Photo: The MoC

She stated that the US business community is eager for the MoC to share information and discuss ways to support Vietnam in its new development phase, with a focus on boosting innovation-based growth. Areas of their interest include the ministry's priorities in effectively implementing key national infrastructure projects, developing social housing, and building a transparent and stable legal framework for housing, urban development, and the real estate market.

Accordingly, cooperation directions could focus on developing modern, highly interconnected, and resilient infrastructure systems; utilising sustainable urban development; and improving construction efficiency.

The others are supporting the modernisation of the logistics sector and related infrastructure, aiming to enhance Vietnam's ability to participate in diverse and resilient global supply chains; while encouraging the application of technology and innovation in the fields of construction, engineering, and urban planning.

Specifically, transportation companies such as FedEx, Atlas Air Worldwide, and UPS plan to increase investment and expand their presence in Vietnam, aiming to develop freight and logistics operations, especially air freight.

Businesses also requested that the MoC and relevant agencies of Vietnam create stronger conditions for investment and expansion of transportation service infrastructure at airports, as well as improve policies to support the development of transportation, logistics, and transport.

Photo: The MoC

In the aviation sector, Boeing expressed its readiness to partner with and support Vietnam in commercial aviation, defence and security, supply chain development, technical training, and community initiatives. This includes aspects of fleet development, ensuring aviation energy security, and encouraging the use of sustainable aviation fuels.

In response, Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Tuong Van expressed appreciation for the interest and positive contributions of USABC member businesses to Vietnam's economic development in recent years.

He stated that as Vietnam accelerates the development of synchronous and modern infrastructure, the need to mobilise resources, absorb international experience, and apply science and technology is immense.

"Therefore, the ministry wishes to strengthen cooperation with US businesses in the development of transportation infrastructure such as airports, seaports, and railways, as well as in other areas including urban development, building materials, digital transformation, and high-quality workforce training," he said.

Regarding transportation infrastructure development, the Socioeconomic Development Strategy for the period 2021-2030 prioritises the development of expressways, airports, high-speed rail and urban rail systems, and seaports, while strengthening transportation connectivity between regions, such as the Mekong Delta and the northern mountainous region; along with focusing on solutions to address climate change and flooding.

Photo: The MoC

Deputy Minister Van noted that Vietnam has achieved significant progress in the transport and construction sector. The North-South expressway has been largely completed, bringing the total length of expressways nationwide to more than 3,000 km. Investment in Long Thanh International Airport is being accelerated, research is under way on the North-South high-speed railway, and the seaport system currently operates 306 berths.

Vietnam has also issued key policies to promote investment in transportation infrastructure, focusing on mobilising diverse sources of capital, including the non-state sector and international organisations, while refining the legal framework, investment incentives, and specific mechanisms.

The state encourages foreign investment and public-private partnership models in the infrastructure sector, applying preferential tax, fee, and land policies for businesses investing in transportation and urban development, while also promoting industrial development and technology transfer.

Regarding the proposals from US businesses, the deputy minister acknowledged them and said he would assign relevant units to compile, research, and consider them during policy finalisation and implementation. He also said the ministry is ready to act as a focal point for information exchange and business support within its assigned functions.

Deputy Minister Van expressed hope that US businesses would continue sharing international experience and proposing specific, feasible solutions to improve planning, design, construction, and operation of infrastructure projects in Vietnam, while focusing on cooperation in training and human resource development to enhance the construction industry's capacity.

"We hope to receive close cooperation from businesses, especially in essential infrastructure sectors, which are currently key areas for investment attraction in Vietnam," he said.

He requested that businesses continue contributing policy opinions and proposing cooperation and investment initiatives with the ministry to achieve practical and effective results.

US-ASEAN links attain higher status Given the current global challenges and uncertainties, the US-ASEAN business community is pinning high hopes on new opportunities in Vietnam backed by strong support from the government.

Cooperation advantages from US-ASEAN relations The economic landscape of Vietnam has undergone remarkable transformations, positioning it as one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing economies in Southeast Asia. The country has increasingly become a key player in the global market, attracting foreign direct investment from around the world, with the United States standing out as one of the most significant contributors.

Taking proactive steps to keep strong US interest in Vietnam As US-ASEAN companies maintain a strong interest in Vietnam, a new surge of investment is expected despite tariff uncertainties. Ted Osius, president and CEO of the US-ASEAN Business Council, spoke to VIR’s Thuy Nguyen about how to hold the attention of the US.

US business delegation heads to Vietnam to foster cooperation A high-level US business delegation will pay a visit to Vietnam to promote trade investment and long-term partnerships.

Vietnam, US business council discuss energy, high-tech cooperation Vietnam and the US are advancing economic cooperation across key sectors including energy, high technology, logistics, trade, healthcare, and consumer goods.

For short-term tourist units in apartment buildings, the new regulations stipulate that apartment owners must register their tourist accommodation business and ensure compliance with tourism laws.

“Tenants and landlords can register temporary residence and notify the authorities of their stay through digital platforms such as the National Public Service Portal, the Ministry of Public Security's Public Service Portal, and the VNeID mobile application,” the decision released.

It also provides more detailed regulations on the exploitation of common areas such as lobbies, car parks, and commercial areas.

Revenue from these activities must be deposited into an account to support the maintenance of the building, while ensuring transparency and accountability. This is considered an improvement compared to previous regulations, which often caused controversy regarding the distribution of benefits from common amenities.

Regarding responsibilities in the operation of apartment buildings, Decision 19 clearly states that apartment owners and operators must fully comply with tax obligations, ensure public order, and are also responsible for requiring tenants to comply with the apartment building's regulations.

The management board and residents are responsible for facilitating the business operation of organisations and individuals providing services and commerce in accordance with the building’s designs and must not cause any unlawful obstruction. The management board has the right and responsibility to report violations of residency, public order, or fire safety regulations to the relevant authorities.

Furthermore, Decision 19 also states that Ho Chi Minh City Public Security will increase inspections of residency registration, while the Department of Construction will annually evaluate the performance of commune-level People's Committees in managing their projects.

Public Security forces will also investigate and hold accountable those responsible for misappropriating maintenance funds.

According to Le Hoang Chau, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association (HoREA), Decision 19 allows short-term apartment rentals for tourism and accommodation purposes, but landlords and apartment owners must register their businesses, fulfil tax obligations, sign contracts with tenants, register temporary residence, and comply with the rules and regulations on the management and operation of apartment buildings. This is a point that HoREA has repeatedly proposed.

“To facilitate implementation, we propose that the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction consider submitting to the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee a proposal to supplement regulations on electric vehicle parking areas (cars and motorbikes) and the placement of electric charging stations in Article 5 (parking spaces in apartment buildings) and Article 18 (responsibilities of the investor) to ensure fire safety and meet the actual needs of the people,” said Chau.

The 2014 Housing Law and its guiding decrees have introduced strict regulations prohibiting the use of apartment units for purposes other than residential use, claiming that the leasing could make impacted to the permanent residents of that buildings.

In Ho Chi Minh City, over the past two years, management agencies and local authorities have often cited this regulation to tighten control over short-term rentals using the Airbnb model, causing numerous conflicts between landlords, management boards, and residents, especially regarding security and noise issues.

Meanwhile, market demand for this type of apartment continues to surge, posing a dilemma for regulators: tightening regulations is ineffective, but loosening them creates management problems due to the lack of a legal framework.

Decision 19 is expected to help partially resolve this issue and bring this renting activity under clearer regulatory control.

Proactively taking advantages of sharing economy The sharing economy makes the market more competitive, services more diversified, and opens up opportunities for investment, employment, and customers will benefit.

Airbnb-style practices targeted with tax proposals Proposals currently being pored over to recognise short-term leasing of apartments as a legal business will put pressure on popular homestay groups such as Airbnb.

The meeting, held on April 16, underscored the company's role in the global supply chain amid surging demand for strategic metals driven by AI and semiconductor expansion. The rapid advancement of AI is ushering in a new growth cycle for high-tech materials, particularly tungsten – an essential input for advanced manufacturing.

Against this backdrop, Masan High-Tech Materials is leveraging its resource base and downstream processing capabilities to strengthen its position in the global value chain.

At the AGM, company leadership highlighted the strategic importance of materials from the Nui Phao mine in the global AI and semiconductor ecosystem. The company currently holds an estimated 21 per cent market share outside China in this segment.

Michael Glover, CEO of Masan High-Tech Materials said, “Through strategic investments, a focus on enhancing the value of our core product portfolio, and disciplined cost optimization, we are transforming our strategic material advantages into financial growth and long-term stakeholder value.”

Michael Glover, CEO of Masan High-Tech Materials

The company recorded revenue of $278 million in 2025, up 19 per cent on a like-for-like basis. Growth momentum has accelerated into 2026, supported by a sharp increase in tungsten prices. In the first quarter, ammonium paratungstate (APT) prices exceeded $3,100 per metric tonne unit (mtu), well above market expectations.

Preliminary results show first-quarter revenue of approximately $112 million and net profit after tax of $20 million, already surpassing the full-year profit for 2025. The strong performance marks a better-than-expected start and sets the stage for continued growth in the remaining quarters.

The upcycle in tungsten prices, rising nearly tenfold from early 2025, has been a key driver of profitability, alongside operational restructuring and tighter financial discipline.

Looking ahead, the company expects to generate strong operating cash flow, prioritising reinvestment and balance sheet deleveraging. Assuming APT prices remain above $1,500 per mtu, Masan High-Tech Materials targets achieving a net cash position in 2027-2028, enabling potential dividend payments.

The company has set a 2026 revenue target of $640-812 million and net profit of $68-100 million, reflecting confidence in sustained market tailwinds.

Masan High-Tech Materials is also progressing with plans to transfer its listing to the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange, aiming to enhance transparency, improve liquidity, and attract a broader base of institutional investors.

Phan Chien Thang, deputy CEO, explained the company’s favourable positioning for future growth. “We are at a golden moment for breakthrough growth.”

“The convergence of strategic resource assets, world-class processing capabilities, increased strategic stockpiling, and surging AI-driven demand is creating strong momentum for our next development phase,” he added

Tungsten surges to 12-year high as world enters a new 'black gold' race

Masan High-Tech Materials reports profit: a view from Nui Phao mine

Global surge in critical minerals stockpiling: a strategic edge for Vietnam

Masan High-Tech Materials plans HSX listing

Masan Group reports strong Q3 growth nearing full-year targets

MCH to become the largest consumer stock on VN-Index

Renewable energy remains the primary focus, accounting for 49.5 per cent of the green portfolio. Sustainable water management follows at 17.4 per cent, green buildings at 16.6 per cent, and sustainable agriculture and forestry at 14.5 per cent, with clean transport comprising the remaining 2 per cent.

From 2026 onwards, OCB intends to maintain this ratio at approximately 9-10 per cent of total loans, above the industry average, while extending eligible sectors to include energy efficiency and sustainable farming.

CEO Pham Hong Hai stated that green credit remains a central operating priority.

“On the foundation of strategic cooperation with International Finance Corporation (IFC) and international financial institutions, OCB is progressively completing its green bank governance framework,” Hai said. "The bank is strengthening the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into credit activities and risk management."

OCB has secured long-term capital and technical assistance from international backers, including IFC and Germany’s DEG.

Hai noted that OCB will grow these ties to vary green capital sources and eventually use instruments like sustainability-linked loans as the market matures.

The IFC green banking advisory programme has been a key factor in bettering governance, helping OCB increase its number of eco-friendly ventures.

“Our bank is consistently monitoring cash levels to align with Basel III standards in a broader effort to meet international safety requirements,” he noted.

The green strategy sits alongside wider financial targets, with pre-tax profit aimed at $278.4 million this year, a 39 per cent surge on last year’s $200.8 million.

Total assets are targeted at $14.17 billion, while deposits and credit are projected to grow 14 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.

Chairman Trinh Van Tuan told shareholders that the strong targets rest on a meaningful improvement in asset quality following a difficult cycle.

“From 2022 to 2024 OCB’s business activity slowed due to the impact of changing monetary policies, which affected the bank’s operating results,” Tuan said. “Non-performing loans (NPL) are concentrated mainly among retail customers with collateral, and peaked in 2024, while the NPL ratio among corporate customers remains very low. In 2025, NPL control and debt collection saw significant improvement, reflected in debt recovery growth that doubled compared to the previous year. This forms the basis for OCB setting an ambitious plan for 2026.”

During the meeting, shareholders approved a plan to issue 399.46 million new shares at a 15 per cent ratio to existing shareholders from equity reserves, lifting charter capital from $1.07 billion to $1.23 billion.

The proceeds will support lending, tech investment, and product development. Japan’s Aozora Bank is expected to remain the bank’s sole major shareholder at 15 per cent, while OCB intends to issue convertible bonds in the near future to fill the remaining 10 per cent foreign ownership limit.

OCB takes next step in AI integration Southern lender Orient Commercial Joint Stock Bank (OCB) and FPT Corporation signed off on the Data Analytics Modernisation Project, using Oracle ExaC@C Database 23ai, in Ho Chi Minh City on January 10.

Outlook brightens for bank stocks in H2 As bank stocks continue to trade below their book value, the sector is seeing growing optimism for the second half of the year (H2).

Four Vietnamese banks join $5.6 trillion green finance alliance Four Vietnamese banks have joined the Alliance for Green Commercial Banks, signalling a major step in advancing sustainable finance in the country.

The meeting took place on April 15, following FTSE Russell’s March interim review, which confirmed progress towards upgrading Vietnam to Secondary Emerging Market status. Both sides discussed measures to facilitate foreign participation, including enhancing the legal framework, reducing business conditions, and advancing the central counterparty clearing mechanism

State Securities Commission (SSC) chairwoman Vu Thi Chan Phuong thanked FTSE Russell for its positive assessments, which recognise Vietnam’s progress in policy reform, improvements to the legal framework, and market management. She also provided updates on market conditions and recent regulatory reforms aimed at increasing foreign investor participation.

"We commended the initial results of the cooperation agreement between FTSE Russell and the Vietnam Exchange, particularly in information exchange, sharing international experience, and developing market indices. The SSC will continue to support both parties to ensure effective collaboration," she added.

Speaking at the meeting, Gerald Toledano, global head of Custom Solutions and Alternatives at FTSE Russell, congratulated Vietnam on its confirmed upgrade to Secondary Emerging Market status and the planned inclusion of Vietnamese equities in the FTSE All-World Index.

"For a long time, FTSE Russell has not recorded any additional cases of markets being upgraded to emerging market category," Toledano said. "The upgrade of Vietnam's securities market is of great significance for the domestic market and helps establish a new, higher benchmark. Markets aiming for future upgrades will need to make greater efforts to achieve results similar to those of Vietnam."

Toledano noted significant potential for further cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with Vietnam to develop its securities market, particularly by creating new products and indices that meet international standards.

He went on to explain that a comprehensive global index system enables international investors to access the Vietnamese market more easily through index-tracking funds and passive investment products. This enhances market accessibility and supports the growth of foreign investment in Vietnam.

The two sides discussed operational solutions to enhance convenience for foreign investors, including improving the legal framework by reducing business and investment conditions, simplifying administrative procedures, and advancing the development of Vietnam’s securities clearing and settlement system under a central counterparty mechanism.

After the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation, particularly by promoting research and development of new products aligned with international practices to diversify market offerings. This will expand investment opportunities, enhance competitiveness, and attract both domestic and foreign capital to Vietnam’s securities market.

The FTSE All-World Index is one of the world's most recognised benchmarks for global equities, covering approximately 4,200 large and mid-cap stocks across developed and emerging markets in more than 45 countries. As part of the FTSE Global Equity Index Series, it represents around 90-95 per cent of the world's investable market capitalisation, offering broad, transparent exposure to global equities in a single measure.

FTSE Russell clarifies Vietnam’s reclassification roadmap for 2026 FTSE Russell has released the plan to implement the reclassification of Vietnam from frontier to secondary emerging market status.

Stock market posts resilient 2025 performance Vietnam’s stock market closed 2025 on a strong footing, demonstrating resilience amid global volatility and reinforcing investor confidence in its long-term growth trajectory.

FTSE Russell confirms Vietnam market reclassification FTSE Russell, the global index provider, has confirmed the reclassification of Vietnam to secondary emerging market status, effective from September 21, 2026.

The facility marks the first offshore institutional financing raised by a Vietnam-incorporated TechCoop entity, and highlights the growing strength and scalability of TechCoop agricultural supply chain platform across Vietnam.

Farmnet trades agricultural commodities across Vietnam’s domestic supply chains, working directly with processors, cooperatives, and farming businesses as a well-capitalised trading counterparty that can move at scale and offer flexible payment terms. Operating across 20 locations nationwide, Farmnet trades key Vietnamese commodities including cassava, coconut, cashew, durian, coffee, fresh fruits, and processed agricultural products.

In 2025, TechCoop earned revenues of approximately $220 million across its operations. Farmnet specifically serves over 641 cooperatives and agri-enterprises across 28 out of 34 provinces.

The Symbiotics facility will be used as working capital to support increased trading volume with processors, cooperatives, and agri-businesses it serves.

By providing reliable and scalable trade liquidity, Farmnet helps Vietnam’s agricultural players access stable market channels and improve their operational resilience. The financing is expected to strengthen value chain efficiency and enhance income opportunities for local stakeholders.

Vietnam’s agriculture and fishery sector accounted for 11.86 per cent of GDP in 2025, according to the National Statistics Office. Despite its importance, access to reliable and well-capitalised trading partners remains a structural challenge for the processors and cooperatives that form the backbone of the country’s agricultural supply chains.

Beyond Vietnam, TechCoop Investment & Technology, Farmnet’s Singapore-based parent company, plans to expand into Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand in 2026, further extending its agricultural supply chain platform across Southeast Asia.

Tuan Nguyen, Vietnam country head and co-founder of TechCoop, said, "We are proud to partner with Symbiotics for Farmnet’s first offshore loan to catalyse domestic business on our way to our target of $500 million in revenue for 2026. Vietnam and Southeast Asia agribusiness continues to be a safe haven for foreign investment looking for solid returns in tumultuous times."

Aldric Luyt, head of Fintech at Symbiotics, said, "Our investment in TechCoop will strengthen working capital solutions for agricultural businesses, supporting their growth through a unique model that combines financing with digital and advisory services tailored to local needs. This partnership reflects Symbiotics’ commitment to empowering every link in the agricultural value chain.

Agritech startup Techcoop raises $5 million With financing from local VC firm Ascend Vietnam Ventures (AVV) and Singapore-based VC firm TNB Aura, agritech startup TechCoop Pte. Ltd. secured over $5 million in equity and debt from local banks on March 21. Ethos Ventures, South Korean impact investor MYSC, and Mandala Capital also participated in the fundraising.

SmartSolar brings total funding to $3.15 million with European financing On March 17, Vietnam-based rooftop solar startup SmartSolar closes a debt financing round, bringing total funding to $3.15 million in combined equity and debt as it scales financing for small and medium-sized businesses struggling with rising electricity costs.

Vietnamese startup Alternō named global finalist in clean energy award Vietnamese climate tech startup Alternō has been named a top-three finalist in a prestigious global energy award, marking a significant milestone for the country's emerging clean technology sector.

The Secure Digital Future for SMEs forum brought together around 200 representatives from government agencies, industry experts, business communities, professional associations and international partners to discuss practical solutions for strengthening digital security capacity among small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Vu Duy Hien, deputy secretary general and chief of office at the National Cybersecurity Association, highlighted the challenges facing many SMEs as they enter the digital space with limited resources, insufficient tech talent, inadequate tools and little experience in risk response, while cyber threats continue to grow more sophisticated.

“For SMEs, incidents such as fraud, data breaches, malware or brand impersonation are not just technical issues, they can directly impact reputation, customer trust and even business survival,” he said. “Cybersecurity must be recognised as a foundational condition for effective digital transformation.”

Hien added that in an increasingly volatile digital landscape, the association aims to act as a strategic anchor for Vietnamese businesses through three key commitments: connecting resources to reduce isolation among SMEs, sharing practical knowledge and policies, and providing implementation support and rapid incident response.

Hoang Quang Phong, vice chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed that digital security is no longer optional but a prerequisite for long-term business sustainability. More importantly, he said, it should be treated not merely as a technical issue but as a matter of strategic governance, starting from leadership awareness, risk-focused corporate culture, and proactive investment in cybersecurity across the value chain.

“Businesses need to view data security management as a core capability,” Phong noted, adding that this would enable them to move forward with confidence in their digital transformation journey.

Nguyen Hong Quan, deputy director of the Department of Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention under the Ministry of Public Security, pointed to the government’s digital transformation programme for SMEs for 2026-2030. The initiative aims to support at least 500,000 SMEs, including 300,000 adopting digital platforms and AI.

“This is a strategic step, affirming that digital transformation and cybersecurity are vital not only for businesses but for the national economy,” he said.

However, Quan warned that SMEs, despite making up the majority of enterprises, often lack resources, specialised personnel and incident response capabilities, leaving them vulnerable as the “weakest link” in the digital ecosystem. This exposes them to cyberattacks, fraud, data loss and operational disruption, with direct consequences for market credibility.

Nguyen Hoa Cuong, vice president of the Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies, noted that cybersecurity remains a major challenge due to low awareness, lack of dedicated personnel and the absence of long-term strategies. Many firms still rely heavily on third-party platforms and pursue only partial digitalisation rather than comprehensive transformation.

To address these gaps, Cuong proposed a range of solutions. At the ecosystem level, he called for the development of information portals and vendor directories, expanded skills training programmes, stronger public-private partnerships and early warning systems. At the enterprise level, he emphasised basic “cyber hygiene”, adoption of the 3-2-1 data backup rule, migration to cloud computing, use of licensed software, compliance with international standards and investment in specialised security tools.

Beyond technical discussions, the forum aimed to build a coordinated support network linking regulators, associations, experts, technology firms and international partners. This, organisers said, would help SMEs answer three fundamental questions: where they stand in terms of digital security, what assets need prioritised protection, and how to respond effectively when incidents occur.

Vietnam enhances SME ecosystem through digital and green transition training A two-day training programme aimed at strengthening support for small and medium-sized enterprises in digital and green transformation opened in Hanoi on April 9.

Small business ESG strategies unlocked A true sustainability ecosystem requires global endorsement, genuine green financing, and technology solutions to lower the cost of implementation for businesses.

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

The opening ceremony took place on April 16, organised by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Attendees included Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan, vice chairman of the Vietnam National Brand Council, along with representatives from other ministries, local authorities, trade promotion organisations, experts, businesses with recognised national brand products, and media agencies.

The event comes at a pivotal moment, as 2026 marks the first year of implementing the 2026-2030 socioeconomic development plan, with growing urgency to shift the growth model towards productivity, quality, and greater economic self-reliance.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister Tan stressed that the National Branding Programme should be repositioned with a broader vision, moving beyond traditional promotion and trade facilitation.

"The National Branding Programme is no longer just about image promotion or conventional trade promotion," he said. "It must be recognised as a strategic asset that reflects Vietnam's overall competitiveness and reputation within global value chains."

In the context of deeper global integration, building a national brand goes beyond enhancing the image of Vietnamese-made products. It is about strengthening national credibility and elevating Vietnam's soft power on the international stage.

Reflecting on more than two decades of the programme's implementation, the ministry noted that the number of recognised enterprises and products has steadily increased, demonstrating continuous efforts to improve technology, enhance quality, and reinforce the position of Vietnamese businesses.

"Vietnam's National Brand has been steadily strengthened, closely associated with the image of a dynamic, innovative, and globally integrated economy," Tan added.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan

Vietnam National Brand Week will run from April 16 to 23 nationwide, marking the 18^th anniversary of Vietnam Brand Day (April 20, 2008–2026). More than a communications campaign, this year's programme is designed as a convergence point for policy, business, and the market. Key activities include the opening ceremony, the National Brand Forum, thematic seminars, exhibitions showcasing programme achievements, and business networking events.

The National Branding Forum is the highlight, bringing together representatives from ministries, localities, international organisations, experts, and the business community to discuss brand development trends in the new context. Broad participation reflects both the programme's growing influence and increasing awareness of branding as a driver of national competitiveness.

Deputy Minister Tan attributed past achievements to close coordination among ministries, localities, associations, and organisations, as well as the resilience, creativity, and determination of the business community.

Despite positive results, he pointed to emerging challenges as global standards become more stringent, particularly in green growth, digital transformation, and social responsibility. In this context, transforming the development model is essential to enhancing the national brand.

"Vietnam must move beyond low-value-added processing to mastering technology and branding," Tan said, calling this a fundamental requirement for businesses seeking deeper integration into global value chains.

Looking ahead, Vietnam's national brand should be built on quality, innovation, sustainability, and cultural identity, aligned with updated programme criteria. Key priorities include accelerating green and digital transformation as prerequisites for improving growth quality and competitiveness.

"Businesses need to adopt AI and big data in management and production, while strictly complying with environmental and sustainability standards," he noted.

Developing structured, long-term international market strategies, effectively leveraging free trade agreements, protecting intellectual property, and promoting Vietnam's intrinsic cultural values are critical pillars for elevating the national brand.

Reaffirming the government's role, Tan said authorities will continue to support businesses in building and enhancing their brands. He expressed hope that the forum would provide an open platform for practical discussions and solutions, contributing to the Vietnam National Brand Strategy for 2026-2035, with a vision to 2045.

Top 10 notable events of Vietnam’s industry and trade sector in 2025 The year 2025 has been a remarkable one for the industry and trade sector, truly affirming its role as a pillar of the economy and a key contributor to the country's impressive growth. The sector recorded the strongest results of the past five-year term and set multiple unprecedented records.

Spring Fair 2026 launches national fair series Efforts to stimulate domestic consumption ahead of Lunar New Year are set to gain momentum with a new national trade initiative.

Vietnam launches project to boost RCEP utilisation Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, in partnership with the Regional Trade for Development initiative, on March 23 launched a project to boost utilisation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

On April 14, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan held a working session with a delegation from the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) led by former Ambassador Brian McFeeters, president and CEO of the council. The meeting was attended by leaders of ministry units and more than 50 US enterprises investing and operating in Vietnam.

The meeting took place as the Vietnam-US relationship continues to develop strongly, particularly following General Secretary To Lam's working visit to the US in February 2026, which created new momentum for economic, trade, and investment cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed that economic cooperation remains a key pillar – highly complementary in nature – and directly contributes to supply chain stability and sustainable growth in each country.

Deputy Minister Tan said Vietnam considers the US a leading strategic economic and trade partner, and remains committed to maintaining stability, accelerating institutional reforms, and enhancing policy transparency to foster a favourable investment environment.

"Vietnam is promoting industrialisation in a green and sustainable direction, prioritising high-tech sectors such as semiconductors, AI, big data, and cloud computing, while developing synchronised energy, logistics, and digital infrastructure," he added.

The working session between the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the US - ASEAN Business Council delegation

Representatives of the US business community spoke highly of Vietnam's investment potential and business environment, putting forward specific recommendations in areas including energy, high-tech industry, logistics, trade, finance, healthcare, agriculture, and consumer goods. Notable proposals included development of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, gas-fired power, renewable energy, and a direct power purchase agreement mechanism, along with improvements to policy frameworks for technology, supply chains, and the digital economy.

Deputy Minister Tan welcomed the frank and valuable opinions of the US delegation, stressing that they serve as important references for government agencies in improving policies and governance effectiveness. The Ministry of Industry and Trade will coordinate closely with relevant ministries and agencies to study and address the proposals based on feasibility, harmonised interests, and conformity with international practices.

Regarding cooperation priorities, the Ministry of Industry and Trade outlined key pillars including ensuring energy security with a role for LNG and renewable energy; developing high-tech industry and digital infrastructure; utilising e-commerce, logistics, and the digital economy; and strengthening cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, standards, and market management.

On trade issues, Deputy Minister Tan said, "Vietnam is engaging in discussions with the US in a spirit of transparency, cooperation, and constructiveness, while calling on the US business community to continue serving as a bridge and to provide objective and positive voices to help strengthen a stable and sustainable cooperation environment."

Concluding the meeting, he stated that the Vietnamese government regards the US business community as an important, long-term, and trusted partner, and is committed to maintaining an open and substantive policy dialogue mechanism, accompanying businesses towards a balanced, sustainable, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship.

Vietnam-US trade discussions continue in Washington Vietnam and the US have continued technical-level negotiations on their Fair and Balanced Reciprocal Trade Agreement, seeking progress towards a mutually beneficial outcome.

Vietnam and US make progress in fifth trade negotiation round Vietnam and the United States made notable progress during the fifth direct negotiation round on the Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade Agreement in Washington, D.C.

Vietnam and US to launch sixth trade negotiation round Vietnam and the United States are expected to launch the sixth negotiation for the Reciprocal Trade Agreement next week.

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GlobalData expects the industry’s growth to accelerate to 3.8 per cent in 2026 as the market stabilised in 2025 with an estimated 0.9 per cent annual growth after two years of contraction, as distribution adapts, digital journeys deepen, and banks re-engage on improved terms.

The broader insurance market is projected to expand in 2026, signalling a return to healthier premium dynamics that will also support the life insurance recovery.

Digital distribution shifts set the tone for recovery. Starting in 2026, growth is expected to be supported by Vietnam’s pro-digital regulatory agenda, the accelerating shift from bancassurance to e-insurance, and insurers’ pivot towards health and protection products. Regulators and market participants are refocusing on transparent, technology-led sales, with e-insurance rapidly overtaking bancassurance due to widespread smartphone adoption and clearer digital compliance standards.

Swarup Kumar Sahoo, senior insurance analyst at GlobalData, said embedded insurance and AI-enabled service, starting from automated claims processing to personalised coverage recommendations, are improving customer experience and trust.

"Platforms are scaling hybrid digital-agent models to bring term life and comprehensive health products online, while bolstering claims and service capabilities. These initiatives are poised to lift life insurance uptake in the medium term as consumers migrate to simpler and more transparent purchase paths," said Sahoo.

Policy reform and social protection initiatives provide structural tailwinds. Vietnam’s Insurance Supervisory Authority has mapped a 2026–30 sector agenda emphasising market efficiency, consumer protection, and coverage expansion. Concurrently, the government is advancing social insurance and wage reforms, including a 7.2 per cent regional minimum wage increase from January 2026, which supports income security.

“The life insurance market is expected to enter a period of higher-quality and more robust development, aligning with the government’s objective of achieving life insurance coverage for 18 per cent of Vietnam’s population by 2030. In support of this, insurance companies are undertaking transformation efforts that signal a market recovery characterised by improved quality and sustainability,” Sahoo added.

Product strategy is shifting towards protection and health benefits as the market rebuilds. After a difficult period, life insurers are prioritising comprehensive protection propositions, responding to demographic change and heightened consumer focus on health. Insurers are partnering with technology companies to accelerate digital health and wellness ecosystems, while product innovation from unit-linked solutions with legacy features to universal life and critical illness riders broadens value propositions.

The recent surge in flu cases across Asia has also reinforced the need for preventive and senior-focused benefits, sharpening demand for well-structured health-linked protection and potentially supporting premium growth within life and health lines.

Insurtech momentum is also building in Vietnam. By deploying AI to streamline underwriting and claims, Insurtechs are positioned to capture demand migrating from bank channels to independent, digitally enabled options. This also aligns with regulatory expectations for transparent advice and should contribute to a more resilient, customer-centric life market over 2026–2030.

Health financing reforms are likely to bolster demand for protection within life insurance. Vietnam is moving to launch supplementary health insurance alongside the universal mandatory scheme to reduce high out-of-pocket burdens. Health-linked riders and protection policies within life portfolios are expected to help reinforce premium growth and improve financial resilience for vulnerable groups.

"Vietnam’s life insurance market will be supported by a pro-growth regulatory agenda, digital-first distribution, and a decisive pivot towards health and protection offerings," Sahoo explained. "With banks deepening their role, Insurtechs scaling next-generation platforms, and the state expanding social protection and health financing, the life market is positioned to reduce protection gaps and deliver sustained premium growth through 2030.”

Techcom Life forms strategic partnership with RGA Techcom Life Insurance, a newly established company backed by Techcombank, and Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (RGA) jointly announced a strategic partnership on March 30.

Middle East turmoil raises risks for Vietnam's insurance sector The ongoing Middle East crisis is driving up insurance premiums and tightening reinsurance terms globally, with indirect effects posing growing risks to Vietnam’s insurance sector amid economic uncertainty.

Insurance market splits in Q1 amid market divergence Vietnam’s insurance market showed modest growth in Q1, 2026, but a sharp divide emerged as non-life expanded on rising protection demand while life insurance continued to struggle under inflation-driven shifts in consumer behaviour.

• Thoughtfully designed work environments, from coworking spaces to private offices, that support both focus and collaboration.
• Hospitality-inspired shared spaces and service-led touchpoints.
• Thoughtful daily rituals, from morning Blue Tokai coffee and Makaibari tea to an Evening Interlude session.
• Workstations with Herman Miller seating, height-adjustable desks, and enterprise-ready infrastructure in a Grade-A business setting.

• Natural light and materials: Oak, stone, and greenery create an environment that enhances focus and balance.
• Biophilic elements: Thoughtfully integrated to boost wellbeing, productivity, and creativity.

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Motor vehicle insurance continues to serve as the ‘backbone’ for many non-life insurers

In terms of market structure, the top three positions remain unchanged, held by PVI Insurance, Bao Viet, and Bao Minh, with respective market shares of 19.4 per cent, 13.9 per cent, and 8.2 per cent.

Notably, DBV Insurance has climbed to fourth place, with revenue approximating $40 million, accounting for 6.1 per cent of market share, surpassing several established players such as VBI, PJICO, MIC, and PTI.

Beyond improving its ranking, DBV Insurance is also among the fastest-growing companies in terms of gross premium revenue, posting an on-year increase of 98.4 per cent – nine times the overall market growth rate and significantly higher than peers such as Bao Viet with 15 per cent hike, PVI (9 per cent), and PTI (1 per cent).

Meanwhile, several insurers even reported negative growth, including Bao Minh down 3.9 per cent in gross premium revenue, AAA down 6 per cent, MIC down 7 per cent, and AIG down 16 per cent, respectively.

Although the top three positions remain intact for now, this could change as Bao Minh (BMI), currently ranked third, has posted consecutive negative growth during the first two months of 2026.

According to the Ministry of Finance’s Global Insurance Market Bulletin No.02, Bao Minh held a 9.06 per cent market share in January 2026, with estimated revenue of $38.84 million, down 9.4 per cent.

Recently, the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange placed Bao Minh’s BMI shares under warning status after its 2025 financial statements received a qualified audit opinion, indicating certain exceptions.

In a report released on April 3, auditors highlighted an issue related to assets worth over $6.2 million pending resolution, indicating that the financial statements did not fully reflect the company’s situation. Bao Minh said it is working with relevant parties to address the outstanding issues raised by auditors.

Directly behind Bao Minh in market share is DBV Insurance, with 75 per cent stake held by South Korea’s DB Group. In the non-life insurance market, DBV is increasingly seen as a ‘phenomenon’ and is potentially expected to reshape the rankings in the near future.

Motor vehicle insurance continues to serve as the primary growth driver behind DBV Insurance’s strong performance in early 2026.

Revenue from this segment reached $26.2 million after two months, up 92 per cent and accounting for 66 per cent of the company’s total revenue. DBV has also consistently maintained the number one market share position in this segment since May 2024.

Beyond the leading players, several lower-tier insurers have reported gross premium growth exceeding 50 per cent in the first two months of 2026, including Tasco ($8.6 million, up 127.7 per cent), VBI ($20.64 million, up 53.8 per cent), and VASS ($2.28 million, up 57.6 per cent).

Competition is not limited to the top tier; it is also intensifying among smaller players. Companies including VBI, Tasco, and VASS have recently posted strong growth, signalling significant untapped potential in the retail and small-to-medium enterprise segments.

This shift reflects deepening competition and suggests that, supported by stable demand and solid growth, the non-life insurance segment will continue to drive overall market expansion in the coming period.

To date, non-life insurance remains the strongest contributor to the industry's revenue growth.

According to data from the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance, total insurance premium revenue in the first quarter of 2026 is estimated at $2.28 billion, up 2.5 per cent on-year. Of this, life insurance premiums are estimated at $1.32 billion, down 2.5 per cent, while non-life insurance premiums are estimated at $959.4 million, up 10.2 per cent.

Growth in the non-life segment continues to be driven by key lines such as motor vehicle insurance, health insurance, and property and engineering insurance – segments characterised by stable demand and less sensitivity to long-term spending deferrals.

In particular, motor vehicle insurance remains the ‘backbone’ for many insurers, thanks to its large scale, ease of expansion through diverse distribution channels, and high frequency of use.

Overall, the sector’s double-digit growth in the first quarter of 2026 reaffirms its role as a key pillar sustaining the broader market. However, future growth will depend heavily on insurers’ ability to balance market share expansion with risk control – an essential factor for the industry’s long-term sustainability.

Private insurers must integrate advanced tactics Amid modest insurance penetration and early-stage digital adoption, Vietnam’s insurance sector stands at a pivotal turning point. Dr. Tran Phuoc Huy, chief of office at the School of Banking and Finance under the National Economics University, spoke with VIR’s Khanh Linh about the emerging opportunities for private insurers.

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

Insurers weather Q4 shock to deliver solid growth Despite a sharp fourth-quarter profit slump caused by rising disaster-related claims, Vietnam’s listed insurers closed 2025 with strong full-year growth.

According to Dragon Capital, Vietnam’s growth momentum strengthened in March following Lunar New Year normalisation, reinforcing confidence that the expansion remained firmly intact through the first quarter of 2026. GDP grew 7.8 per cent on-year in the first quarter, with industry and construction rising 8.9 per cent and services 8.2 per cent, highlighting that growth is not solely reliant on exports and manufacturing, but is increasingly supported by services and domestic demand.

The confirmation of Vietnam’s leadership structure reinforces political stability and policy continuity, providing investors with clearer economic visibility over the next five-year government cycle. Nonetheless, global markets turned more volatile following the escalating Iran conflict in early March, shaping near-term sentiment despite Vietnam’s stable macro fundamentals, placing downward pressure on the VN-Index.

Industrial activity remained a key pillar. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) increased 9 per cent on-year in the first quarter, with manufacturing expanding 9.7 per cent and driving the majority of growth. March recorded a strong rebound, with IIP rising 18.8 per cent from a month ago and 6.9 per cent on-year.

Business conditions remained expansionary, with Purchasing Managers' Index moderating to 51.2 from 54.3 in February, reflecting normalisation from a high base rather than weaker demand. Expansion remained broad-based across sectors, including metals (up 22.9 per cent), non-metallic minerals (up 19.7 per cent), chemicals (up 18.2 per cent).

Domestic demand remained firm. Retail sales and services revenue rose 12.1 per cent on-year in March and 10.9 per cent in the first quarter, reaching approximately $72.3 billion. Accommodation and food services increased 13.3 per cent on-year, while tourism-related services grew 12.5 per cent, supported by seasonal demand and continued recovery in travel activity.

This trend supports earnings visibility for consumer-facing sectors, which have become an increasingly important driver of market performance in recent years, and reinforces consumption as a stable and increasingly important support to economic expansion.

Dragon Capital noted that investment and external activity continued to underpin expansion. Goods exports rose 19.1 per cent on-year in the first quarter, while imports increased 27 per cent, reflecting strong trade demand. Business formation remained active, with over 57,000 new enterprises (up 57.8 per cent on-year) and registered capital of approximately $20.5 billion. Including firms restarting operations, total active additions reached around 96,000 (up 31.7 per cent), highlighting continued private-sector dynamism.

The consumer price index rose 4.6 per cent on-year in March, the highest March reading in five years, bringing the first quarter average inflation to 3.5 per cent on-year, driven mainly by higher fuel prices amid US-Iran tensions. However, both remain within the government’s 4.5–5.0 per cent target, preserving policy flexibility to absorb external shocks.

In addition, equity markets turned more volatile in March, entering a corrective phase after the strong rally earlier in the year. The VN-Index declined 11.9 per cent on-month in total return USD terms as global markets priced in geopolitical tensions. The correction was sector-agnostic, suggesting a broad derisking rather than specific weakness.

Average daily trading value remained resilient at around $1.3 billion, supported by domestic participation, while foreign flows remained intermittent. By month-end, the VN-Index stabilised from its lows, suggesting the adjustment was driven primarily by external factors rather than any change in domestic fundamentals.

World Bank forecasts Vietnam GDP growth of 6.3 per cent The World Bank Group’s April 8 EAP Economic Update forecasts Vietnam is expected to grow by 6.3 per cent in 2026, supported by strong public and private investment, and sustained FDI inflows.

Vietnam’s growth resilient amid global challenges Vietnam’s economy is forecast to grow by 7.2 per cent in 2026 and 7 per cent in 2027, from 8 per cent in 2025, despite rising external risks amid heightened global uncertainty, according to a new report released today by the Asian Development Bank on April 10.

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

The tumour, however, did not shrink. More dangerously, the patient occasionally coughed up blood. She then went to Vietnam and chose FV Hospital. Dr. Luong Ngoc Trung, head of Thoracic, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, commented that the patient’s condition was like a "ticking time bomb".

A pulmonary fungal mass (circled in red) located in the upper lobe of the left lung, adjacent to the airway and thoracic aorta, measuring over 4cm in diameter. Photo: FV

The lesion, measuring up to 4.6cm, was situated close to critical structures, posing a risk of vascular invasion or rupture into the airway. This could lead to sudden, life-threatening massive hemoptysis, a complication that may result in rapid death if not promptly managed.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids had caused the patient to develop complications such as myasthenia gravis. Meanwhile, long-term antifungal therapy may also impair liver and kidney function, further weakening the patient’s overall condition.

Robotic surgery

Faced with this urgent situation, doctors at FV Hospital decided to perform a lobectomy to completely remove the affected lung segment. Instead of conventional thoracoscopic surgery, the surgical team chose the da Vinci Xi robotic system to ensure maximum precision and safety.

Dr. Luong Ngoc Trung controls the da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system. Photo: FV

Dr. Trung said, “The robotic system enables gentle, flexible, and highly precise manipulation even in deep and narrow areas of the thoracic cavity, where critical structures such as major blood vessels and airways are located. This allows surgeons to handle complex procedures more accurately and safely.”

During the operation, surgeons controlled small robotic arms that manoeuvre within confined spaces, thereby minimising invasiveness and reducing postoperative pain.

In particular, for lesions located close to the airway as in this case, robotic assistance allows better control of surgical movements, facilitates the dissection of adhesions caused by prolonged inflammation, and minimises the risk of intraoperative rupture of the fungal mass.

The surgery lasted approximately 140 minutes and focused on completely removing the portion of the lung containing the fungal tumour, the core objective being to eliminate the source of the disease. After the surgery, the patient recovered quickly and was discharged from the hospital after only three days.

During the most recent follow-up visit, the patient’s health improved significantly. Notably, she can completely discontinue antifungal medication after prolonged use, while continuing to be monitored and treated for comorbidities such as Cushing's syndrome and myasthenia gravis with an endocrinologist.

The surgical team at FV Hospital performed robotic lobectomy to treat pulmonary mycosis. Photo: FV

Pulmonary fungal infections can lead to serious complications, particularly sudden massive hemoptysis that can be life-threatening.

Doctors recommend that patients with persistent cough, hemoptysis, or poor response to antifungal therapy undergo thorough evaluation for timely intervention. Proper coordination between medical and surgical treatment plays a critical role in treatment effectiveness and long-term prognosis.

According to Dr. Trung, antifungal medication remains the mandatory first-line treatment for pulmonary mycosis, even when surgery is indicated. However, in cases where there is no response after intensive treatment – especially when the lesion is large and located near critical structures – surgical intervention becomes necessary for definitive treatment.

In such situations, robotic surgery enhances precision, improves safety during intervention, shortens recovery time, and helps reduce hospitalisation duration and associated costs.

Robotic surgery is currently applied at FV Hospital across multiple specialities, including general surgery, urology, thoracic surgery, gynecology, and oncology, and will continue to expand in the future. This contributes to improving treatment quality while minimising invasiveness for patients.

To successfully implement advanced robotic systems, FV Hospital is supported by a team of highly experienced specialists who are thoroughly trained in robotic surgery. All procedures are performed in operating rooms that strictly comply with international JCI standards, ensuring a sterile environment and minimising the risk of infection and complications.

Robotic surgery proves effective for complex thoracic case at FV Hospital Doctors at FV Hospital have used the da Vinci Xi robotic system to successfully remove a large esophageal tumour from a patient while preserving the oesophagus, demonstrating the growing role of robotic surgery in treating complex thoracic conditions.

Robotic surgery advances women's health at FV Hospital A French obstetrician and gynaecologist with more than three decades of experience is applying robotic surgery at FV Hospital to enhance precision, fertility preservation, and recovery outcomes for women.

FV doctors use cutting-edge system to remove complex fibroids A 52-year-old patient with multiple large fibroids was treated using the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery at FV Hospital – eliminating the pathology and preserving the uterus.

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According to Vingroup's 2025 Annual Report, VinSpace is developing cleanroom facilities, testing equipment, and ground station systems to ensure project timelines are met.

In parallel, the company is strengthening research collaboration and satellite technology applications with both domestic and international partners to build a comprehensive technical, operational, and commercial ecosystem.

On that basis, VinSpace aims to commercialise satellite applications for telecommunications, remote sensing, and related fields, gradually expanding its market and establishing a foundation for long-term growth.

Established in November last year, VinSpace has a registered capital of VND300 billion ($11.54 million). The company operates in the field of space technology, focusing on the research and development of Vietnamese-made nano-satellite constellations to provide telecommunications, remote sensing, and other applications.

Vingroup owner Pham Nhat Vuong currently holds a 71 per cent stake in VinSpace. Vingroup itself is the second-largest shareholder, owning a 19 per cent stake. The remainder belongs to the billionaire's sons.

Besides VinSpace, Vingroup's ecosystem also owns many technology companies such as VinRobotics (industrial robots), VinSmart Future (software), VCSS (cybersecurity), VinDynamics (humanoid robots), and VinMotion (robotics technology).

Billionaire pours $8.5 million into new aerospace company VinSpace Billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong has established an aerospace company named VinSpace by contributing VND213 billion ($8.5 million), equivalent to 71 per cent of the company's capital.

Asian Hackathon for Green Future 2026 kicks off with $24,000 prize pool The Asian Hackathon for Green Future, a competition dedicated to developing technology-driven solutions for a sustainable future, launched on April 6.

Vingroup explores $6.5 billion investment in India Vingroup is mulling $6.5 billion investment in the Indian state of Maharashtra across key ventures, including urban development, electric mobility, energy, and social and public infrastructure.

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

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

High adoption, limited readiness across Asia

The report reveals that AI ambition across Asia is high, with nearly 90% of organisations having embarked on their AI journeys. However, a significant 71% remain in the "Builder" stage of maturity, where initial AI pilots struggle to scale into production environments capable of delivering consistent and measurable return on investment (ROI). In contrast, only 17% of organisations are considered "future ready", having invested in scalable infrastructure, mature data governance and specialised operational expertise, highlighting a widening readiness gap across the region.

Challenges faced by the Builders

Across Asia, the research identifies a reinforcing cycle that keeps many organisations stuck in pilot mode. AI initiatives are often launched on infrastructure that cannot scale to production, limiting their ability to demonstrate measurable ROI and making it harder to justify further investment in purpose-built, high-density environments. This challenge is compounded by gaps in in-house expertise, with many organisations lacking the specialist operational skills required to manage increasingly complex AI infrastructure at scale.

"Across Asia, organisations are moving quickly from experimentation to implementation, but many are discovering that AI success now depends less on training models and more on foundations," said Chris Street, Group Chief Revenue Officer of ST Telemedia Global Data Centres. "Without scalable infrastructure and operational readiness in place, it becomes difficult to convert early AI ambition into consistent business value."

The Sustainability Blind Spot

Despite rising energy and cooling demands driven by AI workloads, sustainability considerations remain secondary for most organisations when evaluating infrastructure options. Although 27% of organisations say ESG goals will actively shape or be central to their future plans, 64% of organisations across Asia continue to prioritise performance or cost, even as power density, thermal efficiency and long‑term total cost of ownership become increasingly critical factors in scaling AI responsibly.

A disconnect between what organisations want and what they need

The study also highlights a persistent disconnect between how organisations evaluate infrastructure partners and the capabilities they actually need to scale AI. Across Asia, organisations continue to prioritise baseline requirements like security and reliability, despite identifying operational expertise, scalability and cost efficiency as their most significant challenges.

Singapore: ahead of the region, but facing a new constraint

These challenges are visible across the region, but they manifest differently in more mature markets. Singapore stands out against the regional baseline with a significantly larger share of organisations having progressed beyond early-stage pilots. While only 17% of organisations across Asia are considered future‑ready, 40% of Singapore organisations have reached the Integrator stage, reflecting stronger early execution and deployment capability.

However, the study also finds that the final step to leadership remains the most difficult. Only 3% of Singapore organisations have reached the "Leader" stage of AI infrastructure maturity, signalling that even in Asia's most mature AI market, the transition from integration to full leadership remains difficult.

Scaling, not adoption, is now the key challenge

In Singapore, where adoption is more advanced, the constraints have shifted. Limited infrastructure headroom, shortages in specialised operational expertise and continued investment discipline are now emerging as the primary barriers to scaling AI workloads and sustaining leadership.

"For Singapore, AI adoption is relatively mature; the defining challenge now is scaling deployments fast enough to support real‑world demand," said Mingcheng Lim, Country Head – Singapore, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres. "Whether the country can maintain its lead in the region will depend on whether infrastructure capacity, specialist expertise and investment approaches can evolve at the same pace as AI workloads."

Sustainability awareness has yet to shape infrastructure choices

In Singapore, regulatory expectations have driven relatively high awareness of sustainability issues. However, sustainability continues to rank among the lowest priorities when organisations evaluate infrastructure providers, highlighting a gap between awareness and action, even as power density, thermal efficiency and long‑term cost efficiency become increasingly important to scaling AI responsibly.

The mismatch between wants and needs persists

As with the wider region, Singapore organisations continue to evaluate infrastructure providers based on familiar baseline criteria, even as their scaling challenges point to a growing need for specialist expertise, speed to scale and sustainable, high‑density infrastructure capability.

These findings suggest that Asia's next phase of AI progress will be defined not by ambition alone, but by execution capability. For Singapore, sustaining regional leadership will depend on infrastructure strategies that support scale, resilience and speed, enabling organisations to convert early AI momentum into enduring competitive advantage.

To download the report, Mind the Gap: Bridging the AI Infrastructure Readiness Divide, please visit: https://www.sttelemediagdc.com/resources/ai-readiness-assessment-report.Hashtag: #STTelemedia #STTGDC

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

For more information, visit https://www.sttelemediagdc.com/.

Building on their established relationship, Citi Hong Kong and Endowus recently launched the "Invest with Clarity, Live in Prestige" campaign, their inaugural joint credit card promotion. Through this initiative, eligible Endowus clients who successfully apply for a new Citi Prestige Card and meet specific requirements during the promotion period will receive a HK$4,000* cash reward. This offer seamlessly integrates a rewarding investment journey with the elevated dining, travel and lifestyle privileges that come with the Citi Prestige Card.

This partnership marks a key milestone, and both Citi and Endowus look forward to exploring further collaborations, including expanding the campaign to other Citi Credit Cards and across a broader spectrum of products, aiming to continuously drive financial innovation and enhance client experience.

Sarah O, Head of Digital Growth & Cards and Unsecured Lending Sales, Citi Hong Kong, said, "Our strategic collaboration with Endowus exemplifies Citi's commitment to harnessing the power of the fintech ecosystem to drive growth and innovation within our wealth business. The expanded partnership with Endowus showcases our unique, full-circle commitment to the fintech community. We are excited about the ongoing potential of this partnership to unlock even more innovative solutions for our clients."

Steffanie Yuen, Managing Director and Head of Hong Kong, Endowus said, "Citi's strategic backing as our shareholder, and recognition of our vision to help people invest with clarity significantly reflects a shared commitment to raising the bar for wealth management in Hong Kong. By pairing best-in-class digital investment tools with the lifestyle rewards of the Citi Prestige Card, we're making it easier than ever for clients to invest well and live well. We look forward to deepening our partnership to build even more innovative experiences together for the clients we serve."

*For new Citi Prestige Card clients only. Terms and conditions for the promotion apply. Details: https://endowus.com/en-hk/campaigns/terms-conditions-for-endowus-x-citi-prestige-collaboration-promotion-2026

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• In‑depth analysis of how Middle East developments impact global finance and energy markets
• Uncovering shifts in safe‑haven assets and capital flow forecasts for the next 6–12 months
• Practical asset‑allocation advice: how to optimize equities, bonds, cash, and property in a high‑rate environment
• Focus on Hong Kong property opportunities: student housing, co‑living, and commercial repurposing trends

• In earthquakes, who safeguards homeowners' interests?
• Will higher immigration thresholds lift demand and rents in local housing markets?
• What should buyers look out for when inspecting a property themselves?
• When tenants turn troublesome, do the police offer any real remedy? And is there insurance that covers damage?
• Can property ownership help secure a long-stay visa? And what happens if an application is turned down?
• Does a beachfront home carry an edge in long-stay visa approval over a city property?

• Maximise returns – Earn yield on idle multi-currency balances through investments in highly rated, professional-grade money market funds.
• Maintain liquidity – Access funds without the rigid lock-up periods typically associated with traditional fixed deposits.
• Zero barriers to entry – With no minimum investment requirements, businesses can start with any amount.

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