The vist comes as Vietnam-Sweden relations move into a new phase of cooperation focused on innovation, digital transformation, advanced technology, and sustainable development – priority sectors that Phu Tho is targeting to attract investment and create new drivers of economic growth.

Phu Tho province's delegation and Vietnamese Embassy in Sweden

During a working session with the Embassy of Vietnam in Sweden, Ambassador Tran Van Tuan noted that the Vietnamese community in Sweden now exceeds 22,000 people, most of whom are highly educated and well integrated into Swedish society.

Beyond traditional sectors such as trade and services, many Vietnamese professionals hold key positions at universities, research institutes, technology companies, and major industrial corporations across Sweden. According to the ambassador, this highly skilled community represents a valuable bridge for expanding cooperation in science, technology, innovation, and investment between Vietnam and Sweden.

Ambassador Tuan also highlighted the Vietnam Science and Technology Experts Association in Sweden, established in 2024 to connect Vietnamese scientists and professionals working in the country. The organisation currently brings together experts in IT, AI, advanced materials, energy and biomedical sciences, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, technology transfer and research collaboration between the two countries.

Recognising the potential of these networks, Vinh expressed his hope that the Embassy would continue supporting Phu Tho in promoting its investment opportunities, connecting with Swedish enterprises and introducing potential investors to the province.

According to provincial leaders, Phu Tho is accelerating administrative reform, improving its business environment and building a more investor-friendly administration. The province is particularly keen to attract investment in sectors where Sweden possesses strong expertise, including high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering, pharmaceuticals, IT, innovation and high-value tourism.

One of the highlights of the visit was a meeting with Airborne Group, a global technology company specialising in the research, design, automation and manufacture of composite components for aerospace, maritime, transportation and other advanced industries.

During the discussion, Airborne Group introduced its green hydrogen solutions and scalable energy storage systems designed to support the development of sustainable industrial parks and strengthen grid stability in Vietnam.

The two sides exchanged views on potential cooperation in technology transfer, green industrial development, joint innovation initiatives and long-term strategic partnerships.

In addition to industrial cooperation, the delegation also introduced Phu Tho’s unique cultural heritage and ecotourism offerings, aiming to attract high-end visitors from the Nordic region.

The discussions reflected Phu Tho’s broader investment strategy, which extends beyond attracting capital to embracing advanced technologies, modern management practices and sustainable development models from leading industrial economies such as Sweden.

Bui Huy Vinh, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and ASSA ABLOY Asia Holding AB

The delegation also held talks with executives of ASSA ABLOY Asia Holding AB, one of the world’s leading providers of digital locks, access control systems and smart security solutions.

Founded in 1994 through the merger of Sweden’s ASSA and Finland’s Abloy, the group now operates in more than 70 countries and territories and is recognised as one of the global leaders in security technologies.

Company representatives shared their future development plans and interest in exploring additional investment opportunities in Vietnam, including potential locations within Phu Tho Province.

Speaking at the meeting, Vinh emphasised that the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Sweden has been nurtured for more than five decades. For Phu Tho, one of the most significant symbols of that relationship is the Bai Bang Paper Mill project, which played a vital role in the province’s industrialisation and economic development.

Introducing Phu Tho’s investment environment, he highlighted the province’s strategic location near Hanoi, increasingly modern transport infrastructure, young workforce and stable business climate. These advantages have helped attract a growing number of foreign-invested enterprises in recent years.

Notably, ASSA ABLOY already has a manufacturing presence in Vietnam through ASSA ABLOY Smart Technology Vietnam, located in Ba Thien II Industrial Park. The facility, which began operations in 2020 with a total investment of approximately $25 million, manufactures a range of high-tech products including digital smart locks, access control systems, security devices and electronic components for the security technology industry.

As Phu Tho focuses on developing high-tech manufacturing, electronics, automation, digital transformation and supporting industries, foreign-invested enterprises are viewed as a key driver of economic growth, technology transfer, workforce development and international integration.

The provincial leadership therefore reaffirmed its commitment to creating favourable conditions for foreign investors to operate and expand successfully in the long term. At the same time, Phu Tho hopes ASSA ABLOY will continue to expand its investment footprint in the province, particularly in advanced manufacturing, smart production, workforce training and the development of a supporting industrial ecosystem.

Through its investment promotion activities in Sweden, Phu Tho not only showcased its economic potential but also actively engaged with emerging trends in innovation, green technology and sustainable development. The visit marks another step in the province’s efforts to attract high-quality investment projects, strengthen competitiveness and support long-term economic growth.

Phu Tho lays groundwork for next investment wave Phu Tho province is stepping up investment promotion efforts with a pipeline of 175 priority projects for the 2026-2030 period across industry, urban development, infrastructure, and high-tech agriculture.

Phu Tho calls on Spanish investment in high-tech, green growth projects Phu Tho province has called on Spanish businesses to invest in high-tech and green growth projects, offering tax incentives, fast-track procedures, and expanding industrial infrastructure.

Phu Tho seeks stronger cooperation with Finland Phu Tho is stepping up efforts to expand international partnerships, with provincial leaders highlighting investment, labour and tourism cooperation during a working visit to Finland.

On June 12, Intel marked two decades since it broke ground at Saigon High-Tech Park (SHTP) in 2006 with just a few hundred employees. The company describes that initial investment as a bold and visionary decision. Today, IPV employs about 6,500 workers in the high-tech sector.

Intel has committed to investing $4.1 billion in Vietnam. The facility plays a vital role in Intel’s manufacturing network, with a diverse product portfolio, including the cutting-edge product Intel Series 3 for next-gen AI PC based on Intel 18A process node. IPV has produced over 4 billion units of product and contributed over $110 billion in export value. In 2025 alone, IPV contributed $11.67 billion in export value, which accounted for 57 per cent of the total export turnover of SHTP and about 12 per cent of the total export turnover of Ho Chi Minh City.

One of Intel’s most enduring contributions in Vietnam has been in developing talent. Through close collaboration with the Vietnamese government, Arizona State University, leading local universities, technical institutions and community partners, IPV helped pioneer the country’s first public-private partnerships focused on engineering and STEM education through the Higher Engineering Education Alliance Programme.

The programme has contributed to modernising engineering education in Vietnam, strengthening faculty capability and expanding opportunities for future workforce in technical fields. Intel has helped to develop the foundation on STEM education with added focus to encourage diversity in STEM through training of more than 9000 professors with more than one third of them being females. In recognition of these efforts, IPV received the US Secretary of State’s 2012 Award for Corporate Excellence.

Intel has donated over 30 semiconductor assembly and test tools to SHTP and Vietnam National University, Hanoi to support semiconductor education and research in Vietnam. As the first company in the country to repurpose chip manufacturing equipment for training and research, IPV is helping expand hands-on learning opportunities, strengthen capacity across the semiconductor value chain, and support Vietnam’s long-term goal of developing a highly skilled semiconductor workforce.

Looking ahead to the AI era, IPV is also working with government and local partners to help expand Intel Digital Readiness Programme from AI for Leaders, AI for Citizens to AI for Future Workforce, AI for Youth to accelerate the adoption of AI. This helps to position the country to accelerate its growth under the new AI era.

Intel’s presence in Vietnam has also helped catalyse a broader industrial ecosystem, supporting suppliers, logistics providers and local partners to grow alongside the company. Over the past two decades, IPV has also helped develop nearly 10,000 Vietnamese engineers, technicians and leaders, while enabling more than 600 qualified local suppliers to participate in advanced manufacturing and adopting global standards of innovation, quality and operational excellence. Together, these efforts have helped elevate Vietnam’s capabilities as both a manufacturing base and an innovation destination, while contributing to the government’s vision of developing 50,000 semiconductor engineers by 2030.

The achievements of the IPV facility are recognised internally and nationwide – it has received the Intel Quality Award, an internal award given to a location that represents and pioneers the values that Intel champions, in 2016 and 2022. Nationwide, the IPV facility was awarded the third-class Labour Medal by the State President in 2017. On June 12, Intel received the Certificate of Merit and the Emulation Flag from the chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, and the Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Science and Technology.

As part of its social responsibility initiative, IPV focuses on collaborative programmes and innovative partnerships to create positive impacts on communities. At the IPV facility, efforts are ongoing to reduce the facility’s environmental impact and drive sustainable development. These efforts have resulted in the facility saving more than 60 million kWh of electricity, utilising 3.2 million kWh of green electricity, reducing net emissions of more than 16,400 tonnes of carbon, 100 per cent treatment and recycling of hazardous waste, recycling 99 per cent of waste, and saving and recycling of over 1.5 million cubic metres of water.

IPV has also invested about $22 million in initiatives that support education, environment, safety and health across Vietnam, including VND10 billion ($384,615) aid to support Vietnam in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. Intel's employees are also committed to the cause – more than 60 per cent of them are volunteers in corporate social responsibility schemes, having devoted more than 256,000 hours to community service.

The IPV facility is one of the three facilities that Intel has in Asia Pacific and Japan region, and the corporation will continue its efforts to bring innovation closer to the people and push the boundaries through the power of technology.

Intel provides equipment for workforce training and research Intel on May 5 announced that it has transferred over 30 chip assembly and testing devices to Saigon High-Tech Park (SHTP) and Vietnam National University Hanoi.

Saigon Hi-tech Park to hit $23 billion in export turnover The Saigon Hi-tech Park Management Authority expects its businesses to reach $23 billion in export turnover this year.

Dutch firm BESI to foray at SHTP in Ho Chi Minh City BE Semiconductor Industries NV (BESI) from the Netherland envisions injecting nearly $5 million investment for first-phase advanced electronic component production at Saigon Hi-tech Park in Ho Chi Minh City.

The store opened on June 12 on Thanh Nien street in Tay Ho ward. The milestone reflects the brand's growth alongside generations of Vietnamese consumers and its mission to celebrate and spread Vietnamese coffee culture. The opening of the 1,000^th store is more than a scale milestone. It reflects the trust of customers, the dedication of more than 12,000 Highlands Coffee employees, the partnership of coffee farmers, and a shared love for Vietnamese coffee.

Located beside Hanoi’s West Lake, the brand’s 1,000th outlet symbolises nearly three decades of growth guided by a simple belief: Vietnamese coffee deserves to be appreciated, celebrated, and shared with pride.

From a modest 9-square-metre kiosk near Hoan Kiem Lake to a nationwide network of 1,000 stores, Highlands Coffee has prioritised sustainable growth over rapid expansion. Today, the company serves more than 100 million cups of coffee annually and has become part of the daily routines of millions of Vietnamese consumers.

David Thai, founder and CEO of Highlands Coffee, said, “The 1,000th store is not a destination. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey, from the farmers who care for each coffee tree, to the staff who bring care and commitment to their work every day, and the millions of customers who have continued to place their trust in Highlands Coffee.”

Maintaining a consistent customer experience across 1,000 stores requires more than systems and technology. Highlands Coffee attributes its success to a culture known as Tận Tâm, a spirit of care carried through action.

At Highlands Coffee, Tận Tâm is reflected in everyday practices: carefully preparing each cup of coffee, warmly welcoming customers, supporting colleagues during busy periods, and continuously learning and improving. The same philosophy extends to the company’s coffee sourcing and production processes.

From selecting high-quality Robusta and Arabica beans from coffee-growing regions across Vietnam to refining roasting and blending techniques, Highlands Coffee aims to showcase the distinctive character of Vietnamese coffee while maintaining consistency in every cup.

Each recipe, product improvement and new menu item is designed to meet changing consumer preferences while celebrating Vietnamese coffee culture in a meaningful way.

Le Thai Anh, Vietnam country head of Highlands Coffee, said, “For Highlands Coffee, the milestone of 1,000 stores is about much more than scale. What we value most is the people behind every store, individuals who bring care, commitment, and pride to their work every day. It is this spirit of Tận Tâm that has enabled us to deliver a consistent experience and earn the trust of our customers.”

Alongside network expansion, the company has continued to invest in responsible sourcing initiatives and regenerative agriculture programmes aimed at improving coffee quality, promoting sustainable farming practices, and creating long-term value for coffee-growing communities. For Highlands Coffee, these efforts honour the journey of every coffee bean from farm to cup while ensuring customers receive a familiar and dependable experience.

Over the past three decades, Highlands Coffee has become more than a coffee chain for many Vietnamese consumers. Its stores have evolved into spaces where people begin their mornings, reconnect with old friends, hold business meetings, celebrate milestones, and build relationships. Designed as open and welcoming environments, Highlands Coffee locations have become what many customers consider a 'second home'.

The milestone of 1,000 stores therefore represents more than physical expansion. It reflects 1,000 community spaces where millions of personal stories and connections have been created over cups of Vietnamese coffee. Through these spaces, Highlands Coffee seeks to contribute to a uniquely Vietnamese coffee culture, one that brings people together, connects tradition with modern life, and preserves cultural values for future generations.

David Thai noted, “What has made me proud has never been the number of stores. What I value most is the opportunity Highlands Coffee has had to become part of the lives of so many Vietnamese people, and to help more people discover and appreciate Vietnamese coffee.”

He added that Vietnamese coffee is increasingly recognised as more than just a beverage, it is also a reflection of the country’s culture, identity, and shared pride.

Looking ahead, Highlands Coffee says its focus remains unchanged: creating lasting value for customers, communities, coffee farmers, and employees while supporting the future development of Vietnamese coffee.

As Vietnam becomes more connected to the global economy, the company believes that values rooted in Vietnamese culture can resonate far beyond the country when supported by authenticity, quality, and continuous improvement. This belief continues to shape investments in coffee-growing regions, roasting capabilities, employee development, and customer experience.

Crossing the 1,000-store milestone, Highlands Coffee says it will continue its journey with gratitude, to coffee farmers, employees, partners and, above all, the millions of customers who have supported the brand over nearly three decades.

“One thousand stores is a milestone we deeply value, but what matters most to us is the trust and affection that customers continue to have for Vietnamese coffee,” David Thai said. “We will continue moving forward with the spirit of Tận Tâm, care carried through action, so that every cup of coffee carries the familiar taste people love, along with a story about Vietnamese people, Vietnamese culture, and the values that make Vietnam unique.”

Jollibee subsidiary Highlands Coffee evaluates Vietnam IPO Jollibee Foods Corporation has announced that the board of its subsidiary Highlands Coffee is evaluating a planned public listing in Vietnam.

Vietnam ranks as third-largest coffee and tea market in Southeast Asia Vietnam has emerged as the third-largest coffee and tea market in the Southeast Asian region, according to a Momentum Works report released on March 16.

Thanh Nam Group moves into coffee export market Thanh Nam Group announced the completion of a $9 million deal to acquire a controlling stake in Vietnam Coffee Export JSC (VIA COFFEE) at its AGM on April 24.

Beyond conventional lending activities, the figures reflect the efforts of Vietnam Bank for Social Policies (VBSP) to bring the state resources to the right areas and population groups with the most limited access to capital, thereby generating jobs, improving livelihoods, and strengthening the foundation of social security.

As of May 31, the bank's total capital reached almost VND471.2 trillion ($18.12 billion), an increase of VND44.75 trillion ($1.72 billion) compared to the end of 2025. Of this, entrusted capital from local government budgets increased by over VND13.7 trillion ($527.7 million) after the first five months of 2026, raising the total to just over VND79.8 trillion ($3.07 billion). Entrusted capital accounts for 17 per cent of total capital, fulfilling the target set in the VBSP development strategy to 2030.

It is evident that the localities have drastically shifted their mindset towards policy credit. Previously, lending resources mainly came from the central budget. Today, many provinces and cities have allocated capital in collaboration with VBSP to implement preferential credit schemes.

Some localities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Haiphong, Can Tho, Dong Nai, and Quang Ninh have entrusted capital amounting to trillions of VND. This helps improve the ability to meet local borrowing needs while also creating more room to implement poverty reduction initiatives, create jobs, and boost socioeconomic development.

With enhanced resources, total loan disbursement under the policy credit programmes amounted to almost VND80.5 trillion ($3.10 billion) in the first five months. Over 1.1 million poor households and policy beneficiaries have gained access to preferential loans to invest in production, business, and livelihood development. As of the end of May, total outstanding loans stood at just under VND450 trillion ($17.30 billion), up 8.8 per cent from the end of 2025, with over 6.7 million customers currently borrowing capital. This is a low ratio given that the bank’s main clients are poor and near-poor households and other disadvantaged groups in the society.

The results reflect the effectiveness of the policy credit model with the close collaboration among the banks, local authorities, and the socio-political organisations in evaluating loan applicants, monitoring the use of funds, and mitigating risks.

In the first five months of 2025, policy credit capital contributed to over 428,600 jobs created nationwide. Among them, there were 3,218 individuals taking up fixed-term foreign employment. It also supported capital for 1,752 individuals completing their prison sentences and 144 individuals recovering from drug addiction to reintegrate into the community. This is a tool to help people create livelihoods, reduce the risk of falling back into poverty, and contribute to ensuring social order and safety.

In the education sector, nearly 12,000 disadvantaged students have received loans for their studies. Over 1,100 of these students are pursuing STEM degrees, which are the foundation for digital transformation and the knowledge economy in the future.

In addition, policy credit funds have contributed to improving the quality of life in rural areas. Nearly 860,000 clean water and rural sanitation facilities were constructed. The bank has supported the purchase, lease-purchase, or new construction of over 6,300 social housing units for poor families and low-income earners.

In the remaining months of 2026, VBSP continues to fully meet the borrowing needs of poor households and other policy beneficiaries. The bank will step up efforts to mobilise resources from the localities while strengthening inspection and supervision of credit activities. This is coupled with promoting digital transformation to enhance governance capacity.

In light of the push for inclusive development, policy credit is expected to remain one of the key pillars of Vietnam’s social welfare system. More than 1.1 million households have access to capital in the first five months of the year, reflecting the scale of the VBSP's operations. The figure also highlights the far-reaching impact of a policy that is helping bring development opportunities to those who need them most.

DPM Phoc highlights VBSP's role in poverty reduction Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc chaired a meeting in Hanoi with Vietnam Bank for Social Policies (VBSP) on March 27 to assess the bank's organisation and operations over the past few years, along with setting future directions and expectations.

How policy credit fuelled Ho Chi Minh City’s 50-year rise Fifty years after the liberation of Ho Chi Minh City and national reunification, the southern metropolis has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into Vietnam’s leading economic, cultural, and educational hub.

VBSP highlights strong credit performance amid administrative restructuring VBSP disbursed over $4.2 billion in loans, supporting millions of poor households and policy beneficiaries across Vietnam in the first nine months of 2025.

The announcement was made on June 11. The launch marks the first time a global financial services company is both issuing and acting as a custodian for tokenised depositary receipts representing private companies.

With initial public offering timelines lengthening, private companies are seeking alternative routes to liquidity without navigating fragmented secondary markets that often involve complex structures, multiple intermediaries, and opaque fees. Citi's new solution addresses this gap by delivering an efficient, cost-effective, and digitally native approach for a traditionally illiquid segment of capital markets.

Building on its industry-leading Depositary Receipts and Custody businesses, Citi’s model uses tokenised depositary receipts to provide a flexible, institutional-grade alternative capable of meeting the scale needed for private markets. While other structures like third-party Special Purpose Vehicles serve a valuable market function, Citi’s model can reduce the potential for complexity and hidden costs given Citi acts as a single, trusted issuer and custodian.

Digital Depositary Receipts applies Citi Issuer Services’ depositary receipt product to private market shares, using blockchain infrastructure operated by SIX – one of the world’s first fully regulated digital central securities depositories – to tokenise those shares. As part of its collaboration with SIX, Citi serves as a custodian on the platform, responsible for the settlement and safekeeping of the tokenised depositary receipts.

This new solution went live with an inaugural transaction between Kaleido, an institutional tokenisation and digital asset platform and a Citi portfolio company, and investors within its Wealth business, with support from Citi’s Secondary Private Markets business. This successful launch represents a coordinated One Citi effort, bringing together its Issuer Services, Custody, Wealth, Markets, and Ventures teams to enhance the client experience and establish a scalable model for future issuances.

Biswarup Chatterjee, head of partnerships and innovation for Citi’s Services business said, “As private markets continue to grow, so has the need for diverse and trusted access points. Our Digital Depositary Receipts product is designed to provide superior client service, safeguard assets and facilitate capital markets activity with the same rigour that underpins traditional financial markets. The interoperability of the product will further enable Citi to support a wider range of issuers and investors as digital asset market infrastructure continues to evolve.”

This innovation is designed to ensure issuers receive efficient distribution and transfer without the need for public listing or altering underlying ownership rights. Companies maintain control over voting and a more simplified cap table management structure, while broadening investor outreach.

For Wealth clients, this product expands access to offerings through a familiar investment structure. By integrating tokenised depositary receipts into existing Wealth platforms, Citi aims to enhance client optionality while maintaining the operational safeguards and client experience investors expect.

“As digital assets reshape how financial markets evolve, our priority is ensuring Citi Wealth clients can engage with these developments in a secure and familiar way,” said Deborah Querub, head of Digital Assets for Wealth. “We’re focused on responsibly expanding access to new types of investment opportunities while preserving the structures, protections, and experience our clients expect. This transaction is an incremental step in our process of leveraging digital capabilities to enhance options for our Wealth clients.”

With the first issuance of Citi’s Digital Depositary Receipts completed today with Kaleido, Steve Cerveny, founder and CEO said, “Private companies like ours are scaling faster than the surrounding structures. This model finally brings a level of professionalism and transparency to private market capital formation that we’ve never had access to. Citi’s Digital Depositary Receipts allow us to explore new paths for growth while keeping the agility that makes private companies competitive, and that’s an advantage for founders planning long-term.”

Citi is considering future extensions of this offering to operate across both digital and traditional financial market infrastructures, as well as multiple blockchain networks.

Citi entering next phase of AI integration Arc, Citi’s AI agent platform, allows developers to build and scale AI agents that will be used across the firm responsibly.

Citi celebrates Asian Heritage Month Citi is celebrating Asian Heritage Month by recognising the rich histories, cultures, innovation, and contributions of Asian colleagues, communities, and allies across its global network.

Citi Vietnam hosts annual blood donation as part of Global Community Day Citi Vietnam is organising its annual blood donation drives in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as part of Global Community Day 2026, Citi’s annual tradition of coming together across the world through volunteerism to support local communities.

This trend is being strongly promoted through the cooperation between ISOCert and Nam Dinh Vu IP under the ‘Towards ESG’ project, which aims to build a modern, green, and sustainably developed seaport industrial park in accordance with international standards.

With the desire to accompany the business community in Nam Dinh Vu IP to improve governance capacity and meet the requirements of customers, regulatory authorities, and international markets, Sao Do Group - the investor of Nam Dinh Vu IP - organised the 2026 ESG Training Series and Integrated Management System on June 12 in Haiphong city.

Sao Do Group - the investor of Nam Dinh Vu IP - organised a series of ESG and Integrated Management System training courses in 2026

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Thanh Phuong, general director of Sao Do Group, said, “Green transformation and sustainable development are no longer a temporary trend but have become an inevitable tendency and a vital condition for businesses. Sao Do Group has officially registered with Haiphong People's Committee to transform Nam Dinh Vu into an eco-industrial park.”

To realise this goal, Phuong stressed the decisive role of the secondary business community that the construction of an eco-IP cannot rely on the sole effort of the investor, yet requires the strong joint hands of all businesses operating there.

“Only when each business undergoes green transformation, optimises processes, and reduces emissions can the goal of greening the entire industrial park be achieved,” he noted.

To accompany and support investors in the ecosystem, Sao Do Group has chosen to implement four focus areas that are highly practical for current production and business activities. These are standardising the management system, updating the ISO management system according to the latest standards; controlling emissions, conducting greenhouse gas inventories scientifically; optimising resources, improving management capacity, and using energy economically and efficiently; and ensuring information transparency, building and practicing ESG reporting to increase competitive advantages.

Through networking and experience-sharing schemes, Sao Do Group expects that representatives and experts from businesses within the IP will actively advise and propose to their management boards to promptly take strategic steps, shaping a sustainable development future for the entire region.

Meanwhile, a representative of Haiphong Economic Zone Authority (HEZA) noted that as a pioneer in the green transformation wave more than a decade ago, Haiphong currently contributes two out of the country's seven typical eco-industrial parks.

Following this direction, Nam Dinh Vu IP is accelerating its journey of shifting from a traditional IP model to an eco-industrial park.

“From the state management perspective, the legal framework for the eco-IP model has now been clearly shaped through diverse government decrees and guiding circulars of ministries and sectors. HEZA is currently actively advising Haiphong People's Committee on developing a specialised project to provide financial and mechanism support for IPs and businesses implementing green and eco-friendly transformation. At the same time, technically, the Board will chair the organisation of support programmes and in-depth thematic training to transfer specific technical solutions to each business,” said the representative.

Nam Dinh Vu IP is located at the gateway to the seaport, possessing a synchronous transport connection system across all five modes: road, rail, sea, air, and inland waterway, creating a flexible cargo transport network that saves time and costs; linked with the logistics system and neighbouring industrial clusters.

It is therefore regarded as highly favourable for accessing the whole supply chain, exchange of raw materials and by-products, and promoting inter-regional circular economy.

Sustainable development is the core foundation for all long-term strategies with a 20-year or even 50-year vision for businesses. Without a methodical greening roadmap starting now, businesses will undoubtedly face many major barriers in the future.

Delegates attending the 2026 ESG and Integrated Management System Training Series at Nam Dinh Vu IP

The transformation of the eco-IP model does not stop at the story of certification, but is an important component for Sao Do Group to complete its annual ESG report.

Sharing the mindset of implementing this governance tool, Sao Do Group’s leader Nguyen Thanh Phuong said, “The ESG report is an internal measurement tool that helps each business self-assess where its operating system stands and whether it is truly sustainable. The highest goal is to aim for substantive efficiency for the business’ own internal strength.”

Currently, Sao Do Group has been collaborating with experts to build a roadmap for the eco-TP transformation within five years for the 2024-2028 period.

Accordingly, in the 2024-2025 period, the investor conducted surveys of businesses on environmental, energy, safety, and occupational health management systems, while also surveying workers and the community, assessing green infrastructure needs, and updating the master plan to suit ecological criteria.

In the 2027-2028 period, Nam Dinh Vu IP will aim to build a periodic ESG governance dashboard, implement a circular economy and industrial symbiosis model, and develop a Net Zero roadmap for the entire IP.

Phuong stressed that Nam Dinh Vu is committed to harmonious development among the economy, environment, and society, aiming to become a green, modern, and sustainable investment destination.

“By 2028, Nam Dinh Vu IP aims to achieve a minimum of 50 international criteria and 22 national criteria, becoming one of the typical eco-IPs. This is also a step aligned with the industrial development orientation of Haiphong - a major industrial, logistics, and seaport centre in northern Vietnam,” he noted.

Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Park gathers advantages for FDI Vietnam is facing the fourth wave of FDI into high-tech sectors, promoting the development of green industrial parks (IPs). Following that trend, Nam Dinh Vu IP has gathered all the advantages to welcome FDI investors.

Haiphong boasts resources to spur marine economy The northern port city of Haiphong boasts ample potential for seaport and logistics development that sets it apart from other coastal areas.

Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Park taps new free trade zone to attract high-quality investment The introduction of a new-generation free trade zone (FTZ) in Haiphong is set to unlock a wave of high-value investment, enhance export capacity, and accelerate industrial development in the northern port city and its surrounding regions.

Photo: the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam

Based on responses from 33 Swedish companies in Vietnam, the survey presents a business community that remains engaged, optimistic and confident about future opportunities.

“Vietnam has developed into one of the most dynamic economies in Southeast Asia, and the long-standing relationship between Sweden and Vietnam provides a strong foundation for deeper economic cooperation. Swedish companies bring not only investment but also experience in sustainable solutions and innovation that support Vietnam’s continued development,” said the Ambassador of Sweden to Vietnam Johan Ndisi.

Vietnam’s economic performance continues to support investor confidence. In 2025, GDP growth reached 8.02 per cent, outperforming earlier projections and reinforcing the country’s position among the world’s fastest-growing economies. This follows a solid growth of 7.09 per cent in 2024, already above international forecasts.

Swedish companies share this positive trajectory. In 2026, 61 per cent expect industry turnover to increase. Together with 81 per cent recorded in 2025 the last two years reflect a stable and forward-looking business sentiment.

Sweden: a long-term partner in Vietnam’s growth journey

Sweden aims to play a constructive role as a long-term partner in Vietnam’s development, contributing through trade, investment and knowledge exchange. The survey also highlights the strength of Sweden’s reputation in Vietnam, with 81 per cent of Swedish companies confirming that “Brand Sweden” supports their business, reflecting positive associations with high quality, sustainability, and innovation.

Hitachi is one of the largest Swedish businesses in Vietnam. Photo: the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam

This is reinforced by strong local partnerships and long-standing presence in key sectors aligned with Vietnam’s development priorities, such as health, infrastructure and trusted connectivity contributing to the green and digital transformation.

Vietnam’s deep integration in global value chains continue to engage both new investors and old projects expanding their operations. Nearly half of Swedish firms in the 2026 survey established their presence after 2020, underlining the market’s increasing attractiveness.

In 2026, half of Swedish companies plan to increase their investments. Although slightly down from 59 per cent in 2025, this figure indicates sustained confidence in Vietnam’s long-term growth potential and a resilient investment outlook.

“The survey confirms what we see on the ground: Swedish companies are taking a long-term, steady approach to Vietnam. There is a willingness to invest, but also a clear focus on building sustainable and locally anchored operations. Continued improvements in the regulatory environment would further strengthen Vietnam’s already strong position as an investment destination,” said Marcus Persson, Trade Commissioner of Sweden to Vietnam.

Improving business climate with remaining challenges

The survey shows a notable improvement in the overall business environment. In 2026, 67 per cent of the companies describe the business climate as good or very good, compared to 46 per cent in 2025.

Swedish companies report high satisfaction with Vietnam’s strong supplier base, reliable distribution networks, and overall sense of safety as key advantages. These factors continue to make the country an increasingly attractive place to operate.

Photo: the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam

At the same time, challenges remain. Companies point to customs procedures, licenses processes and regulatory complexity as areas requiring further improvement. These findings are consistent with the 2025 survey, where 40 per cent of companies identified customs procedures as a major obstacle, indicating that administrative simplification remains an important priority for reform.

Sustainability transition gaining momentum

Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is increasingly reflected in business activity. However, the survey indicates that sustainability is still evolving in practice. In 2026, 59 per cent of companies report that environmental factors influence customers purchasing decisions.

Swedish companies are actively supporting Vietnam’s green transition, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable industrial solutions. At the same time, they emphasize the importance of clearer regulatory frameworks and improved infrastructure to accelerate progress.

The findings confirm Vietnam’s position as a dynamic and attractive market for Swedish companies. Continued progress on regulatory transparency, administrative efficiency, and infrastructure will be important to sustain momentum and unlock further investment.

Overall, Swedish companies view Vietnam as a long-term growth market and strategic partner. With investment interest remaining strong, business sentiment improving, and opportunities expanding across sectors, Swedish firms remain committed to supporting Vietnam's economic development, innovation, and sustainable transformation.

Swedish Pavilion at GEFE 2024 The Swedish Pavilion is showcasing innovative green solutions at the ongoing Green Economy Forum and Exhibition (GEFE) 2024, aiming to boost cooperation between the two countries towards net-zero.

Leading Swedish names increase Vietnamese focus Swedish companies are stepping up large-scale investment ventures in Vietnam with an increased focus on technology and innovation.

Strengthening Swedish–Vietnamese innovation and trade ties Sweden is strengthening ties with Vietnam on sustainable development and green infrastructure through a high-level visit.

On June 10, senior leaders of Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN) held a meeting with Gulf Energy Group (Thailand) to discuss future power projects.

At the meeting, Chaichawin Tantiyankul, general director of Gulf Energy's Southeast Asia Energy Division, proposed developing several wind and LNG power projects in Vietnam in the coming period.

Chairman of EVN Dang Hoang An said, “In the context of continuously increasing electricity demand for socioeconomic development, Vietnam needs to mobilise diverse resources to develop new power sources. EVN supports and is ready to cooperate with Gulf Energy in the research process for these projects.”

The EVN leader also urged the Thai energy group to work closely with relevant authorities, localities, and partners to accelerate research and development of wind, LNG, and other suitable energy projects in Vietnam.

At a meeting with Thai business leaders on May 27, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam encouraged Thai firms to expand high-quality investment in strategic sectors that support Vietnam's sustainable development goals.

Sarath Ratanavadi, chief executive of Gulf Energy Development, reaffirmed the group's ambition to become a long-term strategic partner of Vietnam. He said the company aims to strengthen the country's energy security through investments in LNG and renewable energy projects.

Before pursuing LNG developments, Gulf Energy had already established a renewable energy footprint in Vietnam through subsidiaries and joint-venture partners.

In the solar sector, Gulf Energy partnered with TTC Group to develop two projects in Tay Ninh province that are now commercially operational. TTC Project No.1 has a capacity of 68.8MWp and an investment value of about $65 million, while TTC Project No.2 has a capacity of 50MWp with investment of approximately $50 million.

The group has also brought three nearshore wind power projects into operation in Vinh Long province, with a combined capacity of 128MW. According to previous announcements, Gulf Energy is planning to expand the capacity of the Binh Dai offshore wind power project in Ben Tre province to 310MW.

Innomotics secures major eLNG drive orders to accelerate LNG electrification The motor and drive manufacturer received large orders for electric liquefied natural gas drives globally, helping reduce emissions in LNG transport.

Vietnam’s power sector poised to trigger a new investment cycle Vietnam’s power sector is undergoing a critical reform phase aimed at reactivating a new investment cycle in generation capacity, ensuring the dual objectives of meeting energy demand for development while fulfilling strong environmental commitments.

PV Power shakes hands with SK Group on Quynh Lap LNG thermal power plant On May 18, the Nghe An People’s Committee and a consortium comprising PV Power, Nghe An Sugar Company (NASU), and SK Innovation held a ceremony to launch technical infrastructure works for the Quynh Lap LNG thermal power plant with a total investment of nearly $2.2 billion.

Thailand’s B.Grimm Power and PV Power join forces to develop LNG power plant On May 28, B.Grimm Power and PV Power signed a cooperation agreement to jointly develop the Vung Ang III LNG Power Plant in Ha Tinh province.

Alternative finance becomes an increasingly distinct component of Vietnam’s consumer credit landscape

For many years, alternative finance was regarded as an underserved segment of the consumer credit ecosystem, serving borrowers who had limited access to bank financing or traditional consumer finance companies.

However, according to FiinGroup, a financial data, credit rating, and analytics major, the role of the sector is changing rapidly as it becomes an increasingly distinct component of Vietnam’s consumer credit landscape.

The market is currently shaped by four main business models: pawn lending, payday loans, buy now, pay later (BNPL), and peer-to-peer lending.

Despite differences in their operating models, these segments share a common characteristic: meeting demand for small-ticket loans, rapid disbursement, and serving customer groups that remain underserved by the traditional credit system.

According to FiinGroup’s estimates, the total outstanding balance of the alternative lending market currently stands at approximately $11.3 billion.

From 2021-2025, industry-wide revenue recorded a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 22.5 per cent, reflecting sustained demand for non-bank credit.

However, the most notable development is not the pace of growth itself, but the increasingly pronounced divergence among business models.

According to FiinGroup’s fresh report, the market is entering a consolidation phase in which competitive advantage will no longer belong to the fastest-growing players, but to those operating under more transparent frameworks, with stronger risk management expertise and clearer legal foundations.

Against this backdrop, pawn lending has emerged as the market’s leading segment.

According to the report, pawn services currently account for approximately 67.9 per cent of total revenue across Vietnam’s alternative finance industry, significantly outperforming other models.

It is also one of the few segments operating under a relatively well-defined regulatory framework, compared with payday lending and BNPL.

In the BNPL market, meanwhile, a field once dominated by specialised startups is increasingly being driven by partnerships among financial institutions, e-wallet providers, e-commerce platforms, and broader digital consumer ecosystems.

According to FiinGroup, BNPL is gradually evolving from a standalone business model into an embedded credit feature within consumer ecosystems.

This shift reflects a more mature market while highlighting growing requirements for capital, customer data, and risk management capabilities.

Notably, the report devotes significant attention to the rise of next-generation pawnshop chains.

While the number of traditional pawnshops continues to decline amid efforts to crack down on illegal lending activities and restructure the market, modern pawnshop chains are expanding rapidly.

FiinGroup estimates that the total outstanding balance of the pawn lending market increased from approximately $3.5 billion before the COVID-19 pandemic to around $10.3 billion in 2025, nearly tripling within just a few years.

These next-generation pawnshop chains are gradually replacing fragmented business models with centralised operating systems, technology-enabled appraisal processes, and more professional risk management practices.

According to FiinGroup, the emergence of leading players demonstrates that the market has been increasingly driven by brand strength, operational efficiency, and asset quality.

FiinGroup believes the growth outlook for Vietnam’s alternative finance market remains positive through 2030, although performance will depend heavily on the regulatory environment, consumer demand, and the operational capabilities of individual businesses.

Under the base-case scenario, the market could maintain a CAGR of approximately 17-20 per cent annually. However, growth is unlikely to be evenly distributed across all business models, as it was in previous years.

Business models that offer greater transparency, clearer regulatory foundations, and stronger risk management capabilities are likely to emerge as the market’s primary growth leaders in the years ahead.

Agribank and AFD sign climate finance deal to boost green growth Agribank and the French Development Agency have signed a climate finance credit facility, marking a new step in international financial cooperation to promote green growth in Vietnam.

Vietnam’s finance professionals redefine career expectations Vietnam’s finance and accountancy workforce is increasingly driven by social purpose, entrepreneurial ambition, and demands for greater career flexibility, according to new research from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

Green finance challenge shifts from capital to project quality Vietnam’s green finance challenge is no longer capital availability, but building projects that can meet increasingly rigorous environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and investment standards.

Specifically, the five significant advantages are the high-level political attention and determination from the city's leadership; increasingly improved institutions, with the Capital City Law and superior policies; and large financial resources capable of investing in long-term and large-scale projects.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung chaired the meeting. Photo: The MST

Furthermore, Hanoi has a high-quality workforce, with a concentration of leading universities and research institutes nationwide; it also has sufficient space, infrastructure, and land to implement activities related to sci-tech and digital transformation.

With these advantages, the minister proposed coordination between the Ministry of Science and Technology and Hanoi in implementing projects under a 40-40-20 investment model (central government, Hanoi, and enterprises). The focus would be on developing strategic technologies, supporting tech startups, and building key research, testing, and laboratory centres.

Hanoi is encouraging the formation of an innovation ecosystem, fostering a controlled testing mechanism for level-4 autonomous transportation technology, opening up space to promote technology commercialisation, and accelerating the implementation of a controlled testing mechanism for digital technology products and services.

Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan. Photo: The MST

The acceleration in implementation of a controlled testing mechanism (sandbox) for digital technology products and services aims to create a favourable environment for innovation and promote digital transformation. This is one of the solutions to concretise the central government's major policies on the development of sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.

Simultaneously, it involves the implementation of the Law on Digital Technology Industry 2025, the Law on Science, Technology and Innovation 2025, and the government’s Decree 353/2025/ND-CP detailing some provisions and measures for organizing and guiding the implementation of the Law on Digital Technology Industry.

In the context of the rapid emergence of many new technologies and business models without a complete legal framework, the sandbox mechanism is implemented to create a safe testing space for businesses, while also providing regulatory agencies with more practical basis to refine policies.

In May, the Hanoi Department of Science and Technology established an evaluation council to allow controlled testing of the proposed 'Level 4 Autonomous Passenger Transport System', which includes mini-buses, robotaxis, and various types of cargo vehicles in controlled traffic zones, submitted by Phenikaa-X JSC.

Implementing this controlled testing mechanism will contribute to creating a practical foundation for the research, application, and development of smart transportation solutions in Hanoi in the future, gradually bringing the capital city closer to the goal of becoming a smart and modern city.

Remote monitoring of delivery robots. Photo: The MST

Furthermore, the HITCHub innovation space kicked off at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park in Hanoi in May will also contribute to boosting research, incubation, testing, and commercialisation of technology in Hanoi.

Le Thanh Son, deputy head of the Management Board of High-Tech Zones and Industrial Parks in Hanoi, said that Hoa Lac High-Tech Park aims to develop into a top high-tech, innovation, and startup centre in the country, with a development orientation towards 2030 and a vision towards 2045, adding that Hanoi has determined that to achieve breakthroughs, it must rely on sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation.

"For innovation and development to be truly effective, we need to form a sufficiently strong, open, and interconnected ecosystem between the government, schools, businesses, and investors. HITC Hub was built to achieve that goal," he noted.

Vietnam’s digital growth bet As Vietnam races towards an ambitious double-digit growth target, policymakers and tech leaders are pushing to turn digital transformation, AI and regulatory sandbox reforms from long-term strategy into immediate economic momentum.

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.

Vietnam and Japan boost cooperation in technology transfer and innovation Vietnam and Japan will strengthen cooperation in technology transfer, and support the innovation and startup ecosystem, as well as business connections between the two countries.

Speaking at the Vietnam Investment Forum on June 11, Bui Hoang Hai, vice chairman of the State Securities Commission (SSC), said the move was expected to broaden the supply of quality stocks and further enhance the attractiveness of Vietnam’s capital market to both domestic and international investors.

The announcement comes as Vietnam accelerates efforts to modernise its capital market and introduce a range of new financial products and trading platforms.

According to Hai, the SSC and the Ministry of Finance are working closely with the Vietnam Exchange and stock exchanges to launch several new markets, including a carbon credit trading market, which could begin operating as early as this month. Authorities are also developing roadmaps for an innovation enterprise trading platform and a digital asset market.

Regarding digital assets, the securities regulator has granted initial approval to five organisations to establish operating entities and invest in technology infrastructure. Once these organisations complete their capital contributions and technological systems, Vietnam could see the launch of its first official digital asset market.

The SSC also expects to introduce a series of new market indices after September to diversify investment funds and provide additional benchmarks for fund managers tracking the Vietnamese market.

At the same time, authorities are accelerating the deployment of a central counterparty clearing mechanism, which is expected to be operational by early 2027 at the latest.

Several modern trading mechanisms are also being introduced, including omnibus accounts, the removal of pre-funding requirements, and enhanced connectivity with global brokerage firms.

According to Hai, foreign investor interest in Vietnam’s stock market has reached an unprecedented level.

“In addition to passive investment institutions such as major global index-tracking funds including Vanguard, BlackRock, State Street, UBS, and JP Morgan, we have also received strong interest from sovereign wealth funds, national investment funds, and active fund managers from various countries,” he said.

The SSC views Vietnam’s stock market as evolving beyond a conventional investment channel to become a critical source of capital for the broader economy.

Vietnam’s equity market capitalisation currently stands at around 80 per cent of GDP. Including government bonds, corporate bonds, and private placements, the size of the capital market is estimated at 110-120 per cent of GDP.

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“Based on reviews of shareholder meeting resolutions from listed companies, approximately $16.82 billion is expected to be raised through the stock market in the rest of 2026. A number of major businesses are preparing capital increase plans and initial public offerings accompanied by listings this year,” Phuong said.

In terms of market reclassification, FTSE Russell has confirmed the upgrade of Vietnam’s stock market to emerging market status, effective from September, with around 30 Vietnamese stocks set to be added to its benchmark indices.

According to the SSC chairwoman, international institutions have also begun opening accounts to deploy capital into the Vietnamese market. Among them, Vanguard Group, one of the world's largest investment management companies based in the US, is estimated to invest at least $1.5 billion.

Improving product quality, upgrading technological infrastructure, and increasing the supply of listed securities remain key priorities in attracting additional capital flows into the stock market.

Investors continue to await a new catalyst from market reclassification, particularly the prospect of an MSCI upgrade.

Previously, many securities company executives and market analysts projected that Vietnam would have a strong chance of being added to MSCI’s upgrade watch list as early as June this year.

Under its schedule, MSCI will publish its 2026 Global Market Accessibility Review on June 19 and its 2026 Annual Market Classification Review on June 24.

Truong Quang Binh, director of Retail Client Research at Yuanta Securities Vietnam, said that market reclassification would represent an important milestone, especially in attracting foreign investment flows into Vietnam’s capital market.

“Foreign investors are still net sellers. In addition to international market volatility, Vietnam’s stock market is entering a pre-upgrade phase, prompting some frontier-market funds to gradually withdraw capital. However, positive impacts are expected to return,” Binh noted.

Vietnam’s stock market has made significant progress in recent years, including the launch of the KRX trading system and the implementation of pre-funding exemption mechanisms for foreign investors.

In addition, the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange has encouraged listed companies to disclose information in English starting in 2026, enhancing market transparency.

The planned introduction of a Central Counterparty clearing model in 2027 is another noteworthy initiative that is expected to attract foreign capital and help satisfy MSCI requirements.

Binh forecasts that Vietnam’s goal of achieving 10 per cent GDP growth by 2030 is attainable, provided both the debt market and capital market operate efficiently.

Foreign capital remains a crucial driver of the stock market, with overseas investors currently holding 14.25 per cent of total market capitalisation.

Retaining foreign investment contributes to improving the balance of payments, stabilising exchange rates, and creating greater flexibility for monetary policy.

From a longer-term perspective, Binh explained the significance of an MSCI upgrade. Given that the number of investment funds using MSCI benchmarks substantially exceeds those tracking FTSE indices, capital inflows into Vietnam’s stock market could become considerably more abundant.

The implementation of the Central Counterparty clearing system in 2027 will serve as an important stepping stone for advancing this process.

As of May 2026, Vietnam had fulfilled 10 out of 18 MSCI criteria and was close to meeting 17 out of 18 qualitative requirements needed for watch-list inclusion. However, before any actual upgrade occurs, the market must first undergo a watch-list period lasting approximately two to three years.

Importantly, Binh stressed that Vietnam’s sovereign credit rating remains another critical factor. Further credit-rating upgrades could move the country into the 'investment-grade' category, opening the door to potentially massive capital inflows into the country’s capital markets.

Vietnam moves closer to MSCI upgrade Vietnam’s stock market is gaining momentum for a potential MSCI Watchlist inclusion as regulatory reforms, foreign ownership improvements and resilient earnings strengthen its emerging-market upgrade case.

MSCI unveils improvements in Vietnam's stock market Morgan Stanley Capital International Inc. (MSCI) noted that Vietnam's stock market has seen several developments over the past year in its Global Market Accessibility Review released on June 23.

Vietnam accelerates capital market reforms to boost foreign investor access Vietnam's State Securities Commission has highlighted a series of reforms aimed at improving market accessibility, transparency, and operational capacity at a capital market dialogue in Singapore.

During his visit from June 8 to 12, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Tanaka Akihiko held discussions with senior Vietnamese officials, including Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, on Japan–Vietnam cooperation towards Vietnam's goal of becoming a high-income country by 2045. JICA is the implementing agency for Japan's official development assistance (ODA).

At his meeting with PM Hung, JICA president Tanaka said, "JICA supports Vietnam's ongoing economic reforms led by the government and is willing to cooperate comprehensively and strategically, particularly in priority areas including sci-tech and digital transformation; corporate growth of domestic enterprises and expanded participation in global value chains; the investment environment; and strategic infrastructure."

In response, PM Hung expressed his deep appreciation for JICA’s longstanding partnership with Vietnam. As the Vietnamese government aims to achieve double-digit GDP growth from 2026 onward, he noted the need for a comprehensive cooperation from JICA that would contribute to its economic growth. PM Hung also conveyed his expectations for further collaboration with JICA, particularly in the four priority fields as mentioned above.

President Tanaka also conducted a site visit to the Ho Chi Minh City’s Urban Metro Line No. 1, completed in 2024 with Japan’s ODA.

After riding Vietnam’s first urban railway system featuring an underground section, he spoke highly of the metro system, saying, “The journey offered a pleasant and sophisticated experience. With its elaborately designed stations, the system gave the impression of being among the world’s most advanced metros.”

At the Japan–Vietnam Summit Meeting held in May this year, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to further expand cooperation in emerging priority areas related to economic security, including energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and space.

JICA secures GCF funding for Vietnam forest conservation project A funding proposal submitted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in collaboration with Vietnam has been approved by the Green Climate Fund.

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.

Vietnam and JICA discuss new direction for Japanese ODA cooperation Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong has met with a senior Japanese official to discuss future directions for Japan's official development assistance to Vietnam.

Norway's offshore wind (OSW) industry has returned to Vietnam with a delegation of six companies and organisations participating in the APAC Wind Energy Summit 2026 (on June 9-11 in Hanoi), signalling continued confidence in one of Asia's most promising OSW markets.

Norway's participation is led by Norwegian Energy Partners (NORWEP) and includes DNV AS, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, Glamox AS, Øglænd System/Hilti, Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, and Reach Subsea. Together, the delegation represents expertise across key segments of the OSW value chain, including seabed surveys, geotechnical investigations, certification, turbine installation, subsea operations and offshore infrastructure.

Organised by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), the APAC Wind Energy Summit 2026 brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and energy experts to discuss pathways for accelerating wind energy deployment in Vietnam and across the Asia-Pacific region.

While some members of the delegation are visiting Vietnam for the first time, all are engaging with Vietnamese stakeholders through a series of meetings and networking activities during the summit.

"Norwegian companies bring expertise spanning the entire value chain, from seabed surveys and geotechnical investigations to certification, turbine installation, subsea operations and offshore infrastructure," said Jon Dugstad, director of Renewables at NORWEP.

"Drawing on experience from projects in the North Sea, the UK and Taiwan, we bring in competence and capacity and are keen to work with local partners including developers and engineering firms supporting the efforts of the government of Vietnam to develop a safe, sustainable and competitive industry," he added.

The focus on long-term industry development was echoed by Norway's Ambassador to Vietnam, Hilde Solbakken, who participated in the summit's high-level government dialogue.

Sharing Norway's experience in developing one of the world's most advanced OSW industries, Ambassador Solbakken highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in accelerating deployment across Asia-Pacific. She noted that collaboration on supply chains, workforce development, port infrastructure and grid integration would be critical to scaling up the sector.

"Developing offshore wind is not just about generating renewable electricity. It requires the entire ecosystem to move forward together, from grid infrastructure and market arrangements to ports, supply chains and workforce development. Ensuring that these elements are developed in parallel is one of the key challenges facing all countries seeking to build a successful industry," the ambassador said.

She also encouraged Vietnamese stakeholders to engage with Norwegian companies attending the summit and explore opportunities for future collaboration.

With its extensive coastline, strong wind resources and commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Vietnam is widely regarded as one of the most promising OSW markets in the Asia-Pacific region. As the country continues to refine its energy transition plans, industry participants at the summit say international partnerships and knowledge sharing will play an important role in supporting future development.

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The director of Bach Mai Hospital, Dao Xuan Co, said that the hospital issued a decision to mobilise 1,288 officials and employees ready to operate the second facility. The hospital has completed all licensing procedures.

Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan chaired the meeting. Photo: The MoH

The hospital has implemented various measures: conducting auctions for the right to operate service and security facilities (convenience stores, canteens, and others), procurement packages for goods, assets, and services to support the overall management and operation of the hospital, and implementing bidding procedures for the purchase of transportation vehicles to facilitate convenient travelling between the two facilities for hospital staff and employees.

It has also developed plans for medical supplies, laboratory chemicals, shared consumables, infection control supplies and chemicals, laundry services for medical linens, and medical waste management for its various specialities.

However, there are still some issues and works that need to be completed before the hospital can begin operations.

The hospital director also proposed several issues related to technical classification; signing a contract with the Hanoi City Social Insurance; handing over medical equipment for operating rooms; granting operating licences; building accommodation for staff, doctors, and workers of the second facility.

Co stated that right after the opening, the second facility will organise free health check-ups for residents in the area surrounding area.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan requested those involved to continue monitoring progress, completing remaining tasks, ensuring construction quality, and preventing delays.

Photo: The MoH

The minister requested that units work on interior facilities, technical systems, air conditioning, operating rooms, air quality testing, and other specialised matters. She also highlighted fire prevention and completion of related procedures. This is a mandatory condition for hospitals to operate safely. Units need to coordinate closely with agencies to complete the appraisal and issuance of necessary documents.

“The principle is to implement activities wherever conditions permit, but to absolutely ensure professional standards, quality, and patient safety,” she said.

The second facility of Bach Mai Hospital is planned as a modern and exam and treatment facility, contributing to reducing the overload on Bach Mai Hospital and improving access to high-quality medical services for people in the southern Red River Delta region and neighbouring provinces.

"The people have waited many years for this venture to open. All parties need to work together and be determined to bring the hospital into operation, meeting the people's needs and contributing to improving the quality of people's healthcare," the minister said.

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On the afternoon of June 10, at the government headquarters, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc received a courtesy call on Niels Holst, member of the Board of Directors of Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) from Denmark, specialising in offshore wind power development and renewable energy fund management,

At the meeting, the CIP-FECON consortium outlined plans to assess the feasibility of a 1,000MW onshore wind project in Savannakhet Province, Laos, aiming to supply electricity to Vietnam during 2026-2028.

According to CIP representatives, Vietnam is one of the group's key strategic markets. CIP currently manages $40 billion in capital dedicated to green energy investments, spanning offshore wind, onshore wind, solar power and energy storage.

For Vietnam alone, CIP plans to allocate around $3 billion by 2030 to develop large-scale renewable energy projects, including initiatives involving the import of wind-generated electricity from Laos.

The consortium also sought the DPM's views on its broader renewable energy investment strategy. Beyond the proposed project in Laos, CIP and FECON are discussing the joint development of a renewable energy portfolio with a combined capacity of approximately 2.5GW by 2030.

The proposed portfolio would include onshore wind and solar projects in both Vietnam and Laos, additional wind power projects in Laos capable of exporting electricity to Vietnam, as well as supporting energy infrastructure solutions designed to enhance long-term grid reliability.

The partnership between CIP and FECON is built on complementary strengths. CIP brings extensive international experience in developing, financing and investing in large-scale green infrastructure projects, while FECON is among Vietnam's leading infrastructure contractors and investors, with expertise spanning urban, industrial and renewable energy infrastructure.

Under their cooperation framework, the CIP-FECON consortium is not only pursuing renewable power generation projects but is also exploring supporting infrastructure, including large-scale standalone battery energy storage systems. Such systems are expected to play an important role in improving grid stability, facilitating greater integration of renewable energy sources and enhancing the flexibility of Vietnam's power system.

The proposed Laos wind project comes amid growing energy cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. In recent years, the two countries have expanded collaboration in electricity trading, coal supply and cross-border energy infrastructure development. Bilateral agreements on electricity and coal trade have provided an important foundation for new energy projects, increased power exchanges and strengthened regional energy security.

Going forward, the consortium plans to continue working with authorities and partners in Vietnam and Laos to assess feasibility, complete procedures and create mechanisms to facilitate future operations.

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Dau Anh Tuan, deputy secretary general and head of the Legal Department, said, “In surveys conducted by VCCI, Customs has consistently been recognised by the business community leading sectors in administrative procedure reform and digital transformation.”

“It is on this positive foundation that the current amendment to the Customs Law has been received with high expectations by the business community. We appreciate the spirit of the draft, especially the institutionalisation of important Party resolutions such as Resolution 57, Resolution 66, and Resolution 68, with a clear message: shifting from a management to a service mindset, with businesses at the centre,” Tuan said.

Nguyen Thanh Hung, deputy director of the Customs Department, said that Customs Law No.54/2014/QH13 came into effect on January 1, 2015, and has been in effect for 12 years. During this time, it still has seen delays, waste time and money for the business community.

“To overcome this, the draft law is expected to amend, supplement, and repeal 42 articles, while adding four new articles out of 104 articles in the current law. This is a concrete step in implementing the Politburo's resolutions on encouraging the private economy, national digital transformation, and reforming the legislative process, while also aligning with the policy of streamlining the local government apparatus from three levels to two levels,” Hung said.

At the meeting, dozens of businesses concentrated on six subjects. The first was digital customs. Converting all documents to electronic form, automated document verification, and eliminating geographical boundaries will save a significant amount of time and costs.

Regarding customs management via e-commerce platforms, the draft stipulates the responsibility of e-commerce platform owners to declare customs. This is a very new issue, with rapid development and involving many stakeholders. VCCI hopes business can clarify the boundaries of responsibility between platform owners, sellers, shipping companies, and buyers, to ensure strict management while avoiding an excessive compliance burden.

Furthermore, the representatives of firms and manufacturers gave opinions on compliance management, customs clearance agents, the temporary suspension of customs procedures for transit goods showing signs of intellectual property infringement, and post-clearance inspection and decentralisation of authority.

Le Thi Xuan Hue, deputy director of BowerGroupAsia Vietnam Co., Ltd., said, “The drafting agency should also consider adding a mechanism for accountability in the process of assessing business compliance. In reality, many cases of businesses being penalised are not due to intentional violations but stem from inconsistencies or overlaps between legal regulations in various fields.”

“Being rated low in compliance has many consequences, such as increased inspection frequency, prolonged customs clearance time, and increased production and business costs. A mechanism is needed to allow for accountability in cases arising from objective reasons or force majeure before deciding on the level of compliance assessment,” she said.

Phan Manh Ha, director of External Relations at Shopee, suggested reconsidering the regulation requiring e-commerce platforms to declare and verify buyer information because platforms are only intermediaries connecting businesses; they do not own the goods or original data. Therefore, their role should only be to provide information. Ha also expressed concern that verifying the buyer for low-value goods (under $200) would increase costs and prolong customs clearance time.

Customs reform to prioritise high-tech and innovative businesses Au Anh Tuan, deputy director general of the Department of Vietnam Customs, outlines key changes to the Customs Law aimed at simplifying procedures and offering more incentives for high-tech, innovative, and semiconductor businesses, and helping to support supply chains and boost the startup ecosystem.

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At a meeting with the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) on June 11, Sikander Khan, CEO of Sweden-based Peak Education, discussed opportunities to encourage green tourism and net-zero development in Vietnam, as well as plans for a high-end sustainable eco-resort project in Kon Plong commune, Quang Ngai province.

Headquartered in Stockholm, Peak Education operates in consultancy, education, research, and the development of sustainable tourism models.

According to Khan, the organisation focuses on green tourism, net-zero initiatives, carbon emission reduction, renewable energy, and advanced green technology solutions.

Drawing on its experience in sustainable tourism development, Peak Education is studying plans for a net-zero luxury eco-resort integrated with wellness and healthcare facilities. The project would be developed under a green tourism model, powered entirely by renewable energy and incorporating circular economy principles, sustainable waste management, and designs that harmonise with local culture and natural landscapes.

To ensure the venture complies with Vietnamese regulations and meets national and international sustainability standards, Khan expressed a desire to receive guidance from VNAT on regulatory requirements, accommodation standards, and procedures for obtaining 5-star classification for luxury resorts in Vietnam.

He also voiced hopes for continued support from VNAT throughout the project’s research and implementation phases, adding that the development could serve as a model for net-zero luxury eco-resorts in Vietnam while contributing to the growth of high-quality and tourism.

Nguyen Thi Hoa Mai, deputy director general of VNAT, said the project’s orientation aligns with Vietnam’s efforts to encourage green tourism, ecotourism, wellness tourism, and the broader transition towards green development.

“The project reflects the growing interest of international investors and businesses in Vietnam’s sustainable tourism potential, particularly in Quang Ngai province,” Mai said.

However, she noted that Peak Education would need to develop and submit detailed project documentation and implementation plans before authorities could assess its viability.

Regarding 5-star accreditation requirements and other professional standards applicable to the venture, Mai assigned VNAT’s Tourism Accommodation Department to act as the focal point for information exchange, guidance, and support, helping the company access relevant regulations, standards, and technical requirements.

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The proposed acquisition marks one of the company's largest investment deals and forms part of its strategy to expand its project portfolio in residential and commercial real estate.

The target asset is an equity interest in Lotte Properties HCMC, the developer of a large-scale mixed-use project, including residential, commercial, and service components.

PDR's Board of Directors has also requested authorisation to oversee and execute the deal, including the right to delegate authority to the chairman and/or CEO to make decisions and carry out all procedures related to the transaction in necessary accordance with the resolution approved by shareholders.

The date for eligible shareholders entitled to participate in the written voting process was set as June 1. The consultation commenced on June 11 and will conclude on June 22.

The move is widely seen as a significant step forward in PDR's plan to mobilise capital and proceed with the acquisition of an equity stake in Lotte Properties.

The proposed acquisition comes shortly after a series of divestment moves by PDR, which could help the company strengthen its financial position and mobilise capital for new investments.

On June 10, PDR approved in principle a plan for its subsidiary, Binh Duong High-Rise Investment Real Estate JSC, to transfer its entire holding of 136.86 million shares in Hoa Phu High-Rise Investment and Development Real Estate JSC at a price of no less than $115 million.

Hoa Phu High-Rise Investment and Development Real Estate JSC is the developer of the Thuan An 2 High-Rise Mixed-Use Residential Complex, a project spanning more than 2.65 ha with a total gross floor area of ​​nearly 270,000 sq.m and an estimated investment capital of around $261 million.

Earlier, on June 4, PDR also approved the transfer of its entire stake, representing 99.34 per cent of the charter capital, in Serenity Investment JSC at a price not lower than its investment cost, subject to efficiency considerations and compliance with applicable regulations.

Serenity Investment JSC is the developer of the 7.4-ha Serenity Phuoc Hai project, which is designed to deliver more than 6,000 condotel units and over 280 hotel rooms, with a total gross floor area approaching 296,000 sq.m.

While PDR has not disclosed the transaction value of the Serenity divestment, given the scale of the venture, market observers believe the deal could be worth several trillion Vietnamese VND.

Taken together, the recent divestments suggest that PDR may be actively restructuring its investment portfolio and unlocking capital from non-core assets as it prepares for larger strategic transactions, including the proposed VND10.4 trillion acquisition of an equity stake in Lotte Properties HCMC.

The series of divestments appears to be a logical strategic move as PDR is increasingly concentrating its resources on its partnership with Lotte Properties HCMC in the development of Thu Thiem Eco Smart City.

Previously at the end of May, PDR and Lotte Properties Ho Chi Minh City had signed an MoU to advance strategic cooperation related to Thu Thiem Eco Smart City, a landmark venture located in Thu Thiem New Urban Area with a preliminary investment value estimated in 2017 at $900 million.

The venture is being developed on a land plot of nearly 7.45 ha, of which 5 ha is allocated for commercial centres, offices, hotels, serviced apartments, and freehold residential apartments, with the remainder for transport infrastructure.

When finished it will provide more than 505,000 square metres of gross floor area, with residential space, office space, and the remainder allocated to retail, hospitality, and serviced apartments.

Thu Thiem Eco Smart City will feature a 64-storey office, hotel, and serviced apartment tower standing 240m high, making it among the tallest buildings in the area.

The complex was allocated and leased land by Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee in August 2022. Construction began the same year, and ground levelling has been completed.

Mitsubishi acquires Thuan An 1 residential development from PDR Japanese investors continue to expand their presence in Vietnam's residential property sector through new project acquisitions and development partnerships.

Lotte Properties and Phat Dat develop Thu Thiem Eco Smart City LotteHo 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.

"Vietnam is entering a new stage of development characterised by stronger economic growth and an increasingly important role in global manufacturing supply chains. Germany remains a long-standing partner of Vietnam, sharing a common commitment to sustainable development and long-term growth,” Sühl said.

She reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s green transition through technology transfer, the sharing of industrial expertise, and the promotion of long-term business partnerships.

Alexander Ziehe, chairman of the German Business Association in Vietnam, noted that Ho Chi Minh City was well positioned to integrate circular economy principles into its next phase of industrial development.

“Building sustainable supply chains, strengthening the capabilities of domestic suppliers, and accelerating technology transfer will enable Vietnamese enterprises to participate more deeply in global value chains,” Ziehe said.

He added that German companies were ready to support Vietnam not only as investors but also as long-term partners in industrial development, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Peter Kompalla, chief representative of AHK Vietnam, noted that for German businesses operating in Vietnam, the circular economy is no longer viewed solely as a sustainability initiative but has become a key component of competitiveness and market access strategies.

“New requirements relating to supply chain transparency, traceability, and digital product passports are increasingly becoming prerequisites for accessing international markets, particularly the European Union,” Kompalla said.

According to him, companies that embrace circular economy principles will be better positioned to meet evolving regulatory standards, strengthen their resilience, and enhance their competitiveness in global value chains.

One of the key topics raised include how Vietnamese enterprises can deepen their participation in global supply chains as environmental, social, and governance standard increasingly become mandatory across international markets.

According to Nguyen Trong Luat, vice chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Supporting Industries, businesses are facing mounting pressure not only to enhance their technological capabilities but also to comply with emerging requirements related to carbon emissions, supply chain traceability, and transparency.

“In this context, the biggest gap for many Vietnamese enterprises lies in management capacity, technical human resources, and their ability to connect with overseas funding,” Luat said. “Technology transfer, skills development, and the establishment of stronger supplier linkage mechanisms will be critical to helping domestic companies upgrade their competitiveness and meet the increasingly stringent requirements of global markets.”

Meanwhile, Erick Contreras, managing director of BASF Vietnam, cited that the circular economy was emerging as a new growth driver for the manufacturing sector.

“As companies face increasing pressure related to raw materials, energy consumption, emissions, and compliance with international standards, circular business models can transform these challenges into opportunities to improve resource efficiency, foster innovation, and create new sources of value,” Contreras said.

Beyond the circular economy, digital transformation and automation are also being recognised as critical enablers of sustainable manufacturing, helping businesses enhance productivity, optimise resource use, and accelerate their transition towards more resilient and environmentally responsible operations.

The Germany-Vietnam Business Forum 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City on June 11

DPM Nguyen Chi Dung meets Vietnamese experts in Germany to boost innovation ties Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung has met with Vietnamese experts and intellectuals based in Germany and across Europe to discuss cooperation in key technology and economic sectors.

NIC partners with TU Berlin to boost Vietnam innovation ties The National Innovation Centre has partnered with a leading technical university in Berlin to strengthen innovation and startup linkages between Vietnam and Germany.

Smart factories or bust: decision time in 2026 In many Vietnamese factories, transformation does not begin with a robot arm or a fully automated line but starts with the simple realisation that the old model no longer scales.

The parties will enhance cooperation by leveraging each other's strengths and needs, focusing on planning research, technical standards and regulations; training and development of human resources and technology transfer; and the exchange of information related to investment activities as a basis for research and project proposals.

The signing ceremony. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Portal

Both sides will study cooperation models that are consistent with Vietnamese law and the ability of each party to mobilise resources for each project.

The parties will research and consider selecting an investment cooperation model consistent with Vietnamese law.

Ho Chi Minh City is currently focusing on implementing many key programmes to develop its technical infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, and urban infrastructure. In this process, strengthening cooperation with large corporations that have international experience, capabilities, and reputation is crucial.

At the ceremony, Yan Jiehe, founder of Pacific Construction Group, stated that the company was a reputable and capable investor and contractor, committed to ensuring the highest quality. The signing aims to establish a framework for cooperation, exchange of experience, and exploration of collaboration in the construction and urban infrastructure sector in Ho Chi Minh City.

Earlier in April, Pacific Construction Group also signed an MoU with Hue People's Committee, marking a new phase of cooperation in developing urban infrastructure.

Both sides agreed to cooperate in implementing urban and transport infrastructure development projects; urban upgrading and expansion; as well as coordinating in education, healthcare, and other sectors. The focus will be on large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at creating new growth engine.

In January, at a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi, the founder of Pacific Construction Group expressed shared that the group has successfully won bids and is currently implementing three major strategic projects in Hanoi.

These include Tu Lien Bridge and its approach roads; Ngoc Hoi Bridge and its approach roads; and Hanoi Metro Line 5 (Van Cao- Hoa Lac section).

The founder plans to engage in large-scale infrastructure projects and foster a long-term, committed partnership with Vietnam in the future.

Hanoi breaks ground on 90m-wide mega corridor Hanoi has broken ground on a $6.4 billion, 36.3km National Highway 1A road aimed at reshaping the capital’s southern gateway.

Hubexo Asia Awards honour Vietnam's top architecture and construction firms The 2026 Hubexo Asia Awards have honoured Vietnam's most active architecture firms, developers, and contractors for their contributions to shaping the country's built environment.

Ho Chi Minh City to start construction on four urban railway lines Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee is accelerating the procedures to start construction on four urban railway lines from now until the end of 2026, with the goal of completion by the end of 2030.

Photo: Tinnhanhchungkhoan.vn

According to Quang, the development of a carbon market is a key instrument for helping Vietnam achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2050.

“A carbon market is not only an economic tool to pull in investment into green and clean technologies, but also an important mechanism to encourage businesses to reduce emissions,” he said.

Quang noted that the global carbon credit market is expanding rapidly and is expected to reach a value of $24 billion by 2030, creating significant opportunities for countries and businesses that are prepared to participate.

He added that Vietnam’s decision to launch its domestic carbon exchange later this month, following coordination with the Ministry of Finance and other agencies, represented an important milestone in implementing the country’s international climate commitments.

“Raising awareness and strengthening capacity among the business community is essential to turning carbon market opportunities into tangible economic benefits,” Quang said, adding that government agencies would continue supporting enterprises in overcoming technical and regulatory barriers.

Nguyen Thanh Cong, deputy head of the Carbon Market Division under the Department of Climate Change, said the legal framework for operating the market has largely been completed, particularly following the issuance of Decree No.112/2024/ND-CP.

The decree establishes regulations governing the international exchange of emissions reduction outcomes and carbon credits, providing businesses with greater clarity on the legal framework, as well as their rights and obligations when participating in international carbon markets.

“The new regulations place particular emphasis on transparent data management and the application of corresponding adjustment mechanisms to prevent the double counting of emissions reductions,” Cong said.

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In Phu Tho province, resolving stalled projects has been identified as a key priority in combating waste and unlocking resources to propel socioeconomic development.

Following a comprehensive review, the province has identified 149 delayed projects requiring assessment and resolution.

Thousands of behind-schedule developments are now undergoing large-scale review and resolution nationwide

To accelerate progress, Phu Tho People's Committee has assigned specific responsibilities to relevant agencies to lead and coordinate reviews and propose solutions for each project.

Based on Resolution No.29/2026/QH16 and government regulations, provincial departments and agencies are focusing on classifying projects, identifying the nature of delays, assigning responsible authorities and establishing completion timelines for each case.

A similar approach is being vigorously implemented in Nghe An province. The provincial Steering Committee for handling delayed projects has identified 87 projects facing difficulties, of which 81 remain unresolved.

Recognising the urgency of unlocking development resources and improving the state management, Nghe An has developed a phased roadmap for addressing these projects.

Under the province’s plan, the 81 projects will be resolved in three phases. The first phase covers 35 projects to be completed by June 15; the second phase includes 21 projects to be finalised by July 30; and the third phase consists of 25 projects scheduled for completion by November 30, 2026.

In Danang, reviews of long-stalled projects and land plots are also being conducted on an urgent basis.

The city has instructed relevant agencies to clarify underlying causes and classify obstacles related to land issues, planning, investment, construction, financial obligations and other related matters to develop appropriate solutions.

Meanwhile, Quang Ninh province is stepping up efforts to address projects facing prolonged difficulties and legal bottlenecks.

The province has focused on reviewing and categorising projects based on specific issues, clearly assigning responsibilities to relevant agencies and requiring all cases to be resolved within 2026.

A determined effort is also underway in Khanh Hoa province, where a dedicated Steering Committee has been established to address 217 stalled projects and state-owned land and property assets, including numerous developments delayed in land utilisation or facing prolonged legal complications.

With a strong commitment to eliminating these delays, many localities have moved beyond reviews and action plans to resolve stalled projects actively, with initial results proving noteworthy.

Ho Chi Minh City stands out as one of the most successful examples. The city has reviewed all 838 stalled projects, developments and land plots, while also completing either the resolution process or establishing a clear course of action for every project under review.

These efforts have helped unlock more than $8.24 billion in investment capital and return nearly 17,000 ha of land to productive use. Beyond the impressive scale of resources released, the results highlight the efficiency of addressing impediments that had persisted for many years.

According to senior economist Nguyen Minh Phong, resolving stalled projects carries particular significance as Vietnam pursues higher economic growth targets. The issue is not merely about dealing with long-standing problems, but also about unlocking resources that have been trapped within the economy.

“Significant resources in the form of land, investment capital, assets and development space remain tied up in long-stalled projects. Once legal, planning, land-related and investment procedural obstacles are removed, these resources can be returned to production and business activities, creating additional room for growth. Therefore, resolving stalled projects should be regarded as one of the key solutions for reducing waste and improving the efficiency of national resource utilisation,” Phong said.

As the ‘stalled-projects’ long-lasting delay is gradually tackled, investment flows will move more freely and wasted resources can once again contribute to development.

This is not only a solution for overcoming difficulties at individual projects and localities, but also an important driver for enhancing the efficiency of national resource allocation and creating a foundation for rapid and sustainable growth in the next stage of development.

Hanoi to crackdown on delayed projects The Hanoi People’s Council has urged authorities of the two districts of Ba Vi and Hoai Duc in coordination with the city’s related agencies to intensify the inspection of long-delayed construction projects and revoke the credentials of those which are violating the Land Law.

City to revoke long-delayed projects HCM City authorities are planning to revoke “long-delayed or projects that are no longer feasible” that have affected thousands of home owners who have been asked to move to make way for these projects.

Vietnam’s new special mechanisms for delayed projects Nishimura & Asahi’s Vietnam partner Nguyen Ngoc Phuc outlines key aspects of Vietnam’s newly introduced special mechanisms aimed at resolving long-standing legal bottlenecks affecting delayed real estate and infrastructure projects, with significant implications for developers, investors, lenders, and other stakeholders.

For Saigon Technology, this year's recognition arrives at a particularly meaningful moment. Since 2012, the company has grown from a software development provider serving international clients into a global technology partner, with more than 400 engineers and over 850 successful projects delivered across North America, Australia, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.

The 2026 recognition is especially significant not just for the award itself, but also for the changing landscape of software development in the age of AI.

As AI rapidly reshapes the software industry, development cycles are becoming shorter, repetitive coding tasks are automated, and businesses are demanding faster delivery without compromising quality.

This transformation has created a new challenge for software companies: how to continue delivering value when AI can perform many technical tasks that once required extensive human effort.

Rather than viewing AI as a disruption, Saigon Technology has embraced it as an opportunity to evolve. The company has expanded beyond the traditional outsourcing model, positioning itself as an AI-native engineering partner that combines experienced software talent, AI-enhanced development processes, and large-scale product delivery expertise.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Nguyen Duc Minh, business development manager at Saigon Technology, said that AI is not replacing software engineers but transforming the way they work.

"We do not see AI as a threat. Instead, it enables engineers to work more effectively and focus on solving complex business challenges. Technology will continue to evolve, but our mission remains the same: helping clients build software faster, leaner, and smarter in the AI era," he said.

The market has already recognised this strategic direction. In the Top 10 ICT Vietnam 2025 rankings, Saigon Technology was named among the Top 2 Established Performers Providing AI Application Development Platforms, Top 2 Enterprises Providing Global Digital Services, and Top 6 Software Development & Application Companies.

The AI-native Custom Software Development category at Sao Khue 2026 recognises the core capability that Saigon Technology has built over the years: helping businesses design, build, and scale software solutions tailored to their unique needs.

This is not the company's first appearance at the Sao Khue Awards. Saigon Technology previously received Sao Khue Awards in both 2019 and 2020, highlighting the company's strong engineering foundation. This year's recognition reflects something broader: its ability to adapt, innovate, and continue creating value in an industry being transformed by AI.

Alongside technology achievements, Saigon Technology has also earned recognition for its workplace culture and commitment to talent development. The company received Great Place to Work Certification in 2022, 2023, and 2025, was named among the Best Workplaces in Vietnam and Best Workplaces in Asia in 2023, and was included in Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For in Southeast Asia in 2025.

"Each milestone reflects the collective effort of our people, our culture, and our commitment to continuous improvement. Sao Khue 2026 is a reminder of how far we have come, but more importantly, it inspires us to keep moving forward," Minh shared.

As Vietnam continues to strengthen position as a growing technology hub in the Asia-Pacific region, companies like Saigon Technology demonstrate how Vietnamese software firms can compete and thrive on the global stage.

The US ready to cement partnership with Vietnam and ASEAN The United States is ready to deepen its partnership with Vietnam and ASEAN across every dimension of the relationship, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau has said.

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.”

Cost increases trigger supply chain overhauls for businesses Deloitte’s 2025 Asia Pacific Tax and Tariff Complexity Survey finds that 41 per cent of businesses in Asia-Pacific, including Vietnam, would consider significant supply chain realignment even with cost increases below 20 per cent.

Atsushi Sakate, vice president of Meiko Electronics, said, “Meiko has invested in Vietnam since 2007. The group is running five factories in the country. The Meiko Yen Quang project is the group’s sixth factory, underscoring its strong confidence in Vietnam’s investment environment and development potential.”

“Meiko is committed to complying with the law and paying attention to environmental protection during the operation, thereby contributing to deepening the Vietnam–Japan relations,” Sakate said.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung said, “Vietnam has set the goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income by 2030 and a high-income, developed nation by 2045. To facilitate this goal, Politburo’s Resolution 57-NQ/TW identifies the development of science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation as a top priority.”

The deputy prime minister noted that Japan had always been one of Vietnam's most important partners. This is an important foundation for the two nations to foster extensive cooperation across science, technology, innovation, manufacturing, electronics, semiconductors, and a high-quality workforce.

“The $500 million Meiko Yen Quang electronic circuit manufacturing factory serves as a testament to the effective and substantive development of Vietnam–Japan comprehensive strategic partnership. It also affirms Phu Tho’s appeal to luring high-quality investment ventures,” the deputy prime minister added.

Tran Duy Dong, Chairman of Phu Tho People’s Committee, said, “The Meiko Yen Quang electronic circuit manufacturing factory holds special importance as it is in line with the province’s investment attraction strategy and industrial development orientation in the new phase.”

“Meiko’s move to invest in Phu Tho reflects the confidence of foreign investors in the locality. The initiative also highlights Phu Tho’s growing attractiveness and reputation in attracting high-quality foreign investment, especially in the high-tech and electronics industries,” he said.

Meiko Electronics prepares to expand PCB manufacturing plant Meiko Electronics, an Apple supplier, is preparing procedures for its expanded printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing facility in the northern province of Hoa Binh.

Meiko strengthens Vietnam operations with new PCB plants A major Japanese electronics supplier is stepping up its Vietnam footprint, underscoring the country’s growing role in advanced electronics manufacturing tied to global tech supply chains.

Japan's Meiko Electronics to construct a new plant in Vietnam Japanese electronics supplier Meiko Electronics will build a new plant to manufacture printed circuit board in Vietnam.