Taking place from July 8-10 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand, the event is expected to welcome more than 10,000 trade visitors from over 70 countries and more than 400 exhibitors across the pharmaceutical value chain.

The international trade exhibition will bring together manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, contract manufacturing organisations, biotechnology firms, investors, and industry experts, creating a regional platform for business matching, technology updates, and market expansion.

Covering a wide range of segments, CPHI South East Asia 2026 will feature pharmaceutical ingredients, packaging solutions, manufacturing machinery, cold chain logistics, natural extracts, cleanroom technologies, and specialised services for the pharma industry.

The event will also include focused showcases such as the Cleanroom Showcase and Natural Extract Zone, reflecting rising demand for advanced production standards and natural-based solutions in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

A major highlight will be the conference and technical seminar programme, with more than 60 sessions dedicated to innovation, regulatory updates, manufacturing standards, and regional market trends.

The programme will be held across three dedicated conference rooms. The Bangkok room will focus on pharmaceutical research and development, including biopharma, advanced therapy medicinal products, and the application of AI in the industry.

The Delhi room will cover manufacturing and quality control topics such as GMP, cleanroom logistics, and operational optimisation. The Shanghai room will provide updates on ASEAN regulations, market opportunities, and regional business expansion strategies.

Beyond the exhibition and conferences, the event will feature an innovation stage showcasing solutions in packaging and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The ISPE Hackathon will offer an interactive platform for industry professionals to solve practical challenges, while the sustainability booth will highlight green initiatives and environmentally responsible practices.

Business matching will remain a central part of the event, supporting companies in identifying potential partners and exploring cross-border collaboration. National pavilions from China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam are also expected to strengthen regional trade links.

For Vietnamese pharmaceutical companies, the event offers an opportunity to access new technologies, meet regional and global partners, and better understand evolving standards and regulations across ASEAN. As Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector continues to invest in production capacity and quality improvements, participation in regional platforms can support stronger integration into the regional and global supply chain.

With its comprehensive exhibition ecosystem, technical content, and business networking, the event is positioned as a strategic meeting point for companies seeking growth, innovation, and partnerships in Southeast Asia’s pharmaceutical industry.

More information and visitor registration are available via the official CPHI South East Asia website and the event’s LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram channels.

The event is expected to welcome more than 10,000 trade visitors from over 70 countries and more than 400 exhibitors across the pharmaceutical value chain.

The company has informed customers and suppliers that Sendo Farm will stop operating on July 10, with the announcement also published on the platform's website and mobile application. The decision is intended to optimise resources, strengthen competitiveness, and restructure its business portfolio for the next phase of development.

Before closing, Sendo Farm will continue offering promotional activities until July 9. Customers with active membership packages will receive a full refund of the package value into their Farm Wallet.

Launched at the end of 2021, Sendo Farm was introduced as an online grocery shopping platform specialising in fresh food and agricultural products. The service operated under a next-day delivery model, allowing customers to place orders through the app and collect them the following day at nearby Farm Hub pick-up points rather than receiving home delivery.

Products were consolidated at central warehouses, sorted overnight, and distributed to a network of collection points, including convenience stores, pharmacies, and household-operated locations. The model helped reduce last-mile delivery costs and minimise inventory, particularly for fresh products with relatively low profit margins.

However, the platform faced intense competition across Vietnam's online food retail market. Besides traditional supermarkets expanding their digital sales channels, including WinMart, GO!,and MM Mega Market, on-demand grocery services such as GrabMart and ShopeeFood have also built extensive delivery networks and large customer bases.

Sendo Farm also competed with convenience store chains, traditional markets, and food-selling communities on social media, making it increasingly difficult to differentiate its business model.

The closure follows Sendo's strategic shift announced in April 2025, when the company exited the multicategory e-commerce marketplace business to focus entirely on online sales of agricultural products, fresh food, and daily consumer goods through Sendo Farm.

Founded in 2012 as an e-commerce platform under FPT Corporation, Sendo spent more than a decade competing with major players. The discontinuation of Sendo Farm now represents another retreat from Vietnam's online retail sector, after the company ended its traditional marketplace operations earlier this year.

“The company’s goal is to increase the scale of funding while building a development platform capable of implementing large-scale infrastructure projects, with long-term commitments and increasingly high management requirements,” he said.

The land bank expansion features the AnMaison project covering 13.6 hectares in the central downtown area of Haiphong, developed in cooperation with Frasers Property Limited.

The site has received a sales permit, with launches guided for late this year or early next year.

In addition, Gelex expects to acquire a site covering 113ha near Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai following guidance for the second quarter.

Groundbreaking for the Dong Nai project is anticipated by the end of the year, with a focus on meeting real demand following commercial operation of the airport.

Gelex is also conducting feasibility studies for transit-oriented development projects in Ho Chi Minh City, seeking further land bank expansion having real demand.

These new residential ventures will supplement Gelex's core business pillars. The industrial park segment targets a land bank expansion of roughly 2,000ha by 2030.

Meanwhile, the building materials division is experiencing a robust recovery, particularly in building glass, which saw revenue soar following the introduction of anti-dumping tariffs on imported construction glass products by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in February.

In the utilities segment, Gelex has secured investment approval for a 129 MW near-shore wind project in Can Tho as part of its 800 MW pipeline, while seeking a partner for commercial operation by 2030. The company is also exploring equity investment options for a data centre within Long Son Industrial Park.

To finance this large-scale expansion cycle and restructure debt linked to the airport venture, shareholders approved a private placement of 100 million new shares, aiming to raise an estimated $132 million. No dividends will be paid for 2025 and the current financial year.

The company’s management targeted a net revenue of $664 million for this year, representing an increase of 16 per cent from 2025, while projected profit before tax is set at $46.3 million. This follows preliminary first-half results for 2026, which yielded revenue above $320 million and a profit before tax of $39.2 million.

GELEX Infrastructure secures $40 million SACE Push loan for facility HSBC and the Italian Export Credit Agency have agreed a loan of $40 million for GELEX Infrastructure JSC.

Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure propose new joint venture Frasers Property and GELEX Infrastructure are expanding their partnership to pursue new real estate development opportunities in Vietnam, reflecting continued investor interest in the country’s property sector.

HSBC arranges $200m syndicated loan for GELEX Infrastructure HSBC Vietnam has arranged a $200 million syndicated term loan for GELEX Infrastructure, marking the company's debut offshore US dollar financing.

Data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Finance on July 3 showed that Vietnam's merchandise trade balance swung to a deficit of $16.65 billion in the first six months of 2026, compared to a surplus of $7.95 billion in the same period last year.

The agency stressed that the widening deficit should not be viewed as a warning sign, as the surge in imports was driven mainly by raw materials, machinery, and intermediate goods serving the manufacturing and processing industries.

Total import-export turnover reached $549.7 billion in the first half of the year, up 27.1 per cent on-year. Exports rose 21 per cent to $266.52 billion, while imports climbed 33.4 per cent to almost $283.2 billion.

In June alone, total trade turnover surpassed $104.2 billion, increasing 5.2 per cent from the previous month and 36.3 per cent on-year. Exports amounted to $50.8 billion, up 8.2 per cent on-month, while imports reached $53.43 billion, up 2.5 per cent, resulting in a monthly trade deficit of $2.64 billion.

Second-quarter exports were estimated at $143.6 billion, up 22.7 per cent on-year and 16.8 per cent compared to the first quarter. Imports were estimated at $156.6 billion, rising over 39 per cent on-year and 23.7 per cent on-quarter.

According to the NSO, import growth outpacing exports reflects expanding demand for production inputs and the strong recovery of manufacturing activities, particularly in the foreign-invested sector.

Nguyen Thu Oanh, director of the Service and Price Statistics Department under the NSO, said the trade deficit should be assessed based on the composition of imports rather than the headline figure alone.

"The current import growth demonstrates the adaptability of Vietnamese enterprises despite an increasingly uncertain global environment," Oanh said.

"The key point is that imports are concentrated in production materials, raw materials, and manufacturing inputs rather than finished consumer goods. This indicates that businesses are proactively securing machinery, materials, and production inputs to expand output and meet future market demand."

According to Oanh, the import structure also reflects growing business confidence in production and export prospects for the remainder of the year.

She noted that the current trade deficit remains manageable, with the more important issue being the long-term sustainability of Vietnam's external trade through greater market diversification and reduced dependence on a limited number of trading partners.

Export performance remained resilient during the first half of the year, with 29 export items generating more than $1 billion each, accounting for 92.1 per cent of total export turnover. Five product groups exceeded $10 billion, representing 62.6 per cent of total exports.

Electronics, computers, and components remained Vietnam's largest export category at $71.16 billion, soaring 49.1 per cent on-year. Machinery, equipment, tools, and spare parts ranked second with $33.24 billion, up 23.6 per cent, followed by phones and components at $31.69 billion, up 17.8 per cent.

Garment exports reached $18.86 billion, edging up 0.9 per cent, while footwear exports totalled $11.95 billion, up 0.5 per cent.

Manufactured goods continued to dominate Vietnam's export basket, generating $239.8 billion and accounting for 90 per cent of total exports. Agricultural and forestry products contributed $19.23 billion, equivalent to 7.2 per cent, followed by seafood at $5.76 billion, or 2.2 per cent. Fuel and mineral exports stood at $1.73 billion, representing 0.6 per cent.

The United States remained Vietnam's largest export market, with exports reaching $86.5 billion during the first half of the year. China continued to be Vietnam's largest import source, with imports valued at $115.2 billion.

Vietnam recorded a trade surplus of $75.3 billion with the United States, up 21.3 per cent on-year, while its surplus with the EU increased 15.2 per cent to $21.9 billion. The surplus with Japan edged down 5 per cent to $1.2 billion.

Meanwhile, Vietnam's trade deficit with China widened to $77.3 billion, up 39 per cent from a year earlier. The deficit with South Korea surged 81 per cent to $26.4 billion, while the deficit with ASEAN expanded 36.1 per cent to $10.1 billion.

The NSO concluded that stronger import growth should be interpreted in the context of expanding production capacity and manufacturers' preparation for export orders in the coming quarters, rather than as a sign of weakening trade fundamentals.

According to the National Statistics Office (NSO), total registered FDI in Vietnam as of the end of June, including newly registered capital, additional capital for existing projects, and foreign investors' capital contributions and share purchases, reached $34.65 billion, an increase of 61 per cent on-year.

Regarding newly registered investments, 2,013 projects were licensed with a total registered capital of $17.39 billion, up 1.3 per cent in the number of projects and 87.2 per cent in registered capital on-year.

The manufacturing and processing industry attracted the largest share of newly registered FDI, with $10.76 billion, accounting for 61.9 per cent of total newly registered capital. The electricity, gas, water supply and air conditioning sector received $3.08 billion, representing 17.7 per cent, while all other sectors accounted for $3.55 billion, or 20.4 per cent.

Among the 63 countries and territories with newly licensed investment projects in Vietnam during the first half of 2026, Singapore remained the largest investor, with $7.31 billion, accounting for 42.1 per cent of total newly registered capital. It was followed by South Korea with $5.45 billion (31.4 per cent), Japan with $1.2 billion (6.9 per cent), and China with $977 million (5.6 per cent).

Additional registered capital for existing projects also increased. During the six months, 541 previously licensed projects registered additional investment totalling $11.04 billion, up 23.5 per cent on-year.

Combining newly registered capital and additional capital for existing projects, the manufacturing and processing industry attracted $17.91 billion, accounting for 63 per cent of the total. The real estate sector received $5.1 billion (17.9 per cent), while the remaining sectors accounted for $5.42 billion (19.1 per cent).

Foreign investors also made 1,446 capital contribution and share purchase transactions, with a combined value of $6.22 billion, an increase of 89.5 per cent from a year earlier. Of these, 413 transactions worth $2.15 billion increased the charter capital of Vietnamese enterprises, while 1,033 transactions worth $4.07 billion involved the acquisition of existing domestic shares without increasing charter capital.

By sector, foreign capital contributions and share purchases were concentrated in professional, scientific and technological activities, which attracted $2.64 billion, accounting for 42.4 per cent of the total transaction value. Wholesale and retail trade, and the repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, received $1.94 billion (31.1 per cent), while the remaining sectors attracted $1.65 billion (26.5 per cent).

Meanwhile, realised FDI in Vietnam during the first half of 2026 was estimated at $13.03 billion, up 11.2 per cent on-year and representing the highest first-half disbursement level in the past five years.

Of the total realised FDI, the manufacturing and processing industry accounted for $10.76 billion, or 82.6 per cent. The real estate sector attracted $965.2 million (7.4 per cent), while the electricity, gas, hot water, steam and air conditioning supply sector received $479.2 million, accounting for 3.7 per cent of the total.

Hanoi teams up with UOB to upgrade FDI quality A new agreement between UOB Vietnam and Hanoi Department of Finance aims to channel high-grade foreign investment into priority sectors, while also opening regional doors for local enterprises.

Global investors welcome Resolution 10 focus on high-quality FDI International investors welcomed Resolution No.10-NQ/TW on developing the foreign-invested economic sector, highlighting a shift to quality foreign direct investment and the importance of reforms, capital markets, and stronger domestic suppliers.

Manufacturing sector ends the first half of 2026 on a positive note Vietnam's manufacturing sector remained in growth territory in June, supported by rising demand in new orders and easing inflationary pressures.

PSA Vietnam is a subsidiary of PSA International, a leading global port operator. The investment, with an annual handling capacity of 4.5 million TEUs, reinforces PSA’s Node to Network strategy, which aims to create greater resilience, connectivity and value across its global network of ports and supply chain ecosystems.

This joint venture will develop into a major hub by establishing a strategic gateway presence in North Vietnam. PSA will strengthen connectivity to key international markets through established and emerging trade lanes across the regions and around the world. This will further reinforce Vietnam’s role as a strategic gateway into global trade flows.

The development also complements PSA’s existing projects in North Vietnam, including its inland container depot facilities in Bac Ninh. Together with the new deep-sea terminal at Lach Huyen, these facilities will form an integrated logistics ecosystem that seamlessly connects inland cargo hubs with global shipping networks. This enhanced connectivity will enable PSA to provide end-to-end multimodal logistics solutions and deliver greater value to cargo owners, logistics service providers and shipping lines.

Development of the first two berths is scheduled to start at the end of 2026 and is expected to be completed in 2028. The remaining two berths will be developed in a subsequent phase, with full completion targeted by 2035.

Nelson Quek, regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, said, “Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly growing economies and this project reflects PSA’s long-term commitment to the market. By adding a strategic deep-sea hub at Lach Huyen to our existing network, we are strengthening our Node to Network strategy and enhancing connectivity across regional and global supply chains. Together with LHF, we look forward to building a resilient, future-ready hub that creates long-term value for our customers and stakeholders.”

Nguyen Vinh Hau, general director of LHF, said, “The development of Lach Huyen Port is an important milestone in our vision to establish Northern Vietnam as a leading logistics and industrial gateway in Asia."

"Through our partnership with PSA, we are combining global port expertise with deep local market knowledge and the advantages of Haiphong City’s Free Trade Zone to develop world-class infrastructure that will support future trade growth, attract investment, and strengthen Vietnam’s role in global supply chains. We look forward to building an efficient and sustainable gateway that serves the needs of businesses for decades to come."

Hateco and A.P. Moller - Maersk deepen logistics infrastructure cooperation in Vietnam Hateco Group and A.P. Moller - Maersk are seeking to expand cooperation in ports, logistics, and supply chain infrastructure, following a meeting between senior executives at Hateco Haiphong International Container Terminal on June 23.

SLP Vietnam partner with J&T Express on automated sorting hub SLP Vietnam has signed a partnership agreement with J&T Express Vietnam to develop an automated sorting facility supporting the expansion of the country's logistics and e-commerce infrastructure.

CGIF backs SCommerce's $22.3m bond to advance Vietnam's logistics sector An Asian Development Bank trust fund – Credit Guarantee and Investment Facility – has guaranteed SCommerce Investment Corporation’s debut bond issuance, a seven-year, VND580 billion ($22.3 million) fixed-rate amortising bond.

To make every stay even more rewarding, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh introduces the Fullboard Package from $288++ per night for two guests, featuring accommodation in a Studio Residence Seaview, daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, round-trip airport transfers, access to the Rope Park, water park, Little Birds Club, fitness centre, and various recreational activities for the whole family. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a seamless, comfortable, and worry-free holiday experience.

Joining this year's summer adventure is Mio, an adorable little whale on a quest to find his way home. Through the interactive programme Mio's Journey Home, guests will embark on an exciting exploration around the resort, taking part in challenges, collecting stamps, and uncovering new stories along the way. Beyond the fun and excitement, the journey also promotes positive values of kindness, sharing, and a deeper appreciation for marine life and ocean conservation.

“Move with the Summer Groove” is a themed event series running from May to October, offering diverse experiences for guests of all ages.

May marked the first journey of creativity inspired by nature and the message of sustainable living where guests could explore artworks made from recycled materials, join hands-on craft activities, and spread environmental awareness through artistic expression.

And June brought an Ocean Odyssey, inspiring a voyage into the heart of the ocean featuring exciting water sports, vibrant pool parties, and a culinary journey through the flavours of the sea with fresh, carefully selected seafood from Cam Ranh’s coastal waters.

Mövenpick offers its signature world of chocolate, from the iconic Chocolate Hour to chocolate-making workshops and engaging family-friendly activities

During July, Mövenpick’s signature world of chocolate comes to life through a series of indulgent experiences. From the iconic Chocolate Hour to chocolate-making workshops and engaging family-friendly activities, the month is filled with sweetness, colour, and inspiration.

According to the NSO under the Ministry of Finance, nearly 111,700 enterprises were newly established nationwide in the first half of 2026, up 22.5 per cent on-year.

More notably, capital flowing into the economy recorded exceptional growth, with total newly registered capital exceeding VND1,352.6 trillion ($53 billion), an increase of 64.8 per cent on-year.

As a result, the average registered capital per newly established enterprise reached $474,000, up 34.5 per cent on-year. In June alone, this figure climbed to a record $667,000, surging 134.8 per cent over a year, indicating that newly established businesses entered the market with significantly stronger financial capacity.

Including additional capital injections into existing businesses, total capital channelled into the economy reached nearly $121.5 billion, up 11.3 per cent on-year.

Business activity also continued to recover, with more than 58,100 enterprises resuming operations during the six-month period. This brought the total number of newly established and reactivated businesses to over 169,800, equivalent to an average of 28,300 enterprises entering or re-entering the market each month.

By sector, the services industry accounted for the largest share of newly established businesses, with more than 83,100 enterprises, up 18.1 per cent on-year. The industry and construction sector followed with over 27,400 enterprises, a rise of 37.2 per cent, while agriculture, forestry and fisheries recorded 1,151 new enterprises, posting the fastest growth rate of 41.6 per cent.

Despite the strong inflow of new businesses, the economy continued to undergo significant market consolidation as business exits remained elevated.

During the first six months of the year, 85,900 enterprises temporarily suspended operations, up 6.3 per cent on-year. Nearly 41,200 enterprises ceased operations while awaiting dissolution procedures, an increase of 21 per cent, while almost 24,000 enterprises completed dissolution procedures, soaring 94.7 per cent from a year earlier.

On average, around 25,200 enterprises exited the market each month. The trend was evident across industries. The wholesale, retail and vehicle repair sector recorded the largest number of newly established enterprises at 45,821, up 19.4 per cent, but also posted the highest number of dissolutions at 9,069, nearly doubling from a year earlier.

The manufacturing and processing sector registered 14,904 new enterprises, up 25.3 per cent, while 2,582 enterprises were dissolved, an increase of 95 per cent. Similar patterns were observed in other sectors. The construction industry saw 10,805 new enterprises, up 51.6 per cent, alongside 1,749 dissolutions, up 101 per cent. In the real estate sector, 3,192 enterprises were newly established, while the number of dissolved businesses surged 120.3 per cent to 1,463.

Despite the wave of market exits, the NSO's business sentiment survey for the second quarter of 2026 indicated that confidence among manufacturers has strengthened ahead of the second half of the year.

In the second quarter, 79.7 per cent of surveyed enterprises reported that business conditions had either improved or remained stable, a marked improvement from 69.9 per cent in the previous quarter.

Looking ahead to the third quarter, business optimism strengthened, with 83.4 per cent of enterprises expecting conditions to improve or remain stable. Of these, 39.4 per cent anticipated better business conditions, while 44 per cent expected stability. Only 16.6 per cent expressed concerns about deteriorating conditions.

Foreign-invested enterprises were the most optimistic, with 85.2 per cent expecting business conditions in the third quarter to improve or remain stable. The corresponding figures were 82.8 per cent for private domestic enterprises and 80.5 per cent for state-owned enterprises.

The positive outlook was underpinned by expectations of stronger production and order volumes. Regarding production, 38.9 per cent of enterprises expected output to increase in the third quarter, up from 37.8 per cent reporting higher output in the second quarter, while 45.9 per cent anticipated stable production.

Expectations for new orders also improved. The proportion of enterprises forecasting an increase in total new orders in the third quarter rose to 37 per cent, compared with 33.9 per cent in the second quarter, while 47.6 per cent expected order volumes to remain stable.

Export demand also showed signs of strengthening. 31.2 per cent of enterprises expected new export orders to increase in the third quarter, up significantly from 26.2 per cent in the previous quarter, while 53.5 per cent anticipated export orders would remain stable.

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

Family businesses face succession hurdles Vietnamese family-owned enterprises are entering a defining moment as their founders prepare to hand over the reins to the next-generation amid ambitious expansion plans and an evolving macroeconomic landscape.

Over 100 businesses train on GHG inventory reporting More than 100 businesses in terms of thermal power, cement and iron and steel sectors participated in the two-day training course on strengthening the capacity of the greenhouse gas inventory reporting system at the grassroots level.

However, capital flows remain highly selective. Within the property sector, analysts expect business performance and share price movements to continue diverging among companies.

Even so, the sector's overall outlook remains positive, particularly for industrial real estate developers, thanks to multiple supportive factors.

Industrial real estate market is regarded to have enormous potential for development

Industry experts believe industrial real estate will be among the biggest direct beneficiaries of Resolution No.10-NQ/TW, issued on June 8, 2026.

The resolution sets out specific targets for developing Vietnam's foreign-invested economic sector during 2026-2030 and through 2045, positioning the country as a leading destination for high-quality FDI, particularly in high-tech industries such as electronics, semiconductor manufacturing and AI.

FDI inflows have maintained strong momentum during the first months of 2026. Total registered FDI reached $24.8 billion in the first five months, up 34.9 per cent on-year, while disbursed FDI amounted to $9.75 billion, an increase of 9.6 per cent.

Although further guiding documents are still needed to assess the full impact of investment incentives and policy measures, Resolution 10 is widely viewed as an important catalyst for both FDI and foreign indirect investment (FII), supporting Vietnam's market upgrade prospects and improving valuations of leading listed firms.

Reputable industrial real estate developers with large land banks, well-developed infrastructure connectivity, and the ability to meet ecological industrial park standards –including Kinh Bac City Development Holding Corporation, Becamex IDC Corporation, IDICO Corporation, and Viglacera Corporation – are expected to benefit significantly from the resolution.

Matthew Smith, head of Research at Yuanta Securities Vietnam, noted that the industrial real estate sector would also benefit from new credit policies.

In late May, the State Bank of Vietnam issued Official Letter No.4551/NHNN-CSTT to credit institutions, allowing additional outstanding loans for social housing, industrial parks and export processing zones to be excluded from the real estate credit growth ceiling throughout 2026.

The policy, effective from January 1 to December 31, 2026, does not represent a broad easing of credit for the entire real estate market.

Instead, it is intended to redirect capital towards segments that support manufacturing, FDI attraction and genuine housing demand, while maintaining tighter credit controls over commercial and speculative property.

According to Yuanta Securities Vietnam, industrial real estate developers are expected to benefit from the policy, particularly companies with relatively high leverage such as BCM, IDC, KBC and VGC.

Meanwhile, FDI data for the first five months of the year suggests growing interest from new FDI inflow. This contrasts with 2025, when FDI growth was concentrated in existing projects while new investments slowed, reflecting investor caution amid an uncertain global outlook.

Alongside supportive domestic policies, the recovery in FDI inflows is expected to continue, driven by rapidly rising global demand for semiconductors and AI technologies.

Analysts at VPBank Securities (VPBankS) said the semiconductor boom would encourage manufacturers to expand production capacity.

Vietnam is expected to remain an appealing investment destination by virtue of its strategic location, political stability, national strategies for attracting investment and developing the semiconductor and high-tech industries, as well as its compelling ecosystem of electronics and semiconductor manufacturers.

According to VPBankS data, valuations of industrial real estate stocks generally remain at relatively attractive levels.

“Despite lingering tariff-related risks, their impact on FDI in the electronics, semiconductor and high-tech sectors remains limited. With FDI into these sectors continuing its strong recovery and oil prices gradually easing, we believe investing in industrial real estate stocks capable of attracting electronics, semiconductor and high-tech manufacturers can help mitigate tariff-related risks,” VPBankS said.

Key trends shape industrial property Vietnam is expected to undergo a transformation in how it builds and operates industrial areas. Truong Gia Bao, vice chairman and secretary general of the Vietnam Industrial Real Estate Association, shared with VIR’s Bich Ngoc his insights on the key development trends shaping Vietnam’s industrial property sector.

CEO Group breaks ground on first industrial park in Haiphong Free Trade Zone Amid Vietnam’s strong shift from attracting investment by quantity to selecting and guiding capital flows based on quality, on January 15, CEO Group officially broke ground on Tien Lang Airport Industrial Park – Zone B (CEOZone Haiphong) project in Chan Hung commune, Haiphong city.

Industrial real estate enters new cycle Entering 2026, Vietnam’s industrial real estate market is increasingly feeling the impact of geopolitical uncertainties and the global supply chain restructuring trend.

The National Statistics Office in Hanoi on July 3 releases economic statistics for the first six months. Photo: Nguyen Thu

Data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Finance on July 3 showed that the industrial and construction sector maintained solid momentum during the first six months of the year, while the services sector continued to benefit from recovering domestic consumption, tourism, and trade.

Industrial value-added expanded by 9.86 per cent on-year during the period, contributing 40.35 per cent to Vietnam's overall economic growth.

Manufacturing remained the largest growth driver, posting growth of 10.23 per cent and accounting for 33.07 per cent of GDP growth. Electricity production and distribution rose 9.34 per cent, contributing 5.14 per cent, while mining expanded 6.67 per cent, contributing 1.60 per cent. Water supply, waste management, and wastewater treatment increased 7.72 per cent, contributing 0.54 per cent. Meanwhile, the construction sector grew 9.51 per cent, contributing 6.85 per cent.

Phi Thu Nga, director of the Industry and Construction Statistics Department under the NSO, said industrial production delivered encouraging results during the first half of the year, with manufacturing continuing to underpin economic expansion.

"Industrial production recorded positive growth in the first six months of the year, particularly manufacturing, which has continued to affirm its role as one of the economy's key growth drivers," Nga said.

According to Nga, the sector's performance has been supported by three major factors.

The first is the continued expansion of foreign direct investment (FDI) into manufacturing. She said an increasing number of foreign-led projects licensed in recent years have now entered production, adding new manufacturing capacity and creating additional growth momentum for the second half of the year.

The figures support this trend. Realised FDI reached an estimated $13.03 billion in the first six months of 2026, up 11.2 per cent on-year and the highest level recorded for the first half of any year over the past five years.

Manufacturing attracted the largest share of realised FDI at $10.76 billion, accounting for 82.6 per cent of the total. Real estate business activities followed with $965.2 million, representing 7.4 per cent, while electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply attracted $479.2 million, equivalent to 3.7 per cent.

The second growth driver has been the recovery of export orders since the second quarter.

Nga noted that electronics and computer manufacturers in Vietnam have expanded production as they enter new production cycles and launch new product lines. At the same time, garments and textiles producers, together with footwear manufacturers, have maintained stable production despite continued uncertainties in global markets.

Public investment has become the third major growth catalyst.

Accelerating disbursement of major infrastructure projects has supported construction activity directly but also generated spillover effects across industries producing construction materials, machinery, equipment, and supporting industrial products.

Business sentiment also points to improvement. According to the NSO's quarterly business tendency survey, 36.3 per cent of manufacturing enterprises reported better business conditions in the second quarter compared to the previous. Looking ahead, 39.4 per cent expect business performance to improve in the third quarter.

Beyond industry, services continued to provide an important pillar of economic growth, driven by stronger domestic demand.

Retail sales of goods and consumer services maintained healthy growth during the first half of the year, while tourism continued to recover as both international and domestic visitor numbers increased. Transport, accommodation, food services, and other consumer-related activities also posted positive growth, supporting the broader services sector.

Despite the positive outlook, Nga cautioned that manufacturers will continue to face challenges during the second half of the year.

She noted that businesses remain under pressure from narrowing profit margins as production costs rise, while the international trade environment continues to present uncertainties.

"To sustain industrial growth, it is important to maintain lending rates at appropriate levels while ensuring stable supplies of production materials, so businesses can confidently expand operations," Nga said.

The NSO believes that with manufacturing maintaining its momentum, export orders continuing to recover, foreign-invested projects expanding production, and public investment generating stronger spillover effects, industry and services will remain Vietnam's two principal growth drivers throughout the remainder of 2026.

Plastic Bag Free Day was launched at GO! Thang Long shopping centre in Hanoi on July 3. Photo: ISPAE

The campaign brings together major retailers including Central Retail Vietnam, Lotte Mart Vietnam, Aeon Vietnam, MM Mega Market Vietnam, and TH true mart, with support from Unilever Vietnam, the Hanns Seidel Foundation Vietnam, the Pacific Environment, and the Vietnam Foundation.

Speaking at the launch, Nguyen Trung Thang, deputy director of ISPAE, said that building a circular economy in the retail sector required practical changes in both business operations and consumer behaviour.

“Reducing the use of single-use plastic bags, encouraging customers to bring reusable shopping bags, improving waste sorting at source, and strengthening post-consumption packaging collection and recycling are essential steps to close the product life cycle and build a more sustainable consumption ecosystem,” Thang said.

Retailers have increasingly adopted measures to reduce plastic waste while encouraging more sustainable shopping habits.

Central Retail Vietnam announced that it has completed the conversion of 100 per cent of plastic carrier bags at checkout counters to biodegradable alternatives, while more than 90 per cent of packaging used at its deli counters has been replaced with environmentally friendly materials across its supermarket network.

Chalermchai Pornsiripiyakool, vice president of International Affairs and Corporate Social Responsibility at Central Retail Vietnam, said the initiative reflected the company’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and supporting the government’s sustainable consumption agenda.

“We believe this year’s Plastic Bag Free Day campaign will help encourage greener lifestyles and strengthen public awareness of environmental protection,” he said.

Plastic waste remains one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. While a typical plastic bag is used for only around 12 minutes, it can take up to 500 years to decompose. Only a small proportion of plastic waste is recycled, with most ending up in landfills or leaking into the natural environment.

ISPAE estimates that around 430 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally each year, highlighting the urgent need for stronger collaboration between governments, businesses, and consumers to accelerate the transition towards a circular economy.

Other retailers have also introduced a wide range of initiatives to reduce single-use plastics.

Since 2019, MM Mega Market Vietnam has stopped providing free plastic bags at checkout counters nationwide, while encouraging customers to bring reusable bags, reuse cardboard boxes, and participate in waste collection and recycling programmes.

Similarly, Lotte Mart Vietnam has pursued a long-term strategy to minimise plastic waste through green consumption campaigns and continuous improvements to environmentally friendly store operations.

Photo: AEON Vietnam

Meanwhile, AEON Vietnam has implemented multiple initiatives across its shopping centres and supermarkets to reduce plastic bag consumption. In addition to using 100 per cent plastic bags certified under the Vietnam Ecolabel programme, the retailer offers reusable shopping bags, operates bag rental services, introduces bag-free checkout counters, and organises monthly plastic bag-free days.

The company aims for 80 per cent of transactions by AEON member customers to be completed without plastic bags by 2030, as part of its broader sustainability commitments.

The National Statistics Office (NSO) has just released the socioeconomic report on July 3, indicating GDP is estimated to have grown 8.39 per cent in the April–June period from a year earlier. GDP growth for the first half of the year is estimated at 8.18 per cent, higher than the 7.63 per cent recorded in the same period last year.

The industry, construction and services sectors continued to account for the largest share of the economy, providing the main impetus for growth.

Within the industry and construction sector, industrial production maintained strong momentum, supported by strengthened growth drivers, a recovery in export orders and positive spillover effects from public investment. Value added in the sector rose 9.86 per cent in the first six months from a year earlier, contributing 40.35 per cent of the economy's overall increase in value added.

The services sector, including trade and transport, also posted solid growth as stronger consumer demand boosted goods circulation and travel. Value added in the sector increased 8.09 per cent on-year.

Meanwhile, agriculture maintained stable growth as export markets for agricultural products continued to expand. Value added in the sector rose 3.57 per cent from the same period last year.

In the first half of the year, Vietnam is estimated to have recorded a trade deficit of $16.65 billion, reversing a trade surplus of $7.95 billion in the same period last year. Total merchandise trade reached $549.7 billion, with both exports and imports rising by 21–37.3 per cent on-year.

The US remained Vietnam's largest export market, with export turnover reaching $86.5 billion. China was Vietnam's largest source of imports, with import turnover totalling $115.2 billion during the six months.

The NSO also reported that around 169,800 enterprises were newly established or resumed operations in the first half of the year, equivalent to an average of 28,300 businesses per month. Meanwhile, approximately 151,100 enterprises suspended operations or exited the market, averaging 25,200 businesses each month.

A business sentiment survey covering the manufacturing and processing industry showed that 36.3 per cent of enterprises were optimistic about business conditions in the second quarter. The proportion expecting conditions to improve in the third quarter is forecast to rise to 39.4 per cent.

Average consumer price inflation (CPI) in the second quarter increased by 5.25 per cent on-year. For the first six months of 2025, average CPI rose 4.38 per cent from a year earlier, while core inflation increased 4.12 per cent.

Nguyen Thi Huong, director general of the NSO, said, "Despite continued global economic and political uncertainty, escalating armed conflicts, and other external risks, Vietnam's first-half growth performance has been positive. Macroeconomic fundamentals remained stable, inflation was kept under control, supplies of essential goods were secured, and both domestic consumption and tourism recorded healthy growth."

However, she warned that the economy is likely to face significant challenges in the second half of the year because of its high degree of openness and exposure to global economic and geopolitical developments. "Achieving double-digit growth for the full year remains a major challenge given the economy's high level of openness and vulnerability to external shocks," she said.

Huong recommended that policymakers manage fuel prices flexibly and avoid adjusting multiple state-administered prices simultaneously to help contain inflationary pressures. She also called for faster administrative reforms, quicker disbursement of public investment, stronger measures to stimulate domestic consumption, and further efforts to diversify and expand export markets.

World Bank projects Vietnam’s growth to moderate to 6.8 per cent in 2026 While headwinds are expected to temper the pace of expansion, World Bank's latest Vietnam Economic Update, released on May 15, projects growth will moderate to a 6.8 per cent in 2026, following an 8 per cent expansion in 2025.

OECD projects GDP growth of 6.5 per cent for Vietnam this year Vietnam's GDP is projected to grow by 6.5 per cent in 2026 and 6.2 per cent in 2027, a slowdown amid uncertainty from the Middle East conflict and US trade policy, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has said.

UOB sees resilience amid cost pressures and external strains According to a June 12 report by UOB (United Overseas Bank), recent data paint a mixed near-term picture, with higher energy costs dampening momentum.

Looking at the broader picture, Vietnam's high-rise residential market, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, is entering a new growth cycle driven by three fundamental factors: infrastructure development, constantly changing homebuyer preferences, and theconsolidation of property developers.

Between 2026 and 2030, we will see a series of major infrastructure projects becoming operational on completion, including the An Phu Interchange, metro lines, ring roads, and transport links to Long Thanh International Airport. History has consistently shownthat infrastructure serves as a powerful driver for influencingproperty values and redefining market dynamics.

At the same time, homebuyers are increasingly shifting their preferencetowards real value as the era of purely speculative investment is fading. Today's buyers make purchasing decisions based on the overall living experience, including legal transparency, the quality of the living environment, and integrated amenities.

Finally, the market is undergoing natural consolidation among developers. Those with strong financial capabilities and proven execution capacity will emerge as market leaders. More importantly, buyer confidence, which has been eroded in recent years, will gradually be restored by developers that consistently deliver on their commitments.

Could you elaborate on Huong Viet Properties’ strategic direction for the high-rise residential segment?

Huong Viet Properties positions itself as an integrated real estate developer with a long-term vision, built on three complementary pillars: residential, commercial, and industrial real estate.

In the high-rise residential segment, our strategy is not to pursue scale, but rather to focus on selective, value-driven development. We remain committed to acquiring clean land in locations that combine three key advantages: proximity to the city centre, waterfront settings, and major transport corridors.

Our developments are positioned within the premium segment and distinguished by their unique characteristics. Rather than targeting the mass market, we focus on discerning homebuyers who place a high value on quality living, refined aesthetics, and an elevated residential experience.

At the heart of Huong Viet Properties’ philosophy is the creation of enduring value. We aim to deliver projects thatprovide exceptional living environments andoffer sustainable long-term capital appreciation for our customers.

The launch of the Palm River precinct is expected in 2026. What role will it play in the overall development strategy of Palm City as well as Huong Viet Properties’ investment portfolio?

Palm River carries dual strategic significance. Not only does it complete the Palm City township, but it also serves as a strong testament to Huong Viet Properties' development capabilities and long-term vision.

Within Palm City, Palm River is a pivotal precinct that opens the next chapter in the development of the more than 30-hectare integrated township. Scheduled for launch in 2026, it will immediately benefit from the established community at Palm Heights and Palm Residence, while also capitalising on the steady completion of surrounding infrastructure as planned.

For Huong Viet Properties, Palm River is a clear demonstration of our execution capability and strategic commitment to eastern Ho Chi Minh City. Together with key developments such as The Hallmark, The West, Prodezi, and LA Home, Palm River further strengthens our premium project portfolio and reinforces our ambition to become a trusted new force in Vietnam's real estate market.

Palm City – Urban Retreat in the City

What are the key changes in Palm City's repositioning and upgrading strategy to enhance value for the market?

The most fundamental transformation of Palm City under Huong Viet Properties’ stewardship is its evolution into an "Urban Retreat in the City", a resort-inspired urban community at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Rather than maximising saleable space, we have redefined the master plan to create a more balanced living environment by integrating waterways, green spaces, and open public areas into residents' daily lives. A comprehensive ecosystem of amenities, including an international school, healthcare facilities, retail and commercial spaces, and notably, a nearly three-kilometre riverside park, and world-class amenities. Ultimately, these projects are distinguished by their inherent scarcity.

Our vision is to create a destination where residents can enjoy the tranquillity and lifestyle of a premium resort while remaining in the heart of southern Vietnam's most dynamic economic centre.

How do you see homebuyer demand evolving in the high-rise residential segment, and how will Huong Viet Properties adapt to meet these changing preferences?

From a high-rise residential developer perspective, I have observed an obvious shift in buyer preferences. Today's homebuyers are no longer persuaded solely by location or price, but they are looking for a living environment and an integrated lifestyle ecosystem. They are increasingly willing to pay a premium for projects that offer lower residential density development, river views, and world-class amenities. Ultimately, these projects are distinguished by their inherent scarcity..

Therefore, Palm River has been conceived around three core principles from the very beginning: low-density planning, product diversity, and a premium living experience.

We have maintained a residential building footprint of only around 21 per cent, allowing most of the site to be dedicated to landscaping, amenities, and unobstructed views. The project offers a diverse range of residences, from compact units of just over 33 sq.m to penthouses and sky villas exceeding 300 sq.m, catering to everyone from young professionals to multi-generational families.

Most importantly, every unit has been designed to maximise views of the Giong Ong To River while offering an exclusive collection of resort-inspired amenities, including a Sky Onsen, Cold Plunge pools, an infinity pool, a 70-metre lap pool, and hydrotherapy pools. Together, these features create a daily holistic wellness experience that allows residents to rejuvenate without leaving home, an increasingly important expectation among today's affluent homebuyers.

Artist's impression of Palm River

Prodezi Eco-Industrial Park holding infrastructure groundbreaking ceremony With its large-scale appeal to both domestic and international investors, the groundbreaking ceremony for technical infrastructure at Prodezi Eco-Industrial Park (Prodezi EIP) marks one of the most significant economic events in the Mekong Delta province of Long An so far this year.

The Hallmark earns Vietnam’s first WiredScore Platinum rating The Hallmark, a Grade A+ office tower in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, has become Vietnam’s first office building to earn WiredScore Platinum certification – the highest global standard for digital connectivity.

Huong Viet launches The Aura tower in Ho Chi Minh City Huong Viet Properties officially launched The Aura office tower at Hai Ba Trung street in Ho Chi Minh City on April 3.

Delta Thailand Advances Sustainable Growth Through Integrated Energy Solutions at Asia Sustainable Energy Week 2026

"At Delta, we believe that sustainable development requires an integrated energy ecosystem that connects renewable generation, energy storage, digital infrastructure, and electrified mobility," said Ms. Atitaya Surapunthu, Country Manager, Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited.

"As showcased at ASEW 2026, our solutions enable manufacturers to increase renewable energy utilization, support their RE100 commitments, power next-generation data centers with reliable and efficient energy infrastructure, and accelerate fleet electrification." Ms. Atitaya added.

At ASEW 2026, Delta highlights a portfolio of smart energy solutions designed to support every stage of the energy transition:

Commercial & Industrial Energy Storage Solutions

Delta's C-Series is an all-in-one energy storage system with flexible configurations, ranging from 125 kW / 261 kWh to 1.25 MW / 2.61 MWh. It seamlessly integrates a Power Conversion System (PCS), a liquid cooling unit, battery packs, and a unit controller into a cabinet with a footprint of less than 1.5 m². The built-in unit controller supports standard C&I applications, working natively with DeltaGrid® or integrating with third-party EMS, enabling users to optimize energy management and reduce operating costs.

Utility-Scale Energy Storage Solutions

Delta's M-Series is a MW-level distributed energy storage solution designed to support grid stability, renewable energy integration, large-scale energy management, and microgrid applications. Ideal for utilities, it helps balance electricity supply and demand, enhance grid resilience, and accelerate the transition to renewable energy.

Commercial & Industrial Solar Inverters

Delta showcases its latest portfolio of photovoltaic (PV) inverters, including the M50A, M100A, and newly launched DH150C. These high-efficiency solutions help commercial and industrial customers maximize solar power generation and improve energy performance.

EV Charging Infrastructure for Fleet Electrification

Featuring Delta's 50kW DC Wallbox and AC MAX 22kW charger, Delta's wide range of EV charging solutions provides flexible charging infrastructure to support diverse commercial EV deployment needs across fleet, workplace, and facility applications. These solutions help fleet operators and commercial facilities scale electric vehicle adoption, reduce transportation-related emissions, and advance sustainable mobility initiatives.

The global shift toward cleaner energy is being accelerated by growing investments in renewable energy, AI-driven digital infrastructure, and electric mobility. As businesses navigate this transformation, the need for integrated energy solutions that enhance energy resilience, support grid stability, and enable sustainable growth has become increasingly important.

Visitors are invited to experience Delta's latest energy innovations at Asia Sustainable Energy Week 2026, taking place from July 1–3, 2026, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok. Visit Delta at Booth J1, Hall 2 to explore how integrated energy solutions can help organizations achieve their sustainability goals.

About Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited

Founded in 1988, Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL. is a leading provider of power and thermal management products and smart green solutions. The company is a subsidiary of Delta Electronics, Inc. and is guided by its mission: "To provide innovative, clean and energy-efficient solutions for a better tomorrow."

With core competencies in power electronics and innovative research and development, Delta's business categories include Power Electronics, Mobility, Automation and Infrastructure. The company supports customers through sales offices in key regions around the world; manufacturing facilities in Thailand, India and Slovakia; and R&D centers located in Thailand, India, Germany and other countries.

Delta continues to receive regional and domestic recognition for its achievements, including the ASEAN Business Award, the Stock Exchange of Thailand's Best Company Performance Award, and the Prime Minister's Best Industry Award.

For more information about Delta Thailand, please visit: www.DeltaThailand.com

Annex – NNS Press Release of 02 July 2026 confirming continued support for the combination of OCI's Business with Orascom Construction PLC

Recognized for his broad cultural influence, distinctive charm and trend-setting sensibility, V embodies the youthful, trend-forward spirit JINRO seeks to communicate. His authentic appeal is expected to help the brand resonate meaningfully with consumers.

JINRO plans to launch a diverse range of brand marketing initiatives in collaboration with V, aimed at expanding consumer touchpoints and further strengthening its influence and originality as the world's No. 1 soju brand.

Jung-ho Hwang, Head of Overseas Business at HiteJinro, said, "V is an exceptional artist who naturally represents the brand values and sensibility that JINRO pursues. Through our upcoming activities with V, we aim to communicate more closely with consumers around the world and continue expanding the JINRO brand, building on the leadership and heritage it has established."

Official Website: jinro-soju.com
YouTube: youtube.com/@JINROGlobal

The Company's proposed repurchases may be made from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices, in privately negotiated transactions, in block trades and/or through other legally permissible means, including through Rule 10b5-1 trading plans, depending on market conditions and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The timing and amount of repurchases, if any, will be subject to market conditions, trading price, trading volume and other factors. The Company's board of directors will review the share repurchase program periodically and may authorize adjustments to its terms and size. The Company expects to fund the repurchases from its existing cash balance.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration between the two organizations to support projects in both countries and across Asia-Pacific, while enhancing cooperation in sectors of mutual interest. Under the MOU, EDC and EXIM Thailand will explore opportunities to support financing, exchange market intelligence, and facilitate opportunities between Canadian and Thai companies.

Collaboration will focus on priority sectors aligned with both countries' economic strengths and global demand, including agri-food, clean technologies and energy transition, digital industries, advanced manufacturing, and critical minerals. The agreement also enables knowledge sharing on sustainability practices, risk management and sustainable finance.

This partnership supports Canada's efforts to diversify trade and deepen economic engagement in the Asia-Pacific, a region of growing importance for Canadian exporters and investors. It reflects a shared commitment by EDC and EXIM Thailand to strengthen cooperation and promote sustainable economic growth in markets of mutual interest across the region.

Canada and Thailand share a growing economic relationship, supported by expanding trade and investment flows and increasing collaboration across key sectors. In 2025, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Thailand reached approximately CAD$ 7.4 billion with opportunities continuing to grow in areas such as agri-food, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, clean technology and digital industries. Canadian exports to Thailand reached CAD$ 1.14 billion in 2025, a cumulative average growth rate (CAGR) of just over 7% from 2020 to 2025. The top five product categories exported to Thailand in 2025 were fertilizers, iron and steel, machinery and mechanical appliances and parts, and wood pulp. Canadian direct investment in Thailand totaled CAD$ 531 million in 2024 while Thai direct investment in Canada reached CAD$ 692 million. Looking ahead, these trends highlight the increasing strength and momentum of the Canada-Thailand economic relationship.

"Canada and Thailand share a strong, growing partnership built on cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for businesses on both sides. As Canada's second-largest trading partner in ASEAN, Thailand is a key partner in diversifying our trade and strengthening our engagement across the Indo-Pacific. This agreement between EDC and EXIM Thailand will deepen our trade and investment ties, as we advance negotiations toward a Canada–Thailand free trade agreement this year."_The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Canada's Minister of International Trade

"EDC's partnership with EXIM Thailand reflects our shared commitment to promoting trade growth in both countries. Through closer collaboration, we are strengthening in-market connections and helping Canadian and Thai companies access opportunities not only in Thailand, but across the broader Asia-Pacific region. This partnership is particularly important in bolstering sectors such as clean technology, infrastructure and digital industries, where Canadian expertise can drive sustainable growth in Thailand and the broader region."_Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of Export Development Canada

"EXIM Thailand values the partnership with Export Development Canada as a key step in strengthening Thailand–Canada economic relations. Through this collaboration, we aim to enhance access to financing, foster business connections, and unlock opportunities for Thai and Canadian companies across the Asia-Pacific region. Our cooperation also underscores a shared focus on sustainable development, including knowledge exchange in ESG, sustainable finance, and risk management, to support resilient and long-term growth."_Charat Rattanaboonniti, President, Export-Import Bank of Thailand

For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca.

Agoda connects travellers to over six million hotels and holiday properties worldwide as well as with flights, activities, and other travel experiences.

To deliver travel experiences at this scale, Agoda relies on payments that perform reliably across markets, currencies, and peak demand periods. Through its partnership with Checkout.com, Agoda strengthened its virtual card issuing capabilities, ensuring travellers can complete bookings smoothly while suppliers are paid without disruption.

A key driver of Agoda's increased performance has been Intelligent Acceptance, Checkout.com's proprietary AI solution that uses real-time network data to optimise each transaction. By intelligently routing payments and applying performance-enhancing adjustments, Intelligent Acceptance reduces failed transactions and improves approval rates. Combined with Network Tokens and Real-Time Account Updater, these enhancements help reduce false declines across complex payment flows common in global travel, including cross-border, multi-currency, and high-volume transactions.

Agoda and Checkout.com also partner on virtual card issuing to power payments to travel suppliers. With a 0% downtime record, supplier payments are processed reliably at scale keeping the travel ecosystem running smoothly behind the scenes. Through a single connected platform, Agoda maintains clear oversight and control across its issuing operations.

Pitichoke Chulapamornsri, Senior Director, Head of Fintech & Business Initiatives at Agoda, said: "Our mission is to make travel easy, accessible, and rewarding for everyone, and that requires payments infrastructure we can trust at global scale. We chose Checkout.com for its proven performance, resilience, and deep technical expertise. Their ability to improve acceptance rates while delivering zero downtime on issuing gives us confidence as we continue to expand our platform and serve travellers around the world."

Brian Sze, Head of APAC, Checkout.com, said, "Behind every booked trip is a digital moment that needs to work instantly and invisibly. As travel becomes increasingly digital, AI-driven optimisation and resilient payments systems are essential to connecting travellers, merchants, and partners worldwide. We're proud to support Agoda with the technology that powers those connections."

Trina Storage Ranked Among Top 5 Global BESS Integrators and Rated Grade A in Wood Mackenzie's 2026 Global BESS Integrator Ranking Report

Published annually by leading energy research and consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie, the report evaluates BESS integrators across a broad range of criteria, including manufacturing experience, vertical integration, R&D capabilities, supply chain stability, technology maturity, financial strength, safety performance, and ESG commitments. In addition to ranking integrators globally, Wood Mackenzie awards Grade A status to companies that meet its highest qualification thresholds across key operational, technical, and financial indicators. The assessment is widely regarded as one of the industry's most authoritative benchmarks for evaluating the competitiveness and bankability of energy storage system providers.

"This recognition reflects the strength of our technology, execution capabilities, and commitment to delivering reliable storage solutions at scale," said Mr. Yang Bao, President of Energy Storage Division at Trinasolar. "As energy storage deployment accelerates globally, customers increasingly value partners that can combine innovation, quality, and delivery certainty. We are proud to see these efforts reflected in both our Top 5 ranking and Grade A classification by Wood Mackenzie."

A key factor behind Trina Storage's ranking is its expanding Cell-to-AC integration capability and growing global delivery track record. By integrating battery technology, AC-side conversion, and system integration within a unified solution architecture, Trina Storage enables greater control over system performance, project execution, and lifecycle value. This approach supports the increasing demand for reliable, bankable, and scalable energy storage deployments across global markets.

Continued investment in R&D further strengthens Trina Storage's technology and delivery capabilities. The company's advanced AC validation platform enables comprehensive verification of storage systems across real-world operating scenarios, including system integration, grid interaction, environmental testing, and EMS validation prior to deployment. Combined with robust supply chain management, internationally recognized certifications across major markets, strong ESG commitments, and sustained R&D investment, these capabilities contribute to Trina Storage's competitiveness across global energy storage markets.

The company's integrated delivery capabilities are exemplified by its recently announced Gamma project, where Trina Storage is delivering a fully integrated DC and AC solution featuring its Elementa + Electra solution. By integrating battery storage systems and AC-side technologies under a unified delivery model, the project demonstrates the company's ability to optimize system performance, streamline project execution, and reduce integration complexity for customers.

As the energy transition accelerates, Trina Storage remains committed to advancing storage innovation and supporting customers worldwide with bankable, scalable, and future-ready energy storage solutions.

More information is available on the Trina Storage website, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Delegates press the button to inaugurate the Vietnam-Singapore cross-border QR payment connection

In recent years, cooperation between Vietnam and Singapore has continued to grow strongly across multiple sectors, particularly following the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in March 2025.

Alongside trade and investment, tourism has remained a key area recording positive growth, driving increasing demand for modern, convenient, and secure digital payment solutions.

According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, in the first five months of 2026, Vietnam welcomed 10.6 million international visitors, representing a 14.9 per cent increase on-year and the highest five-month total recorded in years.

Singapore has been recognised as one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing inbound tourism markets.

A survey conducted by Changi Airport Group found that three out of five Singaporeans have travelled to Vietnam, and 95 per cent of those surveyed expressed their desire to return.

Singaporean travellers are also recognised as a high-spending visitor segment with a strong preference for cashless payment methods. The launch of Vietnam-Singapore cross-border QR payment connectivity not only addresses the growing demand for convenient digital payments among consumers and travellers but also supports tourism, trade and boosts the digital transformation.

The Vietnam-Singapore cross-border QR payment service leverages the payment infrastructures connectivity between NAPAS and Liquid Group- a Singapore-headquartered fintech specialising in cross-border digital payments.

Through this collaboration, users of participating payment applications in Singapore can make QR payments at VietQRGlobal acceptance points across Vietnam.

The real-time transaction processing mechanism, along with direct currency conversion between Singapore dollars (SGD) and VND, enables travellers to make fast and convenient payments at retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and shopping destinations nationwide without the need for cash or currency exchange.

A visitor from Singapore uses a QR code to pay in Vietnam

The seamless payment experience, similar to that in their home country, enhances convenience and overall satisfaction for Singaporean visitors.

In the initial phase, the service is expected to reach approximately three million users through Liquid Group's partner network in Singapore.

With its tangible benefits for consumers, the Vietnam-Singapore cross-border QR payment service is expected to serve as a key driver of tourism and trade between the two countries in the coming years.

At the same time, for Vietnamese businesses – particularly those operating in retail, services, and tourism – the solution, with its simplicity, ease of integration, and cost efficiency, enables access to a high-spending international customer segment, while optimising operations, increasing revenue, and enhancing competitiveness in an increasingly digital economy.

At the launch ceremony, Nguyen Quang Minh, CEO of NAPAS, noted that the launch of the Vietnam-Singapore cross-border QR payment service marked a significant milestone in NAPAS’s journey to expand QR payment connectivity.

“Building on Vietnam's national retail payment infrastructure and the widely adopted VietQR standard, NAPAS will continue working closely with domestic and international partners to further expand the cross-border payment ecosystem, delivering greater convenience for consumers, travellers and businesses while supporting tourism, trade and the digital economy in line with the strategic direction of the government and the State Bank of Vietnam,” he said.

As part of the next phase of the partnership, NAPAS and its partners plan to roll out outbound QR payment services from Vietnam to Singapore in 2026, completing a two-way payment ecosystem to meet the growing demand in both countries.

Cross-border QR payment service launched between Vietnam and Laos A cross-border QR payment service between Vietnam and Laos was launched on January 9 to bolster tourism and economic exchanges between the two countries

Cross-border QR payments launched for Chinese tourists Vietnam and China have launched a pilot scheme allowing cross-border QR payments, aiming to improve mobile payment services for tourists.

Vietnam and South Korea roll out cross-border QR payment service BIDV has launched a cross-border QR payment service between Vietnam and South Korea, enabling QR codes in Vietnam to serve as hubs for international transactions.

A network of models, not a single one

Predicting what comes next is one of the oldest pursuits there is. Allora's thesis is that its future will not belong to a single dominant AI model but to a network of them, each competing and improving, together forming a collective intelligence that grows more capable as more models join.

Built for developers who want a real test

Forge is built for developers who want to test their models against the best in the world. Models improve fastest under real competition, and on Forge they face it on live problems with real outcomes. A developer brings a model and a predict() function, and Forge runs it live and handles the data, the infrastructure, and the rest, so the work stays on the model rather than the operations around it. Models remain owned by their developers, wherever they run.

Predictions that are already in demand

More than 140 partners across the Allora Network build on the predictions made on Forge, so a model's work is consumed in production and rewards its developer continuously as the model improves and the network grows.

"We don't believe the future will be predicted by one model that beats all the others," said Nick Emmons, CEO of Allora. "It will be predicted by many models competing, each making the others better. Forge is where that happens, and where the engineers building the best prediction models in the world are rewarded for it."

Availability

Developers can join and deploy their first model directly on Forge.

The ENRICH and ENHANCE studies are two Phase 2b studies designed to further define the role of BRII-179 in chronic HBV treatment and to select the optimal combination regimen for future development. The ENRICH study evaluates BRII-179 as a priming therapy administered prior to elebsiran and PEG-IFNα treatment. The ENHANCE study evaluates a concurrent triple combination regimen of BRII-179, elebsiran, and PEG-IFNα to enhance the functional cure rates.

At EOT, the ENRICH study evaluating pre-treatment with BRII-179 followed by elebsiran and PEG-IFNα demonstrated hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss rates of 42.9% (42/98) and 40.0% (20/50) across two different BRII-179 dosing schedules, being 5 doses administered once every 3 weeks versus 7 doses administered once every 2 weeks, respectively. These results were consistent with the HBsAg loss rate observed in ENSURE Cohort 4, 41.9% (13/31) in patients with prior BRII-179 treatment, supporting the immune priming role of BRII-179. The Company had engaged with the Center for Drug Evaluation of the National Medical Products Administration of China and reached preliminary alignment regarding a potential registrational study.

At EOT, the ENHANCE (Part A-1) study evaluating a concurrent triple combination did not demonstrate improved HBsAg loss rates compared with ENSURE Cohorts 2 and 3, 29.7% (11/37), with an observed rate of 25.5% (25/98). However, higher HBsAg loss rates were observed compared with the PEG-IFNα control arm, 10.2% (5/49).

Subgroup analyses from the ENRICH study suggest potential differentiation in subjects with higher baseline HBsAg levels (1000-3000 IU/mL), consistent with prior findings from ENSURE Cohort 4, indicating that BRII-179 may induce beneficial immune responses regardless of baseline HBsAg levels in this difficult-to-treat population.

The ENHANCE study, Part A-2, also evaluated a sequential approach designed to potentially shorten PEG-IFNα therapy by administering BRII-179 plus elebsiran during the first 24 weeks followed by 24 weeks of elebsiran and PEG-IFNα. At EOT, this combination regimen achieved an HBsAg loss rate of 22.5% (18/80), suggesting full course of PEG-IFNα therapy is needed for optimal curative outcome.

HBsAg loss is an important endpoint when evaluating functional cure regimens, but requires confirmation during off-treatment follow-up to assess rebound and durability of functional cure. No new safety concerns were identified in either study. The Company plans to present detailed data, including additional efficacy, safety, subgroup analyses and follow-up results, at a scientific conference in the second half of 2026.

"These initial EOT data provide important insights into the relative performance of the ENRICH and ENHANCE study designs," said Dr. David Margolis, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer of the Company. "While longer-term follow-up is needed to assess durability of the HBsAg loss, the data observed to date, together with EOT and post-EOT findings from multiple prior studies, are very consistent, suggesting that the ENRICH study design is preferred for a registrational study. We look forward to sharing the more complete dataset later this year."

As previously disclosed, in light of the ongoing arbitration between the Company and Vir Biotechnology, Inc., and the unknown nature and timing of the outcome of the Arbitration or any mutual resolution of the claims, the Company considers the future of the elebsiran program to be uncertain. In particular, the Company cannot invest in a Phase 3 clinical study of any elebsiran-containing combination therapy for HBV unless and until the claims in the Arbitration are satisfactorily resolved. The Company will continue to evaluate such developments and assess their impact on the continued viability of the elebsiran program, and update its shareholders and the public as and when appropriate in accordance with relevant requirements.

For more information about Brii Bio's HBV programs visit www.briibio.com.

During the reporting period, the Company achieved its first full-year profitability, with net profit reaching RMB 78.8 million, exceeding the upper end of its previously announced profit guidance of RMB 55 million to RMB 70 million. Profit attributable to owners of the Company reached RMB 72.7 million, approximately 30% above the upper end of the guided attributable profit range of RMB 56 million. Total revenue increased 14.6% year over year to RMB 820 million, while adjusted EBITDA grew more than 4.6 times to RMB 220 million.

The quality of earnings also improved significantly. Gross margin increased from 33.5% in the previous fiscal year to 36.4%, while net operating cash flow turned positive in the second half of the fiscal year, reaching RMB 29.3 million, reflecting stronger profitability and healthier cash generation.

Growth momentum remained robust across the Company's core businesses. New orders in the AI for Medical segment increased 22.3% year over year, while new orders in AI for Life Sciences rose 42.0%, providing strong visibility for future revenue growth.

At the presentation, Yidu Tech Co-founder and CEO Xu Jiming said FY2026 marked a key milestone as the Company transitioned from long-term capability building to commercial value realization. Powered by a unified AI foundation, Yidu Tech continues to deliver value across healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, insurers, and patients. Hospital products are steadily advancing toward greater standardization and productization, high-value pharmaceutical contracts continue to grow, and the health management business is maintaining strong momentum. Looking ahead, the Company will remain focused on high-value healthcare scenarios, working alongside leading hospitals, key specialties, and renowned clinical experts to accelerate the evolution of AI capabilities from project delivery to scalable platform-based products.

Executive Director and CFO Feng Xiaoying noted that the Company's first full-year profit was not driven by one-off factors, but resulted from continued optimization of business mix, higher gross margins, improved operating efficiency, and expanding operating leverage. The return to positive operating cash flow in the second half further demonstrates the quality and sustainability of the Company's earnings. Looking ahead, Yidu Tech will continue to allocate capital prudently, concentrating resources on disease areas and strategic customers that can generate the greatest long-term compounding value, while delivering sustainable and measurable returns to shareholders.

YiduCore Continues to Strengthen Its Position as Healthcare AI Infrastructure

At the core of Yidu Tech's technology platform is YiduCore, the Company's proprietary healthcare AI infrastructure. Rather than a standalone model, YiduCore is an integrated intelligent foundation combining a data governance platform, medical knowledge system, disease models, healthcare-specific large language model capabilities, and real-world application frameworks.

Healthcare demands exceptional levels of precision, reliability, and safety. Competitive advantage is therefore defined not simply by model size or general conversational ability, but by the ability to deeply understand disease progression, align with clinical decision-making, and integrate seamlessly into real-world medical workflows. Built on this philosophy, YiduCore has been trained around real disease evolution, clinical pathways, and authentic healthcare scenarios.

As of March 31, 2026, YiduCore had processed and analyzed nearly 9 billion authorized real-world medical records. Supported by compliant authorization and standardized data governance, the Company's high-quality healthcare data processing capabilities and deep understanding of diseases form the foundation of its long-term competitive advantage and define the boundaries of its AI capabilities. Its proprietary disease repository now covers more than 100 disease areas, while its medical knowledge graph broadly spans known diseases and currently supports the development of 21 disease-specific datasets.

Built upon more than a decade of experience in real-world healthcare, including disease knowledge graphs, medical semantic understanding, and scenario-driven model training, YiduCore has established a self-reinforcing flywheel in which data powers algorithms, algorithms enhance applications, and real-world applications continuously enrich data. This has become the Company's core engine for delivering AI capabilities across the healthcare ecosystem.

Three Business Segments Deliver Coordinated Growth Through AI

During FY2026, all three business segments achieved growth as YiduCore continued to demonstrate its value as a unified AI foundation reusable across multiple healthcare scenarios.

AI for Medical (Big Data Platform and Solutions) remains the Company's cornerstone business, providing data intelligence-driven solutions to healthcare institutions and regulators. Revenue reached RMB 380 million, up 10.2% year over year. As of the end of the reporting period, the Company served 133 leading hospitals, 54 regulatory and policymaking organizations, and maintained a hospital network covering more than 12,000 medical institutions nationwide. During the year, Yidu Tech secured multiple major provincial projects, including Hainan's Regional Infectious Disease Surveillance, Early Warning and Emergency Command Information Platform and the Hainan Smart Health Island initiative, each valued at over RMB 10 million. The Company also played an active role in the development of National AI Application Pilot Bases in regions including Beijing and Henan, supporting regional healthcare digital transformation. Meanwhile, the rollout of next-generation products—including AI Middleware Platform 3.0, Copilot 2.0, Yidu Evidence, and Yidu Command—significantly improved operating efficiency, driving gross margin from 29.7% in the previous fiscal year to 39.7%.

AI for Life Sciences (Life Sciences Solutions) focuses on AI-enabled services throughout the pharmaceutical value chain. Revenue reached RMB 270 million, representing 9.4% year-over-year growth. The business continued to strengthen its high-quality customer base, with 17 of the world's top 20 multinational pharmaceutical companies now among its clients. In clinical research, the Company has participated in or completed more than 516 clinical research projects, including both sponsor-initiated clinical trials and investigator-initiated studies. It has also supported more than 320 prospective and retrospective real-world studies.

AI for Care (Health Management Platform and Solutions) delivered the strongest growth, with revenue increasing 37.6% year over year to RMB 170 million. In supplementary health insurance, Yidu Tech continued serving as the primary operating platform for the Shenzhen Supplementary Insurance program for the fourth consecutive year and for the Beijing Supplementary Insurance program for the fifth consecutive year. Shenzhen Supplementary Insurance has maintained enrollment of over 6 million participants for three consecutive years, while cumulative enrollment for the Beijing program has exceeded 19 million. The Company also expanded its presence in primary healthcare. Its digital therapeutics solution for diabetes has now been deployed across 105 core medical institutions in five cities and counties in Hainan Province, including Sanya, Qionghai, Wanning, and Lingshui, significantly improving patients' blood glucose control and expanding into additional regions such as Shanxi Province and Tianjin. During the reporting period, the health management platform recorded more than 22 million active users who completed at least one transaction.

With its first full year of profitability in FY2026, Yidu Tech has entered a pivotal stage, transitioning from sustained investment to scalable value realization. The Company believes the healthcare AI industry is moving beyond technology validation toward commercially sustainable business models. Competitive advantage is increasingly shifting from isolated AI applications to platform-based, system-level capabilities that can be deployed across multiple healthcare scenarios. Going forward, Yidu Tech will continue to build around YiduCore, deepening AI integration across healthcare providers, life sciences, and health management while strengthening the closed-loop ecosystem of data, algorithms, and real-world applications. Through this approach, the Company aims to further reinforce its position as healthcare AI infrastructure and unlock larger-scale commercialization opportunities across the healthcare ecosystem.

The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and the Vietnamese governmentannounced the conclusion of their free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations on July 2, following the EFTA Ministerial meeting in Reykjavík on June 22. The agreement is expected to improve market access and lower tariffs across a wide range of products. EFTA comprises Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland – economies known for strengths in advanced manufacturing, finance, innovation, clean energy, and high-value technologies.

The FTA covers a broad range of areas, including trade in goods and services, rules of origin, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment, intellectual property rights, trade remedies, government procurement, trade and sustainable development, small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as cooperation and capacity building.

Speaking at the June 22 EFTA Ministerial meeting, in his capacity as EFTA spokesperson, Minister Espen Barth Eide said, "At a time of global uncertainty, strengthening ties with trusted trade partners is more important than ever. I am pleased that we have reached an ambitious and forward-looking free trade agreement that will significantly improve market access for goods and services, while also strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade and sustainable development and intellectual property rights,"

"By ensuring more predictable conditions, I am confident that the EFTA–Vietnam agreement will open up new commercial opportunities for businesses across the EFTA States and Vietnam," he added.

Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan said the agreement would bring together economies with complementary strengths.

"The agreement carries particular significance as it connects economies with highly complementary strengths. On the one side are the EFTA States, global leaders in innovation, technology, finance, clean energy and sustainable development; and on the other is Vietnam, one of Asia's most dynamic economies and an emerging regional hub for manufacturing, trade and investment," the deputy minister said.

"This agreement will provide a stable, transparent and predictable business environment, further facilitating the flow of trade, investment, technology and knowledge between the two sides," he added.

The conclusion of negotiations comes as commercial exchanges between Vietnam and the EFTA states have expanded steadily over the past decade. Bilateral trade reached $5.2 billion in 2025, with Vietnam posting a trade surplus of $2.7 billion, compared to $0.54 billion a decade ago, excluding Swiss gold trade.

Electrical machinery, fish, pharmaceutical products, and mechanical machinery were EFTA's main exports to Vietnam last year, while Vietnam's exports to the bloc were led by electrical machinery, footwear and apparel, and mechanical machinery. According to EFTA, these major product groups have all recorded average annual growth of more than 10 per cent over the past decade.

Vietnam and the bloc completed 21 formal negotiating sessions, with the latest round taking place in Iceland from June 17-22. Negotiations were relaunched in Geneva last September before being concluded this year.