 12.6 per cent increase in passengers and down 6 per cent in cargo compared to the same period in 2025.

Meanwhile, international transport reached 13.99 million passengers and 336,030 tonnes of cargo, a 19.4 per cent increase in passengers and a 24.8 per cent increase in cargo compared to the same period in 2025.

The largest international tourist markets for Vietnam include China, South Korea, Russia, Taiwan, Japan, the United States, India, Australia, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

In the first quarter of 2026, the CAAV implemented several key solutions to support airlines in enhancing their operations to meet increasing travel demands; supporting and facilitating Vietnamese airlines in leasing/purchasing aircraft, strengthening their air transport capacity, as well as monitoring booking and reservation situations on domestic flights to assess and forecast market demand and consider and propose that airlines add flights in accordance with their operating capacity, maximising the fulfilment of people's travel needs.

In the context of complex and unpredictable international developments directly and indirectly impacting international civil aviation transport, especially in the Middle East, the CAAV has promptly directed the implementation of solutions to ensure transport operations and aviation safety amid conflict and crisis response; including supporting and facilitating Vietnamese and foreign airlines to adjust their flight schedules accordingly.

In addition, the CAAV continuously monitors and works with relevant units, promptly reporting and proposing effective solutions to the Ministry of Construction to minimise the impact of rising fuel prices.

E-identification used for domestic air passengers from August 2 The e-identification app VNeID was put into official operation for passengers on domestic flights at all airports from August 2 after a two-month pilot period, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV).

Vietnam's aviation industry posts growth of nearly 42 per cent The domestic air passenger transport market has experienced a strong recovery, with an annual growth of 41.8 per cent recorded in the first seven months of 2023, announced the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV).

Biometric authentication continues to be applied for air passengers The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) on December 25 issued a written report to the Ministry of Transport asking for its approval of the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV)’s proposal to continue applying biometric authentication for air passengers.

As Vietnam tightens its legal framework on data protection and cyber threats grow more sophisticated, foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) are facing mounting pressure on two fronts: safeguarding critical data and complying with increasingly stringent regulations.

These challenges were at the centre of a forum on personal data protection held in Hanoi on April 10.

According to the National Cybersecurity Association, around 52 per cent of businesses in Vietnam experienced cyberattacks in 2025. Even organisations with relatively strong security systems have not been immune.

For FIEs, the risks are particularly acute due to the high-value nature of their data, including R&D materials, technical designs, customer information, and supply chain data. Cross-border data transfers between Vietnamese subsidiaries and parent companies further increase exposure, creating potential vulnerabilities for data breaches.

At the same time, Vietnam’s regulatory environment is becoming more rigorous. Decree No.13/2023/ND-CP and related regulations require companies not only to protect personal data but also to demonstrate full control over how data is collected, processed, and transferred. Violations can lead to fines of up to VND3 billion ($120,000) or 5 per cent of annual revenue.

Experts at the forum highlighted that traditional cybersecurity models, focused primarily on preventing external attacks, are no longer sufficient.

“The internet is like the human immune system,” said Kumagai from Japan's DDS Inc. “Natural antibodies or vaccines can only defend against known viruses, not new variants. Meanwhile, around 120 million new malware strains are created every day. This means perimeter defences such as firewalls and antivirus systems, while necessary, are no longer enough.”

Nguyen Dinh Do Thi from the A05 Department under Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security

According to Nguyen Dinh Do Thi from the A05 Department under Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security, the scale of data theft and personal data violations in Vietnam has grown increasingly alarming.

“In recent years, large volumes of Vietnamese citizens’ data have been openly advertised for sale on both public and underground forums,” he said. “In many cases, these datasets are not raw, they are already processed, categorised, and segmented by sectors such as finance, banking, education, and healthcare, making them even more valuable to buyers.”

He noted that some organisations and individuals have gone further, using specialised tools and software to harvest or illegally exploit user data.

“Between 2023 and 2025, authorities uncovered more than 30 cases involving the illegal trading and theft of personal data,” he said. “The volume of compromised data is substantial, around 160 million data files spanning sectors from healthcare and education to banking, finance, energy, insurance, and telecommunications.”

The rapid adoption of smart devices is also adding new layers of risk. Internet-connected devices such as surveillance cameras or smart TVs equipped with cameras can become entry points for cybercriminals if not properly secured.

“These devices are useful for monitoring homes and managing assets, but without adequate protection, they can be exploited to access and steal personal data,” he said. “Once obtained, such data can be used for a wide range of illegal purposes.”

He also highlighted the growing sophistication of cybercrime, noting that attackers are increasingly developing customised software specifically designed to extract data from websites and social media platforms.

“Personal data has effectively become a ‘new gold mine’ for cybercriminals,” he said. “Our investigations show that in many cases, offenders already possess detailed personal information about their targets before carrying out cyberattacks. More than 30 types of high-tech crimes now rely on pre-collected personal data.”

Kumagai from Japan's DDS Inc.

As data becomes a core asset, businesses must adopt a more comprehensive approach by adding a “last line of defence,” controlling and preventing data leakage at the point where data exits the system.

This shift reflects a broader trend seen in more mature markets. “In Japan, companies have moved from a defensive mindset to managing the entire data lifecycle,” Kumagai from Japan's DDS Inc. added. “Attacks today are no longer just about system intrusion, they are about data exfiltration.”

One of the most significant gaps identified among businesses in Vietnam is the lack of control over outbound data flows when information leaves internal systems.

Addressing this issue, some solutions have been introduced at the forum to monitor and control data at the exit point like F-DDH BOX. Unlike traditional security systems that focus on blocking unauthorised access from outside, the solution tracks internal data movement, detects abnormal connections, provides real-time alerts, and can prevent data leakage even if a system has already been compromised.

“Most companies invest heavily in firewalls and antivirus tools to stop external attacks, but lack mechanisms to control data once it is inside the system,” said Nguyen Hung Son, vice chairman of FSI Investment Trading and Technology Development JSC. “This is a critical blind spot that many organisations have yet to fully recognise.”

Experts agreed that as cyber risks intensify and compliance obligations expand, deeper layers of data control are becoming essential rather than optional.

Beyond technology, businesses are being urged to rethink their overall approach, shifting from “preventing attacks” to “comprehensive data governance,” combining technical solutions with internal processes and management frameworks.

In an increasingly complex digital environment, such a transition is seen as critical not only for protecting sensitive information, but also for ensuring operational resilience and long-term sustainability.

Manifesting the first line of defence in cybersecurity Vietnam is undergoing a critical transformation in information security. With the rapid pace of digital transformation, including the expansion of e-government and other aspects, the nation’s attack surface is widening, increasing security risks.

Is our security becoming a battle of AIs? From the battlefield to the data center, artificial intelligence (AI) may become the dominant factor in determining the outcome of any conflict. Jim Richberg, head of Cyber ​​Policy and Global Field CISO, delves into this matter.

Vietnamese businesses step up plans for cybersecurity centres More than 80 per cent of Vietnamese businesses are considering setting up security operations centres (SOCs) to strengthen their cybersecurity capabilities, according to a recent survey by Kaspersky.

According to the Tax Department, the company falls within the group of enterprises reporting prolonged losses and thin margins, which have been prioritised for specialised inspections under Official Letter No.1927/CT-KT-TK dated March 31, 2026.

The directive requires tax authorities to intensify monitoring of such businesses, focusing on the accuracy and completeness of tax declarations, as well as potential irregularities in financial reporting. Enterprises included in the list will be subject to risk-based assessment, data review, and, where necessary, on-site inspections.

As part of the inspection framework, local authorities are expected to examine factors including cost structures, related-party transactions, and revenue recognition practices, particularly in cases where financial performance does not align with operational scale.

The inclusion of AB InBev Vietnam in the inspection list reflects the tax authority’s broader focus on large-scale enterprises with sustained loss-making positions, amid concerns over potential risks of tax base erosion and misreporting. Under the 2026 inspection plan, tax agencies are required to complete detailed reviews and report outcomes, including any additional tax liabilities and penalties, by the end of the year.

Anheuser-Busch Inbev Vietnam is a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world’s largest brewer, which owns global brands such as Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois.

In Vietnam, the company operates in the premium and super-premium beer segments, focusing on major urban centres and modern trade channels. The market is classified by the parent group as a long-term growth market in Asia, alongside China and India, according to its annual report. The group’s annual report does not provide a separate breakdown of financial performance for Vietnam, with the market included within its broader Asia-Pacific segment.

This contrasts with the group’s global performance, where growth has been supported by premiumisation and pricing rather than volume expansion. This comes as the group’s global growth has been driven primarily by premiumisation and pricing, rather than volume expansion, with revenue per hectolitre increasing and volumes declining by around 2.3 per cent in 2025, according to Anheuser-Busch InBev’s full-year results.

Anheuser-Busch Inbev Vietnam, which operates two breweries in Vietnam, marked its 10^th year in the market in 2025.

The committee stated that the province has just submitted a report on the implementation of several power grid projects in Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone.

As of March 30, the 110kV Phu Quoc - South Phu Quoc power line project has a total length of over 19km (79 tower locations), and the land area to be acquired for this initiative is over 37,700 square metres. The locality handed over the land for 70 out of 79 towers.

The Phu Quoc - North Phu Quoc 110kV power line project has a length of nearly 20km (75 tower locations), with a land area of ​​over 13,000 sq.m. To date, only 19 out of 75 towers have been handed over.

The Phu Quoc 220kV substation undertaking has a land area of ​​over 49,500 sq.m. The local authorities completed the handover of 4.6ha of forest land and finalised the land compensation plan for 12 affected households.

Along with the achievements, the above projects still face some difficulties, such as the long power line route, which significantly affects organisations and households; the extensive field surveying and mapping work, while the land clearance workforce is limited.

Some households have not yet agreed to hand over their land. At the same time, the local authorities have not been able to review, adjust, and update land use changes on time, leading to many complications.

The An Giang provincial leadership has requested the government consider applying a special mechanism for implementing certain measures to expedite the project serving APEC 2027.

The province has committed to ensure the progress of land clearance by the deadline and to resolve any obstacles. The locality will coordinate with the electricity sector and relevant units to complete the projects on schedule to provide electricity to the island and welcome APEC 2027.

Long Thanh Airport at risk of delays due to slow land clearance Long Thanh International Airport is facing a very real risk of falling behind its construction schedule as land clearance and relocation is only half completed against the deadline at the end of June.

Dak Nong to accelerate land clearance for wind power projects Dak Nong People’s Committee has promised to thoroughly deal with bottlenecks in land clearance to unlock wind power project development.

$1.8 billion Quang Trach power plant faces land clearance issues Quang Trach 1 thermal power plant, which is invested by EVN, is facing difficulties in land clearance.

Dong Nai hands over ground-phase 1 to develop Long Thanh International Airport On August 25, Long Thanh People’s Committee organised a ceremony to hand over ground-phase 1 for the construction of Long Thanh International Airport and the two road routes connecting the T1 and T2 terminals, to investors.

Land clearance for $2 billion Thai Binh LNG power plant set for completion in January 2025 Thai Binh authorities are working with the investor to complete site clearance for a $2 billion LNG power plant in the northern province by January 2025.

Opening remarks by Sarah Hooper, Australia’s consul general in Ho Chi Minh City

“Current disruptions in energy supplies and shifting global trade requirements are reshaping industrial sectors faster than anticipated,” Hooper said. “This presents a unique prospect for Australian financiers to partner with the country in its next development phase.”

Vietnam currently ranks among the top 20 global economies for trade volume and foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction, with a strategic vision to achieve high-income status by 2045.

To reach its net-zero commitments, Can Van Luc, member of the Policy Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, noted that the country required an estimated $368 billion for climate-related action, placing significant pressure on the private sector to adapt to increasingly stringent global market standards.

Prof. Andrew Blakers of the Australian National University, co-inventor of the PERC solar cell, argued that the single most important step for the nation was deregulating the market to allow private capital to flow freely into rooftop solar.

“It unleashes millions of private panels and allows the energy transition to take off quickly while scaling up,” said Blakers, noting that Vietnam was starting from a position of advantage because it is a few years behind Australia, the costs of solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries have fallen substantially, making the path forward both technically straightforward and more affordable.

On energy storage, Blakers said Vietnam had approximately 6,000 potential off-river pumped hydro sites, of which it needed only six to 12.

Pham Tien Dac from the Strategy Department at the Vietnam International Financial Centre (VIFC), said the scale of the net-zero financing needs made green finance one of the VIFC’s most critical focal areas. He noted that VIFC had built a range of investor-friendly measures into its framework.

“Overseas funders can choose their own arbitration methods, receive an enterprise registration certificate in as little as five to seven days, and access a 10 per cent corporate income tax rate for 10 years on priority sector projects. We are also developing dedicated carbon and green credit trading platforms to ensure transparent pricing,” he said.

The forum brought together representatives from the government, businesses, investors, and research institutes of both countries

However, the gap between high-level policy and on-the-ground readiness drew pointed commentary from the private sector.

Ellen Van, investment director at fund manager Mekong Capital, acknowledged that the nation consistently ranked at the top of international backer watch lists, yet much of that capital had not been deployed.

“Overseas financiers are cautious because there is often a disconnect between their high-level strategies and the realities on the ground,” Van said.

"Companies seeking private equity must come prepared with financial transparency, proper audits, and data-backed ESG claims," she added, noting that the industry needed to rid itself of jargon that creates a communication barrier between funders and businesses.

Nguyen Quang Thuan, executive chairman and CEO of credit rating agency FiinRatings, urged businesses not to treat the green transition as a public relations exercise.

“View the green transition as a long-term strategic initiative rather than a short-term operating expense,” he said.

Thuan cautioned that owning a green asset did not automatically guarantee cheaper borrowing, as financial providers price on risk-adjusted terms.

He pointed to transition finance, which includes incremental improvements such as more efficient industrial heating systems, as a legitimate and underutilised pathway for manufacturers not yet positioned to pursue fully green projects.

“International backers expect VIFC to deliver on four fronts: clear tax incentives, well-defined legal frameworks, alignment with common law, and, most critically, free capital control,” Thuan said.

Academic-policy network planned to support VIFC development Vietnam is working to establish a nationally recognised academic-policy forum in finance, aimed at strengthening policy advisory capacity and supporting the development of its International Financial Centre.

Vietnam-US forum advances strategic technology collaboration A high-level innovation and investment forum in California has strengthened Vietnam's push to become a key node in global technology supply chains.

Vietnam’s green push requires further hurdles to clear Vietnam’s energy transition is entering a decisive phase, where ambition is rapidly giving way to the harder realities of execution, bankability, and scale.

The agreements bring these partners into Vietnam Prosperity Crypto Asset Exchange JSC (CAEX) alongside founding shareholders VPBankS and LynkiD.

Together with other shareholders, OKX Ventures and HashKey Capital will contribute funds to CAEX in April so that it can meet minimum capital requirements of VND10 trillion ($380 million) to participate in Vietnam's pilot programme for regulated cryptoasset trading.

The partnership brings together Vietnamese financial and technology expertise and global crypto capabilities to support CAEX's growth and compliance.

As strategic partners and shareholders, HashKey and OKX Ventures will explore collaboration with CAEX on technical infrastructure, security systems, compliance, and risk management, as well as liquidity connectivity in line with applicable laws and regulations.

VPBank Securities (VPBankS), a Vietnamese financial institution and part of the VPBank ecosystem, is a founding shareholder and key strategic partner of CAEX, and contributes financial strength, governance, and investment expertise to the exchange.

LynkiD, a technology partner within the VPBank ecosystem, is also a founding shareholder of CAEX, and supports digital identity, user experience, and core platform infrastructure to ensure secure, fast, and seamless operations for the firm.

Nguyen Hong Trung, chairman and CEO of CAEX said, “We believe the cooperation with OKX Ventures and HashKey will enable CAEX to access and operate a cryptoasset trading platform in line with international standards. CAEX is committed to building a transparent, secure, and accessible exchange where every investor can participate, unlock opportunities, and enjoy a dynamic experience in the era of digital assets.”

Netero Dai, vice president of OKX Global Markets said, "Vietnam is one of the most dynamic markets for digital assets, with strong user adoption and a clear move towards a regulated framework. Our partnership with CAEX reflects our mission to create a safe, trusted environment for people to transact with crypto. We’re proud to support the development of a secure and compliant platform for Vietnam’s growing digital asset community.”

Haiyang Ru, CEO of the HashKey Exchange Business Group said, “Vietnam is one of the most vibrant and high-potential markets in Asia. These conditions create an ideal environment for the next generation of fully licensed cryptoasset enterprises. We are honored to partner with CAEX to share our long-term vision of compliance, transparency, sustainability, and market-wide trust.”

CAEX was established to become a leading cryptoasset trading platform and expand access to compliant, modern investment channels for Vietnamese investors. The company plays a strategic role within VPBank’s ecosystem in serving a broad range of customer financial needs.

Sandbox for crypto assets in Vietnam: if not now, when? Vietnam has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic cryptocurrency markets. According to various reports, the country has consistently recorded over $100 billion in annual crypto inflows from 2022 to 2024, surpassing its foreign direct investment multiple times.

New chapter arrives for digital asset firms Opportunities for international collaboration and attractive growth potential have turned the Vietnamese cryptocurrency market into a vibrant playground.

MoF to launch pilot framework to regulate crypto market The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is developing a licensing framework to regulate cryptoasset exchanges, marking a key step towards bringing this emerging sector under official supervision in Vietnam.

The collaboration is expected to leverage the combined strengths in technology, expert workforce, product-service ecosystems, and global partner networks of both parties to effectively capture opportunities in Japan and the ASEAN region.

Under the agreement, FPT and CAC Holdings will establish UPSTRIDE JSC in Tokyo, Japan, with CAC Holdings and FPT holding 51 per cent and 49 per cent stake, respectively.

FPT and CAC Holdings establish UPSTRIDE JSC to drive regional digital transformation.

This model maximises the complementary strengths between FPT’s deep technological capabilities and large-scale engineering resources, and CAC Holdings’ more than 60 years of experience in the Japanese market.

UPSTRIDE will focus on three strategic pillars: expanding and commercialising FPT’s products and solutions in Japan; building and delivering comprehensive IT infrastructure services (including operations, monitoring, and technical support) leveraging combined resources from Vietnam and Japan; and developing new areas such as GPU cloud services and semiconductor-related businesses, aligned with FPT’s long-term technology strategy.

Ryota Nishimori, president and representative director of CAC Holdings, described UPSTRIDE as a ‘global circulation of technology and talent'

Ryota Nishimori, president and representative director of CAC Holdings Corporation, expressed pleasure over the establishment of the joint venture in partnership with FPT Corporation.

"Over the past 60 years, the CAC Group has built a strong technological foundation and customer base in Japan’s IT market. This joint venture represents a ‘global circulation of technology and talent,’ combining our accumulated business expertise with FPT Group’s strength in its abundant IT human resources. With the aspiration embodied in the name ‘UPSTRIDE,’ we look forward to working together with the FPT to create new value,” he said.

Nguyen Van Khoa, CEO of FPT Corporation, expressed his expectations for their deal

Nguyen Van Khoa, CEO of FPT Corporation, stated that after more than two decades of presence in Japan, FPT had become one of the largest foreign-invested technology enterprises in the market, affirming its pioneering position in Japan’s technology value chain.

“I believe that with our capabilities in research, development, and mastery of strategic technologies, the Made-by-FPT ecosystem addressing diverse digital transformation needs across key sectors, combined with CAC Holdings’ deep understanding of the Japanese market and global partner network, we will jointly deliver internationally standardised technology products and services to Japan and ASEAN,” he said.

The partnership between FPT and CAC Holdings aims to meet the growing demand for digital transformation in Japan and ASEAN.

According to Mordor Intelligence, Japan’s digital transformation market is projected to reach $236.48 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 24.9 per cent from 2025-2030.

As IT systems become increasingly complex, Japanese businesses are shifting from self-operated models to managed services to ensure performance, security, and cost optimisation.

At the same time, Japan considers semiconductors a strategic pillar of its digital economy and technological security.

The Japanese government aims to increase domestic chip revenue to approximately $250 billion by 2040, multiple times its current level, to meet growing demand from AI, data centres, and smart automotive industries.

Meanwhile, IT infrastructure management services, semiconductor ecosystem development, and AI are among FPT’s core strengths.

In IMS, FPT provides end-to-end monitoring and management services across IT infrastructure, application platforms, and information security, serving hundreds of large enterprises and multinational clients in Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, China, and the United States.

In response to cloud computing trends, FPT has also launched Cloud Managed Services to help businesses build secure, internationally standardised cloud operating platforms.

FPT has established two AI factories in Vietnam and Japan. The ‘Made by FPT’ AI ecosystem currently includes more than 80 products.

In semiconductors, FPT has over a decade of experience, developing a comprehensive ecosystem covering design, packaging, testing, and training, with a focus on power and power management chips.

At the end of 2025, FPT delivered its first commercial batch of power chips to a leading Japanese electronics company through Restar, a major electronics distributor in Japan.

Recently, FPT also established Vietnam’s first semiconductor testing and packaging factory, fully operated by Vietnamese engineers.

Founded in 1966, CAC Holdings is a leading technology group in Japan with 22 member companies and nearly 5,000 employees. The company has expanded internationally to markets including the United States, Europe, China, and across Asia.

FPT is a global technology corporation, actively investing in five strategic technologies: Quantum AI, cybersecurity, UAV, data, and railway technologies.

In 2025, FPT recorded revenue of $2.66 billion, with over 54,000 employees across 30 countries and territories. In Japan, FPT currently has 5,000 employees working at 18 offices and R&D centres nationwide, along with more than 15,000 global experts dedicated to the Japanese market, providing technology services and solutions to over 450 clients.

Abbott, FPT Long Chau partner to improve Vietnam’s healthcare sector Abbott has teamed up with FPT Long Chau, a leading pharmaceutical retailer, to fight non-communicable diseases.

FPT exports first chip shipment to Japan Tech major FPT Corporation has delivered its first commercial shipment of power chips to a Japanese electronics corporation through Restar Corporation, a Japanese trading company for semiconductors and electronic components.

FPT partners with Plume for Vietnamese home Wi-Fi optimization The Vietnamese technology conglomerate integrated the American company's cloud-managed networking platform to improve residential internet service quality.

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

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

Together with two other high-profile and hugely successful medical congresses – the 41^st Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Congress in February and the 17^th Asian Congress of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in March, Hong Kong's medical science events space was off to a strong start in 2026.

Ms Marilyn Tham, General Manager of Mega Events, MICE & Cruise of the HKTB said, "Hong Kong's leading edge in medical sciences coupled with the city's world-class venues and destination appeal have enabled notable success for internationally significant medical events. CCPCC 2026 is one of the large-scale medical conventions confirmed for 2026. Such robust lineup reflects event organisers' confidence in Hong Kong as a premier hub for advancing global exchanges on medical sciences."

Over 10 medical conventions have secured a spot in Hong Kong this year, spanning diverse disciplines, from cytology to oncology, antimicrobial resistance and more (see full list below). The breadth and depth of the events reflects Hong Kong's growing appeal as the premier convention hub where global medical minds meet.

Globalising Chest Pain Leadership from Hong Kong

Held on 3-4 April 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with a concurrent venue in Shenzhen, CCPCC 2026 converged 3,000 healthcare leaders, physicians, nurses, researchers, policymakers and industry experts from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, the Belt and Road countries and beyond. The rich topics explored across two days encompassed cutting-edge healthcare innovations, AI-assisted clinical decision-making, intelligent emergency response systems and international accreditation standards.

Co-organised by Hospital Authority (HA) of Hong Kong, the National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, the Guangdong Chest Pain Centers Association, the Chinese Cardiovascular Association (CCA) and Oriental Huaxia Cardiovascular Health Research Institute (OHCHRI), Suzhou Industrial Park, CCPCC 2026 showcased conducive partnership.

Wenming Zeng, Secretary-General of OHCHRI, remarked, "The global influence of CCPCC has been growing over the years. Thanks to Hong Kong's strategic location, leading medical standing and its unique role bridging Chinese Mainland and the world, this year's congress has drawn even wider global participation, giving the event greater international significance. Hong Kong has helped showcase our event to the world, taking cardiovascular emergency intervention to a new height globally."

A Launchpad for Mainland-spearheaded International Standards

Capitalising on Hong Kong's strengths as a super-connector for fostering globalisation, CCPCC 2026 released for the first time the "International Standards on Chest Pain Center Construction and Accreditation", marking Mainland's global leadership in cutting-edge cardiovascular emergency intervention. Leveraging Hong Kong's internationalisation, the efforts to foster global policy support and implementation of the standards will contribute to fair, accessible and timely intervention for cardiovascular emergencies around the world.

Another Significant Win for HKCA Programme on its 5^th Anniversary

As a HKTB-appointed HKCA, Prof Lu Shi-Juan, who is a Member of Hainan Medical Association Cardiovascular Professional Committee, played an instrumental role in bringing CCPCC 2026 to Hong Kong. This marked the latest success story of the HKCA programme, as HKTB celebrated the programme's milestone 5^th anniversary with a HKCA Networking Cocktail Event on 31 March, 2026.

Prof Lu noted, "As a Hong Kong International Convention Ambassador, I have worked closely with the HKTB to bring CCPCC to Hong Kong, which is a gateway to the global stage. Hosting the conference here showcases how Hong Kong can elevate Mainland conferences internationally, foster cross‑border knowledge exchange and help shape the future development of the broader medical and professional community."

The HKCA programme bands together over 170 local and mainland sector leaders of 13 industries and academics to champion Hong Kong as the World's Meeting Place. Their initiative and connections have helped Hong Kong secure 50 convention wins that have brought in nearly 100,000 high-value overnight MICE visitors.

Strong Medical Events Lineup in 2026

Over 10 medical conventions will be held in 2026 across various disciplines, including ophthalmology, oncology, antimicrobial resistance and cytology.

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

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

For more information, visit www.iscacademy.sg and www.skybotssg.com.

Vietnam's Macroeconomic Resilience Amid Global Volatility

Amid global volatility, geopolitical fragmentation, and monetary tightening cycles, Vietnam has distinguished itself as a rare convergence of macroeconomic stability and long-term growth potential. International analysts now recognize the country as a strategic hub for institutional capital.

Political consistency is the bedrock of Vietnam's appeal. The country's high-growth trajectory is underpinned by strong governance coherence, with a unified government that minimizes execution risk. Over the past five years, a series of legal reforms have strengthened land valuation transparency, financial discipline, and environmental compliance. These regulatory improvements systematically align Vietnam's real estate market with international institutional standards.

Infrastructure investment serves as another structural catalyst. With public investment reaching approximately 7% of GDP, Vietnam is undertaking one of the region's most aggressive infrastructure expansion programs. Flagship projects such as Long Thanh International Airport, Cai Mep deep-sea port, and metropolitan ring roads are not merely improving connectivity, they are fundamentally reshaping spatial economics and unlocking new real estate frontiers.

Urbanization further amplifies this trajectory. Unlike many regional peers that have reached saturation, Vietnam remains in an early-to-mid stage of urban transformation, creating a sustained demand pipeline for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. From a capital markets perspective, Vietnam demonstrates stronger growth across key indicators compared to neighboring countries, with robust FDI inflows and a favorable demographic profile positioning it as a top-tier emerging market in Asia's real estate investment landscape.

Vinhomes Green Paradise (Can Gio): A New Urban Wonder of Asia

As global investor preferences shift from fragmented, single-asset developments toward integrated urban ecosystems, Vinhomes has emerged as a master developer capable of delivering internationally competitive megaprojects. At the center of this evolution is Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, a coastal development that international experts describe as unmatched in Asia.

Infrastructure plays a catalytic role in unlocking such projects. The transformation driven by Long Thanh Airport and Cai Mep Port significantly improves accessibility to Can Gio, redefining peripheral land into high-value development corridors. Vietnam's coastal real estate, long overlooked, now offers a unique opportunity to develop globally competitive destinations, provided they are master-planned and executed at scale.

The defining factor is achieving critical mass. A large-scale integrated development that combines education, healthcare, entertainment, and residential zones within a single master plan is what truly differentiates a project. This philosophy is embedded from inception in Vinhomes' development model. From an international vantage point, investors are increasingly looking for "urban wonders", destinations that act as economic engines and catalysts for regional development. Vinhomes Green Paradise is regarded as truly a wonder, featuring world-class infrastructure and amenities.

Stephen Higgins, representing Cushman & Wakefield, emphasized the project's unique positioning: "There is currently nowhere else in Asia delivering a project like Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, located adjacent to an existing major city."

When benchmarked against global icons such as Marina Bay Sands and Palm Jumeirah, the project signals Vietnam's emergence as a new frontier for landmark urban developments. In this paradigm, Vinhomes transcends the role of a conventional developer, positioning itself as a place-maker that engineers destination ecosystems, an increasingly critical concept in global real estate investment strategy.

Competitive Advantages of Scale, Pricing, and a Strategic Entry Point

A defining characteristic of Vietnam's real estate market is the rare combination of high growth potential and relatively attractive pricing at scale. With a population of 100 million and a median age of 32, ideal within the region, Vietnam benefits from a demographic dividend that underpins long-term housing demand, absorption rates, and market liquidity.

Vietnam's strategic geographic positioning near major economic hubs such as China, Singapore, and Hong Kong enhances its role within regional supply chains and capital flows. Importantly, the country can deliver world-class developments at a much more competitive price point. This pricing arbitrage creates significant upside potential as the market continues to mature and converge toward regional benchmarks.

Scale is another decisive factor. Mega-scale developments exceeding 1,000 hectares provide a rare opportunity to design entirely new urban environments. Globally, such large contiguous land parcels are increasingly scarce, making Vietnam one of the few markets capable of delivering next-generation master-planned cities. Within this landscape, Vingroup stands out as a dominant force, with Vinhomes at the forefront of executing these large-scale visions. By integrating residential, commercial, and smart-city infrastructure within a unified master plan, Vinhomes is not merely supplying real estate, it is institutionalizing a new asset class for global investors.

Highlighting the requirements for market competitiveness, Troy Griffiths from Savills stated: "Vietnam must compete through pricing, quality, and the value delivered within a master-planned estate." When these three pillars converge, real estate evolves from a transactional asset into a long-term value platform.

With global capital increasingly reallocating toward markets with structural growth and scalable opportunities, Vietnam is transitioning from an emerging destination to a strategic investment hub.

As a central figure in this transition, Vinhomes is playing a significant role in evolving Vietnam's urban landscape and elevating the nation's standing within the global real estate sector.

https://vinhomes.vn/en

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

For more information, visit www.innomotics.com

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

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

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

As the AI-driven surge in global data creation accelerates exponentially, existing archival storage systems built on magnetic tape and hard drives are reaching their economic and environmental limits. The strategic partnership between GenScript and Mimulus aims to address this challenge by architecting the world's first molecular archival storage that requires no electricity to preserve data once encoded into DNA and can store massive volumes of information for centuries.

Under the agreement, GenScript will industrialize high‑throughput DNA synthesis at scale, targeting a leap from millions to billions of oligonucleotides synthesized in parallel on a single chip. Building on its highly-validated manufacturing platform, currently capable of synthesizing 8 million oligonucleotides in parallel on a single chip, GenScript will deliver the scale, reproducibility, and validation required to make emerging applications like molecular data storage commercially viable. While the DNA technology landscape remains fragmented across writing, reading, and storage, GenScript brings capabilities across key parts of the DNA data storage value chain, including synthesis, sequencing-related technologies, and platform development. Combined with Mimulus' proprietary Molecular Archive Technology™, this capability enables molecular data storage to transition from laboratory innovation to commercially scalable infrastructure.

"When a new category emerges, the winners are built on infrastructure," said Sherry Shao, Rotating CEO of GenScript Biotech Corporation. "At GenScript, we believe in Scripting Possibilities - turning what was once theoretical into scalable reality. DNA-based data storage will only become a viable real-world infrastructure when synthesis can be delivered at extraordinary throughput, quality, and cost. We are building that industrial foundation to transform molecular storage from being 'scientific promise' into 'global reality'."

Mimulus Glacier Data Storage Card is replacing decaying magnetic infrastructure. By combining GenScript's proven industrial-scale synthesis engine with Mimulus's molecular transcoding architecture, this credit-card-sized device creates a completely off-stack and off-grid physical vault. The collaboration seeks to dramatically accelerate the cost curve of DNA-based storage and unlock economically viable archival systems for global cloud and AI workloads.

"Trying to solve a pressing 21st-century AI data problem with mid-century magnetic tape is a bit like trying to launch a rocket with a steam engine," said Todd R. Nelson, Ph.D., Founder and Chairman of Mimulus Corp. "But this isn't just about building a better storage device; it's about liquidating an operational liability to fuel the AI revolution. By combining our proprietary architecture with GenScript's unparalleled manufacturing scale, we are printing power permits. We are handing hyperscalers the exact megawatts they need to turn on their AI supercomputers today, unlocking a trillion-dollar flywheel that reshapes the economics of the cloud."

For more information: www.genscript.com