The launch of the Vietnam National Multi-Project Wafer Coordination Centre in Hanoi. Photo: The MST

The launch is clear evidence of the government's commitment to concretising Resolution 29-NQ/TW, and Resolution 57-NQ/TW, aiming to enhance technological self-reliance gradually, making Vietnam an important link in the global semiconductor supply chain, in line with the goals of the Strategy for the Development of Vietnam's Semiconductor Industry to 2030, with a vision to 2050, and making Vietnam one of the few Southeast Asian countries with national-level infrastructure supporting chip prototyping.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan stated that the draft amendments to the law on high technology and the system of guiding documents have been completed. The semiconductor industry and strategic technologies are currently receiving high priority.

The launch demonstrates a strong commitment from the regulatory authorities: a rapid transformation from a legal framework to practical infrastructure. Essentially, all the necessary conditions for the semiconductor industry to take off are now available.

The centre is expected to help shorten product development time, reduce prototyping costs, and promote the emergence of Vietnamese-made chip products.

Sharing his thoughts on the significance of the event, Nguyen Khac Lich, director general of the MST’s Authority of ICT Industry, said, "In the digital age, semiconductor chips are the foundation of strategic technologies such as AI, 5G, robotics, and electric vehicles. These are not just electronic components, but also a measure of a nation's strategic self-reliance."

Lich stated that the biggest hindrance currently is the ability to realise design concepts into actual products. "The centre will be a crucial link, helping ideas remain at the drawings or simulation stage in the laboratory, but also take the decisive step to become real chip products, which are tested, refined, and gradually brought to market."

The centre is under the Authority of ICT, having the role to provide shared infrastructure to support the entire process from design, trial production, packaging, testing to commercialisation of products.

The centre provides design tools, support for design appraisal and verification; acting as a connection point with chip manufacturing factories, packaging and testing units, and international technology partners to organise trial production for universities, research institutes and domestic businesses.

Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan made a speech at the launch. Photo: The MST

After trial production, the centre supports chip quality assessment, connecting with government support programmes and investment funds to promote product commercialisation. In the future, it will gradually build a post-manufacturing evaluation, testing, and analysis laboratory (Post-Silicon Lab).

The centre will be developed in three phases. In the 2026-2027 phase, the state will support 100 per cent of the pilot production costs to encourage universities, research institutes, businesses, and design groups to participate in the research, development, and testing of semiconductor chip products, while gradually building the operational capacity of the Multi-Project Wafer model in Vietnam.

During the period of 2028-2030, the centre will continue to receive partial support for pilot production costs, while simultaneously improving shared infrastructure, laboratory systems, design tools, testing environments, and specialised technical support services, contributing to enhanced design quality and product commercialisation potential.

From 2030 onwards, the centre aims to master advanced technologies, expand international cooperation, and gradually become a reputable semiconductor chip prototyping support centre in Southeast Asia, contributing to enhancing Vietnam's position in the regional and global semiconductor value chain.

At the launch ceremony, representative of the centre signed memoranda of cooperation with 19 domestic and international partners. Notably, these included leading technology corporations in the global semiconductor supply chain such as Intel, Infineon, Amkor, Cadence, and Synopsys; manufacturing service providers from leading global foundries like TSMC and Global Foundries; major Vietnamese universities such as the Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam National University Hanoi, and Hanoi University of Science and Technology; and domestic technology corporations and enterprises such as Viettel, FPT, and VSAP Lab.

The agreements focus on research, training of high-quality workers, supporting chip design, prototyping, packaging, and testing; sharing technical infrastructure; and connecting experts and businesses with training and research institutions, contributing to the formation of a network linking the state, businesses, research institutes, and universities.

Also within the framework of the event, the centre announced the establishment of a professional advisory team with the participation of 21 reputable experts in the semiconductor industry from technology corporations, universities, and research institutes both domestically and internationally to support strategic development planning and in-depth technical expertise for the centre and universities, research institutes, and businesses in Vietnam.

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.

Viettel starts construction of semiconductor chip production plant Viettel has launched construction of Vietnam’s first semiconductor chip manufacturing plant, marking a major step in building domestic capabilities in high-tech industries.

Talent boost vital for semiconductor chip industry Vietnam and Japan are deepening their relationship in developing personnel to support the former’s burgeoning semiconductor industry. Prof. Usagawa Tsuyoshi, of the Vietnam-Japan University under the Vietnam National University in Hanoi, spoke with VIR’s Thanh Thanh about the evolving partnership and what Vietnam must do to cultivate a world-class semiconductor workforce.

Dutch semiconductor giant to build $1 billion production facility in Vietnam Dutch chipmaking equipment supplier BE Semiconductor Industries NV (Besi) has revealed its plan to construct a new production facility in Vietnam.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh with AmCham Hanoi chairwoman Virginia B. Foote. Photo: The MST

Minh said the ministry respects the assessments made by the Office of the United States Trade Representative but expressed hope that the US side would take a more objective view of Vietnam's efforts and practices in IP enforcement.

He added that Vietnam views IP enforcement and protection as an imperative task for national growth, and that sustainable development cannot be built on IP infringement. He stressed that IP enforcement must be carried out continuously and persistently, rather than through sporadic campaigns.

Over the past years, Vietnam has implemented numerous measures to enhance the effectiveness of IP protection and enforcement. These include processing the entire backlog of industrial property applications, amending the Law on Intellectual Property, and issuing a directive at the beginning of 2026 that requires ministries, sectors, and localities to strengthen IP rights enforcement.

For her part, Foote recommended that Vietnam develop a concrete enforcement roadmap that closely addresses the points raised by the USTR in its 301 Report. She also suggested maintaining regular exchanges, providing periodic updates on results, and clearly demonstrating sustained and substantive efforts to handle violations.

The AmCham Hanoi chairwoman added that the US business community remains keen on maintaining their presence and expanding operations in Vietnam.

The two sides agreed to continue exchanging and sharing information to promote substantive IP rights enforcement in line with mutual interests.

Vietnam steps up IP enforcement as US raises concerns The United States decision to place Vietnam on its highest intellectual property watch category is not merely a legal or trade matter. It is emerging as a new test of compliance, governance, and transparency for export-oriented businesses.

Over 1,400 IP cases handled under PM's enforcement directive Local authorities have handled more than 1,400 cases of intellectual property infringement in the three weeks since the prime minister issued a directive on intellectual property enforcement.

Vietnam will not tolerate IP infringement Protecting intellectual property rights is a consistent policy of Vietnam and an essential requirement in the country's integration and development.

The prime minister called for a strong shift towards a mindset that prioritises output, application effectiveness, and commercialisation potential as metrics, while focusing on removing institutional obstructions, financial mechanisms, and infrastructure to accelerate the implementation of Resolution No.57-NQ/TW.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung delivered a directive speech at the thematic meeting. Photo: TTXVN

At the meeting, delegates focused on discussing mechanisms, policies, and impediments that need to be addressed immediately to shorten the time from research to product and market, especially specific financial mechanisms for the development of sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.

They also looked at how ministries and industry management agencies can lead the value chain and assign roles to localities, institutes, universities, and businesses; and how each locality can identify key development challenges linked to its potential and advantages, and what strategic and high-tech products are planned to apply to solve those challenges and create concrete results for socioeconomic development.

Along with that are specific mechanisms, policies, and solutions to remove obstacles in the management, operation, and sharing of infrastructure and laboratories; encouraging private enterprises to participate in investing in, operating research, testing, and commercialisation infrastructure for strategic technology products, especially in areas with the potential for early implementation.

Regarding digital infrastructure and databases, the state has invested in building 16 national key laboratories, with a total cost of approximately $38.44 million. Of the 12 key databases, four have fully met all 19 criteria.

The PM also issued decisions approving a list of 10 strategic technology groups and 30 strategic technology products, assigning 10 ministries, sectors, and agencies to implement strategic technology development tasks based on 20 major problems; 29 out of 34 localities registered 124 sci-tech and innovation products.

Regarding funding, 3 per cent of the total state budget expenditure has been prioritised; by 2026, approximately over $4 billion will be allocated to sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.

Furthermore, the PM pointed out existing shortcomings and limitations, noting that many relevant authorities still have a passive attitude, fear of responsibility, and a tendency to shirk and avoid accountability. Digital infrastructure, research infrastructure, laboratories, and equipment are still outdated, fragmented, and inefficient; large-scale research infrastructures serving strategic technology development have not yet been established. There is a lack of overall architecture and design to guide the implementation of major and important tasks.

The PM outlined future directions. Accordingly, ministries and agencies should identify major, leading problems closely linked to their functions and tasks, and connected to localities; localities should select products based on their strengths and practical needs.

Businesses are at the centre, from defining the problem, selecting technology, investing, testing, and developing the market. Research institutes and universities link research with order fulfilment needs, and the state creates the appropriate institutions, standards, testing environment, and initial market.

He asked that a flexible financial mechanism should be implemented, focusing on immediately addressing obstacles, shortcomings, and obstructions related to ordering, contracting, procurement of initial products, intellectual property (IP) valuation, and risk acceptance. Priority should be given to allocating resources to the development of core technologies, commercially viable products, and solutions with spillover effects; maximising the effectiveness of laboratories, research infrastructure, and expert teams.

In the coming period, the PM requested that relevant authorities review all assigned tasks and definitively resolve overdue tasks; no extensions of deadlines should be proposed until the causes, responsibilities, and solutions are clarified; and completion must be ensured before June 30.

Postal services revenue rises 30 per cent in May Revenue from postal services was estimated to reach VND8.5 trillion ($340 million) in May, a 30 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, reflecting the continued boom in demand for transportation and e-commerce.

Vietnam aims for 100,000 digital tech businesses by 2030 Vietnam is synchronising policy mechanisms and implementation to achieve the goal of having 100,000 digital technology businesses by 2030, a government official has said.

Quantum technology targeted for long-term advantage Vietnam is developing quantum technology to participate in the global quantum value chain and gain a competitive edge for future sustainable development.

Government urged to expand public procurement to create innovation Vietnam cannot continue relying primarily on capital expansion and labour growth if it wants to achieve double-digit economic growth, experts have said. Instead, the country needs to create stronger market demand for science, technology and innovation through concrete mechanisms.

New investment model proposed for Hanoi's sci-tech projects Hanoi has all the necessary conditions to create innovations in sci-tech and digital transformation, with five noteworthy advantages.

This year's forum focused on three strategic priorities: unlocking investment capital, developing carbon markets, and accelerating the adoption of AI.

Together, these areas were presented as essential pillars for businesses seeking to remain competitive while navigating economic volatility and the global green transition.

Pham Thi Thu Hang, CEO of VIETSTAR Institute of Management and Consulting, said the forum was designed to move beyond discussions of sustainability and provide businesses with practical solutions that can be implemented immediately.

"Our objective is to equip enterprises with practical strategies in three core areas: building new business models, advancing sustainable finance and carbon market capabilities through real-world experiences of leading corporations, and accelerating green energy and AI adoption for sustainable growth," she said. "These practical lessons will become strategic leverage for shaping the enterprises of the future."

Singapore reaffirms confidence in Vietnam

Addressing the forum, Singapore's Ambassador to Vietnam, Rajpal Singh, declared confidence in Vietnam's long-term economic prospects despite increasing geopolitical and economic uncertainties. He noted that Vietnam had demonstrated remarkable resilience against external shocks and continued to pursue ambitious development targets, including high GDP growth. Singapore, he said, remained committed to supporting Vietnam's development through mutually beneficial cooperation.

The ambassador identified three priority areas where bilateral collaboration could be strengthened. The first is reinforcing economic resilience. He noted that the recent upgrade of bilateral relations reflects the shared commitment of both countries to free trade, investment and sustainable development.

During the recent state visit between the two countries, Vietnam and Singapore also adopted a joint statement on supply chain resilience, committing to cooperate in maintaining open trade, energy flows and supply chains despite rising protectionism.

"This is the first such statement Singapore has concluded with an ASEAN country," he said, describing it as an important signal of the two countries' shared vision for regional economic growth.

The second priority is accelerating green growth by leveraging each country's comparative advantages. While Vietnam possesses abundant renewable energy resources, Singapore contributes financial expertise and serves as a major regional investment hub.

Ambassador Singh highlighted carbon trading as one of the most promising areas for future cooperation, noting that the two governments have already signed an implementation agreement on carbon credits and are working towards making the market more accessible.

The third area focuses on emerging industries, particularly digital technologies and AI. As Vietnam seeks to increase the digital economy's contribution to 20 per cent of GDP by 2030, Singapore hopes to remain a key partner in technology investment and innovation.

Singaporean technology companies already maintain a significant presence in Vietnam, while the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks are being upgraded into the next-generation "VSIP 2.0" model, featuring smarter and more sustainable industrial ecosystems.

Ambassador Singh also proposed expanding cooperation under the Triple Helix model, bringing together governments, universities and industry to accelerate technology development and commercialisation.

Former Singapore Cabinet Minister and former Temasek Holdings chairman Lim Boon Heng

Technology and innovation reshape business competitiveness

Former Vietnamese Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat said businesses had entered a new stage where sustainable development commitments must be translated into concrete corporate strategies, governance models and business operations.

He argued that competitiveness is increasingly determined not by traditional resources such as capital or scale, but by a company's ability to innovate, master technology and adapt to rapid changes.

According to Dat, Vietnam's experience highlights three major trends that will shape the future enterprise.

The first is the convergence of digital and green transformation. Rather than separate processes, digitalisation and decarbonisation increasingly reinforce one another. Digital technologies generate data, connectivity and better decision-making, while green transformation improves resource efficiency, reduces emissions and encourages sustainable production models. Together, they enhance productivity, operational efficiency and business resilience.

Advanced technologies such as big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things and intelligent management platforms are enabling enterprises to transition towards knowledge- and innovation-driven growth models, he said.

Secondly, AI is emerging as the strategic core of future businesses. If data represents the key resource of the digital economy, AI is the tool that converts data into knowledge, forecasting capability and competitive advantage.

Beyond improving productivity, AI can help companies strengthen environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance by monitoring emissions across supply chains, measuring sustainability indicators and assessing the environmental and social impacts of business decisions. However, Dat stressed that AI deployment must remain responsible, secure and human-centred.

Thirdly, innovation is creating new opportunities for Vietnam-Singapore cooperation. Since the two countries upgraded bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, cooperation in science, technology, innovation and digital transformation has expanded significantly.

Singapore remains one of Asia's leading innovation hubs, while Vietnam offers a young and dynamic workforce capable of supporting rapid technological development. Combining these complementary strengths could generate substantial long-term value for both economies, he said.

Building ASEAN's future together

Former Singapore Cabinet Minister and former Temasek Holdings chairman Lim Boon Heng said ASEAN's centrality presents a major strategic advantage, with Vietnam and Singapore well positioned to lead the region's innovation agenda.

He proposed three priorities for deeper cooperation. The first is harmonising regulatory standards, particularly in ESG reporting, green investment frameworks and cross-border carbon credit markets. Although regulatory alignment remains challenging, closer collaboration between governments and businesses could create a more integrated regional market built upon shared values.

Secondly, he called for VSBF to evolve into a platform that nurtures a new generation of ASEAN business leaders committed to innovation, sustainability and regional cooperation.

Finally, he stressed the importance of investing in talent development. Vietnam's young workforce, combined with Singapore's strengths in technology and AI, could provide the human capital needed to operate the enterprises of the future.

"Without this talent, we will not succeed," he said.

Reflecting on the recent elevation of Vietnam-Singapore relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Lim said both countries have demonstrated a shared determination to lead Southeast Asia's transition towards a greener, more innovative and digitally connected future.

"In a fractured and fragile world, sustainable development and resilience cannot be achieved alone," he said. "They require courage, trust and deep cooperation. As businesses from both countries work together, they will not simply adapt to the future – they will help shape the future of enterprise and cooperation across ASEAN."

King’s Spotlight will be taught by two teachers from King’s UK and conducted entirely in English

King's College School Wimbledon will host its first King's Sportlight programme in Ho Chi Minh City from July 7-9, offering children aged 6-12 the opportunity to experience lessons taught by teachers from the UK for the first time.

The initiative serves as an introduction to the educational philosophy of King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, which is scheduled to open at The Global City in August 2027.

The programme consists of two interconnected lessons designed to reflect King's approach to developing independent thinking and problem-solving skills. In Logical Maths, pupils will tackle challenges involving patterns, numbers, shapes, and strategy, while Language and Communication focuses on how language is used to collaborate, influence, and communicate effectively.

According to the organisers, all sessions will be conducted entirely in English by teachers from King's College School Wimbledon.

"King's Spotlight is an invitation to families to experience a King's education before our school opens," said Kieran McLaughlin, founding head of King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City.

"Through these events, children and parents can experience what a King's classroom feels like, meet our teachers, and understand the values that shape everything we do. We are delighted to welcome teachers from Wimbledon to teach pupils here in Ho Chi Minh City for the very first time."

Leading the programme is Ted Lougher, junior school headmaster at King's College School Wimbledon since 2021. A linguist by training, Lougher graduated with first-class honours from the University of Exeter and earned a master's degree in education from the University of Oxford. Before joining King's, he held leadership positions at several leading British schools, including Cheltenham College and Clifton College.

He will be joined by Simon Connolly, a senior teacher responsible for assessment and academic tracking at King's College School Wimbledon. Connolly joined the school in 2014 and was a founding staff member of King's College International School Bangkok, where he served as head of Year 6.

Parents will also meet Kieran McLaughlin, Founding Headmaster of King’s College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, who will introduce the school’s educational vision

Alongside the student sessions, the programme also includes activities for parents. McLaughlin will introduce the school's educational vision, curriculum, and development plans, while Connolly will share insights into the expansion of the King's network from the UK to Asia and discuss trends shaping primary education.

Lougher will also lead a session for families with children preparing to enter Year 1, focusing on the skills the school values at this stage and how parents can support their children's transition into primary education.

King's Spotlight will take place at the School Gallery on Vo Nguyen Giap street in Ho Chi Minh City, with two daily sessions for pupils in years 2-4 and years 5-7.

Founded by Royal Charter in 1829, King's College School Wimbledon is regarded as one of the UK's leading independent schools, educating around 1,500 pupils aged 7-18. In addition to its UK campus, the school has established a growing network of international partner schools across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City will offer a British curriculum for students aged 2-18, culminating in IGCSE and A Level qualifications when it opens in 2027.

The proceeds of the green bonds will finance the construction of an additional 58 MW of C&I solar projects by Verdant.

Verdant is a leading renewable energy developer headquartered in Singapore and backed by A.P. Moller Capital to invest in renewable energy projects across Asia-Pacific.

This transaction marks the first ever certified green, C&I solar bond financing in Vietnam and Verdant’s first capital market issuance globally.

The tenor of the bonds and guarantee is 15 years, the longest in the market for such facilities. The green bonds will be issued in two phases by the end of 2026, with the first bond phase fully subscribed by local institutional investors, mainly insurance companies. The transaction is aligned with the Vietnamese government’s National Power Development Plan VIII and Vietnam’s 2050 Net Zero targets; wherein C&I development is integral to the country’s sustainability targets.

Verdant’s offtakers are active across several sectors, including apparel and manufacturing. These businesses will benefit from significant electricity cost savings through the rooftop systems installed while also reducing carbon emissions aligned to their long-term environmental, social, and governance (commitments.

The transaction is expected to support the United Nations Sustaiable Development Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy), 8 (decent work and economic growth) and 13 (climate action).

The bonds fully align with the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles and Verdant’s Green Finance Framework, which was independently reviewed by FiinRatings to issue a Second Party Opinion.

As part of the transaction, Verdant will further increase access to employment opportunities for women. Additionally, as their business expands, Verdant aims to preserve a 60 per cent share of women in senior leadership and a 40 per cent of women across their workforce.

This GuarantCo transaction follows the backing of Verdant earlier this year by the Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF), also part of PIDG. EAAIF supported Verdant with bridge-loan acquisition financing for a pioneering wind and storage power project of Philippines Hybrid Energy Systems Inc (PHESI).

Nishant Kumar, managing director of Asia Investments at GuarantCo and Head of Coverage – Asia for PIDG, said, “We are proud to be supporting Verdant Energy in increasing its solar power portfolio for its C&I customer base and its first-ever capital market issuance, a key part of Verdant’s strategy to diversify its funding base. Vietnam’s solar energy market is one of the fastest growing in Asia, central to the country’s goal of reaching net zero by 2050."

"We are hopeful that this transaction will function as a replicable model to build the confidence of issuers and investors in operating in the green infrastructure space, where private capital is urgently needed to transform lives, and support climate resilience and economic development,” Kumar added.

Sivaramakrishnan Sreedharan, chief investment officer of Verdant Energy, said, “At Verdant, our objective is to develop high-quality renewable energy assets, and along with it comes an important aspect to create innovative but repeatable financing solutions that can accelerate the flow of capital into energy transition, eventually creating the scale of investments. This move demonstrates how domestic institutional investors, particularly insurance companies, our reputable partners, can participate in long-term sustainable infrastructure investments through a robust green bond structure."

"Together with GuarantCo, we have established a platform that broadens access to local capital markets and supports the continued growth of renewable energy across Vietnam and Southeast Asia. The transaction builds on Verdant’s Green Finance Framework and dedicated Green Finance Committee, reinforcing our commitment to high standards of governance, transparency, and sustainable capital allocation,” he said.

Verdant Energy acquires 11MW rooftop solar portfolio in Vietnam Singapore-based Verdant Energy has announced the landmark acquisition of an 11 MW rooftop solar portfolio in Vietnam.

Hoa Binh-Xuan Mai water treatment plant inaugurated On April 30, The Private Infrastructure Development Group and AquaOne celebrated the inauguration of the Hoa Binh–Xuan Mai water treatment plant.

GuarantCo and Standard Chartered collaborate on climate action GuarantCo and Standard Chartered have signed a MoU announcing the intention to develop a climate-focused deal framework that aims to increase funding opportunities in Vietnam and accelerate climate action.

Jun Sung Ho, general director of Lotte Properties HCMC (left), and Nguyen Van Dat, chairman of Phat Dat, at the signing ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City on June 26

Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem is a large-scale mixed-use urban complex integrating Grade A office towers, retail and commercial podiums, hospitality and service facilities, and public spaces within a unified ecosystem developed in accordance with international standards for urban planning, development, and operations with total investment in the project is estimated at VND60 trillion ($2.3 billion).

Under the transaction structure, Phat Dat will co-develop the residential component of the project across Blocks 2-2, 2-4, and 2-6. At the same time, the company will take the lead in developing the commercial towers at Blocks 2-1 and 2-3, as well as the four-storey retail and service podium and the basement levels.

This structure enables Phat Dat to partner with Lotte Group on the residential component while independently developing key commercial assets, thereby strengthening its presence in Ho Chi Minh City's emerging central business district.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Shin Man Soo, senior vice president of Lotte Engineering and Construction, said that since being selected as the project's developer in 2017, the development has undergone a long journey marked by perseverance and sustained efforts.

“Alongside the rapid development of Ho Chi Minh City and the tremendous value of the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, the project has evolved into a mega-development with a total investment exceeding $2.2 billion,” Soo said.

Earlier this March, with the trust and support of Ho Chi Minh City authorities, the project received approval to allow an external investor to acquire a 35 per cent equity stake.

“Today, we are delighted to partner with Phat Dat for the next stage of development. Once again, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Vietnamese government for approving the participation of an external investor in the project, thereby laying the foundation for this important partnership milestone,” said Shin Man Soo.

According to Soo, Phat Dat’s acquisition of a 35 per cent equity stake represents more than a capital partnership. It marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration that will generate key synergies to enhance the overall value of the project.

“Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem is a modern mixed-use commercial and residential development located at the most prime site in Ho Chi Minh City. I am confident that the combination of Lotte’s global expertise in retail, hospitality, and construction with Phat Dat’s extensive local experience will create the strongest possible synergies,” he said.

“We believe that the most successful development projects are not measured solely by the economic value they create, but by the lasting legacy they leave behind, one that contributes to the long-term future of both the city and the community,” Soo said.

Nguyen Van Dat, chairman of Phat Dat said that Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem is a large-scale venture and one of strategic significance in accelerating the development of the Thu Thiem New Urban Area.

“With the partnership between Lotte and Phat Dat, we believe the project possesses all the necessary strengths to become a new landmark of modern urban development in Vietnam, while making a meaningful contribution to the continued growth of Ho Chi Minh City,” Dat said.

Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem artist's impression. Photo: Phat Dat

Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem is in Functional Zone 2A, the core area of the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, which is planned to become Ho Chi Minh City's new international administrative, financial, commercial, and services hub.

The project spans six adjacent land plots (2–1 to 2–6), covering approximately 7.54 hectares, making it one of the few remaining large-scale land banks in the heart of the new urban centre.

The site borders the Thu Thiem Central Square and Central Lake, enjoys direct connectivity to the Thu Thiem Tunnel, and overlooks the Saigon River with unobstructed views of Ho Chi Minh City's existing central business district, giving it one of the most iconic locations in the Thu Thiem New Urban Area.

In terms of transport infrastructure, the project enjoys a rare multimodal connectivity advantage. It is located adjacent to the planned To Huu Metro Station, Ba Son Bridge, and the transport network serving Ho Chi Minh City's International Financial Center.

The development sits next to the planned Thu Thiem Metro Station, the starting point of the proposed Thu Thiem–Long Thanh Metro Line, which will provide direct access to Long Thanh International Airport.

The project also falls within the catchment area of Metro Line No.1 (Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien) and its planned extension to Dong Nai and Long Thanh. Together, this integrated transport network is expected to accelerate the development of Ho Chi Minh City's new administrative and economic centre over the coming decades.

During the investment cooperation agreement signing ceremony for the Lotte Eco Smart City Thu Thiem project, Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corporation and Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank also signed a financing agreement under which MB Bank will fully finance Phat Dat's equity contribution to the project.

The agreement further strengthens the financial structure of Phat Dat's investment while providing the company with a solid foundation to fulfil its investment commitments in line with the project's implementation schedule.

Lotte Properties and Phat Dat develop Thu Thiem Eco Smart City Lotte Properties Ho Chi Minh City and Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corporation on May 26 signed an MoU to advance strategic cooperation related to Thu Thiem Eco Smart City, a landmark venture located in Thu Thiem New Urban Area.

PDR sells projects to mobilise $400 million stake in Lotte Properties HCMC On June 11, Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corp. announced plans to seek shareholder approval via written consultation for several proposals, including a plan to acquire an equity stake in Lotte Properties HCMC with an estimated transaction value of VND10.4 trillion.

The signing took place on June 25 on the sidelines of the World Customs Organisation Council sessions in Brussels. The agreement aims to enhance risk management, improve supply chain transparency, and support balanced trade between the two economies.

Under the MoU, the two sides will exchange electronic cargo manifest data in real time, or as quickly as practicable, to support cargo targeting, risk management and the prevention of customs violations, including trade fraud, counterfeit goods, prohibited goods, origin fraud, tax evasion and illegal transhipment.

The agreement represents a further step forward in cooperation between Vietnam Customs and US Customs, building on the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement signed by the two governments in 2019, which entered into force in May 2020. Since then, both sides have maintained regular exchanges of information, verified suspicious cases, provided operational assistance and strengthened customs enforcement capacity.

The establishment of the electronic data-sharing mechanism comes as Vietnam-US economic and trade relations continue to expand rapidly.

According to Vietnam Customs, total bilateral trade reached $172.3 billion in 2025. Vietnam's exports to the US exceeded $153 billion, up over 28 per cent on-year, while imports totalled more than $19.2 billion, an increase of around 28 per cent.

From January 1 to 18 June, bilateral trade continued its strong momentum, reaching close to $89.6 billion, up 23 per cent compared with the same period last year. Exports exceeded $79 billion, an increase of 22.4 per cent, while imports reached just under $10.5 billion, up more than 28 per cent.

From an operational perspective, the data connection will enable customs authorities in both countries to improve cargo verification, cross-check import and export data, detect early signs of fraud and identify attempts to circumvent trade remedy measures. At the same time, the mechanism is expected to facilitate faster customs clearance for compliant businesses, reduce inspection-related barriers at border checkpoints, and enhance the competitiveness of traded goods.

The initiative demonstrates Vietnam's commitment to working closely with the US in addressing shared trade concerns. It is expected to strengthen transparency in customs administration, reinforce Vietnam's credibility within global supply chains, and usher in a deeper and more substantive phase of customs cooperation between the two countries.

Vietnam Customs accelerates AI and digital transformation Vietnam’s Minister of Finance Ngo Van Tuan has assigned two key priorities to the customs sector: completing the institutional framework and accelerating the deployment of digital customs, as the country faces mounting customs clearance pressure alongside increasingly complex cargo control requirements.

Customs Law amendments to strengthen digital integration Vietnam’s proposed amendments to the Customs Law would expand automated data control, strengthen inter-agency data sharing, and establish a regulatory framework for the fast-growing cross-border e-commerce sector.

Businesses contribute to draft amended Customs Law The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in coordination with the Customs Department under the Ministry of Finance, on June 11, organised a workshop to gather business opinions on the draft law amending and supplementing several articles of the Customs Law.

After three years of preparation, AP Beverage Trading Production, a Vietnamese-owned enterprise, announced its entry into the beverage market in early June, through the operation of a manufacturing plant in Dong Nai province.

The initiative, with a total investment of approximately $80 million, focuses on producing bottled non-alcoholic beverages with the goal of establishing 500,000 sales points nationwide by 2030 and expanding its product presence to five international markets in the coming years.

Bui Minh Nhut, director of strategy at AP Beverage Company, said that the decision was made following an extensive assessment of the domestic market and consumer trends.

“Vietnam is one of the beverage markets with the greatest growth potential in the region thanks to its large population, rising incomes, and the growing popularity of healthier consumption habits,” he said.

According to data from Statista, revenue in Vietnam’s non-alcoholic beverage market increased from approximately $6.4 billion in 2023 to $8.78 billion in 2025. Among product categories, carbonated soft drinks continue to account for the largest share of the market at 42 per cent, followed by bottled water at 27 per cent, fruit juices at 15 per cent, tea and bottled tea products at 10 per cent, while energy drinks and other beverages comprise the remainder.

By region, southern Vietnam is currently the largest consumption market, representing around 54 per cent of total national demand. The north accounts for 29 per cent, while the central region contributes approximately 17 per cent.

Statista forecasts Vietnam’s non-alcoholic beverage market will continue to expand during the 2023-2028 period, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 7-9 per cent.

“This is considered an important driver for businesses in the industry to continue investing in product innovation, expanding distribution channels in the coming years,” said director of AP Beverage.

Beyond market size, changes in consumer behaviour are also creating new momentum for the beverage industry. According to a NielsenIQ report on consumer trends in May, 86 per cent of Vietnamese consumers prioritise quality over quantity, 92 per cent are willing to try new brands, and 91 per cent place a high value on the consumer experience.

In particular, Generation Z and Generation Alpha are becoming the key drivers of new consumption trends, fuelling demand for products with novel flavours, low sugar content, fewer calories, and added nutritional benefits that align with healthier lifestyles.

Against this backdrop, Vietnam’s beverage market continues to attract a new wave of investment from both domestic companies and international corporations.

In February, F&N, a member of the Thai Beverage ecosystem, spent approximately $3.9 million to acquire the Nhon Trach 3 beverage plant from Chuong Duong SJC. Of this, approximately $2.64 million represented tangible assets such as machinery and inventories, while the remainder was largely derived from the value of the Chuong Duong Sarsi brand.

In July 2025, Coca-Cola Vietnam inaugurated a new factory in Tay Ninh with a total investment of $136 million. This is the largest production facility in Coca-Cola’s system in Vietnam, equipped with five modern bottling and filling lines with a designed capacity of up to 1 billion litres of beverages per year.

Milly Cheng, CEO of Coca-Cola Vietnam, said that the facility is one of the company’s most advanced manufacturing plants, demonstrating the company’s confidence in the growth potential of the Vietnamese market and its long-term commitment to investment in the country.

“More than an investment in infrastructure, this factory demonstrates our commitment to sustainable development and our aspiration to make meaningful contributions to the communities we call home across Vietnam,” Milly said.

Along with Coca-Cola, Suntory PepsiCo also continues to expand its presence in Vietnam after more than three decades of operation. From its first factory in Ho Chi Minh City, the business now owns six production facilities in various localities.

By the end of 2025, Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam increased its charter capital to approximately $330 million, a nearly 11 per cent increase compared to before.

Suntory PepsiCo was established in 2013 with as a strategic joint venture between Japan’s Suntory Group and US-based PepsiCo. The company currently owns a portfolio of well-known brands in the Vietnamese market such as Pepsi, 7Up, Sting, and Tea+.

Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam’s capital increase came at a time when its business performance in the Vietnamese market has not yet shown significant improvement. Suntory Group’s 2025 financial report shows that beverage revenue in Vietnam reached an equivalent of approximately $838 million, representing a decline of nearly 14 per cent on-year.

According to Vietnam Industry Research and Consultancy, the country’s non-alcoholic beverage market remains highly concentrated, with Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam, Coca-Cola, URC Vietnam, and Tan Hiep Phat Beverage Group together holding around 57 per cent of total market share. Even so, ongoing investment by both domestic and foreign players signals strong confidence in the sector’s long-term growth prospects and is expected to intensify competition in the years ahead.

Vietnamese to spend $29 billion on F&B in 2026

Carlsberg Vietnam backs Hue marathon for fifth year through Huda brand

Carlsberg Vietnam awarded both domestic and international honours

TCP Group reaffirms commitment to Thailand-Vietnam economic cooperation

South Korea opens first K-SUUL Pavilion at Vinexpo Asia in Hong Kong to drive exports

Vietnam emerges as strategic hub for premium beverage growth

Swire Coca-Cola sponsors HK dragon boat festival

“This current economic backdrop is notably complicated by a widening trade deficit, which has expanded to $13 billion in the first five months, against a $5 billion surplus recorded during the same period last year,” stated the report.

Given these developments, Standard Chartered expects the policy rate to remain steady at 4.5 per cent for the rest of 2026. June’s Consumer Price Index is believed to have remained above the government’s 4.5 per cent target, with this trend set to persist into the second half. The second quarter’s inflation is forecasted to rise above 5.0 per cent on-year, compared to 3.5 per cent in the first quarter, driven largely by rising prices in transport, food, housing, and construction materials.

“Additionally, macroeconomic indicators for June may point to a moderation in economic activity, with retail sales growth expected to slow to 8.2 from 11.8 per cent in May, export growth easing to 16.2 from 18 per cent, and industrial production growth decelerating to 5.2 from 8.8 per cent,” stated in the report.

Meanwhile, Standard Chartered pointed out that import growth is likely to have continued accelerating, rising to 45 from 33.8 per cent, potentially widening the trade deficit to $7.3 billion from $5.2 billion.

“Vietnam’s economic performance in the first half of 2026 reflects both resilience and ongoing challenges. We expect the policy rate to remain unchanged and anticipate inflationary momentum to continue through the second half of the year. Despite the moderation in some indicators, Vietnam’s economy is poised to navigate these headwinds with steady growth,” said Tim Leelahaphan, senior economist for Vietnam and Thailand at Standard Chartered Bank.

Earlier, in a report released in early June, the Macroeconomic and Forecasting Department under the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Economic and Financial Affairs, under the Ministry of Finance, noted that despite encouraging economic indicators, macroeconomic challenges remain.

“The business environment is undergoing a significant shakeout, with the number of newly established and reactivated enterprises rising by 50.7 per cent on-year to 119,400 during the first four months, while the number of firms exiting the market nearly doubled. This reflects an intensive restructuring process in which small businesses, financially vulnerable firms, and those heavily reliant on leverage are facing the greatest pressure,” the report analysed.

The report also pointed to the re-emergence of a trade deficit, which reached $7.11 billion in the first four months, largely driven by rising imports of machinery and components for production. However, petroleum import values surged by 105.5 per cent amid volatile global energy prices, placing considerable pressure on both the exchange rate and production costs. At the same time, Vietnam’s growth model, which relies heavily on importing raw materials from China for exports to the US, has made the economy increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions.

To achieve double-digit growth in the remaining quarters of the year, the Macroeconomic and Forecasting Department of the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Economic and Financial Affairs said Vietnam would need to implement a comprehensive package of innovative measures encompassing macroeconomic management, institutional reform, and improvements in corporate competitiveness. Although GDP expanded by 7.83 per cent in the first quarter, the economy still requires additional growth drivers to overcome cost pressures, external headwinds, and sustain the recovery momentum.

“First and foremost, maintaining macroeconomic stability must remain the top priority. The government needs to closely coordinate flexible monetary policy with targeted expansionary fiscal measures to keep inflation around the 4.5 per cent target, while addressing exchange rate pressures and the widening trade deficit. More flexible adjustments to taxes and fees on petroleum products and production inputs could also help ease cost-push inflation,” the report stated.

At the same time, the report stressed the need to restore corporate health, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, which are currently under the greatest strain. Measures such as tax deferrals, reductions in land rental fees, and the expansion of concessional lending programmes need to be implemented more effectively to help businesses overcome cash-flow constraints and high financing costs.

Accelerating institutional reforms, streamlining administrative procedures, and promoting digital transformation were also identified as critical solutions to reduce compliance costs, improve productivity, and strengthen business resilience amid intensifying competition.

From a longer-term perspective, the Institute said Vietnam needs to improve the quality of overseas funding by prioritising high-tech sectors, semiconductors, and AI, while accelerating public investment disbursement, particularly for logistics and energy infrastructure projects. Enhancing human capital will be a decisive factor in fully capitalising on the new wave of next-generation foreign investment.

“Alongside investment-driven growth, stimulating domestic consumption should also be prioritised to create a more balanced growth model. Measures such as tax cuts, consumption stimulus programmes, and the promotion of domestic tourism could help boost purchasing power and reduce dependence on exports,” the report added. “Finally, amid rising geopolitical risks and global market volatility, Vietnam should continue diversifying its export markets, making full use of free trade agreements, and proactively developing contingency scenarios to strengthen the economy’s resilience and self-reliance.”

Ministry of Finance set for key role in new legislative drive As Vietnam advances an ambitious legislative agenda, the Ministry of Finance is set to play a pivotal role in shaping reforms aimed at improving governance, removing delays and supporting long-term economic development.

Vietnam welcomes over 10.6 million international tourists in H1 Vietnam recorded more than 10.66 million international tourist arrivals in the first half of 2025, up 20.7 per cent on-year, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT).

Banks post strong H1 performances on credit growth and cost cuts Banks have reported strong first-half results, fuelled by double-digit credit growth, improved asset quality, and operating efficiency, pointing to a positive outlook for the rest of the year.

The report, released on June 25, noted that Vietnam's economic transformation and rapid industrialisation have attracted significant foreign direct investment since the late 1980s. An abundant and low-cost labour force has positioned the country as an attractive destination for foreign investors.

In addition, targeted policy initiatives to ensure equal access to education has helped supply a high-quality labour force of both men and women. Vietnam now boasts one of the highest rates in the world for women’s labour force participation.

Against this background, foreign multinational enterprises (MNEs) played an increasingly significant role in generating female employment, with nearly one in two women in formal employment working for an MNE.

Growing foreign direct investment (FDI) in the manufacturing sector has been a key driver of female employment, particularly in leather- and garment-making, and in the fast-growing electronics sector. Around 90 per cent of female workers at foreign firms are engaged in manufacturing.

Although services sectors represent a smaller share of female employment at foreign firms, their contribution is steadily growing. On average, foreign firms have higher shares of female employees than domestic peers in all sectors of the economy except mining and quarrying, electricity generation, and water and waste management.

While foreign firms serve as key employers of women, the quality of job opportunities they provide remains low, with limited career progression, particularly in male-dominated sectors. While women have a significant presence at foreign firms, and particularly in the manufacturing sector, they remain significantly underrepresented in management and ownership roles in comparison to domestic firms. Foreign firms are half as likely to have a female top manager or owner as domestic firms.

On average, foreign firms pay higher wages than their domestic peers across all sectors, but such foreign wage premiums are highest in male-dominated sectors and tend to be lower in sectors with higher representation of women. In the manufacturing sector, foreign firms pay on average 20 per cent higher wages than domestic firms, in comparison to around 155 per cent higher in the male-dominated construction sector and 194 per cent in mining and quarrying.

The uneven geographical distribution of FDI may also aggravate gender disparities, as foreign-invested enterprises tend to locate themselves in urban centres, leaving women in rural areas with fewer opportunities to benefit from FDI, while at the same time creating social costs to those choosing to migrate and seize those opportunities.

According to OECD, there is room to channel FDI to sectors with untapped potential for increasing women’s employment and job quality. This includes certain service sectors such as education and health and social work, financial, banking and insurance activities, information and communication, and accommodation and food services. Strengthening women’s skills will enable them to meet industry needs in key FDI sectors, such as digital and high-tech technologies or green sectors.

Vietnam is progressively integrating gender considerations into its policy and institutional framework, but challenges remain. Enhancing the impact of FDI on gender equality requires a conducive policy and institutional framework, particularly as Vietnam seeks to attract investment in knowledge-intensive and higher value-added sectors, where women’s potential remains untapped.

Encouragingly, Vietnam has shown commitment in incorporating women’s economic empowerment in national strategies and plans, but the role of FDI in advancing gender equality could be more clearly defined. Similarly, gender considerations remain absent from certain horizontal strategies and plans, such as strategies documents addressing the digital transformation.

In addition, co-ordination between bodies responsible for investment and gender equality, namely the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Home Affairs, could be strengthened to ensure that investment promotion and facilitation efforts seek to address, rather than exacerbate, gender disparities. Tax incentives aimed at increasing women’s participation in certain sectors may disqualify many firms due to complex conditions, within a broader incentive framework that is already intricate for foreign investors to navigate.

Vietnam has demonstrated strong commitment in creating a conducive legal framework for women’s economic participation. For instance, the Law on Gender Equality of 2006 establishes the principle of gender equality across various domains, such as education, employment and family life. Women’s economic participation is reflected in other key laws and regulations, including the Labour Code of 2019 and its subsequent revisions.

While Vietnam has a conducive legal framework for women’s employment, compliance with domestic laws could be strengthened, including among foreign firms. In addition, social institutions (i.e. informal laws, social norms and practices) perpetuate traditional gender roles and continue to shape women’s education and career decisions.

Vietnam is a signatory to two international investment and trade agreements that include provisions encouraging a positive contribution of FDI to gender equality. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement includes provisions to encourage parties to co-operate on the skills development programmes of women and adopt domestic regulations and practices towards the elimination of gender discrimination in employment.

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement includes provisions that call on parties to fulfil their obligations under the International Labour Organisation Declaration, including on the elimination of gender discrimination in employment. While positive, the provisions have little to no binding force.

“Moving forward, Vietnam is encouraged to favour provisions that envisage, more clearly, the contribution of FDI in the advancement of gender equality, and allow for some degree of enforceability,” OECD noted.

Hanoi symposium highlights gender equality research and policy An international scientific conference on gender equality and female empowerment was held in Hanoi, bringing together Vietnamese and international experts.

Experts highlight unpaid care work as key barrier to gender equality Vietnam’s push for gender equality is hindered by a persistent blind spot: unpaid care work, which limits women’s participation in the workforce.

Canada pledges $81 million for initiatives in Vietnam Canada has committed $81.43 million in development funding to support initiatives in Vietnam, focusing on climate action, inclusive institutions and economic empowerment for vulnerable groups.

ProfitX is developed and operated entirely in a digital environment, with no physical card issuance. The product leverages Visa's tokenisation technology combined with biometric authentication to enhance security and minimise transaction risks.

The entire process, from registration and issuance to activation and card management, is conducted online under a unified operational and control framework, ensuring a balance between user experience and information security.

ProfitX comes with a wide range of investment privileges designed by SSI to enhance customers' investment efficiency. Cardholders are eligible for discounts of up to 20 per cent on equity trading fees, complimentary Vietinbank shares upon opening an SSI securities account, and a 0.5 percentage point reduction in margin lending rates compared with standard rates.

On the spending side, VietinBank offers a range of benefits for cardholders, including waived issuance fees and annual fees subject to spending conditions, six per cent cashback on technology and entertainment purchases such as Apple, Netflix, and iTunes, capped at $12 per billing cycle, as well as a foreign currency conversion fee of only one per cent.

In addition, cardholders can access Visa's global ecosystem of promotional offers, spanning shopping, travel, dining, and entertainment. Customers can enjoy discounts on Shopee, travel platforms such as Klook, Trip.com, and Agoda, metro transport incentives, and movie promotions at CGV. The benefits programme is continuously updated to align with evolving consumer trends and customer needs.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Nguyen Duc Thong, CEO of SSI Securities, said that with ProfitX, SSI continues to strengthen its integrated digital financial ecosystem, where investment, payments, and cash flow management are connected on a single platform under a unified operating and risk management framework.

"The product also marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between SSI, VietinBank, and Visa, with the three institutions jointly designing and delivering an integrated financial solution rather than offering separate services," said Thong.

Through ProfitX, the partners expect to develop additional solutions to meet the increasingly diverse needs of young investors, while continuously expanding financial privileges and utilities to stay ahead of emerging investment trends amid rapidly evolving market dynamics and investor behaviour.

Visa launches contactless payment system across Hanoi metro network A fully interoperable open-loop payment system has been launched across Hanoi's metro network, enabling Visa cardholders to tap and go on all metro lines in Vietnam.

Visa backs Digital Finance Day 2026 to promote safe digital payments Visa has shown its support for Digital Finance Day, an annual event organised by Tuoi Tre Newspaper under the direction of the State Bank of Vietnam, reinforcing its commitment to advancing safe and inclusive digital payments across the country.

Moody's Ratings upgrades outlook of six Vietnamese banks to positive Moody's Ratings on May 5 stated the ratings of six Vietnamese banks and changed their outlook to positive from stable.

A notable feature of the current green transition narrative is that the pressure does not come from regulations or net-zero commitments, but from the market itself. Bui Khanh Dung, director of Musa Pacta Company, said green production is no longer an option but an inevitable path of development.

“If in the past competition was mainly about cost, productivity, or market expansion, today requirements on traceability, carbon emissions, environmental responsibility, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards have become new conditions for participating in supply chains,” he said. “These requirements are emerging in developed markets and are spreading across the entire production and trade ecosystem. In other words, businesses are not transitioning because they want to stay ahead of the trend. They are doing so because without change, they will gradually be excluded from the game.”

However, as transition pressures intensify, another question arises: is the market truly ready to support businesses in this process?

According to Dr. Mac Quoc Anh, vice chairman and secretary general of the Hanoi Association of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), Vietnam has more than 1.1 million enterprises, of which about 98.5 per cent are SMEs. This is the sector facing the greatest transition pressure while also having the most limited resources.

“Businesses’ demand today is not simply for loans. What they need is medium- and long-term capital that is stable enough to invest in technology, innovate production processes, meet environmental standards, and gradually upgrade their position in the value chain. In numerous instances, the issue is not interest rates, but access to capital, unsecured lending capacity, and the ability to correctly assess growth potential,” he said.

This is also why he proposed accelerating value chain-based credit models, increasing the share of unsecured lending, and developing mechanisms tailored to SMEs’ characteristics.

“More broadly, green credit demand actually reflects a much larger requirement: the need to upgrade the competitiveness of Vietnamese enterprises in a rapidly changing business environment,” he said.

Associate Professor Dr. Pham Manh Hung of the Banking Academy of Vietnam (BAV) said the key lesson from China does not lie in the scale of its green credit, which reached $6.6 trillion by the end of 2025, accounting for around 16.2 per cent of total outstanding loans, but in the fact that the country has built a unified green taxonomy for its entire financial system.

Hung noted that before green capital flows expanded, China spent many years developing a unified green classification system for the entire economy.

“When there is no unified standard, each institution may interpret green differently. This increases due diligence costs, widens information asymmetry, and creates risks of greenwashing projects to access preferential funding,” he explained. “Conversely, when a clear taxonomy exists, banks can assess projects more quickly, investors have a better basis for comparison, and regulators can more effectively monitor policy outcomes.”

He added that China does not treat green taxonomy as a technical appendix to green finance policy.

“Instead, it is linked to statistical systems, disclosure mechanisms, bank performance evaluation, refinancing tools, and green industrial policy strategy. This linkage has turned taxonomy from a set of standards into part of the market infrastructure,” said Hung.

However, while businesses are pressured to 'go green' faster, the market’s ability to support this transition has not developed at a comparable pace.

Ngo Anh Nguyet, lecturer at the Banking Research Institute under BAV, noted that although Vietnam has issued a decision on environmental criteria and the certification of green taxonomy projects, several key components are still being completed.

“Quantitative technical thresholds for each project type are still missing, the ‘do no significant harm’ principle has not been fully specified, while environmental databases and independent verification mechanisms are still under development,” she said. “These gaps make it difficult to determine whether a project truly delivers environmental value. When criteria are unclear and data is not standardised, due diligence costs tend to rise, making credit institutions more cautious when approaching new transition sectors.”

Hoang Thi Dieu Thuy , relationship manager, Wholesale Banking, HSBC Vietnam: Sustainability requirements are driving strong growth in sustainable finance markets, with various capital-raising instruments such as green bonds, green loans, social bonds, and sustainability-linked loans. The key difference lies in the funding provided and in linking financial conditions to specific ESG targets. While green loans and green bonds channel capital into environmentally beneficial projects such as renewable energy, green buildings, and emissions reduction, sustainability-linked loans encourage enterprises to improve ESG indicators through clear commitments and measurable targets. When these targets are achieved, businesses can benefit from more favourable financing conditions. As Vietnam pursues its net-zero emissions target by 2050, develops renewable energy, builds a carbon market, and promotes green transformation, sustainable finance is expected to become a critical bridge between corporate transition needs and domestic and international capital flows. Beyond being a funding tool, green finance is gradually becoming a common language of the market in the new development phase.

Dr. Bui Thanh Minh Deputy director of the Private Economic Development Research Board Green transition demand is present across all three sides. Businesses are under pressure to change to maintain market access and supply chain positions. Banks seek to expand green credit. Regulators are also promoting green growth and sustainable development goals. However, green capital flows have not yet been fully unlocked. One key reason is that the cost of evaluating and certifying green projects remains high, while supporting data for appraisal is incomplete and fragmented. This creates difficulties for both enterprises and financial institutions in accessing and disbursing capital. Vietnam should take an ecosystem approach rather than focusing on isolated policies. A centralised data platform integrating environmental, emissions, energy, resource, and production data could serve as a bridge between businesses and financial institutions. When data is digitised, standardised, and effectively shared, appraisal costs will decline, access to capital will improve, and green credit development will become more transparent.

Nguyen Quang Ngoc Deputy head of Credit Policy Department of Agribank Green credit is also seen as an important factor in attracting new-generation investment flows. Many multinational corporations are increasingly concerned about clean energy supply capacity, emission levels, and sustainability commitments of host countries. However, to broaden green capital flows, existing barriers still need to be removed, from improving the green taxonomy system and standardising data and ESG criteria to enhancing the capacity of enterprises and financial institutions. More broadly, green credit is no longer simply a banking product. It is becoming one of the key tools supporting economic restructuring and enhancing long-term competitiveness of the economy.

At an industry workshop in Ho Chi Minh City on June 11, Meadow Fresh launched two new products, expanding its premium dairy portfolio in the Vietnamese market.

According to Scott James, New Zealand’s consul general and trade commissioner to Vietnam, the country has long been recognised globally for its high-quality dairy products, supported by favourable natural conditions and sustainable farming practices.

“New Zealand’s high-quality milk is the foundation of the distinctive value and superior quality associated with its dairy products,” James said.

Meadow Fresh applies strict quality control throughout the production process, from farm to finished product, including herd health monitoring technology, hormone-free farming practices, and natural grazing systems on expansive pastures.

The launch reflects growing interest among international dairy companies in Vietnam, where investment in advanced farming technologies, digitalisation, and sustainable production models is increasingly shaping the industry’s development.

Earlier, more than 250 booths from countries and territories with developed dairy industries such as New Zealand, Taiwan, Australia, and Japan, alongside many major domestic brands, gathered at Vietnam Dairy 2026, held in Hanoi in late May, to discuss industry development trends and innovation.

According to Dr. Tran Quang Trung, chairman of the Vietnam Dairy Association, despite making significant progress in recent years, the dairy industry still faces numerous challenges related to quality standards, traceability, and long-term development requirements.

“Experiences and technologies from international businesses will help Vietnamese businesses gain deeper access to emission reduction solutions and apply circular economy principles throughout the entire value chain, from livestock farming and processing to packaging, thereby contributing to the realisation of the government’s net-zero goal,” he said.

Trung explained that digital transformation is becoming a crucial driving force for businesses to improve production and management efficiency. Solutions such as automation, data management, and traceability increase transparency and contribute to quality control, strengthen consumer confidence, and reduce environmental impact.

In fact, many foreign dairy companies are realising this trend through investments in production technology, smart agriculture, and emission reduction initiatives, thereby contributing to promoting the green transformation and digitalisation of the Vietnamese dairy industry.

After more than 30 years of operation in Vietnam, Nestlé is implementing a comprehensive digital transformation from marketing and sales to production and supply chain to optimise operations and enhance customer experience. In the manufacturing sector, businesses are accelerating the development of smart factory models with applications of robots, AI cameras, and real-time data analysis systems to improve productivity, ensure food safety, and enhance traceability.

According to Le Thi Hoai Thuong, external relations director of Nestlé Vietnam, digital transformation has become a core element in improving the efficiency of the entire dairy value chain, while enhancing transparency, food safety, and traceability.

“We are implementing digitalisation throughout production to the supply chain, while placing people at the centre of the transformation process. The goal is to share best practices, promote technology application, and strengthen cooperation towards a more efficient and transparent dairy industry,” Thuong said.

In parallel with investing in technology and digital transformation, foreign businesses are also focusing on developing specialised nutritional product lines to meet the increasingly diverse needs of Vietnamese consumers.

Taguchi Yoshihiro, marketing director of Morinaga Nutritional Foods Vietnam, stated that with over a century of research and development experience in Japan, Morinaga is focusing on providing high-quality nutritional products to meet the increasingly diverse health needs of Vietnamese consumers.

“We believe that the demand for specialised nutritional products and long-term healthcare solutions in Vietnam will continue to grow strongly in the coming years. This trend is driven by increasing health awareness, rapid urbanisation, and the expansion of a middle class that increasingly values high-quality and functional products,” Yoshihiro noted.

The increasing involvement of international businesses is taking place against the backdrop of a Vietnamese market that still has significant growth potential. According to the Vietnam Dairy Association, per-person milk consumption is currently only about 36kg per year, significantly lower than many developed countries such as Denmark, France, the US or Japan.

The dairy industry development strategy to 2030, with a vision to 2045, aims for an average annual growth rate of 12-14 per cent. By 2030, the production of processed liquid milk is expected to reach approximately 4.2 billion litres, while domestic raw fresh milk production will reach 2.6 billion litres, meeting 60-65 per cent of processing needs.

To realise these goals, the Vietnamese dairy industry needs technology and investment capital while also addressing the challenge of securing a domestic supply of raw materials.

According to TH Group, Vietnam has all the conditions to improve its self-sufficiency in fresh milk raw materials. The company predicts that to meet about 70 per cent of market demand by 2035, Vietnam needs to develop a herd of approximately 700,000 cows using a concentrated farming model, applying high technology and modern management.

The sector’s growth prospects continue to draw in investor interest. Earlier in June, DealStreetAsia reported that TH Group was in discussions with several international investment funds to raise around $1 billion through the sale of a minority stake.

Meanwhile, Le Hoang Minh, executive director of Production at Vinamilk, believes that for an industry closely linked to health and quality of life, innovation extends beyond production technology to how businesses engage with and understand consumers.

“We have established a clear roadmap, targeting emission reductions of 15 per cent by 2027, 55 per cent by 2035, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” Minh said.

Vinamilk currently operates a nationwide network of 14 green farms and 14 modern production facilities, while its products have reached 63 export markets worldwide. The company is implementing a range of technological solutions to reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, including smart warehouse systems that cut energy consumption by up to 70 per cent compared to conventional models, robots that help reduce internal transport-related emissions by around 60 per cent, and heat recovery and reuse systems capable of reclaiming up to 90 per cent of the thermal energy generated during production.

Thailand's Betagen sets up first manufacturing facility in Vietnam

Kaluga governor praises TH Group’s world-leading dairy farm

Foreign funds accumulate consumer stocks in Vietnam

F&N deepens investment in Vinamilk

Vietnam sets ambitious dairy growth targets

DFI Retail and The Mills Fabrica name Number 8 Bio winner of sustainability innovation challenge

Directive No.27/CT-TTg, dated June 25, sets out measures to strengthen the management of official development assistance (ODA) and foreign concessional loans, improve efficiency, and accelerate disbursement in 2026 and beyond.

According to the Ministry of Finance (MoF), as of June 15, the nationwide disbursement rate for the 2026 public investment plan financed by foreign sources, calculated under the revenue-and-expenditure recording mechanism, stood at just 9.99 per cent of the allocated plan.

The rate reached 9.37 per cent for local authorities and 10.79 per cent for central ministries and agencies, both significantly lower than the disbursement rate for domestically funded public investment. The disbursement rate for on-lending programmes implemented by local authorities was only 8.98 per cent of the allocated plan.

Notably, several ministries, central agencies and local authorities recorded a zero per cent disbursement rate.

To strengthen management, improve the efficiency of ODA and concessional loan utilisation, and ensure the full disbursement of annual public investment plans assigned by the Prime Minister, thereby supporting the government's goal of achieving double-digit economic growth, the directive requires ministries, central agencies and local authorities to concentrate resources on projects of the highest priority. These include nationally significant projects, key infrastructure projects and initiatives with strong spillover effects that can create long-term growth momentum while promoting balanced regional development.

The directive also requires a comprehensive review of medium-term public investment needs funded by foreign sources from the central budget for the 2026-2030 period. Ministries and agencies are instructed not to propose or seek approval for new borrowing, programmes or projects that are unnecessary, inefficient, lack clear justification or fail to demonstrate sufficient feasibility.

The PM stressed the need to improve the efficiency of ODA and concessional loan utilisation, while ensuring both investment effectiveness and project feasibility.

Projects are to be categorised according to their disbursement performance. Funding will be prioritised for projects with strong implementation progress, priority projects requiring early completion, projects nearing completion and those approaching the deadline for disbursement under their respective loan agreements.

At the same time, annual foreign-funded investment plans must not allocate capital to projects that are not ready for disbursement. New projects will not be approved for agencies or units that have allowed prolonged delays in disbursement, losses, waste or misconduct without taking timely corrective action in accordance with regulations. Capital will also be promptly reallocated from slow-disbursing projects to those with stronger implementation performance and additional funding needs.

The directive further calls for improvements in investment planning and project preparation. Relevant authorities are instructed to complete investment and construction procedures without delay, ensure adequate supplies of construction materials and allocate sufficient counterpart funding to facilitate payments in line with approved budgets, thereby enabling projects to meet implementation and disbursement schedules.

Alongside efforts to accelerate disbursement, the PM has called for stronger inspection and supervision throughout the entire project cycle, including project selection, investment preparation, approval of investment policies, capital allocation, project implementation, and the management, utilisation and disbursement of ODA and concessional loans.

The directive emphasises that foreign-funded capital must be used for the intended purposes, allocated to the appropriate beneficiaries and managed in accordance with regulations, while ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, transparency and accountability.

Authorities are instructed to promptly detect, prevent and strictly deal with corruption, misconduct, vested-interest practices, bid rigging, inflated investment estimates, inflated contract values, losses, waste and any other violations arising during the proposal, approval, implementation or disbursement of ODA – and concessional loan-funded programmes and projects.

The PM also instructed ministries, sectors and local authorities to submit periodic reports on foreign-funded disbursement in accordance with regulations. They are required to prepare detailed monthly disbursement plans for each project covering the remaining months of 2026, clearly identifying obstacles, analysing their causes and proposing practical solutions to ensure full disbursement of the 2026 foreign-funded public investment plan. These reports must be submitted to the MoF for consolidation by July 10.

The PM instructed the MoF to proactively and decisively engage in discussions and work with donors to simplify and shorten procedures related to the disbursement of ODA loans and preferential foreign loans; based on reports from ministries, sectors, and localities, to promptly address any arising issues within the MoF's scope of responsibility, ensuring the progress of implementation and disbursement as committed to donors.

JICA pledges continued support for Vietnam's sustainable economic growth The Japan International Cooperation Agency will continue to support Vietnam's sustainable economic growth and help deepen bilateral ties, its president said during a visit to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Japan funds climate projects in eight northern provinces The Ministry of Finance has signed 11 on-lending agreements worth $240 million funded by Japanese official development assistance loans for two major development projects in eight northern mountainous provinces.

The Ministry of Finance and AFD map out ODA priorities for 2026-2030 The Ministry of Finance and the French Development Agency have held a meeting in Hanoi to assess cooperation programmes and projects for 2026, with a focus on green transition, transport infrastructure, and climate change adaptation.

Microsoft Vietnam on June 24 released its 2026 Work Trend Index, analysing trillions of anonymised Microsoft 365 productivity signals, and surveying 2,000 workers in Vietnam.

The findings show that Vietnamese employees are moving faster with AI adoption than the organisations around them. They are already using AI to do more valuable, higher‑impact work, but many organisations are not built to fully unlock that potential.

89 per cent of AI users in Vietnam say they treat AI output as a starting point, not a final answer, and that they “stay responsible for the thinking.” They see their role is shifting from generating answers to evaluating, refining, and owning them.

This shift is already visible in how people work. Vietnam leads ASEAN with 39 per cent of workers being Frontier Professionals, the most advanced AI users in the research, compared to 16 per cent globally. These workers are not only adopting AI quickly but also using it in more sophisticated ways to analyse information, solve problems, evaluate, and think creatively.

That capability is translating into tangible outcomes. 76 per cent of AI users in Vietnam say they’re producing work they couldn’t have created a year ago, significantly ahead of the global average (58 per cent). Among Frontier Professionals, that figure rises to 83 per cent, versus 80 per cent globally.

Frontier Professionals in Vietnam also refuse to outsource their thinking to AI. Compared to non‑Frontier Professionals, they are more likely to deliberately do some work without AI to keep their skills sharp (57 per cent versus 41 per cent). They are more likely to pause before starting work to decide what should be done by a human versus an AI (62 per cent versus 50 per cent).

While employees are moving quickly, the research shows that leadership and organisational systems are struggling to keep pace. Globally, only 19 per cent of organisations fall into the Frontier category, where both individual AI capability and organisational readiness are high.

The majority of organisations sit in an “emergent” stage, where AI adoption is underway, but individual AI capability and organisational conditions are still taking shape. In Vietnam, there are more positive signals. 48 per cent of AI users in Vietnam say their leadership is clearly and consistently aligned on AI, nearly doubling the global average of 26 per cent. 32 per cent of AI users say they’re rewarded for reinventing how work gets done when those efforts don’t immediately produce results. This figure is slightly ahead of the global average (13 per cent).

The findings also reveals that 82 per cent of AI users fear falling behind if they don’t use AI to adapt quickly, compared to 65 per cent globally.

This creates the ‘Transformation Paradox’: employees feel pressure to adopt AI quickly to keep up, but the systems around them in terms of metrics, incentives, and norms continue to reinforce the old way of working.

The strongest signal from the 2026 Work Trend Index is that organisational factors matter more than individual behaviour. Culture, manager support, and talent practices account for more than twice the AI impact of individual mindset and usage.

Frontier Firms do this by focusing on AI absorption, not just adoption, by redesigning how work gets done and turning output into insight. When those insights are captured, shared, and embedded into everyday operations, they become Owned Intelligence: institutional knowledge, processes, and standards that are difficult to replicate.

This is where Frontier Professionals stand out. In Vietnam, they are more likely to report that agent workflows, human handoffs, and quality standards are documented and repeatable compared to non‑Frontier Professionals. By turning individual progress into shared practice, Frontier Firms build learning systems that scale and gain competitive advantage.

As AI becomes an execution layer across work, competitive advantage will belong to leaders who redesign how work gets done and to organisations that empower people to learn, adapt, and lead alongside AI. Turning that shift into sustained impact requires systems that bring people and AI agents into the same flow of work, supported by connected data and clear governance.

VNG unveils new positioning for AI era At its 2026 AGM on June 6, VNG Group unveiled its new positioning as “Vietnam's digital ecosystem builder for the AI era.”

Data and technology redefine Vietnam’s e-commerce race As Vietnam’s e-commerce market expands at one of the fastest rates in Southeast Asia, platforms are shifting competition from price promotions to data, AI, logistics and content creator networks.

Beyond AI: What a world top-5 school teaches for the future While technology continues to transform how knowledge is accessed and applied, some of the most respected educational institutions argue that the most valuable future skills remain ‘deeply human’. At the forefront is King’s College School Wimbledon, where nearly 200 years of excellence meet forward-looking innovation.

The event marks the ProPak brand’s first expansion to northern Vietnam after nearly two decades of development in Ho Chi Minh City.

Scheduled for October 13-15 at the Vietnam Exhibition Centre in Hanoi’s Dong Anh district, the exhibition is expected to serve as a platform for technology transfer, industry networking, and business matching for companies in processing, packaging, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and logistics.

Speaking at the press conference launch, Annie Tran, senior event manager at Informa Markets Vietnam, said Vietnam’s manufacturing industry was entering a new phase of competition in which advantages increasingly depend on operational efficiency, technology adoption, product quality, and green development.

“Processing and packaging technologies are becoming strategic tools that help businesses optimise costs, improve competitiveness, and integrate more deeply into global supply chains,” she said.

ProPak Hanoi is the latest addition to the ProPak exhibition series, one of Asia’s leading platforms for processing, manufacturing, and packaging technologies, with established editions in China, Thailand, the Philippines, India, and Vietnam.

Covering more than 4,000 square metres, the event will showcase solutions in food and beverage processing, packaging materials and technologies, printing and labelling, pharmaceuticals, testing and laboratory equipment, warehousing, logistics and cold chain systems, as well as automation and smart manufacturing.

The exhibition is expected to pull in thousands of trade visitors, including business owners, senior executives, factory managers, technical specialists, importers, distributors, and consultants from across the manufacturing value chain.

Alongside the exhibition, a series of conferences and training programmes will focus on digital transformation, automation and smart factories, sustainable packaging, the circular economy, environmental, social, and governance, food safety, and logistics and cold chain management.

The launch comes as Hanoi and neighbouring provinces such continue to draw in large-scale investment in electronics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and consumer goods manufacturing.

According to the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance, Vietnam attracted $15.2 billion in registered foreign direct investment in the first quarter of 2026, up 42.9 per cent on-year. Manufacturing and processing industries continued to account for the largest share of total inflows.

A key feature of ProPak Hanoi 2026 will be its Business Matching Programme, facilitating one-to-one meetings between buyers and suppliers from Vietnam and overseas, while helping companies identify partners and turn business opportunities into concrete collaboration.

ProPak Vietnam 2023 brings new solutions for the processing and packaging industry

Italian firms to offer efficient packaging solutions at Propak Vietnam 2025

Tetra Pak unveils innovative solutions at Propak Vietnam 2025

Exploring efficient packaging solutions from Italy at ProPak Vietnam 2026

ITA and OpportunItaly help Italian companies access Vietnam market

Vietnam aims to build a modern and transparent tax system, supporting growth and ensuring sustainable state budget revenues

Under the amendments, several objectives and policy measures have been revised. The state budget revenue mobilisation target for 2026-2030 has been raised from 16-17 per cent of GDP to 18 per cent, while the target share of domestic revenue has increased from 86-87 per cent to 87-88 per cent.

The expenditure structure has also been refined, with development investment spending set to account for around 40 per cent of total state budget expenditure. Meanwhile, the budget deficit ceiling has been lifted from around 3 per cent to 5 per cent of GDP through 2030, and the national external debt ceiling increased from 45 per cent to half of GDP.

To support average annual GDP growth of at least 10 per cent during 2026-2030, Decision 1119 introduces a series of policy measures centred on institutional reform, removing impediments to unlock productive capacity and mobilise resources, and improving the investment and business environment.

Vietnam will continue refining its legal and institutional framework to support a new growth model, accelerate economic restructuring and industrialisation, and position sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation as the economy's primary growth engines.

The government will also step up efforts to remove regulatory obstacles, accelerate administrative reform, standardise and digitise public services, strengthen data sharing across government agencies, and develop mechanisms to better manage surplus state-owned land and property assets, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Decision 1119 emphasises the need to develop an efficient state sector that genuinely plays a key role in maintaining macroeconomic stability, safeguarding major economic balances, providing strategic direction and guiding overall economic development.

The decision also calls for stronger development of the private sector through effective implementation of policies contained in relevant resolutions issued by the Politburo, the National Assembly and the government. Priority will be given to measures aimed at improving private enterprises’ access to financial resources and credit.

Vietnam will continue to attract foreign investment selectively while reforming foreign direct investment (FDI) policies by shifting the focus from tax incentives toward alternative incentive mechanisms, including performance-based and post-investment incentives.

In parallel, the government plans to introduce breakthrough and competitive policy frameworks to mobilise and efficiently use resources for emerging economic models.

Priority areas include growth poles, key economic regions, economic corridors, special economic zones, technology zones, free trade zones, international financial centres, the national data centre, high-speed railways, nuclear power, solar energy and offshore wind power projects, among others.

The decision places particular emphasis on implementing an appropriately expansionary fiscal policy, targeted at supporting double-digit economic growth in the coming years. It also calls for the development of a modern and transparent tax system capable of encouraging growth while ensuring sustainable state budget revenues.

Decision 1119 also aims to strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of state budget management and administration, enforce strict expenditure savings and prioritise resources for development investment spending to support key growth drivers.

The new decision also calls for effective implementation of the Law on Public Debt Management, enhanced public debt risk management, greater transparency in debt reporting, gearing efforts to help Vietnam achieve investment-grade sovereign credit ratings as soon as possible.

In addition, the government will introduce timely measures to regulate production, stabilise supply and demand, closely monitor and manage prices, particularly for essential goods, while encouraging exports and expanding into new markets, especially countries recently upgraded to strategic partnership or comprehensive strategic partnership status with Vietnam

Decision 1119 aims to have Vietnam’s investment environment among the top three in ASEAN and among the world’s top 30 economies by 2028.

By 2030, the country aims to have 50 companies ranked among Southeast Asia’s 500 largest enterprises and between one and three companies included among the world’s 500 largest corporations.

Experts flag gaps as national financial strategy under review Financial specialists are urging targeted reforms to ensure Vietnam stays on track with the goals set out in its financial strategy to 2030. Their latest assessments highlight gaps that could hinder progress without timely policy adjustments.

Vietnam and US Treasury deepen financial cooperation On June 15, at the headquarters of Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance, Minister of Finance Ngo Van Tuan received a delegation from the US Department of the Treasury, led by Robert Kaproth, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.

VIFC set to raise the bar for Ho Chi Minh City’s office market Vietnam's International Financial Centre is expected to add substantial office space to Ho Chi Minh City's market while raising competitive standards across the sector.

The bank signed the Issuing Bank Agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) on June 25, marking an important milestone in advancing digital transformation and expanding into international markets.

ADB is a multilateral development bank established in 1996 with the mission of promoting sustainable economic growth, reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life in the Asia-Pacific region. The organisation possesses stringent international standards for risk management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable development.

ADB has established a partnership and granted a trade finance package to Nam A Bank, underscoring the bank's strong financial capacity, transparency, and high reputation on the international stage.

Under the agreement, ADB will grant a trade finance package worth $50 million to Nam A Bank. ADB will issue guarantees to confirming banks to support Nam A Bank's payment obligations for eligible transactions.

With the mechanism, Nam A Bank is well-positioned to enhance capabilities and expand its portfolio of flagship products like import and export letters of credit, bank guarantees, Standby Letters of Credit, document discounting, bill of exchange acceptance, and financing of short-term commercial loans. At the same time, the partnership facilitates better acceptance from international banks during transactions with Nam A Bank and optimises transaction processing times. It also addresses delays faced by Vietnamese enterprises, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), participating in global value chains.

Vo Hoang Hai, deputy CEO of Nam A Bank, said, “The strategic partnership with Nam A Bank underscores the prestige and financial capabilities of Nam A Bank in the market. The participation in the prestigious TSCFP elevates the brand's position and creates a solid foundation for the bank to increase its internal strength, optimise financial structuring solutions, and enhance its market service capabilities.”

He further noted that under the strategic partnership, the bank will focus on four key areas. First is to expand the scale and capacity of trade finance, with priority support for SMEs. The second is the deepening of cooperation with the global banking network. Third is to pioneer the promotion of green trade finance, shaping sustainable and environmentally friendly supply chains. Fourth is to accelerate the comprehensive digital transformation in trade finance operations to achieve optimal performance in speed, accuracy, and compliance with the most stringent international standards.

The deal with ADB is part of Nam A Bank’s long-term strategy to deeply penetrate the international financial market. Notably, Nam A Bank has a plan to establish a member bank at Vietnam's International Finance Centre to bridge capital flows. Efforts have been made to strengthen collaboration with leading global financial institutions and development organisations such as J.P. Morgan, FMO, Proparco, and Sinopac to effectively attract foreign currency.

Thanks to these efforts, Nam A Bank continuously receives large and long-term financial resources from reputable global partners such as the International Finance Corporation, Symbiotics, BlueOrchard, GCPF, and responsAbility to diversify its foreign capital portfolio. Since the beginning of 2026, Nam A Bank has successfully secured nearly $300 million in international funding from reputable partners.

The collaboration with international financial institutions facilitates the bank gaining access to technologies, financial products, and best management practices from leading global financial groups. It also reflects the recognition of the international market for Nam A Bank’s pursuit of international best practices, including International Financial Reporting Standards, Basel III, and environmental, social, and governance frameworks.

Entering a new phase of development with many growth drivers, Nam A Bank is promoting its strategic pillars in international payments, trade finance, foreign exchange trading, capital management, and market research. Thus, the bank continues to perfect its comprehensive financial services ecosystem, enhance its competitiveness, and increase the value for customers.

Nam A Bank joins IFC trade programme in strategic partnership Nam A Commercial Joint Stock Bank has established a strategic partnership with the International Finance Corporation, marking a significant step in its international expansion.

Banks ramp up plans to establish VIFC subsidiaries Banks are accelerating plans to set up subsidiary banks at the Vietnam International Financial Centre to expand the ecosystem and enhance international competitiveness.

Nam A Bank adopts SIMO fraud monitoring system Nam A Bank has become one of the early adopters of the SIMO system, a new fraud monitoring service for payment accounts and e-wallets.

1. Floor-mounted AC EV Charger: Featuring a 21-inch LCD touch screen, POS payment, and ISO 15118-2 certification, it combines EV charging and digital advertising for retail, parking, and urban charging hubs.
2. Liquid-Cooled DC Charger: With up to 480 kW output and a modular design that supports independent operation, it is built for high-demand public and commercial charging scenarios, delivering reliable performance with easier operation and maintenance.
3. Split MW DC Charger: A 2 MW high-power charging solution for electric trucks, logistics fleets, ports, and industrial applications, supporting MCS/CCS interfaces, smart power sharing, and expandable DC outputs.

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

For more information, please visit www.evb.com

• First NDP marching contingent representing Singapore's accountancy profession.
• Includes accountants, SCAQ candidates, students, educators and ecosystem partners.
• Drawn from public sector agencies, professional services firms, institutes of higher learning and professional bodies.
• Represents a profession that has supported Singapore's development from before independence to today.

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

For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.

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

For more information, visit Ogilvy.com

Riding on the wave of excitement, the organiser, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), extended the annual Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival period to 13 days (June 19 – July 1), beginning on the historic Tuen Ng Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) and concluding on July 1, which is the 29^th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

As the headline international flagship event of "Hong Kong Summer Fun", Dr Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, said the Festival not only ran over a longer period, but also featured a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment programmes than in previous years, offering an experience found only in Hong Kong for locals and visitors, while showcasing Hong Kong's position as the Events Capital of Asia.

More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete for top honours in the world‑renowned setting of Victoria Harbour. This year's event also introduces the special 50^th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50^th Anniversary Championship, paying tribute to the traditional spirit of dragon boat racing.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a series of thematic activities along the Avenue of Stars, including a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat, a dragon boat-themed installation in collaboration with the new film Minions & Monsters, live music performances and a line-up of intangible cultural heritage performances, including martial art Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, traditional musical instruments ruan and guzheng.

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

Simplifying Innovation: From Bioinformatics to Industrial Simulation

SCNet.AI is positioned to bridge supply and demand for computing resources and unify an ecosystem of research software, delivering user-friendly research computing and scientific large model innovation environments for global research institutes, enterprises and independent developers.

SCNet.AI covers three core research scenarios:

• Life Science & Bioinformatics: Tailored for biopharma firms and universities;
• Industrial Manufacturing: CFD fluid simulation and FEA finite element analysis for automotive and semiconductor sectors;
• Physical & Chemical Research: Molecular dynamics simulation for researchers in materials and new energy sectors.

Built around the integrated development philosophy of "data, computing power, models and applications"，SCNet.AI addresses pain points of open-source large models including difficult deployment, high usage costs and complicated adaptation, and provides end-to-end technical support from environment deployment to task tuning, substantially lowering the operational barrier for researchers to access AI4S computing resources.

E-commerce-style Operational Model: Instant Access & Elastic Scheduling

SCNet.AI's standout innovation lies in its proprietary AI4S application marketplace model. Much like mainstream e-commerce platforms that connect physical goods buyers and sellers, SCNet.AI matches computing power, datasets, research models and industry applications with researchers.

This model delivers three distinct competitive advantages:

• Instant on-demand access. All software is delivered via SaaS, while research AI agents are deployed under MaaS. Users can run tools online after subscription without local downloading, installation or maintenance.
• Elastic scaling. Computing resources can be precisely allocated on demand for workloads ranging from simulation calculations to large model training.
• Unified innovation ecosystem. Beyond being a computing power trading hub, SCNet.AI serves as a global collaborative platform for scientific research and innovation.

Currently, hundreds of premium applications, datasets and model products have already been listed on the platform. Users can select research applications on demand just like browsing an e-commerce site, eliminating the need to build in-house computing clusters or hire dedicated operation and maintenance staff. Simple registration unlocks full access, drastically cutting the overall hidden AI4S cost.

To lower entry barriers for researchers worldwide, SCNet.AI offers a complimentary resource kit for all newly registered users, including 10M Tokens, 100 GPU Hours (AI Inference) and 100 CPU Core Hours (HPC). These resources can support dozens of inference runs for mainstream foundation models, lightweight model fine-tuning, or complete end-to-end CFD and molecular dynamics simulation experiments.

This promotion is valid from June 23 to July 23, 2026 and open exclusively to first-time registrants. Each new account entity is entitled to claim the resource kit only once. All redeemed resources expire 90 days after collection. Quantities are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until exhausted.

For full information, please visit our official website at www.scnet.ai.

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

As tensions ease across key corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz, Fleet Management supports renewed multilateral efforts to address a troubling pattern in which seafarers, as civilians, are repeatedly exposed to conflict, and to ensure they are protected from its human cost.

Dr. Harry Banga, Founder and Executive Chairman of The Caravel Group and Fleet Management Limited, said: "Countries, industries and communities rely on seafarers to keep essential goods flowing. Waterways like the Strait of Hormuz are key arteries of the global economy. When disrupted, the impact is immediate. Costs rise. Supply chains tighten. Today is a reminder that the industry and governments must act decisively to uphold safe and free navigation, so seafarers can sail with confidence."

Echoing the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2026 theme, "Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks," Fleet Management emphasises that while seafarers drive global commerce, they are increasingly placed on the frontline of geopolitical disruptions to keep essential fuel, food and goods moving. Since February, an estimated 20,000 civilian seafarers, including around 600 under Fleet Management's care, have borne these risks daily, navigating volatile waters and, at times, remaining at anchorage for extended periods until conditions stabilise.

Captain Rajalingam Subramaniam, Chief Executive Officer of Fleet Management Limited, said: "As a company, and as an industry, we have a responsibility to speak up. Seafarers are civilians who carry responsibility in the face of risk and adversity, in conditions beyond their control. This must not become the new normal. They must be seen, heard and properly protected. We are encouraged by the IMO-led evacuation efforts underway to restore safe transit, and hope confidence will soon rebuild."

Fleet Management takes a systematic approach to protecting its seafarers in high-risk environments, prioritising physical and mental wellbeing and strong ship-shore connectivity. Developments are monitored around the clock, with routes adjusted as needed and constant communication maintained to safeguard crews, vessels and the environment. As conditions evolve, any resumption of transit is assessed on a vessel-by-vessel basis. Ships cannot simply turn their engines on and go. Each is evaluated against its own risk matrix, ensuring every movement is deliberate, controlled and grounded in safety.

Fleet Management remains committed to safe, fair and responsible sailing practices that put seafarers first. Through Fleet Care, seafarers have access to 24/7 mental health support, wellbeing programmes and family initiatives that provide connection and reassurance at home. Across the fleet, one million meals are served each year to support nutrition, while industry-leading insurance ensures protection at sea and while on leave. Together, these measures reduce pressure, share the load and help seafarers stay safe, supported and focused in demanding conditions.

The Launch of Pulse: Connecting Seafarers to 24/7 Support, Onboard and Onshore

Angad Banga, Chief Executive Officer of The Caravel Group and Executive Director of Fleet Management Limited, stated: "Recognition has to translate into action. Not once a year, but every day. That means understanding the pressures our seafarers operate under, and responding with consistent, practical support. At Fleet, this shows up in the decisions we make, and the systems we build to support our crews."

Today, Fleet Management launched Pulse. Far more than an app, it is a digital lifeline for its 27,000-strong seafaring community, simplifying life at sea. Designed for life at sea, Pulse brings documents and updates into one place, reducing administrative burden and giving seafarers greater clarity and control, while providing 24/7 access to critical physical and mental health support. It ensures they stay connected and can access Fleet Care resources at any time, whether on board or on leave. For Fleet Management's global community, Pulse represents a significant step in turning commitment into consistent, everyday support.

Making Seafarers Seen: Global Action and Awareness Across Markets

With over 80 percent of global trade travelling by sea, the vital contributions of seafarers and the daily challenges they manage often remain unseen. To address this, Fleet Management launched global advocacy and educational initiatives this week to highlight both the importance of seafarers and the realities of life at sea.

Fleet Management's crewing offices across India, the Philippines and China have delivered targeted family outreach initiatives, including the Fleet Care Family Outreach Programme, providing health and wellbeing support to seafarer families, alongside community engagement activities. These efforts are supported across offices worldwide and in multi-city public awareness campaigns reaching audiences across major cities to build broader understanding and recognition. Together, these initiatives reinforce Fleet Management's commitment to making seafarers visible, valued and supported both at sea and at home.

Supported by strong training investments, including over 80,000 certificates issued annually and 500 cadets trained each year at the International Maritime Institute (IMI), Fleet Management ensures its workforce remains skilled, resilient and fully supported at sea.

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

Learn more: www.fleetship.com