VnEconomy - Vietnam Economic Times

New development phase of Vietnam’s coffee market

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

With significant changes introduced over recent times, Vietnam’s coffee market is now entering a new phase of development that requires specific strategies.

Highlands Coffee officially opened its 1,000th store in mid-June, at 28 Thanh Nien Street in Tay Ho ward, Hanoi. Located beside West Lake - one of the capital’s most distinctive cultural landmarks - the opening represents far more than just a business milestone; it also marks an important moment in the brand’s nearly three-decade journey alongside generations of Vietnamese consumers and the evolution of Vietnamese coffee.

“The milestone reflects an important shift in the Vietnamese coffee market,” said Dr. Matt Kim, Lecturer in Tourism and Hospitality Management at RMIT University Vietnam. “It can also be seen as a sign that Vietnam’s FB [food and beverage] market is entering a more mature phase.”

Market changes

From the perspective of consumer sociology, Dr. Kim said Vietnam has always had a strong coffee culture, but what has changed over the past decade is the way consumers access and experience coffee.

According to RMIT’s research, coffee consumption has become more routine, more service-based, and more closely connected to consumers’ daily mobility, work patterns, and social lifestyles. In this sense, the expansion of coffee chains reflects not simply rising demand for coffee but also the growing importance of convenience, consistency, accessibility, and space in Vietnamese consumer behavior.

“The growth of coffee chains reflects a shift from product-centered consumption to routine-based and experience-oriented consumption,” Dr. Kim added. “Consumers are not simply buying coffee; they are also looking for a convenient and predictable space that fits into their daily lives.”

Savills believes that Highlands Coffee reaching 1,000 stores isn’t just about growth - it is a clear signal that Vietnam’s FB market has moved beyond scale-driven expansion into a more mature phase. It shows that brands can now build nationwide networks, supporting expansion into secondary cities and residential catchment areas, not just major CBDs.

It also highlights a structural shift in the market. Larger, well-capitalized chains with stronger operational systems are gaining market share, putting greater competitive pressure on smaller operators. “It reflects a stronger shift toward system-driven operators and brands with scale,” said Mr. William Gramond, Director of Commercial Leasing at Savills Vietnam.

With nearly three decades of experience in the market, Mr. David Thai, Founder and CEO of Highlands Coffee, said Vietnamese coffee culture retains many of its core values, but it has also undergone significant changes alongside the country’s development. While coffee shops were once primarily meeting places for older men, today’s clientele is much more diverse, and includes women, students, office workers, young families, and individuals seeking space for studying, working, or connecting with the community.

This shift in lifestyle has changed how people use coffee shops. Where the product was once the most important factor, today the overall experience is paramount. Space, design, convenience, and the ability to work or meet are all part of the coffee experience.

“Our journey has never been just about coffee because coffee has been part of Vietnam for a very long time,” Mr. Thai said. “What matters most to us is Vietnam’s journey of development. Highlands Coffee is simply part of that process, accompanying the country’s changes and telling the story of Vietnam through coffee.”

Many opportunities

Vietnam is considered one of the world’s most unique coffee markets. Many major coffee-producing countries, such as Brazil, have their own distinct coffee cultures, but Vietnam has a special advantage: it is both a leading coffee producer and home to a vibrant and well-developed domestic consumer market. Encouragingly, not only Highlands Coffee but also many other brands are helping elevate the status of Vietnamese coffee.

Despite increasing market competition, experts believe the Vietnamese coffee industry still has significant growth potential over the next decade. Mr. Thai pointed out that one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today is climate change. Many studies predict that, by 2050, approximately 50 per cent of the world’s land suitable for growing Arabica coffee could disappear because of environmental and climate change, putting global coffee supply under immense pressure.

Meanwhile, coffee consumption is rising rapidly, especially in Asia, a region home to a large share of the world’s population. China, India, and Southeast Asia alone have nearly 4 billion people, and coffee consumption in these markets remains low compared with Europe. While per capita consumption in many European countries ranges from five to ten cups a day, in Vietnam and China the figure remains relatively low but is increasing rapidly. This indicates enormous growth potential for the coffee industry.

“In other words, the world is facing a paradox: coffee demand continues to surge while supply is at risk of declining because of climate change,” said Mr. Thai. “In this context, Vietnam has a unique opportunity thanks to its ability to apply technology, science, and innovation to improve the productivity, quality, and value of its coffee industry.”

According to RMIT’s research, coffee and beverages are also important because they offer a relatively affordable entry point into this type of consumption. For many consumers, having a full meal in a clean, comfortable, and branded environment can still be relatively costly. By contrast, buying a coffee or another beverage allows them to access a similar type of indoor space at a much lower price. In this sense, coffee chains provide an affordable form of lifestyle consumption.

“As a result, chain coffee shops have become particularly well positioned in the Vietnamese market because they can provide these benefits through more standardized and systematically managed formats,” said Dr. Kim.

Key strategies needed

At Highlands Coffee, one question the company continually asks is: “How do we build an effective business model while maintaining responsibility toward our customers and those who create value throughout the coffee industry?” Customers are not the only group it serves; farmers are also a crucial part of that value chain.

Many people only see the final cup of coffee in the consumer’s hand, but behind it lies a long journey: years of cultivation on the farm, months of research and control over the fermentation process, from temperature and humidity to oxygen levels in the storage environment, followed by roasting, blending, packaging, and selecting the appropriate extraction method to fully showcase the inherent characteristics of the coffee bean. Each step in the value chain plays a vital role in creating the final customer experience.

“I believe the future of the coffee industry must be built on close cooperation between all parties in the value chain, from farmers and processors to businesses and consumers,” Mr. Thai said. “Only by creating value together and sharing that value fairly can the coffee industry achieve sustainable long-term development.”

Location is also an important factor in the development strategy of FB chains. According to Savills, balancing costs and revenue is becoming increasingly challenging as rents and operating costs continue to rise. Brands are under greater pressure to deliver sustainable margins at each location.

Prime locations still matter, but high rents and competition are pushing brands to expand into neighborhoods, malls, and emerging districts. “We’re seeing a rise in non-CBD districts driven by residential growth and new supply, especially in Hanoi, with the Star Lake district,” said Mr. Gramond. “We’re also seeing expansion into secondary cities and suburban areas, where lower occupancy costs and growing consumer demand are making these markets key to future growth. The strategy now is about building a balanced, multi-location network rather than relying on just a few flagship stores.”

Over the next decade, according to Dr. Kim, Vietnam’s coffee and FB industry will be shaped by consumers who are increasingly value-seeking rather than simply premium-seeking. Consumers will continue to pay attention not only to coffee quality but also to service quality, hygiene, convenience, atmosphere, consistency, and brand trust. The next stage of competition will therefore be about the overall consumer experience, not just the beverage itself.

The entry and expansion of international brands will also influence the market by raising expectations around service standards, store formats, product variety, and digital engagement. However, their success will depend on how well they adapt to local tastes, price sensitivity, daily routines, and Vietnamese coffee culture. Global reputation alone will not be enough.

Luxury and specialty coffee formats are also likely to grow, but they may be driven more by independent cafés, boutique operators, and smaller specialty coffee shops than by large chain brands. Specialty coffee often depends on specific taste preferences, barista skills, origin stories, and a more personal customer experience, all of which are not always easy to scale across a large chain network.

-Linh Ngoc

Northern Europe tightens PFAS regulations: Vietnam's textile and footwear industries face transition

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their superior resistance to water, oil, stains, and heat.

Regulations governing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as "forever chemicals," in consumer goods—particularly textiles, footwear, waterproof materials, and products featuring water, oil, and stain resistance—are undergoing rapid tightening across Europe.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden (covering Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and Latvia), Denmark and Sweden are spearheading efforts to restrict PFAS. These countries are moving toward managing the entire group of chemicals as a whole, rather than regulating individual substances one by one.

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their superior resistance to water, oil, stains, and heat. In the textile and footwear industries, these substances are commonly found in waterproof fabrics, outdoor jackets, rainwear, footwear, handbags, synthetic leather, and various surface-finishing solutions.

The European Commission (EC) has determined that PFAS are highly persistent in the environment, spreading through water, soil, air, food, and waste. Furthermore, they pose long-term risks to both human health and ecosystems. For these reasons, the EC is moving toward a roadmap for a broad-based ban.

The Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden emphasizes that Vietnamese enterprises must pay immediate attention to specific timelines. The period between now and January 1, 2027, is strictly a window for distributors in Denmark to clear existing inventory imported before July 1, 2026. After the January 1, 2027 deadline, any trade of products containing PFAS exceeding the allowable threshold will be completely prohibited in Denmark.

The Trade Office warned that this is absolutely not an extension for Vietnamese businesses to continue exporting PFAS-containing goods to this market. Consequently, manufacturers must work immediately with Danish partners to clarify the status of shipments, determine testing responsibilities, and establish mechanisms for returns or buy-backs following the transition period.

Sweden is also an active proponent of PFAS restrictions at the EU level. The Swedish Chemicals Agency stated that its goal is to minimize and eventually phase out the use of PFAS, permitting them only in essential cases where no alternatives exist. Businesses are strongly recommended to proactively eliminate these chemicals by consulting the PRIO database—which lists nearly 11,000 PFAS substances—to prevent regulatory risks.

Comprehensive response strategies

To adapt to these new regulations, the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden recommends that Vietnamese enterprises in the textile, footwear, handbag, and accessory sectors promptly implement the following practical measures.

Businesses must categorize high-risk items, particularly those featuring "waterproof," "oil-resistant," "stain-resistant," or "weatherproof" functionalities.

It is necessary to shift to alternative technologies and require raw material suppliers to provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), formal non-PFAS commitments, and transparent laboratory test results, rather than relying solely on verbal assurances.

Businesses should explicitly incorporate clauses regarding chemical compliance. These should specify compensation liabilities, return rights, and protocols for handling shipments in the event of sudden policy changes in the importing country.

"Green" claims such as "PFC-free," "PFAS-free," or "free from harmful chemicals" must only be used when backed by comprehensive scientific evidence. Misleading advertising can lead to severe consequences, including the seizure of goods and the total destruction of brand reputation in international markets.

Vneconomy-Song Hà

Next-gen vaccines to become Vietnam’s strategic technology product from 2028

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 08:25:00 GMT

Vietnam Vaccine JSC (VNVC) and Sanofi (France) have announced a major step forward in their partnership to produce next-generation vaccines in Vietnam starting in 2028.

The announcement was made during the Vietnam-France High-Level Conference held on July 9, co-organized by the Ministry of Health of Vietnam and the French Embassy. The conference theme focused on "Strengthening cooperation to deploy strategic technologies and strategic technology products for next-generation vaccine development in Vietnam."

Under the agreed roadmap, VNVC and Sanofi will collaborate to produce several essential, high-demand vaccines for both children and adults at the VNVC Vaccine and Biologicals Factory. Sanofi’s first key next-generation vaccines are expected to be produced in Vietnam starting in 2028.

During the event, VNVC updated the progress of its Vaccine and Biologicals Factory and the portfolio of next-gen vaccines prioritized for production to meet high-quality immunization needs in Vietnam. The facility is scheduled to be operational by late 2027, begin production in 2028, and launch commercial products by 2029.

VNVC aims to become a leading regional hub for research, technology transfer, production, and testing of high-tech vaccines and biologicals. Its high-tech factory will serve as a foundation for international technology cooperation, while its modern Research Institute is designed to attract scientific studies for new vaccine types.

"We look forward to breakthrough mechanisms and policies that encourage businesses to invest in strategic technology products," said Mr. Ngo Chi Dung, Chairman and CEO of VNVC. "This will help the public access high-tech vaccines sooner and at more affordable prices, while gradually ensuring domestic supply and strengthening national health security."

The VNVC Vaccine and Biologicals Factory, located in southern Tay Ninh province, represents an initial investment of over VND2.5 trillion (approx. $95 million).

Covering more than 26,000 sq.m, the plant is designed to meet EU-GMP, WHO-GMP, and US-FDA standards, with a production capacity of approximately 100 million doses per year.

Vneconomy-Kim An

PM orders faster disbursement of national target program funds

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 07:16:00 GMT

Four national target programs cover new rural development; sustainable poverty reduction and socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas; cultural development; healthcare, population and development; and the modernisation and improvement of education and training.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has instructed ministries, sectors and local authorities to accelerate institutional reforms, allocate funding promptly and speed up the disbursement of national target program funds, while ensuring resources are used effectively and without waste.

Chairing the first meeting of the Central Steering Committee for the implementation of the National Target Programs on July 9, the Prime Minister called for the full disbursement of all central government budget funds allocated for 2026.

The target includes more than VND17 trillion ($650 million) in funding for three national target programs from the 2021-2025 period that has been carried over into 2026.

In recent months, the government has established the Central Steering Committee and issued regulations governing its organisation and operations to oversee four national target programs. These cover new rural development; sustainable poverty reduction and socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas; cultural development; healthcare, population and development; and the modernisation and improvement of education and training.

The PM stressed that public resources must be allocated and utilised in line with program objectives and targeted beneficiaries, with a focus on priority areas. He also called for strict oversight to prevent fragmented investment, duplication of projects, financial losses, waste and corruption, ensuring that every program delivers tangible socio-economic benefits.

-Hà Lê

Vietnam’s climate resilience under test

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 01:00:00 GMT

A strengthening El Niño weather pattern would raise temperatures, reduce rainfall, and test Vietnam’s resilience over the remainder of this year and into next.

Meteorological agencies are warning that the El Niño climate phenomenon has officially formed over the central equatorial Pacific and is expected to strengthen significantly in the months to come, raising concerns over prolonged heat, drought, water shortages, and disruptions to agricultural production in Vietnam and beyond.

Major international climate centers, including the Tokyo Climate Center (TCC), the Climate Prediction Center of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (CPC-NOAA), and the Asia-Pacific Climate Center (APCC), have all forecast a continued strengthening of El Niño conditions. Their forecasts point to reduced rainfall and above-average temperatures across many regions.

The United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO) estimates the probability of El Niño developing between June and August at around 80 per cent and has warned that the phenomenon could intensify extreme weather events and trigger unusual rainfall patterns worldwide.

According to Ms. Dang Thanh Mai, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the 2026 El Niño weather pattern has developed more rapidly than many previous cycles.

Strong El Niño risk rises

Observation data show that sea surface temperature anomalies in the Nino 3.4 region - a specific area of the equatorial Pacific Ocean used by meteorologists to monitor and define the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle - reached the El Niño threshold of +0.5°C in May and rose further, to approximately +0.7°C, in early June, confirming the event’s formation.

Experts say the transition from neutral conditions to El Niño has occurred unusually quickly, reflecting rapid warming in the central Pacific and favorable ocean-atmosphere interactions that could fuel further intensification.

Climate models from both domestic and international forecasting centers suggest El Niño will persist through the remainder of 2026, strengthen toward the end of the year, and potentially continue into early 2027. The probability of a very strong El Niño is currently estimated at 60-65 per cent.

Meteorologists note that current conditions resemble those seen during the 2023 El Niño and could ultimately reach a strength comparable to the 2015-2016 event, which was one of the most powerful El Niño episodes recorded since 1950.

If that scenario materializes, Vietnam could face significantly higher temperatures, fewer cold-air outbreaks, and widespread rainfall deficits. Central Vietnam, the central highlands, and the southern region are expected to be particularly vulnerable to drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion during late 2026 and early 2027.

“Though the El Niño weather pattern often brings fewer storms and tropical depressions affecting Vietnam, very powerful storms can still occur and cause severe damage,” Ms. Mai cautioned. “We cannot afford to be complacent about natural disaster risks.”

Mr. Mai Van Khiem, Director General of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, said authorities have been monitoring El Niño developments since the beginning of the year and continually update forecasts to support government agencies and local authorities.

Notably, the probability of a strong El Niño weather pattern has increased rapidly in recent forecasts. The likelihood was estimated at only 20 per cent in April, then rose to 37 per cent in May and reached 60-65 per cent in June. “The current trend suggests a very high probability of a strong El Niño event, potentially comparable to 2015-2016 or even stronger,” Mr. Khiem said.

The growing risk has attracted international attention. Earlier this month, the United Nations Secretary-General urged countries to prepare response plans to mitigate the impacts of the climate phenomenon.

Lessons from past events

Meteorologists point to the 2015-2016 El Niño event as a reminder of the challenges Vietnam could face. That weather pattern brought prolonged and intense heatwaves throughout the country. In central Vietnam, record-breaking heat persisted for weeks, with the longest heatwave lasting 32 days along the south-central coast, 36 days in the central region, and 39 days along the north-central coast.

Temperatures in north-central Vietnam frequently reached 39-41°C, with a peak of 42.7°C recorded in Con Cuong district of Nghe An province in May 2015.

At the same time, severe rainfall deficits triggered widespread drought conditions. River flows in central and southern Vietnam declined sharply, while saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta advanced deep inland, affecting agricultural production and local livelihoods. Storm activity also declined significantly. Only five storms and two tropical depressions were recorded in the East Sea in 2015, or roughly half the long-term average.

Experts believe the most concerning impacts of El Niño in Vietnam typically include prolonged heat, reduced rainfall, drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion. Current forecasts suggest temperatures nationwide during the second half of 2026 could be 0.5-1.5°C above average, with temperatures during the October-December period potentially exceeding normal levels by 1-2°C. Northern and central Vietnam are expected to experience more frequent heatwaves than usual, with the possibility of new temperature records being set.

Rainfall deficits of 25-50 per cent are also forecast for many regions, particularly the south-central coast, central highlands, and southern provinces. Such conditions could increase the risk of localized or widespread drought, especially in areas with high water demand for agriculture and daily consumption.

Despite the overall decline in rainfall associated with El Niño, experts caution that extreme rainfall events can still occur and may even establish new short-term precipitation records. According to Mr. Khiem, while the number of storms and tropical depressions may fall, other extreme weather events, including urban flooding, landslides in mountainous areas, and flash floods, remain possible.

Economic risks and opportunities

Beyond the weather impact, authorities are increasingly focused on the implications of El Niño for economic growth, agricultural production, and global supply chains.

The Hydrometeorology Administration noted that lessons from the 2019-2020 drought and saltwater intrusion event demonstrated the value of early forecasting and proactive adjustments to agricultural production schedules, which helped reduce losses significantly.

Vietnam’s meteorological authorities are now working with international organizations and foreign weather agencies to assess the broader economic implications of El Niño, including potential disruptions to global supply chains.

Mr. Khiem noted that the weather pattern is expected to affect many countries across Asia and Africa, increasing drought risks and reducing water availability for agriculture. Several major agricultural producers, including Thailand, have already begun implementing response measures, such as increasing water storage within Mekong River basin systems.

Recognizing the broader economic implications, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Le Cong Thanh recently emphasized the need to identify the specific impacts of El Niño on each economic sector as part of Vietnam’s efforts to sustain double-digit growth.

He called on meteorological authorities to explore climate-economic impact models capable of quantifying the effects of El Niño on economic growth, water security, agricultural production, and social welfare. Such assessments could help the government develop sector-specific adaptation plans and launch coordinated inter-ministerial programs aimed at reducing risks while taking advantage of opportunities arising from climate-related market shifts.

Over the longer term, authorities are seeking to establish an early-warning system that assesses not only weather risks but also the socio-economic impacts of major climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña. The initiative is expected to strengthen climate-risk management, support sustainable development, and lay the foundation for climate-information services around Vietnam.

While El Niño poses significant challenges, officials note that it could also create opportunities. If drought conditions reduce agricultural output in major producing countries, global prices for commodities such as rice and coffee could rise, potentially benefiting countries capable of maintaining stable production.

To capitalize on such opportunities while minimizing any risks, authorities are focusing on measures to strengthen water security, improve irrigation management, adjust agricultural production structures, safeguard energy supplies, and enhance the economy’s resilience to drought and water shortages.

-Hang Anh

Primary driver for urban development

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Stakeholders discuss the opportunities, risks, and policy priorities needed to turn Hanoi’s expanding metro network into the foundation of a more connected, livable, and resilient city.

Mr. Nguyen Huy Hung, Department of Urban Planning and Transport, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Transport Technology

Applying international lessons to Hanoi’s unique urban context highlights a range of potential risks and challenges that the capital should anticipate and address as it implements Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) based on the 8D principles: Density, Diversity, Design, Distance to Transit, Destination Accessibility, Demand Management, Demographics, and Development Onsite.

Density: Hanoi’s fragmented private land ownership structure, particularly in former village areas and neighborhoods along planned metro corridors, shares many similarities with Bangkok, Thailand, and Manila in the Philippines. Existing infrastructure is also under significant strain, echoing the experiences of Delhi and Mumbai in India, where technical infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with urban intensification. Community resistance to high-density development is another concern, as residents may fear the loss of traditional urban character and the risk of gentrification driven by developer interests. These are important lessons Hanoi should take into account when pursuing TOD.

Diversity: Though Hanoi has developed several large mixed-use urban areas, detailed planning regulations continue to limit the integration of new functions into established neighborhoods.

Design: Hanoi continues to face a significant shortage of well-planned, secure parking facilities for motorcycles and bicycles at metro stations. The widespread occupation of sidewalks by parked motorcycles and street vendors presents challenges similar to those experienced in Ho Chi Minh City. At the same time, the city’s road design philosophy remains heavily-oriented toward private vehicles, while inactive street frontages in newer urban developments risk eroding Hanoi’s distinctive tradition of vibrant, active streetscapes.

Distance to Transit: Poor pedestrian conditions, including obstructed sidewalks and chronic traffic congestion, significantly reduce the perceived accessibility of transit stations. International experience also shows that insufficient integration between metro systems and feeder bus services can substantially reduce convenience in reaching stations.

Destination Accessibility: Hanoi risks repeating the jobs-housing imbalance seen in Beijing, China, where large-scale residential developments have expanded into suburban areas while employment opportunities remain concentrated in the city center.

Demand Management: Hanoi is pursuing an ambitious transport demand management agenda, including congestion charging for the city center and restrictions on motorcycle use. However, these measures carry considerable political and social risks, particularly given that motorcycles remain the primary means of livelihood for millions of residents.

Demographics: Hanoi faces a high risk of repeating the gentrification experienced in Shanghai, China, and Seoul, South Korea, where rapidly-rising property values along metro corridors pushed the residents most dependent on public transport farther away from stations. Lessons from London, UK, and Oakland, California, underscore the importance of introducing intervention policies early and strengthening community participation throughout the urban development process.

Development Onsite: Institutional fragmentation presents one of Hanoi’s greatest challenges. Metro systems are largely implemented by central government agencies, while land management falls under the authority of the city and local ward and commune governments. As in many developing countries, sophisticated financing mechanisms such as land value capture (LVC) remain relatively new, while limited institutional capacity to manage complex, integrated development projects remains a significant concern.

In conclusion, implementing the TOD model is a strategic priority that will play a decisive role in shaping Hanoi’s long-term sustainable development. However, international experience demonstrates that TOD implementation is a complex process involving interconnected institutional, financial, technical, and social challenges.

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Mr. Takahiko Nagato, Executive Director of Becamex Tokyu

Railway systems enhance regional connectivity, attract residents, increase property values, and generate financial resources for further reinvestment and network expansion.

To illustrate the relationship between public transportation and urban development around stations, I would like to highlight the redevelopment of the area surrounding Futako - Tamagawa Station in Tokyo, Japan.

Following the redevelopment, the Futako - Tamagawa area now accommodates approximately 1,000 residential units, 12,000 office workers, and 180 retail stores. Passenger traffic at the station has increased by an average of approximately 2.9 per cent annually. This demonstrates that when housing, employment, retail, and daily destinations are concentrated around stations, public transportation can sustain a more stable ridership base. Conversely, as passenger volumes increase, surrounding areas gain greater opportunities for commercial and service development, creating additional urban value. A key principle is that public transportation should not be introduced after a city has already been built, but instead be integrated into the urban development framework from the outset.

Ensuring the long-term sustainability of urban rail networks therefore requires more than railway infrastructure alone. It also depends on integrated urban development around stations.

This approach is reflected in the urban development model promoted by Becamex Tokyu in Binh Duong New City in Vietnam’s southern region. The company is developing residential, commercial, and public spaces in an integrated and carefully-planned manner, creating an urban environment where living, working, and community activities are well balanced. The development is also designed to accommodate future integration with public transportation.

Experience has shown that securing stable ridership for urban rail networks requires far more than building the railway itself. One of the key lessons for metro development is that if station areas lack destinations, pedestrian connectivity, feeder bus services, and urban amenities, metro lines will struggle to attract regular passengers. In other words, constructing the metro is only one part of the equation. Organizing the space around stations so that people can travel, work, shop, and carry out their daily activities is ultimately what determines the system’s long-term success.

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Associate Professor Nguyen Viet Huy, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering

I believe Hanoi’s decision to simultaneously develop multiple metro lines marks a significant shift in the city’s urban development strategy, demonstrating its commitment to making urban rail the backbone of the capital’s public transport system. Under the new implementation model, with the Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board serving as the project owner and domestic companies taking on larger roles in design, construction, and metro-oriented urban development, I expect many of the lessons learned from earlier projects will be incorporated into future lines.

Looking back at previous metro projects, most were implemented through official development assistance (ODA), relying on foreign consultants, technologies, and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors. While this model enabled Vietnam to access advanced technologies, it also exposed several limitations, including lengthy project preparation, complex adjustment procedures, cost overruns, and limited autonomy for Vietnamese stakeholders. Greater participation by domestic companies offers several advantages. It can improve decision-making efficiency and coordination, strengthen the capabilities of Vietnam’s urban railway industry across design, construction, and operations, and enable transport infrastructure and urban development, particularly TOD areas surrounding stations, to be planned and implemented in a more integrated manner.

However, these advantages also come with significant responsibilities. Urban rail systems are neither conventional real estate developments nor standalone infrastructure projects. They are highly-complex engineering systems with life spans extending for decades, even centuries, and they fundamentally shape a city’s long-term urban structure. The greatest challenge, therefore, is not simply delivering projects quickly or on schedule, but ensuring high-quality planning, thoughtful design, and a long-term strategic vision.

From my research on TOD and metro station architecture, I am particularly interested in whether the new lines can move beyond viewing stations solely as transport infrastructure. What I hope to see most is not simply newer trains or faster construction, but the integration of public spaces around stations, pedestrian connectivity, inclusive design, local architectural identity, underground spaces, and high-quality user experiences from the earliest planning and design stages.

In other words, the success of Hanoi’s new metro lines should not be measured solely by the number of kilometers of track laid or the speed of construction, but by their ability to create genuine TOD districts, high-quality urban spaces, and a development model suited to Hanoi’s unique conditions. International experience shows that if these elements are not incorporated from the outset, they become extremely difficult and expensive to retrofit once the system is operational.

For that reason, Hanoi’s objective should extend beyond simply building more metro lines. It should aim to establish a TOD model with a distinct identity that reflects both the capital and Vietnam as a whole. If implemented successfully, the new metro network will not only address transportation challenges but also help create more livable urban environments for generations to come.

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Mr. Nguyen Ba Son, Deputy Director, Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board

The breaking of ground at five new metro lines marks a major milestone in Hanoi’s transition from developing individual rail lines to implementing an integrated, citywide urban railway network. It also represents an important step toward realizing the Capital Master Plan with a 100-year vision, recently approved by the city. Under this plan, public transport is positioned as the primary driver shaping Hanoi’s future urban development. Urban rail will serve as the backbone for a polycentric, multi-directional urban structure, supporting the development of new urban areas while revitalizing existing districts.

Another significant feature of these five metro lines is that they are financed entirely through public investment. This enables the city to fully utilize the special mechanisms introduced by the National Assembly for urban railway projects. As a result, administrative procedures have been significantly streamlined.

For example, new urban railway projects will no longer require the preparation and approval of separate investment policy proposals, substantially reducing project preparation time.

In addition, land acquisition and site clearance will be separated into independent projects, allowing them to begin immediately after route alignments and station locations are approved. This approach is intended to ensure construction sites can be handed over to contractors promptly after project approval and contractor selection, helping to keep implementation on schedule.

Investment in these five metro lines will also contribute to the government’s objective of achieving double-digit economic growth. Public financing provides greater flexibility in selecting technical standards, regulations, and technologies, ensuring consistency and interoperability across the metro network while supporting the development of Vietnam’s domestic railway industry in line with government policy. These are highly significant strategic benefits.

Under Hanoi’s 100-year Capital Master Plan, the city’s urban railway network will eventually comprise 18 lines with a total length of 979 km. Development will be phased over time, with approximately 500 km expected to be completed by 2035 and the remaining network scheduled for completion between 2035 and 2045.

Beyond the urban metro system, Hanoi is also planning regional railway connections linking the capital with neighboring provinces. These lines are intended to create an integrated regional transport network that supports both passenger mobility and freight transportation across the Greater Hanoi metropolitan area.

Such an ambitious railway program requires enormous financial resources. For the five metro lines now under construction, the city plans to rely on its own budget. For subsequent projects, however, it intends to diversify funding sources by attracting private investment and implementing public-private partnership (PPP) models in accordance with government regulations.

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Mr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Real Estate Association and Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors

Under Hanoi’s 100-year Master Plan, approved recently by the Hanoi People’s Council, the capital will develop into a multi-polar, multi-tier, and multi-centered city, creating new growth hubs connected by a modern, integrated infrastructure network.

Within this vision, the urban railway system has been designated as the city’s strategic backbone infrastructure, playing a leading role in shaping urban development and restructuring Hanoi’s overall transport network. Beyond addressing traffic congestion, the metro system will serve as the framework for reorganizing Hanoi’s urban space, promoting Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), expanding the city’s footprint along North-South and East-West corridors, and connecting Noi Bai International Airport and Hanoi Railway Station with emerging growth centers such as Hoa Lac, Thu Lam, Co Loa, and Gia Lam, as well as neighboring localities across the Capital Region. In doing so, it will strengthen regional connectivity, enhance competitiveness, and create new growth drivers for Hanoi over the decades to come.

The objectives set out in the Master Plan represent a significant departure from previous development strategies. Hanoi aims to become a city with substantial influence both domestically and internationally across multiple dimensions, supported by a strong economy and a level of household income that ranks it among the world’s high-income cities.

Achieving these ambitions requires world-class infrastructure. The breaking of ground at five metro projects will strengthen connections between the city center and emerging growth poles, improve links among those growth centers themselves, and enhance connectivity between Hanoi and neighboring localities. This will effectively overcome spatial barriers and lay the foundation for stronger development across the wider Capital Region.

Previously, Hanoi functioned as a single growth pole centered on the urban core, resulting in congestion, inefficient development, and underutilized land surrounding the city center. Today, the city has identified TOD as a central strategy for restructuring Hanoi’s urban form into a denser, mixed-use, and more efficient city that is less dependent on private vehicles and makes better use of land resources. Developing a network of multiple urban centers connected by a modern public transportation system, and linking major urban districts with the city center and with one another, will create an integrated urban ecosystem that stimulates growth in the economy, services, and real estate. In turn, this will boost economic activity, create jobs, and improve residents’ quality of life.

Alongside the launch of new metro projects, Hanoi is also expanding and upgrading its urban road network. This demonstrates the determination and strong commitment of the city’s authorities to achieve the goals outlined in the Master Plan as quickly as possible.

Equally significant is the government’s changing approach to infrastructure development. In the past, Vietnam actively courted foreign companies to bring in capital and technology for major projects. Today, assigning these projects to domestic enterprises reflects a fundamental shift in the government’s thinking, vision, and governance. Particularly following the issuance of Politburo Resolution No. 68, which identifies the private sector as a key driver of national economic growth, the government has introduced policies and institutional reforms that strengthen the capabilities of Vietnamese businesses and enhance their competitiveness.

These policies include entrusting leading domestic companies with the delivery of major and technically-complex infrastructure projects, including airports, expressways, and urban rail systems. In practice, many of these projects have been completed on schedule, met quality standards, and successfully entered into operation. This approach not only strengthens the capacity and resilience of Vietnamese enterprises but also creates an important source of long-term economic growth, supporting the country’s transition toward more sustainable development.

:::::::::

Associate Professor Nguyen Hong Thai, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Railway Economics and Transport Association

Against the backdrop of rapid urbanization, soaring private vehicle ownership, and increasingly limited land available for transport infrastructure, Hanoi’s simultaneous launch of five new metro lines demonstrates the strong commitment of both the central government and the city to transform its transportation model toward one that is modern, green, and sustainable. More importantly, Hanoi has shifted from investing in individual metro lines to developing an integrated urban rail network, with the metro serving as the backbone of the public transportation system. This is not merely the construction of transport infrastructure but the beginning of a broader transformation in the city’s urban development model.

First and foremost, the metro network will significantly enhance the capacity of public passenger transportation, reducing dependence on private vehicles and, in turn, easing traffic congestion, lowering accident rates, and cutting environmental pollution. More importantly, it will become a catalyst for restructuring Hanoi’s urban development. Metro lines will strengthen connections between the city center and satellite cities, Noi Bai International Airport, Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, and emerging growth hubs, creating new development corridors while redistributing population and resources in a more balanced and sustainable manner.

In my view, the greatest contribution of the metro network is not simply the introduction of modern trains, but the transformation of travel behavior and the way urban space is organized. Today, Hanoi residents still rely heavily on motorcycles and private vehicles. As the metro network expands and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles are fully implemented, people will gradually adopt multimodal travel patterns, with the metro serving as the backbone connected seamlessly to buses, public bicycles, feeder services, and other forms of shared mobility. Residential communities, commercial centers, office developments, and service facilities will naturally cluster around metro stations. People will increasingly choose where to live, work, and spend their leisure time based on access to public transportation, much like in Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore. The metro will not only change how people travel but also help foster a greener, more modern, and more sustainable urban lifestyle.

Ministry mandates aviation service price declarations for listed firms from July 2026

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 07:12:00 GMT

According to the newly-issued notice, all six domestic airlines currently operating in Vietnam are subject to price declaration requirements.

The Ministry of Construction has issued Notice No. 375/TB-BXD, announcing the list of civil aviation service providers required to perform price declarations starting July 1, 2026.

According to the notice, in the regular domestic economy class passenger transport segment, all six airlines currently operating in the domestic market are subject to price declaration requirements. These include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines, and Sun PhuQuoc Airways.

The list also includes several aviation infrastructure operators. Notably, the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) is required to declare prices for various services, such as aircraft parking rentals, check-in counters, baggage carousels, jet bridges, ground commercial technical services, underground refueling infrastructure, and service franchises at airports.

In addition to ACV, other airport operators are also subject to price declarations for specific service categories. These include Van Don International Airport, Sun Airport JSC, Da Nang International Terminal Investment and Operation JSC, and Cam Ranh International Terminal JSC.

Regarding aviation fuel supply services, the ministry identified four companies mandated to declare prices: SKYPEC, Petrolimex Aviation JSC, Tan Son Nhat Petrol Commercial JSC, and Indochina Aviation Fuel Group.

According to the ministry, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) will serve as the focal point for receiving price declaration dossiers. The CAAV is also responsible for reviewing and updating the list of entities subject to these requirements to submit to the Ministry for official issuance in accordance with regulations.

Vneconomy-Đan Tiên

Transit-Oriented Development: A new urban development mode

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Lessons from cities across the globe show how TOD offers relief from a host of ills by creating quality living areas surrounding public transit.

In many of the world’s leading cities, public transportation is no longer viewed simply as infrastructure for moving people. Instead, urban rail networks and transit stations have become the foundation of a new urban development model: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Increasingly adopted from Asia to North America, TOD is emerging as one of the defining urban planning strategies of the 21st century.

More than simply building metro lines, TOD integrates transportation, land use, housing, and economic development into a single long-term strategy. As cities grapple with congestion, housing shortages, carbon emissions, and rapid urbanization, the model is gaining recognition as a way to address multiple challenges simultaneously.

From concept to strategy

The World Bank defines TOD as an urban planning approach that maximizes access to public transportation by encouraging higher-density, mixed-use, and pedestrian-friendly development around transit stations.

Unlike traditional planning, where transportation follows urban growth, TOD places transit at the center of the development process.

Urban planners often assess TOD through what is known as the “3V” framework: Node Value, or the strength of a station’s transportation connections; Place Value, which reflects the quality and intensity of development surrounding the station; and Market Value, which measures the economic and real estate value generated by improved accessibility. Together, these three elements determine whether a transit station functions simply as transport infrastructure or as a catalyst for urban development.

These three elements reinforce one another. A well-connected station without surrounding economic activity generates limited value, while a thriving commercial district without efficient transit cannot sustain long-term growth.

This explains why simply building metro lines does not automatically create successful TOD. Around the world, some cities have invested billions of dollars in urban rail only to experience disappointing ridership because land use remained unchanged and development failed to concentrate around stations.

Successful TOD projects treat metro systems as only one component of a much broader urban transformation. The real objective is creating vibrant districts where people can live, work, shop, and access public services within walking distance of transit.

Three global models

Though Hong Kong (China), Tokyo, and Singapore are widely regarded as the world’s leading examples of successful TOD, each has pursued a different strategy.

Hong Kong (China): Financing Transit Through Land Value

Hong Kong (China)’s success is built on the MTR Corporation’s renowned “Rail + Property” model. Instead of relying primarily on government subsidies, MTR is allowed to develop residential, office, retail, and mixed-use projects on land surrounding metro stations. As new rail lines increase nearby property values, part of that value is captured and reinvested into expanding the transit network.

The result is a self-reinforcing cycle in which transportation infrastructure creates land value, while land value finances transportation infrastructure. Many MTR stations have evolved into major commercial and residential hubs rather than simple transit stops, making Hong Kong (China) a global benchmark for land value capture.

Tokyo: Rail Companies That Build Communities

Tokyo demonstrates a different model, driven largely by private railway companies. For more than a century, operators such as the Tokyu Corporation and Seibu Holdings have developed housing, shopping centers, schools, hospitals, and business districts alongside their rail networks.

Stations function as community centers where residents can work, shop, study, and access essential services without relying on automobiles. This integrated approach has created a network of connected urban centers across the Tokyo metropolitan region while supporting one of the world’s highest public transit ridership rates.

Tokyo shows how rail systems can shape the growth of an entire metropolitan area when transportation and land development are planned together.

Singapore: TOD as National Policy

Singapore has embedded TOD into its national planning strategy from the beginning. Because land is scarce, transportation and land-use planning have always been developed together. The MRT network serves as the backbone of the country’s urban structure, with residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, industrial areas, schools, and hospitals planned around transit accessibility.

Singapore also discourages private vehicle ownership through measures including electronic road pricing and high vehicle registration costs. A defining feature of its model is the integration of public housing with transit. Most Housing Development Board estates are located near MRT stations or connected by feeder bus services, allowing public transportation to support both economic growth and social inclusion.

While Hong Kong (China), Tokyo, and Singapore employ different approaches, they share one fundamental principle: transportation, land development, and urban planning are integrated under a long-term vision.

Challenges in TOD

Despite its many benefits, TOD is not without its drawbacks. Vancouver in Canada offers one of North America’s strongest examples of successful transit-oriented planning. Over the past three decades, the metropolitan region has expanded its SkyTrain network while encouraging higher-density development around stations. The strategy has helped reduce car dependence, limit urban sprawl, and create a series of vibrant urban centers.

According to the OECD, Vancouver’s success stems from coordinating transportation investment with land-use planning across the metropolitan region rather than treating them as separate policies.

However, the city also highlights one of TOD’s greatest challenges. Improved transit accessibility has significantly increased property values around stations, making many formerly middle-income neighborhoods among Canada’s most expensive housing markets. Without complementary housing policies, better transit can unintentionally reduce housing affordability and push lower-income residents farther from areas with the best transportation access. TOD can also accelerate gentrification as redevelopment attracts higher-income residents while displacing existing communities.

Another challenge is time. Building successful transit-oriented communities typically requires decades of consistent planning and investment. Many of today’s best-known TOD districts evolved over a period of 20-40 years before reaching maturity.

These experiences demonstrate that TOD is not measured by the number of stations or kilometers of rail constructed. Success depends on coordinating transportation, land use, housing, and economic development over the long term.

Lessons for growing cities

For rapidly-urbanizing economies, TOD represents more than a transportation strategy, it offers a new model for sustainable urban growth. International experience suggests five key lessons.

First, TOD should begin with urban planning rather than transportation projects. Transit should shape how cities grow, not simply accommodate future demand.

Second, stations should become destinations in their own right. Their greatest value lies in attracting residents, businesses, jobs, and public services - not simply moving passengers.

Third, governments should establish mechanisms to capture rising land values generated by new transit infrastructure. Hong Kong (China) demonstrates that these revenues can become an important source of long-term infrastructure financing.

Fourth, transportation and housing policies must be developed together. Without affordable housing, TOD risks widening social inequality instead of creating inclusive communities.

Finally, TOD should be viewed as a long-term strategy rather than a construction project. Transforming cities requires sustained planning, investment, governance, and policy continuity over several decades.

As Asian economies invest heavily in new metro and urban rail networks, TOD is increasingly being recognized as an economic development strategy rather than simply a transportation solution.

Ultimately, the cities that thrive in the 21st century will not necessarily be those that build the most kilometers of metro lines. They will be those that successfully transform transit networks into engines of urban renewal, higher living standards, and long-term economic growth.

-TRONG THOAN

Deputy PM: businesses are the decisive driver of Net Zero success

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 01:40:00 GMT

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang made these remarks at the "World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026" on July 8.

The business community is the pivotal force determining the success or failure of the nation’s sustainable energy transition, stated Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang.

He made these remarks at the "World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026," themed "Vietnam's Pathway to Net Zero," held in Hanoi on July 8 by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).

Emphasizing that climate change is the greatest global challenge facing humanity, with far-reaching impacts on every aspect of life, Mr. Thang noted that as a highly open economy experiencing rapid growth and high energy demand, Vietnam is among the countries most visibly affected by these shifts.

The Deputy PM reiterated the consistent stance of the Party and State: economic growth must go hand-in-hand with sustainable development, social progress, and equity. He underscored that the government remains resolute in its refusal to trade environmental integrity for economic expansion.

He further noted that emission reduction targets have been institutionalized through key policy frameworks, including Politburo Resolution No. 70-NQ/TW on national energy security through 2030, with a vision to 2045, and National Assembly Resolution No. 253/2025/QH15 regarding national energy development policies for the 2026-2030 period.

Currently, the Government is focused on drafting and finalizing a new Resolution that will continue to place environmental protection, green transition, and energy transition at the core of the nation's development strategy.

Four decisive orientations

To ensure the energy transition becomes the core of the Net Zero roadmap, Deputy PM Thang emphasized four decisive guiding orientations:

First, implementing a phased, effective, and stable energy transition. The Government will focus on perfecting mechanisms, diversifying supply sources, investing in transmission and storage infrastructure, and encouraging private sector participation.

"We will not abruptly eliminate traditional energy sources. Instead, we must use them more efficiently, applying new technologies to strictly control emissions and gradually reducing their share according to a set roadmap," said Mr. Thang.

"The transition process must simultaneously satisfy three requirements: ensuring sufficient energy for growth, reducing emissions as committed, and guaranteeing a just transition for workers, businesses, and localities."

Second, resolutely adhering to the principle of not sacrificing the environment for growth. Greenhouse gas reduction must be harmonized with the innovation of growth models. This includes elevating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards for Vietnamese goods within global supply chains.

Third, establishing green finance and the carbon market as core pillars. The Government identifies green finance as a vital driver for mobilizing both international and domestic resources.

Vietnam will continue to refine its legal framework, integrate environmental standards into budget management, develop green capital markets (green bonds, green credit), and apply preferential tax policies for green projects. Simultaneously, the country will finalize the domestic carbon trading platform to create a transparent and effective carbon pricing mechanism.

Fourth, leveraging the pivotal role of the business community and local authorities. Enterprises from all economic sectors are the decisive force behind the success of the Net Zero journey. Localities must take the lead in planning, improving the investment environment, and cutting administrative red tape to create the best possible conditions for green projects.

A whole view of the "World Energy and Environment Forum - Vietnam 2026". Photo: Song Hà

From commitment to action

With a resolute spirit of "moving from commitment to action," Deputy PM Thang assigned specific tasks to each ministry, agency, and organization.

He emphasized that the business community must view green transformation and ESG governance as both a survival strategy and an opportunity to enhance competitiveness. Businesses are encouraged to review their technologies, conduct emissions inventories, ensure transparency in environmental data, and actively participate in the carbon market.

On the occasion, the Deputy PM called on the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), international environmental and sustainable development organizations, and developed nations to provide more practical support programs to help Vietnam and its businesses achieve emission reduction targets on schedule.

Speaking at the forum, Vice President of VCCI and Chairman of the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD), Mr. Nguyen Quang Vinh, stated that Net Zero is no longer a distant concept but has officially become a new standard of national and corporate competitiveness.

"For Vietnam, realizing Net Zero goals is not just about fulfilling an international commitment; it is an optimal strategic choice to improve the quality of growth, firmly consolidate energy security, and increase the resilience of the entire economy against external shocks," said Mr. Vinh. He also clearly positioned the role of the private sector, declaring that the business community is the vanguard force in transforming sustainable development goals into concrete actions.

Vneconomy-Song Hà

Hanoi apartment supply hits six-year high

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:35:00 GMT

16,600 new units were introduced during the first six months of 2026.

Hanoi's residential property market recorded its strongest first-half apartment launch since 2020, with 16,600 new units introduced during the first six months of 2026, according to property consultancy CBRE.

The market continued to shift toward premium housing. For the second consecutive quarter, no newly launched apartments were priced below VND60 million ($2,300) per sq.m, excluding VAT, maintenance fees and discounts.

Instead, units priced between VND80 million and VND100 million per sq.m accounted for 30% of new supply, while those priced above VND120 million made up 35%.

Demand, however, showed signs of slowing. More than 5,800 apartments were sold in the second quarter, equivalent to just 68% of newly launched supply, well below the absorption rates of over 90% commonly seen during 2024–2025.

Primary apartment prices continued to rise, averaging nearly VND95 million per sq.m in the second quarter, up 12% from the previous quarter and 21% year-on-year. In contrast, average secondary-market prices slipped nearly 3% quarter-on-quarter to VND60 million per sq.m, marking the first notable decline since late 2022.

Looking ahead, CBRE expects new supply to remain strong, with total launches in 2026 projected to approach 39,000 units, surpassing the previous annual record set in 2019.

-Thanh Xuân

Da Nang city's economy expands 9.52% in 6M

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The city ranking 13th among Vietnam's 34 provinces and centrally governed cities and the fastest-growing locality in the country's South Central Coast region.

Central Da Nang city's economy expanded 9.52% in the first half of 2026, ranking 13th among Vietnam's 34 provinces and centrally governed cities and the fastest-growing locality in the country's South Central Coast region, according to the city's Statistics Office.

The strong performance has reinforced the city's determination to achieve double-digit economic growth for the full year.

To meet its 2026 growth target of 11.22%, however, Da Nang will need to maintain even stronger momentum in the second half of the year. City officials said achieving the goal will require coordinated efforts from government agencies, businesses and residents.

Under the city’s Department of Finance's growth scenario, Da Nang must post economic growth of 12.74% in the second half of the year, including 12.48% in the third quarter and 12.99% in the fourth.

Public investment disbursement has provided support for the city's growth strategy. As of June 30, Da Nang had disbursed 41.5% of the public investment capital allocated by the Prime Minister, reflecting continued progress in implementing key infrastructure projects expected to underpin economic expansion during the remainder of the year.

-Ngô Anh Văn

Deputy PM calls for stronger crackdown on smuggling and counterfeit goods

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The fight against smuggling, commercial fraud, counterfeit products and intellectual property infringement must remain a continuous task for the entire political system.

Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc has called on ministries, government agencies and local authorities to strengthen efforts to combat smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeit goods, with particular focus on e-commerce, food, pharmaceuticals and intellectual property violations.

Speaking at a nationwide online conference reviewing the first six months of 2026 and outlining priorities for the remainder of the year, the Deputy Prime Minister, who is also Head of the National Steering Committee 389, that had been established under the Prime Ministerial Decision 389/QD-TTg to lead the combat against smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeit goods, stressed that the fight against smuggling, commercial fraud, counterfeit products and intellectual property infringement must remain a continuous task for the entire political system.

He noted that the illegal importation of goods and the falsification of product origin and labeling remain widespread. The production and sale of counterfeit, substandard and untraceable goods, as well as products infringing intellectual property rights, continue to occur across the country, particularly on e-commerce platforms, posing growing risks to consumer health and market integrity.

The Deputy Prime Minister instructed relevant authorities to rigorously implement directives issued by the Government and the National Steering Committee 389. Priority areas include combating the illegal trade and transport of narcotics, smuggling of gold, foreign currencies and next-generation tobacco products, preventing the export of goods falsely labeled as Vietnamese, and strengthening enforcement against intellectual property violations.

He also urged ministries to review and improve the legal framework while accelerating digital transformation and the use of information technology to enhance enforcement against smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeit goods.

-Hà Lê

Benefits from biofuels

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The nationwide adoption of E5 and E10 blended gasoline has proceeded smoothly though significant obstacles in production capacity, feedstock availability, and financing remain.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, after implementing the E5 and E10 biofuel roadmap nationwide for 16 days, from June 1 to June 17, total biofuel consumption reached approximately 540 million liters, including 500 million liters of E10 and 40 million liters of E5. This was comparable to previous consumption levels of conventional gasoline, ensuring that transportation, logistics, and agricultural production activities continued without disruption to the economy. However, economists caution that these figures represent only the initial stage of the transition.

The nationwide shift to E5 and E10 biofuels marks a strategic step toward building a circular bio-economy. To overcome challenges related to feedstock supply and technology, however, Vietnam will need a coordinated approach encompassing policy reforms and green finance solutions to establish a self-reliant and sustainable energy ecosystem.

Opportunity for transformation

From a macro-economic perspective, the development of biofuels is about far more than replacing conventional gasoline. It is increasingly viewed as a critical solution for strengthening the economy’s resilience against global energy shocks. Vietnam remains dependent on imports for a portion of its crude oil and refined fuel needs. Expanding domestic biofuel production could directly reduce gasoline import demand by 8-10 per cent while lowering greenhouse gas emissions in line with blending ratios.

Highlighting the sector’s potential, Mr. Mai Tuan Dat, Deputy General Director of the PetroVietnam Refining and Petrochemical Corporation, pointed to lessons from one of the world’s leading biofuel producers. “Brazil is a major crude oil exporter, yet it has consistently developed biofuels as a national advantage, with blending ratios reaching E20 and E30,” he explained. “Based on Vietnam’s current fuel demand, annual ethanol (E100) consumption could reach around 1 million cu m, creating an industry worth nearly VND20 trillion ($769 million). If the value chain is optimized, more than VND10 trillion ($385 million), equivalent to roughly 70 per cent of feedstock costs, could flow directly to farmers, fishermen, and those working in agriculture, forestry, and aquaculture.”

Similarly, Associate Professor Nguyen Hong Quan, Director of the Institute for Circular Economy Development (ICED), said biofuels should be considered within the broader framework of a circular bio-economy rather than from a narrow or short-term perspective.

Vietnam’s abundant agricultural residues and by-products could strengthen national competitiveness, he said. Beyond cassava and sugarcane, biofuel feedstocks could include fish oil, organic waste, and other biomass resources, enabling more efficient use of both land- and water-based resources.

Persistent bottlenecks

Despite being described as a potential “gold mine,” Vietnam’s biofuel industry continues to face significant structural barriers, ranging from production capacity and technology to feedstock supply.

One of the most pressing challenges is limited domestic production capacity amid intensifying global competition. Vietnam built seven ethanol plants between 2010 and 2014 under an earlier biofuel development program. However, only four have resumed operations, with combined output of around 20,000-25,000 cu m per month; enough to meet only some 25 per cent of nationwide ethanol demand.

According to Mr. Dao Duy Anh, Deputy Director General of the Department of Innovation, Green Transition and Industrial Promotion at the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), even if six of the plants were fully restored, annual production capacity would reach only about 500,000 cu m; enough to supply just half of the ethanol required for E10 gasoline blending. The remainder would still need to be imported.

At the same time, domestic producers face intense price competition from major ethanol exporters such as the US, which produces ethanol from corn, and Brazil, which relies on sugarcane and benefits from substantial government support.

Feedstock supply presents another major challenge. Vietnam’s bioethanol industry currently depends almost entirely on dried cassava chips. Though annual production of cassava chips is estimated at around 5 million tons and only 1.5 million tons would theoretically be needed to produce 1 million cu m of ethanol, the sector faces significant constraints.

Mr. Nguyen Hung Manh, Chief of Office at the Vietnam Cassava Association, noted that cassava production is highly seasonal and incurs substantial storage costs. Ethanol producers must also compete with higher-margin cassava starch processors, animal feed manufacturers, and export markets for raw materials. Vietnam already imports cassava chips and fresh cassava roots from Cambodia and Laos.

Historical experience has shown that when global oil prices fall and domestic gasoline prices drop below VND20,000 per liter, ethanol plants quickly become unprofitable and struggle to compete for feedstock supplies.

Another challenge lies in the lack of coordinated financial support mechanisms. Ms. Luu Anh Nguyet from the National Institute for Economics and Finance at the Ministry of Finance acknowledged that while Vietnam is gradually developing frameworks for green credit, green bonds, and sustainable finance taxonomies, dedicated long-term financial mechanisms for the biofuel sector remain limited.

Biofuel projects typically feature large upfront investments, long payback periods, and significant exposure to global oil price volatility. Without attractive financing packages and risk-sharing mechanisms, private sector participation is likely to remain limited.

Five breakthrough solutions

To move beyond the cycle of intermittent growth and stagnation, experts argue that Vietnam needs a comprehensive strategy that shifts from administrative mandates toward market-based incentives.

The first priority is establishing a stable long-term roadmap for biofuel blending while diversifying feedstock sources. A predictable policy framework would provide investors with greater confidence to commit capital. Vietnam should also accelerate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) policies to align with global decarbonization trends. At the same time, the country must move beyond its dependence on cassava and expand into advanced biomass feedstocks that do not compete with food production.

The second priority is investing in technologies that convert agricultural waste into energy. Public investment should support innovation and technology transfer, including next-generation ethanol plants capable of processing rice straw, rice husks, and organic waste. Such projects would not only reduce production costs but also address the environmental problems associated with open-field burning of agricultural residues.

Third, policymakers should develop dedicated green credit programs and value-chain financing mechanisms. Under such models, banks would assess projects based on the cash flows and contractual relationships across the entire value chain, from the cultivation and collection of biomass to production, blending, and distribution, rather than relying solely on collateral. Specialized blended-finance institutions could also provide preferential green financing to lower initial capital barriers.

Fourth, Vietnam needs to standardize lifecycle emissions data and integrate biofuels into carbon markets. Developing a national database on biomass resources and lifecycle assessment methodologies would allow domestic biofuel products to meet green certification standards, improving access to international climate finance, facilitating green bond issuance, and enabling participation in Vietnam’s planned carbon market, which is expected to become fully operational after 2028.

Finally, tax and fee policies should be used more strategically to create a meaningful price advantage for biofuels. While Vietnam has already introduced incentives such as preferential environmental protection taxes and a zero Special Consumption Tax rate for biofuels during periods of energy market volatility, experts believe a stable long-term tax framework is needed to ensure a sufficient price gap between biofuels and conventional gasoline. Such a differential would provide consumers with a natural economic incentive to choose greener fuels without relying on administrative measures.

-Song Ha

Transit-Oriented Development as backbone of urban planning

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The true value of Transit-Oriented Development lies not in building adjacent to rail lines but in creating vibrant urban areas where mobility, housing, retail, and public spaces reinforce one another.

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has been successfully implemented in many major cities around the world, delivering clear benefits by reducing dependence on private vehicles, lowering carbon emissions, and boosting economic productivity. More importantly, cities that have adopted TOD have not only improved quality of life but also generated sustainable real estate value, attracted investment, and stimulated local economic development.

According to Dr. Chua Yang Liang, Head of Research and Consultancy for Southeast Asia at JLL, the term “Transit-Oriented Development” was formally coined by American urban designer Peter Calthorpe in his landmark 1993 book, “The Next American Metropolis.” He proposed the model as a structured and evidence-based response to the growing problem of automobile-dependent urban sprawl across the US. The core idea is simple yet transformative: locate housing, retail, and community amenities within comfortable walking distance of public transit stations, and design entire neighborhoods around people rather than motor vehicles. By the 2000s, American town centers had retained their traditional functions while undergoing a fundamental transformation in architecture and urban planning. Many are now anchored by multimodal transit hubs, where Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines intersect with buses, taxis, and cycling infrastructure.

In Asia, however, the concept of TOD emerged much earlier in densely-populated cities such as Singapore and Hong Kong (China). According to Japan’s Urban Renaissance Agency, one of the earliest examples dates back to around 1910 in the Kansai region of Osaka, where Hankyu Railway, then one of Japan’s largest railway operators, successfully integrated commercial and office developments around its terminal stations. The concept was later introduced to Tokyo by Hankyu Railway in 1920.

In recent years, major cities in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia have also been developing their own versions of TOD to accommodate rapid urbanization as well as expanding modern public transport networks. Each city has adapted the model to suit its own cultural, demographic, and market conditions.

Direction of TOD in Vietnam

In Vietnam, the TOD concept, defined as urban development centered around public transit stations within a one-kilometer walking radius, initially failed to gain widespread traction. Residents of the country’s major cities traditionally prioritized road access to city centers by private vehicles over public transportation options. However, this perception has shifted significantly in recent years, driven by the long-delayed metro systems that officially began operations in November 2021 in Hanoi and December 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City.

During more than a decade of metro construction, Vietnam’s two largest cities witnessed vibrant real estate activity, with numerous developments emerging along urban railway corridors.

According to JLL Vietnam, projects located within a ten-minute walk of metro stations now account for 14-16 per cent of total commercial real estate supply and 4-9 per cent of residential supply in the two markets. These figures highlight the growing importance of transit-linked developments within the overall real estate landscape of Vietnam’s two largest cities.

Properties adjacent to metro stations have also recorded notable price appreciation since metro operations began. On average, prices increased by approximately $200-250 per sq m over one year, equivalent to an annual growth rate of around 8 per cent; double the 4 per cent market average recorded in Ho Chi Minh City in 2025. This premium clearly demonstrates the added value generated by TOD projects compared with conventional real estate developments.

The contrast has been even more pronounced in Hanoi. According to JLL, metro-adjacent projects recorded price growth of 19 per cent, compared with the overall market average of just 12 per cent in 2022. This exceptional 19 per cent increase is particularly notable given the broader challenges facing the real estate market during the period.

The market’s positive response to metro-oriented developments has strengthened policymakers’ confidence in accelerating TOD implementation. Observations indicate that TOD has attracted significant interest from both authorities and developers since 2023, particularly following the passage of National Assembly Resolution No. 98/2023/QH15, which authorized the pilot implementation of transit-oriented urban development in Ho Chi Minh City. Stakeholders across the board, including developers, homebuyers, and government agencies, have increasingly recognized the transformative potential of the TOD model.

As a result, TOD has become a central pillar of urban planning and project marketing strategies. It is no longer viewed merely as a real estate trend but as an important policy instrument for guiding sustainable urban growth. Encouraging TOD serves a dual purpose: creating vital transport infrastructure while also establishing a “third place” - a shared social environment where people can gather, interact, and build strong community connections.

Since 2025, the Vietnamese Government has adopted TOD as a solution to reduce population concentration in inner-city districts. This policy shift, together with the emergence of integrated urban developments along ring roads, has created new momentum that promises to improve the ring road network while promoting balanced urban expansion in all directions. The change also aligns with a broader trend that has emerged over the past decade: large-scale integrated townships. Real estate developers have increasingly embraced comprehensive approaches to integrated urban development, seeking to overcome locational disadvantages by creating self-contained commercial and recreational amenities.

Looking ahead, TOD applications in Vietnam are expected to expand beyond rail systems to include road-based public transportation, such as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

Four fundamental pillars

Based on our observations of the real estate market, successful TOD projects should be built upon four fundamental pillars: connectivity, non-motorized transportation, amenities, and mixed-use real estate development. Each of these pillars plays a critical and complementary role in creating a complete and sustainable TOD ecosystem.

Today, most developers primarily focus on creating direct physical connections between their projects and public transit stations. Unfortunately, many overlook, or have yet to fully capitalize on, the opportunity to enhance connectivity through green spaces and non-motorized transport infrastructure.

Unlike conventional real estate development, TOD requires that developers expand their role by introducing dedicated operational teams that function much like shopping mall management operators, but at the scale of an entire urban district. Their objective is to actively cultivate pedestrian traffic, encourage community participation through cultural and social events, and create meaningful public experiences.

Most TOD projects currently planned in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are located in suburban areas with substantial land reserves, positioning them for the development of large-scale, high-density urban districts with diverse property types. Developers therefore need to carefully consider the optimal balance between residential and commercial components.

These townships should also incorporate strategic amenities capable of attracting pedestrian traffic from transit stations into the development itself, rather than serving only project residents. This requires a different planning and management approach, in which public and commercial spaces are designed to attract and serve both residents and visitors from outside the development.

As developers gradually learn to strike a balance between investment in hard infrastructure and community activation, the expansion and evolution of TOD urban areas will become more sustainable, more equitable, and significantly more livable.

After just three decades of modern development, Vietnam’s real estate industry must now quickly master the complex art of place-making. Ultimately, the success of integrated TOD communities will depend on their ability to create neighborhoods with genuine identity and vibrant urban life, balancing investment in physical infrastructure with sustained community building. Achieving that balance will enable cities to grow in ways that are more sustainable, equitable, and livable, and will define the next chapter of Vietnam’s urban transformation.

(*) Ms. Le Thi Huyen Trang, Country Head and Head of Research and Consulting at JLL Vietnam.

-Ms. Le Thi Huyen Trang (*)

Vietnam endorses Montreal Declaration, naming energy efficiency a top priority

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:30:00 GMT

According to experts, Vietnam’s endorsement of the joint declaration is of strategic importance as domestic electricity demand continues to surge driven by industrialization, urbanization, and digital transformation.

At the 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency of the International Energy Agency (IEA) that concluded in late June in Montreal, Canada, Vietnam was among the participating nations that joined the consensus to endorse the Montreal Declaration on Energy Efficiency.

Under the declaration, Vietnam and the international community reaffirmed the principle of "energy efficiency as the top priority" and expressed support for the goal of doubling the global rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030.

Vietnam’s participation in the Montreal Declaration establishes a foundation for the country to further monitor and explore deeper involvement in the IEA’s multilateral cooperation mechanisms. This serves as a vital channel for Vietnam to access high-quality data, policy expertise, technical tools, and public-private partnership (PPP) models in the field of energy conservation.

According to experts, Vietnam’s endorsement of the joint declaration is of strategic importance as domestic electricity demand continues to surge driven by industrialization, urbanization, and digital transformation.

This event marked the first time the IEA's annual energy efficiency conference was held in North America. It attracted over 600 delegates, including dozens of ministers and high-ranking officials from more than 40 governments, alongside 70 CEOs from the world’s leading energy, finance, and technology corporations.

The conference took place amidst significant volatility in global energy markets caused by conflicts in the Middle East and shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other essential energy commodities.

In this challenging context, participating countries reached a consensus that energy efficiency is one of the fastest and most cost-effective solutions available. It not only helps reduce energy bills for households and businesses but also bolsters national energy security.

The core message of “energy efficiency as the top priority” is the centerpiece of the Montreal Declaration on Energy Efficiency—also known as the Montreal Action Plan—which was released at the close of the conference that took place from June 29-30. The declaration reaffirms the target of doubling the average global rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030, a goal previously agreed upon by nations at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in 2023.

Vneconomy-An Chi

Quang Ninh proposes adding nearly 19.6 million sq.m of housing floor area

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The northern province is focusing on expediting delayed projects and implementing a strategic shift in governance mindset—moving from "homeownership" to "rental housing" to meet the needs of workers in industrial parks and economic zones.

The Quang Ninh Provincial People's Council in northern Vietnam has announced that during its 3rd session (scheduled for July 8–9, 2026), it will consider and approve a resolution to adjust the Housing Development Program to 2030.

The program sets a target for the total additional housing floor area of 48.65 million sq.m (an increase of approximately 19.57 million sq.m), with total projected investment capital reaching VND418.2 trillion (approximately $15.9 billion), an increase of VND118.97 trillion or $4.52 billion.

Previously, the local People's Committee proposed adjustments to the program, including an additional 16.44 million sq.m of floor area for commercial housing and over 1.49 million sq.m for social housing.

According to the Provincial People's Committee, adjusting the Housing Development Program is essential. This adjustment plays a vital role in state management and housing development orientation, serving as the foundation for the 2026–2030 housing development plan.

The Provincial People's Committee noted that the current program had approved by the People's Council in 2020. Since then, policies regarding housing, land, and real estate have undergone fundamental changes. This follows the enactment of the 2023 Housing Law, the 2023 Law on Real Estate Business, and the 2024 Land Law, along with several other revised and supplemented mechanisms and policies.

Furthermore, the province is focusing on expediting delayed projects and implementing a strategic shift in governance mindset—moving from "homeownership" to "rental housing" to meet the needs of workers in industrial parks and economic zones.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Hoàng

New opportunities for Hanoi’s real estate market

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:30:00 GMT

The launch of five new metro lines marks the beginning of Hanoi’s Transit-Oriented Development strategy, creating new opportunities for the capital’s real estate market.

The breaking of ground at five new urban railway projects in Hanoi marks a pivotal moment in the capital’s development, laying the foundation for a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model that aims to reshape how the city grows. By integrating transport with housing, commercial development, and public services, the metro network is expected to create new growth centers while unlocking land value along its corridors.

These new projects represent Hanoi’s largest transport infrastructure program to date and one of Vietnam’s most ambitious urban investments, signaling a shift from developing individual metro lines to building an integrated rail network that reduces road congestion, expands the city’s development footprint, and improves quality of life.

To prepare for construction, the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor consortium of Vinhomes and VinSpeed has completed route surveys, procured large numbers of tunnel boring machines (TBMs), expanded its fleet of diaphragm wall and bored-pile equipment, and mobilized thousands of transport vehicles for excavation works. The consortium is also working with leading consultants from Europe, Japan, South Korea, and China on detailed designs while partnering with experienced international tunneling contractors and suppliers of trains and signaling and operating systems.

“The consortium is committed to mobilizing substantial resources, implementing construction systematically and applying advanced technologies to ensure quality, safety, and progress,” said Mr. Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup. “We will make every effort to minimize disruption to residents while ensuring the projects meet all technical and regulatory requirements.”

Creating opportunities

Historically, residential and commercial projects near metro stations have often recorded strong price appreciation once rail lines become operational. That has fueled expectations that Hanoi’s five new metro lines will generate sustained demand for housing and boost property values along their routes.

Mr. Nguyen Van Ngoc, Deputy CEO of Newstarland, believes metro infrastructure will be the single most influential driver of urban real estate values over the next 10 to 20 years. “In the short term, metro projects create market expectations,” he said. “In the long term, they create real value and establish a new pricing benchmark.”

Property values rise not simply because a metro line passes through an area, he continued, but because improved accessibility attracts residents, jobs, businesses, and services. The biggest beneficiaries are typically major interchange stations, large integrated townships along metro corridors, gateway districts, and satellite cities directly connected to central Hanoi. He added that metro-driven appreciation generally follows four stages: planning announcements, breaking of ground, construction, and commercial operation.

With all five projects now entering the construction phase, surrounding real estate markets are beginning to attract medium and long-term investment. However, Mr. Ngoc cautioned against speculative buying. “This is a stage for long-term asset accumulation rather than short-term speculation,” he said. “Even under optimistic timelines, the metro network will not be completed until around 2030, while surrounding urban areas and supporting infrastructure will require additional years to mature.”

Mr. Nguyen Dang Nhien, Investment and Asset Management Adviser, said many investors mistakenly assume that any property near a metro line will automatically appreciate in value. “A metro line does not increase the value of every surrounding property,” he said. “It creates substantial value only for assets located at the intersection of transport infrastructure, pedestrian flows, commercial activity, and genuine live-work ecosystems. Metro lines are a powerful catalyst, but cannot rescue properties with weak locations, poor planning, or limited liquidity.”

Rather than focusing on the scale of investment or the number of new lines, Mr. Nhien said the more significant development is Hanoi’s adoption of a comprehensive TOD strategy. “The objective is no longer simply reducing traffic congestion,” he said. “It is about redistributing the population, expanding the urban footprint, creating new growth centers, and fundamentally revaluing land across the city.”

Location still key

Mr. Nhien believes eastern and northeastern Hanoi, including Dong Anh, Gia Lam, and areas east of the Red River, are among the strongest long-term prospects. These districts still have significant land reserves, are receiving major investment in roads and bridges, and fit naturally into Hanoi’s long-term multi-center development strategy.

However, he warned that they are also among the areas most vulnerable to speculative price inflation. “Anyone buying solely on rumors or market hype risks paying for someone else’s expectations,” he said.

TOD and the development of new economic centers are the inevitable direction for major cities such as Hanoi. As the government invests in transport infrastructure and new growth poles, areas connected by public transit are expected to become future residential hubs. However, infrastructure alone is not enough. New urban areas must also integrate housing, jobs, education, healthcare, and other social amenities. Only then can satellite cities ease pressure on the urban core while creating new momentum for the real estate market.”

Mr. Tran Quang Trung, Business Development Director at OneHousing

Western Hanoi, particularly Hoa Lac and its surrounding technology and education corridor, also offers long-term potential. If metro connectivity is completed as planned, the area could evolve into a major hub for technology professionals, researchers, students, and supporting services.

Meanwhile, southern Hanoi already benefits from established communities, commercial activity, and genuine housing demand. Metro connectivity would therefore enhance not only market expectations but also the practical value and income-generating potential of residential property.

Still, Mr. Nhien stressed that proximity to a metro line alone should never drive an investment decision. For metro-oriented developments, distance to the station matters far more than distance to the railway itself. A property within a five to 10-minute walk of a station may perform significantly better than one located beside the tracks but several kilometers from the nearest stop.

Rather than buying indiscriminately along metro corridors, investors should focus on properties with genuine end-user demand, strong rental or commercial potential, and prices that have not already fully reflected future infrastructure benefits. “If a property’s only selling point is that a metro line will eventually pass nearby, that’s closer to speculation than investment,” he believes.

Improving affordability

While metro infrastructure is expected to reshape Hanoi’s real estate market, experts argue that TOD should ultimately be judged by broader urban development goals rather than rising land prices.

Ms. Giang Do, National Head of Valuation and Feasibility Studies at Savills Vietnam, said the success of TOD should be measured by its ability to improve access to housing, employment, and public services. “The fundamental goal of TOD is sustainable urban development, not simply increasing land values around metro stations,” she said.

The issue is becoming increasingly important as housing affordability continues to deteriorate in Vietnam’s major cities. According to Savills Vietnam, affordable Grade C apartments accounted for more than 80 per cent of apartment transactions prior to 2020. Between 2021 and 2025, that share fell below 35 per cent, while Hanoi recorded no new Grade C apartment launches in the first quarter of 2026. Over the same period, the city’s apartment price index has more than doubled compared to 2009.

“If TOD pushes land prices around metro stations even higher without appropriate policy intervention, the people who rely most on public transport - workers and middle-income households - could ultimately be priced out of the areas with the best infrastructure,” Ms. Giang said. To avoid that outcome, she outlined three priorities.

First, planning around metro stations should prioritize dense, mixed-use neighborhoods where residents can live, work, and access services within walking distance. Affordable and social housing should be integrated into TOD zones, particularly within a 300 to 500-meter radius of stations.

International planning experts have also advocated balanced housing mixes in TOD projects, often described as a “1-3-6” ratio: one part ultra-luxury housing, three parts premium housing, and six parts affordable or social housing. While the exact proportions should vary by location, Ms. Giang said housing diversity should be built into planning from the outset rather than left entirely to market forces.

Second, financing mechanisms must encourage private sector participation. Simply requiring developers to build affordable housing without financial incentives is unlikely to be sustainable. One widely adopted approach is floor area ratio (FAR) bonuses, allowing developers to increase building height or floor area in exchange for providing affordable, social, or rental housing.

TOD should be viewed within the broader context of Vietnam’s strategic technology agenda, where high-speed rail is closely linked to urban development. As Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City expand their metro networks, the focus should extend beyond transport infrastructure to include research, technology, technical standards and workforce development. Without clear standards, technical guidelines, and skilled professionals, TOD will be difficult to implement effectively.

Professor Nguyen Hoang Giang, Vice Rector of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering

Third, land management should ensure the benefits of new infrastructure are shared more broadly. When allocating or auctioning land near metro stations, authorities should include public interest requirements such as affordable housing, public spaces, pedestrian connections, and rental housing.

Ms. Giang also highlighted land value capture mechanisms, whereby part of the increase in land value generated by transport infrastructure can be reinvested into affordable housing funds, rental subsidies, or resettlement programs rather than being used solely for new infrastructure projects.

She noted that Vietnam’s revised Capital Law and National Assembly Resolution No. 188/2025/QH15 have established a stronger legal foundation for TOD by supporting compact urban development, integrated land use, and closer coordination between housing and public transportation.

“The question is no longer whether Vietnam should pursue TOD,” Ms. Giang believes. “The challenge is ensuring that planning, financing, and land management are implemented together. If done well, TOD could become one of the country’s most important tools for addressing urban housing needs over the next 10 to 20 years.”

-Phan Nam

Hanoi to digitalize 100% of employment data by 2030

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The city will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automate the screening and matching of profiles, striving to reduce average recruitment times for businesses and waiting periods for job seekers by 30% to 50%.

The Hanoi People's Committee has issued a blueprint to develop the city's digital labor market, focusing on enhancing human resource quality and transitioning the workforce toward a digital and green economy.

Under this plan, Hanoi aims to digitalize 100% of its employment data by 2030. The city will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automate the screening and matching of profiles, striving to reduce average recruitment times for businesses and waiting periods for job seekers by 30% to 50%.

Furthermore, the city will promote and standardize remote and flexible work models. This initiative is designed to help local enterprises effectively tap into high-quality human resources from across the country and international markets.

Hanoi also aims for 80% to 90% of its workforce to possess basic Information Technology (IT) skills. To address the supply-demand imbalance in tech talent, the city will restructure training programs at local universities, colleges, and vocational schools. Priority will be given to high-tech sectors, including AI, the semiconductor industry, and data analysis.

Regarding employment targets, the city plans to create new jobs for an average of 180,000 laborers annually. It aims to maintain a general unemployment rate below 2.5%, with the urban unemployment rate kept under 3%.

In terms of governance, Hanoi seeks to modernize state management of labor. The goal is to simplify 100% of administrative procedures related to labor and transition them into full-process online public services.

To achieve these ambitious targets, the municipal government has outlined several synchronized solutions, such as refining specialized mechanisms and policies to incentivize the digital labor market.

A key focus will be the effective implementation of policies to attract and utilize top talent, experts, and scientists in the fields of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Regarding technological infrastructure and data management, the city will develop synchronized digital profiles for both workers and businesses on the Hanoi Employment Information Portal. This system will be linked with the National Job Exchange and the city’s data integration axis to ensure the efficient sharing and utilization of information regarding enterprises, laborers, and employment opportunities.

Vneconomy-Thu Hằng

Vietnam, Denmark further boost healthcare partnership

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Under the renewed partnership, Vietnam and Denmark will deepen collaboration across health economics, digital health, and the use of health data to support more effective healthcare planning, evidence-based policymaking, and long-term viability of the national health insurance system.

Vietnam Social Security (VSS) and the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam on July 6 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation on sustainable health insurance and data-informed healthcare in Vietnam for the 2026-2028 period.

As non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and obesity grow increasingly prevalent, Vietnam's healthcare system faces a pressing need for better data to track disease trends, anticipate future demands, and ensure resources are allocated where they matter most.

Under the renewed partnership, Vietnam and Denmark will deepen collaboration across health economics, digital health, and the use of health data to support more effective healthcare planning, evidence-based policymaking, and long-term viability of the national health insurance system.

Building on 8 years of collaboration, the partnership has supported nationwide training programmes, policy dialogues, technical exchanges and study visits to strengthen Vietnam's health insurance system. More than 1,900 health insurance assessment officers across the country have taken part in training activities focused on non-communicable diseases.

Now entering its 5th phase, the partnership broadens its scope through policy dialogue, professional exchanges, capacity building and digital health initiatives, with greater focus on data-driven disease burden analysis, long-term health-economic assessments, and value-based payment approaches aimed at improving system efficiency, sustainability and patient outcomes.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Hoa, Deputy Director General of VSS, described the cooperation between VSS and the Embassy of Denmark as a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. Since the first MoU was signed in 2018, the partnership has been maintained without interruption and has grown progressively deeper.

"With the active support of the Embassy of Denmark, along with Danish agencies, organisations, businesses and international experts, VSS has been able to access a wealth of international experience in health insurance fund management, health economics, non-communicable disease management, and the application of data and digital transformation in healthcare. Training programmes, workshops and expert exchanges have not only strengthened the capacity of our staff, but also supported VSS in researching and refining policies, improving management practices, and modernising the implementation of health insurance. The knowledge shared by Denmark has become a valuable reference as VSS carries out its reform agenda, working towards a modern, efficient and sustainable health insurance system," Mr. Hoa said.

"Health insurance and universal health coverage remain shared priorities for both Denmark and Vietnam. Ensuring sustainable healthcare financing and equitable access to quality care require continuous innovation, strong partnerships and evidence-based policymaking. Through this new phase of cooperation, we are pleased to share Denmark's experience and work together to turn data into better policy, more effective use of healthcare resources, and ultimately better outcomes for patients. This partnership also continues to bring together public institutions and responsible private-sector partners to strengthen professional capacity, foster knowledge exchange and deepen institutional ties," said Mr. Lasse Pedersen Hjortshøj, Counsellor at the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam.

-Minh Anh

Hanoi's fiscal capacity and its ambitious metro line scheme

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hanoi’s ambitious metro line expansion will require far more than fiscal capacity and new financing tools to deliver on its promise.

On March 28, 2026, the Hanoi People’s Council approved a resolution on the city’s 2026-2030 Five-Year Financial Plan, establishing the framework for local budget revenues, expenditures, and borrowings over the next five years. Under the Plan, total local budget revenue is projected to exceed VND1,403 trillion ($54 billion), while total expenditure is expected to surpass VND1,533 trillion ($59 billion), resulting in a budget deficit of VND130.3 trillion ($5 billion).

Measuring fiscal capacity

To finance the deficit and meet principal repayment obligations, Hanoi’s total borrowing requirement has been set at approximately VND134.5 trillion ($5.2 billion).

Of the more than VND1,533 trillion ($59 billion) in planned expenditures, Hanoi expects to allocate VND864.7 trillion ($33.3 billion), or 56.4 per cent, to development investment, while VND533.3 trillion ($20.5 billion), or 34.8 per cent, will be earmarked for recurrent spending. The remainder will go to interest payments, public-sector wage reform, budget contingencies, and the financial reserve fund. Compared with the 2021-2025 period, Hanoi’s planned development investment has increased by approximately 33 per cent, from VND650.7 trillion ($25 billion). Over the next five years, the city plans to implement 2,755 projects, including 1,878 city-level projects and 877 commune-level projects.

Notably, the financial plan indicates that Hanoi still has considerable fiscal headroom. Under the resolution, the maximum outstanding local government debt during the period is capped at VND325.6 trillion ($12.5 billion), while outstanding debt at the end of the period is projected to stand at only VND141.6 trillion ($5.4 billion); equivalent to 43.5 per cent of the permitted ceiling.

This means that even after executing its planned borrowing for 2026-2030, Hanoi will still have approximately VND184 trillion ($7.1 billion) in additional borrowing capacity within its statutory debt limit. This provides an important fiscal buffer, allowing it to mobilize additional funding for development projects when necessary, provided it complies with the Law on the State Budget and maintains its debt repayment capacity.

However, less than three months after the financial plan was approved, Hanoi simultaneously broke ground on five new urban railway lines, on June 22. Together, the projects span approximately 303.5 km, carry a preliminary investment estimate of more than VND1,300 trillion ($50 billion), and are to be largely completed by 2030.

Compared with the fiscal targets approved by the Hanoi People’s Council, the preliminary investment cost of the five metro lines is equivalent to approximately 93 per cent of the city’s total projected budget revenue and around 85 per cent of its total budget expenditure for the entire 2026-2030 period. More strikingly, the investment is roughly 1.5-times larger than the entire VND864.7 trillion ($33.3 billion) allocated for development investment under the five-year financial plan.

The simultaneous launch of the five metro lines has therefore moved ahead of the financial framework needed to support them. While the investment scale has already been established, the mechanisms for generating revenue and mobilizing capital are still under development and have yet to receive approval from the Hanoi People’s Council.

According to draft resolutions submitted by the Hanoi People’s Committee, one notable proposal is to establish a mechanism for capturing the increase in land value generated by Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Under the proposal, Hanoi would introduce new revenue sources from land value appreciation following planning adjustments, additional gross floor area created through higher development intensity, the commercial exploitation of railway infrastructure assets, infrastructure improvement charges, and public transportation connectivity fees. The model is intended to recover part of the value created by the metro system and reinvest it directly into transportation infrastructure.

At the same time, Hanoi has proposed diversifying its funding sources through the issuance of project bonds, infrastructure bonds, municipal bonds, and green bonds, alongside local government bonds permitted under current regulations. The city also plans to expand borrowing from credit institutions and the State treasury. These financing instruments are expected to provide additional medium and long-term funding capacity for large-scale infrastructure projects.

Attracting market capital

According to one capital markets expert, Hanoi’s plans to introduce financial instruments such as TOD value capture and various bond issuances represent necessary first steps but are only part of the equation. The decisive factor in attracting investment is not the number of financing tools available, but the quality of the projects themselves and the credibility of the financial structure presented to the market.

The expert noted that capital in financial markets is never in short supply; it simply flows toward investment opportunities that offer superior risk-adjusted returns. Investors do not commit funds simply because a project is large or strategically important. Rather, they evaluate each opportunity against competing investments across regional and global markets, weighing expected returns against potential risks before making a decision. The challenge, therefore, is not to “unlock” capital but to create investment opportunities compelling enough for capital to flow in naturally.

According to the expert, Vietnam’s large-scale infrastructure programs, including its urban railway system, are attracting growing interest from international investors. However, that interest remains largely exploratory because the information currently available is limited mainly to master plans, preliminary investment estimates, and implementation targets. Critical documents that investors rely on, including feasibility studies, financial plans, cash flow models, repayment strategies, and capital structures, have yet to be fully disclosed. Without this information, the market has no reliable basis for assessing either the project’s viability or its investment risks.

For any project seeking to raise funds in the capital market, a feasibility study is considered the single most important document. It must go beyond estimating total investment costs and answer fundamental questions: Who will the project serve? Where will its revenue come from? What cash flows will be used to repay debt? What assumptions underpin its financial projections? Investors also evaluate the quality of the project’s advisers, credit rating agencies, independent auditors, and other verification documents to assess the credibility of the financing package.

“Whether it is the central government, a local government, or a private company, any entity raising capital in the market is ultimately a borrower,” the expert said. “And every borrower must demonstrate how the funds will be used, how the debt will be repaid, and whether the project has been prepared professionally, transparently, and in accordance with standards accepted by the market.”

According to other industry experts, credibility in the capital market is not built through a single transaction but through consistently honoring commitments to investors. When project owners deliver projects on schedule, use capital for its intended purpose, and make principal and interest payments in full and on time, their creditworthiness gradually improves, lowering financing costs for future projects.

Conversely, if disclosures fail to accurately reflect reality or financial obligations are not fulfilled, market confidence will deteriorate, making future fundraising significantly more difficult.

As Hanoi prepares to implement one of the country’s largest metro investment programs, capital market specialists say investors are looking for more than new financing instruments. What the market needs is comprehensive, transparent information and a competitive financial plan capable of convincing both domestic and international investors.

-PHAN LINH

Vietnam's transport sector maintains strong growth in first half of 2026

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:00:00 GMT

In the first six months of the year, carriers transported 3.4 billion passengers, up 18.8% from the same period in 2025, while passenger traffic rose 12.2% to 170.7 billion passenger-kms.

Vietnam's transport sector remained a bright spot in the economy during the first half of 2026, driven by rising domestic travel, a rebound in international tourism, and growing demand for freight services supporting production and trade.

According to the National Statistics Office, passenger transport reached 618.9 million trips in June, up 3% from the previous month and 17.4% year-on-year. Passenger traffic totaled 29.4 billion passenger-kms, increasing 3.5% month-on-month and 10% from a year earlier.

In the first six months of the year, carriers transported 3.4 billion passengers, up 18.8% from the same period in 2025, while passenger traffic rose 12.2% to 170.7 billion passenger-kms.

Freight transport also posted solid gains. In June, cargo volume reached 272.1 million tons, up 1.8% from May and 13.2% year-on-year. Freight traffic totaled 55.7 billion ton-kms, increasing 2.2% month-on-month and 6% from a year earlier. During the first half, total cargo volume climbed 13.2% to 1.62 billion tons, while freight traffic rose 10% to 321.2 billion ton-kms.

International travel also continued to recover, with Vietnam welcoming about 12.3 million foreign visitors in the first six months, up 14.9% year-on-year. Air arrivals accounted for 82.6% of the total, followed by land crossings at 15.7% and sea arrivals at 1.7%.

-Tuấn Khang

New regulations on exit bans for tax debtors

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:30:00 GMT

Under Decree No. 252/2026/ND-CP, individuals engaged in business activities and heads of household businesses will be subject to a temporary exit ban if they are under tax enforcement measures and owe at least VND50 million (nearly $2,000) in overdue taxes for more than 120 days.

The Government has issued Decree No. 252/2026/ND-CP (Decree 252) renewing criteria for the temporary suspension of exit for individuals and business representatives with outstanding tax debts, in a move aimed at strengthening tax compliance and improving debt recovery, according to a report from the Government News.

The decree sets out specific thresholds for imposing temporary exit bans based on the amount and duration of overdue tax liabilities, while also detailing notification procedures and the conditions for lifting the restrictions.

Under the new decree, individuals engaged in business activities and heads of household businesses will be subject to a temporary exit ban if they are under tax enforcement measures and owe at least VND50 million (nearly $2,000) in overdue taxes for more than 120 days.

Meanwhile, legal representatives of enterprises, cooperatives and cooperative unions will face the same restriction if their entities owe VND500 million (nearly $20,000) or more in overdue taxes beyond the 120-day deadline.

The decree also targets businesses that have ceased operating at their registered addresses. Business owners, household business operators and legal representatives of such entities will be temporarily barred from leaving the country if they fail to settle overdue tax obligations within 30 days after receiving a tax enforcement notice.

In addition, Vietnamese citizens emigrating overseas, overseas Vietnamese and foreign nationals departing Vietnam with outstanding tax debts will also be subject to temporary exit suspension measures.

To ensure transparency, tax authorities are required to notify taxpayers at least 30 days before requesting an exit ban. Notices will be sent through taxpayers' electronic tax accounts, registered phone numbers and email addresses, while legal representatives will also receive notifications at their registered residential addresses. The notices will be published on the tax sector's official online portal.

If electronic notification cannot be delivered, tax authorities will publish the notice on their official website. Should the tax debt remain unpaid after 30 days, the tax authority will submit an official request to the immigration authority to impose a temporary exit ban.

The Ministry of Finance said tax authorities have coordinated with local administrations to verify whether businesses and legal representatives are operating at their registered addresses as part of tax debt enforcement efforts.

The legal basis for the measure is provided under the Law on Tax Administration No. 38/2019/QH14, as amended by Law No. 56/2024/QH15. Based on these laws, the Government first issued Decree No. 49/2025/ND-CP in February 2025, establishing thresholds for applying temporary exit suspension measures to different categories of taxpayers.

However, authorities noted that no minimum debt threshold applies to entities that have abandoned their registered business addresses. According to the Ministry of Finance, these taxpayers present a particularly high compliance risk because they are often associated with other violations, including failure to submit tax declarations, failure to provide accounting records, illegal invoice transactions, tax evasion, tax appropriation and abandoning business premises without notifying authorities.

Tax authorities have so far issued temporary exit suspension notices to approximately 105,000 legal representatives of businesses and household business owners linked to nearly VND61 trillion ($2.35 billion) in outstanding tax liabilities.

Among them, around 65,000 legal representatives and household business owners whose businesses were no longer operating at their registered addresses accounted for more than VND6.9 trillion ($266 million) in unpaid taxes.

The measure has already contributed to tax debt recovery. To date, tax authorities have collected more than VND4 trillion ($154 million) in overdue taxes from over 13,000 taxpayers.

Notably, about 7,100 taxpayers whose businesses had ceased operations at their registered addresses voluntarily contacted tax authorities, paid nearly VND100 billion ($3.86 million) in outstanding tax obligations and subsequently had their temporary exit bans lifted.

-Khanh Van

A new approach to Hanoi’s urban rail development

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Hanoi’s simultaneous launch of five metro lines signals a new approach to the capital’s urban rail development, with lessons learned from past standalone projects.

After more than a decade of constructing its first urban railway lines, Hanoi is now entering a new phase of infrastructure development, with the simultaneous breaking of ground at five metro lines spanning more than 300 km. More significant than the scale of investment is the city’s decision to launch its first metro expansion program based on a comprehensive network strategy rather than isolated projects.

The official breaking of ground at Metro Lines 1, 2, 8, 10, and 14 on June 22 represents an unprecedented push in the capital’s transport infrastructure. Targeted for completion by 2030, the projects are expected to form the backbone of Hanoi’s first-generation urban rail network.

The significance of the announcement extends well beyond record investment figures. After taking more than a decade to bring the Cat Linh - Ha Dong line into commercial operation and with the Nhon - Hanoi Station project still under construction, Hanoi’s decision marks a clear departure from the incremental approach that has defined its metro development to date. The question is no longer how many additional kilometers of rail the city will build, but why it has chosen this moment to simultaneously launch five strategic metro lines.

Building strategic growth corridors

The alignment of the five newly-launched metro lines underscores Hanoi’s long-term development strategy. Two of the routes are designed to provide direct connections to Noi Bai International Airport.

Metro Line 1 will run between Thuong Tin and Noi Bai, passing through Ngoc Hoi, Hanoi Station, Yen Vien, and Thu Lam. Metro Line 2 will link Noi Bai and the city’s southern reaches, passing through the city center, while Metro Line 8 will establish an East-West transport corridor linking Hoa Lac with central Hanoi and the eastern districts. Metro Line 10 will connect Dong Anh with the urban core, while Metro Line 14 will create a new development axis along the northern bank of the Red River and Gia Lam.

Urban planning experts view the five projects as the first building blocks of an integrated transport network connecting Hanoi’s emerging development zones. When overlaid with the capital’s master plan, each route serves areas expected to shape the city’s long-term urban structure.

Hoa Lac is being developed as a national hub for science, technology, and innovation. Dong Anh and the northern Red River corridor have been designated as key urban expansion areas, while Gia Lam is emerging as a major growth center in eastern Hanoi. Noi Bai and Ngoc Hoi, meanwhile, are expected to serve as two of the capital’s most important transportation gateways, anchored by the international airport and the future North-South high-speed rail interchange.

Under Hanoi’s latest master plan, the city envisions a network of 18 metro lines totaling nearly 1,000 km. The system is intended to become the backbone of public transportation while supporting Hanoi’s broader urban development framework built around nine growth poles, nine centers, nine development corridors, and eight ring roads.

The strategy also reflects Vietnam’s broader economic ambitions. As the country seeks to sustain high growth in a new era of development, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have been identified as its two primary economic engines. Expanding high-tech zones, new urban districts, commercial centers, and logistics hubs will require significantly stronger transport connectivity to unlock future growth.

Viewed in this context, the simultaneous rollout of five metro lines is about far more than constructing additional railway tracks. It represents a foundational step toward establishing a high-capacity public transport system capable of linking Hanoi’s emerging growth centers into a unified metropolitan network.

Lessons from the first projects

The ambition to develop an urban railway network is hardly new. Hanoi has pursued the objective for many years, but progress has been slower than expected because of the challenges encountered during its first-generation metro projects.

Construction of the Cat Linh - Ha Dong and Nhon - Hanoi Station lines began in 2010 and 2011, yet the former did not begin commercial service until late 2021, while the latter has experienced repeated delays. As Hanoi’s first urban rail projects, they introduced an entirely new category of infrastructure requiring sophisticated engineering, project management, and operational expertise.

At the time, virtually every aspect of the projects, from technology and design standards to equipment and management experience, relied heavily on international partners. While this accelerated the transfer of advanced technical expertise, it also complicated project coordination by involving multiple stakeholders with differing standards and procedures.

Land clearance proved to be another major obstacle. Urban rail lines must pass through densely populated neighborhoods, affecting housing, livelihoods, and extensive underground utility networks. In many cases, even minor delays in compensation, resettlement, or utility relocation were enough to stall overall construction progress.

After several years of operation, both the Cat Linh - Ha Dong line and the elevated section of the Nhon - Hanoi Station line have demonstrated that demand for high-capacity public transportation in Hanoi is real. Residents are clearly willing to use metro services when they are reliable, convenient, and well connected with other modes of transport.

At the same time, the experience has highlighted the limitations of developing metro lines individually. Though ridership has continued to grow, the existing routes still function largely as standalone corridors rather than components of a fully-integrated network, preventing the system from reaching its full potential.

For Hanoi, the strategic challenge is therefore no longer simply extending the rail network. The city’s broader objective is to build an integrated transportation ecosystem capable of seamlessly connecting commercial hubs, emerging growth centers, and new urban districts within a unified transit system.

Falling into place

If Hanoi’s first metro projects exposed the city’s implementation challenges, the simultaneous launch of five new lines suggests those lessons are now being translated into policy.

Institutional reforms have laid much of the groundwork. Politburo Resolution No. 02-NQ/TW on the development of the capital, the Capital Law 2026, and a series of special mechanisms supporting urban railway development have created a new legal framework for implementing large-scale infrastructure programs. Unlike previous approaches that focused on individual projects, these policies emphasize coordinated network development.

While institutional reform provides the necessary policy foundation, land acquisition remains critical to maintaining construction schedules. Drawing on past experience, Hanoi is separating land clearance into standalone projects so that site preparation can begin ahead of construction. Accelerating resettlement projects while expanding public consultation is also expected to build stronger consensus before implementation begins.

The city’s institutional capacity has likewise improved. More than a decade of experience with urban rail development has strengthened expertise in project management, construction supervision, and system operations. At the same time, domestic private companies are gradually moving deeper into the value chain for complex infrastructure development.

Despite these advantages, delivering more than 300 km of metro infrastructure remains an enormous undertaking. New policy mechanisms may streamline project preparation, while accumulated experience can help mitigate implementation risks. Even so, the scale of the current program means that every decision involving technical standards, construction quality, and operating models will have long-term implications for the future network.

The simultaneous launch of five metro lines signals that Hanoi’s public transportation network is entering a new stage of development. Experience from cities around the world suggests that the economic value of metro systems is determined not by breaking-ground ceremonies or ribbon cuttings, but by whether they ultimately function as a fully-integrated network, one capable of connecting growth centers, attracting sustained ridership, and reshaping the urban landscape.

As the country seeks to sustain high growth in a new era of development, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have been identified as its two primary economic engines. Expanding high-tech zones, new urban districts, commercial centers, and logistics hubs will require significantly stronger transport connectivity to unlock future growth.

-Huynh Dung

Four new trends shaping Vietnam's FB industry in 2026

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

The Local Excellence trend opens a major opportunity for restaurants to effectively integrate regional cultural values into their kitchen operations by utilizing local ingredients as a signature highlight.

Despite starting 2026 with impressive growth, Vietnam's FB industry is facing significant pressure from soaring raw material and fuel costs.

The latest report from Ipsos and Unilever Food Solutions has identified four core culinary trends that are helping businesses and restaurants optimize their operations.

First is Local Excellence. Research indicates that this trend possesses the strongest internal growth potential in the market. According to the study, 87% of chefs believe in the long-term prospects of this movement, as 82% of diners actively seek dishes tied to local ingredients. Furthermore, 57% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for these dishes, and 56% express a strong desire to support Vietnamese agricultural products.

This trend opens a major opportunity for restaurants to effectively integrate regional cultural values into their kitchen operations by utilizing local ingredients as a signature highlight.

Second is Elevated Street Flavors. This trend has demonstrated exceptional commercial efficiency, with 60% to 70% of independent restaurants now integrating upgraded street food into their permanent menus.

In particular, noodle-based dishes such as Pho, Bun, and Mi receive up to 80% interest. Ipsos data reveals that 62% of diners are willing to spend more to enjoy familiar street food that has been meticulously refined and served safely in an upscale setting. The primary high-spending segments for this category include tourists, business partners, and families.

Third is Cross-Border Cuisine. This trend attracts up to 80% of young Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers—generations that consistently seek to break boundaries and find novelty. Surveys show that 71% of diners are drawn to creative combinations of different culinary cultures that still retain a sense of familiarity. Chefs are currently adopting a strategic approach, with 78% opting for “Asia-Asia” fusion, particularly blending Thai and Japanese flavors.

Fourth is Personalized Menus. Once considered an optional "add-on," personalization has now become a mandatory expectation for the younger generation. Real-world data shows that 44% of young diners want to customize menus according to their personal preferences, and 43% want to actively control the nutritional content they consume.

Vneconomy-Vy Vy

Socio-economic situation in the first six months continued to show relatively positive progress: PM

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In his opening remarks at the regular Government meeting on July 4, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung requested that the tasks for the last six months be identified so as to secure double-digit growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability.

Speaking at the opening of the Government’s regular meeting for June and a teleconference with local governments of all the 34 provinces and cities nationwide, held on July 4, to review the socio-economic situation in the first half of 2026 and identify measures for the second half to achieve this year’s targets, particularly the goal of double-digit economic growth, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung pointed out that the socio-economic situation in June, the second quarter, and the first six months of 2026 continued to show relatively positive progress, with many important outcomes achieved, creating momentum for fulfilling the tasks for the whole year.

The Government leader was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as stating that during the first half of the year, Vietnam implemented the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress, the resolutions and conclusions of the Party Central Committee and the Politburo, and socio-economic development tasks amid a rapidly evolving regional and global landscape. Many new, complex, and unpredictable issues emerged; strategic competition among major powers became increasingly fierce; and geopolitical, non-traditional security, and climate change risks increased.

Particularly, he said, conflicts in the Middle East disrupted trade and supply chains, negatively impacting security, triggering a decline in global trade, undermining growth prospects, causing macroeconomic instability, raising inflationary pressure, and leading to policy adjustments by major countries and partners, which have further destabilized global trade and growth.

Domestically, according to the Prime Minister, alongside the opportunities and advantages stemming from the renewed confidence and momentum following the success of the 14th National Party Congress, the country also faced numerous difficulties and significant pressure in ensuring macroeconomic stability, guaranteeing energy security, promoting growth drivers, and shifting the economic structure to secure fast and sustainable development.

Facing that fact, the Government, the PM, all-level authorities, sectors, and localities have concertedly and fruitfully carried out tasks and measures to improve leadership and governance efficiency, perform routine duties, and thoroughly resolve outstanding issues, he said, adding that at the same time, they have made timely and effective policy response to unexpected issues while implementing the strategic tasks under the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress, and the directives of the Party Central Committee and the Politburo.

Prime Minister Hung underlined the leadership by the Party Central Committee, Politburo and Secretariat, especially directions from General Secretary and President To Lam; the support and close coordination of the National Assembly and agencies across the political system; along with the trust, joint efforts and determination of the entire political system, the public and the business community.

PM Hung requested participants to analyze the context and situation in the first half, forecast the situation in the coming period, and propose comprehensive and holistic policy solutions. In particular, it is necessary to assess whether the achievements gained have fully lived up to the available potential and resources, and whether better performance could be delivered.

He stressed the need for a thorough review of existing shortcomings, limitations, difficulties and challenges, the implementation results of Conclusion No. 18 issued at the second plenum of the 14th Party Central Committee, along with the tasks and responsibilities of all-level authorities and localities.

The PM also requested the tasks for the last six months be identified so as to secure double-digit growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability.

Particular attention should be paid to institutional issues that require further breakthroughs to create a stepping stone for fast and sustainable development. In addition, resources should be further unlocked and new drivers promoted, especially science – technology, innovation, and digital transformation, he added.

-Khanh Van

Vietnam officially elevated to upper-middle income status

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:30:00 GMT

According to the World Bank's annual country classification released on July 1, Vietnam's GNI per capita increased from $4,490 in 2024 to $4,970 in 2025, lifting the country from the lower-middle-income to the upper-middle-income category.

Vietnam has officially been reclassified as an upper-middle-income economy by the World Bank (WB) as the country's gross national income (GNI) per capita rose to nearly $5,000 last year, according to a report from the Government News.

According to the WB's annual country classification released on July 1, Vietnam's GNI per capita increased from $4,490 in 2024 to $4,970 in 2025, lifting the country from the lower-middle-income to the upper-middle-income category.

The bank attributed Vietnam's reclassification to its strong economic growth and export performance. During 2024–2025, exports expanded by more than 15 percent, while GDP grew by 7 percent in 2024 and 8 percent in 2025.

Over the 2021–2025 period, Vietnam's GNI grew at an average annual rate of 10 percent, which the WB experts described as "one of the strongest sustained growth rates in the region."

Vietnam has set a goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle-income status by 2030, before advancing to high-income developed country status by 2045. To achieve this objective, the Government is aiming to maintain economic growth of 10 percent or higher in the coming years.

This year, the WB assessed 218 economies, with six countries moving up to a higher income category. Besides Vietnam, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Jordan, and Micronesia were also upgraded from the lower-middle-income to the upper-middle-income group.

The bank's income classification helps determine countries' eligibility for concessional financing and development assistance and serves as an important benchmark for tracking global economic trends.

However, the reclassification of the six countries does not affect the WB's current lending policies. For example, Vietnam and the Philippines remain eligible to borrow from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), while Sri Lanka continues to qualify for concessional financing from the International Development Association (IDA).

Quang Ninh adds four projects to 2026 land acquisition list

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 01:30:00 GMT

The total area slated for acquisition covers 64.68 ha across the communes and wards of Quang Tan, Hai Son, Hai Ninh, Mong Cai, and Uong Bi.

The Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee has proposed that the Provincial People's Council add four projects, covering a total area of over 64 ha, to the list of land to be recovered in 2026.

The total area slated for acquisition is 64.68 ha across the communes and wards of Quang Tan, Hai Son, Hai Ninh, Mong Cai, and Uong Bi.

According to the proposal, the four projects recommended for addition to the 2026 land recovery list (Phase 3) include: the West Dam Ha A Industrial Cluster, the 220kV Vietnam–China–Mong Cai border transmission line, the Phu Thanh road resettlement area (the section from Cong Thanh to the Uong Bi – Dong Trieu riverside road in Uong Bi Ward), and the Quang Trung cemetery project (Uong Bi Ward).

The West Dam Ha A Industrial Cluster is the largest of the four, spanning 53.49 ha in Quang Tan Commune. The Provincial People's Committee issued an official decision to establish this industrial cluster in May 2026.

The 220kV Vietnam–China–Mong Cai border transmission line covers 4.2 ha across Hai Son, Hai Ninh, and Mong Cai wards. The Quang Ninh Economic Zone Management Board approved the investment policy and the designated investor for this project in February 2026.

The Phu Thanh road resettlement area (from Cong Thanh to the Uong Bi – Dong Trieu riverside road) covers 4.99 ha of primarily agricultural land in Uong Bi Ward. The investment policy and master plan for this project were approved by local authorities in June 2026.

Finally, the 2-ha Quang Trung cemetery project in Uong Bi Ward also received investment policy approval in June 2026, aligning with the province's land-use planning.

According to the Provincial People's Committee, all four projects are consistent with local development plans and fall under the categories for state land recovery as stipulated by Article 79 of the 2024 Land Law.

Vneconomy-Đỗ Hoàng

Up to 300% salary support offered to attract international integration experts

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The newly-released Decree No. 258/2026/ND-CP also covers scientists and experts specialized in international integration, as well as educational institutions dedicated to the field.

The Vietnamese Government has recently issued Decree No. 258/2026/NĐ-CP, detailing specific mechanisms and policies to mobilize resources for enhancing the efficiency of international integration, in accordance with the National Assembly's Resolution No. 250/2025/QH15.

The new regulations apply to a wide range of individuals, including civil servants, public employees, armed forces officers, and personnel working in foreign affairs and international integration. The decree also covers scientists and experts specialized in international integration, as well as educational institutions dedicated to the field.

Under the decree, an international integration scientist is required to be proficient in at least one foreign language, reaching a minimum of Level 4 in Vietnam’s 6-level competency framework. Additionally, they must possess at least 10 years of experience in foreign affairs or international integration, or a decade of direct teaching and scientific research in these areas.

Furthermore, candidates must either hold a doctorate degree from an internationally reputable institution or be the author of scientific research that has won international awards or demonstrated significant practical effectiveness through widespread application.

Similarly, international integration experts must meet the Level 4 foreign language proficiency requirement along with specific professional criteria.

Eligible experts include those with at least 10 years of experience or management tenure at international or regional organizations, or those who have led state-level research projects in foreign affairs that received an "Excellent" rating upon appraisal.

The decree also recognizes individuals who have held leadership or management positions at the Vice Minister level or equivalent, particularly those who have chaired or advised on high-level policies, shaped cooperation mechanisms, or negotiated national-level agreements and inter-regional issues.

Expert status can also be granted to individuals nominated by the Vietnamese Government to international professional bodies, or those officially appointed by ministers or provincial-level Chairpersons.

For Vietnamese scientists and experts of working age who wish to serve long-term in organizations specialized in foreign affairs and international integration, the decree provides a pathway for recruitment into the civil service or public employee system.

The above-mentioned individuals will receive monthly financial support equivalent to 300% of their current salary based on their assigned salary coefficient, in addition to other statutory benefits provided by law.

Vneconomy-Hà Lê

Vietnam's June inflation eases as consumer prices decline from previous month

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 07:40:00 GMT

The consumer price index (CPI) down 0.39% in June from previous month.

Vietnam's consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.39% in June from the previous month, marking a reversal after persistent inflationary pressures earlier this year, according to a report released by the National Statistics Office on July 3.

Despite the monthly decline, consumer prices remained elevated on an annual basis. June's CPI was 3.21% higher than at the end of 2025 and 4.69% above the level recorded a year earlier. Average CPI for the second quarter rose 5.25% year-on-year.

For the first six months of 2026, average inflation stood at 4.38%, reflecting the cumulative impact of rising input costs and resilient consumer demand over the past two quarters.

Food and catering services remained the biggest driver of inflation. Prices in the category increased 4.79%, contributing 1.72 percentage points to the overall CPI rise. The increase was largely attributed to higher pork prices amid constrained supply during the Lunar New Year period, while the cost of dining out climbed 6.85%.

Housing and construction materials also exerted significant upward pressure, with prices rising 6.72% and contributing 1.53 percentage points to headline inflation. The increase was driven by a 14.12% jump in home maintenance material prices and a 5.54% rise in household electricity tariffs.

Although transport costs moderated in June, the category still recorded a 5.23% increase during the first half of the year due to sharp fluctuations in global fuel prices earlier in 2026.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose 0.14% from May and 4.50% year-on-year in June. Average core inflation for the first six months reached 4.12%, remaining below the headline CPI increase of 4.38%.

-Song Hà

An effective climate-tech partner of Vietnam

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:20:00 GMT

Vietnam has emerged as a gateway to Southeast Asia for a host of Australian climate technologies.

As Vietnam accelerates its green transition and pursues ambitious economic growth targets, demand for clean technologies is expanding across the energy, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. Australian businesses, researchers, and investors increasingly see opportunities to contribute technology, expertise, and capital to the endeavor, with Vietnam offering scale, manufacturing capabilities, and a rapidly-evolving policy framework. Speakers at a recent Australia-Vietnam climate technology forum discussed how the two countries can work together to move innovations from concept to commercialization and support Southeast Asia’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

From ambition to opportunity

Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is increasingly shaping the country’s economic and industrial development strategy. According to Mr. Khuat Tuan Anh, Policy Manager (Vietnam) at Climateworks Centre, Southeast Asia has become a critical region in the global energy transition, with growing manufacturing activity, urbanization, and rising energy demand expected to drive a significant share of future global energy consumption.

Within that context, Vietnam occupies a particularly important position. The country has maintained strong economic growth for decades and continues to target annual growth of 7-8 per cent, with ambitions for even higher growth in the years ahead. At the same time, electricity demand is rising even faster than economic output.

“Decarbonization is becoming part of economic strategy, not just environmental strategy,” Mr. Tuan Anh said. Vietnam’s integration into global supply chains means competitiveness is increasingly linked not only to labor costs but also to energy costs and carbon intensity. As international markets introduce stricter sustainability requirements, manufacturers are facing growing pressure to manage emissions, energy consumption, and environmental compliance.

To support this transition, Vietnam has introduced a series of policies aimed at translating long-term climate commitments into practical implementation measures. Among the most significant developments are the revised National Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8), the Direct Power Purchase Agreement (DPPA) mechanism, the development of a carbon market, and the introduction of a national green taxonomy.

Mr. Tuan Anh described PDP8 as the backbone of Vietnam’s energy policy, outlining a substantial expansion of power generation capacity and a growing role for renewable energy. By 2030, wind, solar, and hydropower are expected to account for approximately half of installed generation capacity, while coal’s role is expected to decline over time as Vietnam progresses toward its longer-term climate targets.

For investors and technology providers, these reforms provide important signals about future market direction. “The policies provide direction and incentives, but implementation requires close collaboration between stakeholders, government agencies, investors, technology providers, and industry,” he added.

Ms. Sarah Hooper, Australian Consul-General in Ho Chi Minh City, said the significance of Vietnam’s transition extends beyond its domestic market. “Australia sees Vietnam not only as a priority partner but also as a market where climate solutions can be proven, adapted, and scaled, including across Southeast Asia,” she explained.

Natural partners

Australia and Vietnam can bring their complementary strengths to climate-tech collaboration. Australia offers expertise in RD, technological innovation, governance frameworks, and financing mechanisms. Vietnam, meanwhile, offers a rapidly-growing market, strong manufacturing capabilities, a young workforce, and an increasingly supportive policy environment.

For Mr. Oscar Omegna, Founder and CEO of The Improbability Company and VoltaRocks, those factors made Vietnam a natural choice for expansion. After spending years exploring opportunities in the country, he concluded that Vietnam offered a combination of market demand, policy ambition, and entrepreneurial energy that was difficult to find elsewhere in the region. “The people are welcoming, honest, and incredibly hardworking,” he said. “That creates a great environment in which to build businesses and develop new solutions.”

His company focuses on helping households and small businesses navigate renewable energy adoption through digital platforms that simplify decision-making around solar and battery systems. For him, Vietnam’s opportunity extends beyond emissions reduction. Reliable and affordable energy solutions can also help businesses improve operational resilience, particularly if power interruptions affect productivity.

Mr. Nguyen Bach Viet, Founder and CEO of the VioT Technology Group, shares a similar perspective. He described Australia as highly advanced in technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and energy innovation, while Vietnam provides an environment where new technologies can be tested, adapted, and brought to market more quickly. “In Australia, bringing new technologies to market often requires considerable time due to regulatory requirements and commercialization processes,” he explained. “Vietnam, on the other hand, is a market that is eager to learn, adapt, and scale solutions quickly.”

The elevation of Australia-Vietnam relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has further strengthened opportunities for collaboration. For businesses on both sides, the relationship increasingly provides a framework for technology transfer, joint innovation, and regional expansion.

From pilots to scale

Despite the opportunities, speakers at the forum agreed that commercialization remains one of the biggest challenges facing climate technology. “The real challenge is moving from good ideas to bankable projects, from pilots to scale, and from interest to long-term partnerships,” Ms. Hooper said.

Ms. Nguyen Hong Giang, Managing Director of Zenwood, identified limited access to early-stage and scale-up financing as among the most significant barriers facing climate-tech businesses in Vietnam.

While entrepreneurs are often able to develop concepts and pilot projects, obtaining the funding necessary to commercialize and expand those innovations remains difficult. Many founders rely on self-funding in the early stages, but scaling technologies requires larger pools of capital and greater investor confidence. Ms. Giang also highlighted regulatory uncertainty, technology transfer challenges, and workforce development as other key barriers.

Building the necessary skills and implementation capacity is equally important. Though Vietnam has a young and technically-capable workforce, many climate technologies require specialized expertise that must be developed through training and experience.

For Mr. Hoang Minh Tam from the Queensland University of Technology, stronger collaboration between universities and industry can help address many of these challenges. He argued that research partnerships should focus on resolving practical problems rather than remaining confined to laboratories.

Universities can provide testing facilities, technical expertise, and independent validation that help reduce technical risks and strengthen investment cases. “Research creates the greatest impact when it is connected to real industry needs and practical applications,” Mr. Tam said.

Mr. Viet also emphasized the value of industry-led collaboration. Through initiatives such as IoT Living Labs, researchers, students, startups, and corporations can work together to address real-world challenges while creating pathways for commercialization. Importantly, involving industry partners from the outset provides both market validation and potential sources of funding. “If we can strengthen collaboration between Australian universities and Vietnamese innovation ecosystems, we can create a highly-effective model,” he believes.

Building the framework

While technology and innovation are essential, climate-tech growth ultimately depends on investor confidence. That is where governance, disclosure, and financial frameworks play a critical role.

Ms. Tracey Dodd, Board Director of Green Industries SA and Senior Lecturer at Adelaide University, argued that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks are often misunderstood.

Mr. Khuat Tuan Anh, Policy Manager (Vietnam) at Climateworks Centre

Decarbonization is becoming part of economic strategy, not just environmental strategy.”

Rather than serving simply as sustainability metrics, ESG frameworks help organizations understand and manage risk. “ESG is a framework designed to help organizations understand and manage environmental and social risks,” she said.

Investors, she continued, increasingly use ESG indicators to assess whether companies understand their exposure to environmental, social, and governance risks and whether they have systems in place to manage them effectively. Strong ESG performance can therefore help attract investment by reducing uncertainty and improving transparency. For Vietnam, ESG frameworks offer a way to signal to global markets that businesses are becoming more sophisticated in managing risks and opportunities associated with sustainability.

Australia’s recent climate-reporting reforms provide another example of how governance frameworks are evolving. Organizations are increasingly required to assess and disclose their exposure to both physical climate risks and transition risks associated with decarbonization. Those requirements are expected to create growing demand for technologies and services that help companies measure, manage, and reduce climate-related risks.

At the same time, Vietnam’s own policy reforms, including the green taxonomy, carbon market development, and renewable energy procurement mechanisms, are beginning to create a more structured environment for investment. While implementation remains a work in progress, these developments provide greater visibility and certainty for businesses considering long-term investments in the country.

In conclusion, the future of climate-tech collaboration between Australia and Vietnam will depend on more than technological innovation alone. Success will require supportive policies, access to capital, effective partnerships, workforce development, and practical pathways to commercialization. The opportunity now is to transform the complementary strengths from both countries into scalable projects, commercial partnerships, and deployable solutions that can help accelerate the region’s green transition.

-Linh Tong

A series of social housing projects break ground

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Northern Quang Ninh Province announced strategic planning and granted investment certificates, which included the groundbreaking of a social rental housing project in Uong Bi Ward.

Numerous social housing projects have broken ground across northern Vietnam in recent days, marking a significant step in addressing the housing needs of low-income citizens and industrial zone workers.

On June 30, Quang Ninh Province held a series of events to announce strategic planning and grant investment certificates, which included the groundbreaking of a social rental housing project in Uong Bi Ward.

With an investment of nearly VND130 billion ($4.94 million), the project is slated for completion in 2027, offering approximately 150 apartments for 500 residents.

On the same day, the Phu Tho Provincial People’s Committee, in partnership with Trung Minh New Urban Area Co., Ltd., commenced construction on a social housing project within the Trung Minh A New Urban Area (Hoa Binh Ward). Spanning over 6.2 ha, the development features 20 five-story buildings with approximately 1,289 social and rental units.

Vice Chairman of the Phu Tho People’s Committee, Mr. Vu Viet Van, noted that this is the province’s 11th social housing project and the first to specifically implement directives from General Secretary, State President To Lam, and Prime Minister Le Minh Hung regarding rental housing.

Earlier, on June 29, Thai Nguyen Province simultaneously launched six social housing projects with a total investment exceeding VND7.5 trillion ($285 million). These developments are expected to provide around 5,980 units, notably including nearly 500 rental homes located within the province’s administrative center.

The drive for worker-specific housing also gained momentum in Bac Ninh Province on June 29. At the province's Nam Son - Hap Linh Industrial Zone, Goertek Vina Smart Technology Co., Ltd. broke ground on an employee dormitory and public service hub.

Meanwhile, at the Quang Chau Industrial Zone (Bac Ninh), Lens Vietnam Technology Co., Ltd. commenced the LENS Accommodation facility. Spanning over 16,200 square meters with an investment of nearly VND1.177 trillion ($44.8 million), the project is scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2028. It will provide 1,627 high-quality rooms to meet the residential needs of both Vietnamese workers and foreign experts.

Prior to these events, on June 28, Hung Yen Province also kicked off construction for a social housing project serving workers at the Lien Ha Thai Industrial Zone, as well as the Pho Hien social housing development.

Vneconomy-Phan Nam

Ministry facilitates overseas employment via non-profit programs in key markets

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

These programs operate on the principles of transparency and low cost, with many offering 100% support for tuition fees and airfare. Participants are entitled to wages and welfare benefits equivalent to those of local workers in the host countries.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is currently implementing seven non-profit programs to send Vietnamese laborers to work in four key markets: South Korea, Japan, Germany, and Taiwan (China).

These programs operate on the principles of transparency and low cost, with many offering 100% support for tuition fees and airfare. Participants are entitled to wages and welfare benefits equivalent to those of local workers in the host countries.

For the South Korean market, specifically the Employment Permit System (EPS) Program, Vietnamese laborers can work in sectors including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and services for a maximum duration of four years and ten months.

Regarding the Japanese market, there are three distinct programs: the We are Asian Program, the Osaka Program (both for nursing interns), and the IM Japan Program (for technical interns).

Under the We are Asian and Osaka schemes, laborers work in elderly care at nursing homes and healthcare facilities. The IM Japan Program recruits men for manufacturing and construction, while women are recruited for manufacturing and food processing.

The program for Taiwan (China) recruits both male and female workers for roles in manufacturing as well as patient and elderly care. Labor contracts in this market typically last three years and can be extended for a maximum of 12 years.

Meanwhile, the program for Germany is designed for both men and women aged 21 and older who have graduated with a nursing degree—requiring a minimum of three years of training—from a public college or university. Candidates must have completed a 6-to-9-month hospital internship and possess a valid practice certificate. Successful applicants work as nursing assistants in elderly care facilities.

According to Vice Minister of Home Affairs Vu Chien Thang, the ministry has identified these non-profit overseas labor programs, conducted under international agreements, as a practical solution for creating jobs and increasing income. Furthermore, these initiatives serve as a vital link to sustainable training and the long-term development of the nation's human resources.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Vietnam's online electronics sales surge 52% in first five months

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:10:00 GMT

Total revenue from the electronics segment across Vietnam's four largest e-commerce platforms (Shopee, TikTok Shop, Lazada and Tiki) reaching VND8.15 trillion ($311 million) in the period.

Vietnam's consumer electronics market maintained strong momentum in the first five months of 2026, with online sales of smartphones, tablets, desktop computers and laptops rising sharply across the country's major e-commerce platforms.

According to data compiled by analytics platform Metric.vn, total revenue from the electronics segment reached VND8.15 trillion ($311 million) between January 1 and May 31, up 52% from the same period in 2025.

Sales volume also grew robustly, with 1.4 million products sold, an increase of 42% year-on-year. The number of online merchants expanded by 30% to around 4,500 stores.

The figures were aggregated from Vietnam's four largest e-commerce platforms: Shopee, TikTok Shop, Lazada and Tiki.

Shopee continued to dominate the market, accounting for 83% of total sales revenue, up slightly from 82% a year earlier. Revenue on the platform also increased by 52%, further strengthening its leading position in Vietnam's online electronics market.

Among smartphone and tablet brands, Apple remained the top seller with revenue of VND3.15 trillion, up 8% from a year earlier. Samsung ranked second with VND2 trillion in sales, posting an impressive 150% year-on-year increase.

In the laptop and desktop computer segment, Apple also led the market, with revenue more than doubling by 121% to VND94.1 billion from VND42.7 billion in the same period last year. Dell ranked second but recorded a 30% decline in sales, losing its previous market-leading position amid intensifying competition.

-Bạch Dương

Thanh Hoa overseas workers remit over $340 mln every year

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:00:00 GMT

The largest concentrations of these workers are in Japan with 17,000, Taiwan (China) 15,000, and South Korea 9,000.

Thanh Hoa province in central Vietnam currently has nearly 45,000 residents working abroad on fixed-term contracts, according to the Provincial People's Committee.

The largest concentrations of these workers are in Japan with 17,000, Taiwan (China) 15,000, and South Korea 9,000.

Since 2022, the province has successfully sent more than 11,000 workers abroad under labor contracts each year. With average monthly incomes ranging from VND25 to 40 million ($950-1,520), this workforce consistently sends home over VND9 trillioin (approximately $342 million) in remittances annually.

In addition to international labor, the province has more than 400,000 residents working in other cities and provinces across Vietnam. This domestic migrant workforce is concentrated in major urban centers and key industrial hubs, most notably Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 110,000 people) and Hanoi (92,000), followed by Bac Ninh (28,000) and Dong Nai (16,000).

Locally, a rapid shift from agriculture to manufacturing is also underway. On average, nearly 15,000 rural agricultural laborers transition to jobs within the province’s own economic and industrial zones every year.

Thanh Hoa has also become a destination for approximately 20,000 workers from neighboring provinces seeking employment, primarily from Nghe An (3,000), Ha Tinh (1,000), and Ninh Binh (500).

Notably, the Nghi Son Economic Zone and various local industrial parks have attracted 2,692 foreign personnel. This group primarily consists of nationals from mainland China with 1,803, Taiwan (China) 269, and South Korea 166.

In contrast to the local workforce, the foreign contingent primarily holds leadership and specialized roles: 74.1% are high-tech laborers, 14.3% are experts, and the remainder serve as managers and executive directors.

Vneconomy-Thiên Anh

Transnational money laundering ring worth over $38 mln dismantled

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 GMT

The investigation revealed that this system specialized in providing money laundering services for online gambling portals operating both within and outside of Vietnam.

Ha Tinh Provincial Police in central Vietnam, in coordination with authorities from several other provinces and cities, have successfully dismantled a transnational gambling and money laundering ring led by a group of individuals from Taiwan (China).

Investigators identified the five ringleaders as Chang Chia Hsien (31), Yu Li Hao (28), Pan Kun Yen (34), Hsueh Wei Chung (32), and Lin Huy Mei (25).

To facilitate their operations, the group rented multiple units across three apartment complexes in Ho Chi Minh City to serve as command centers. At these locations, the foreign nationals directly managed and supervised Vietnamese staff members.

According to initial investigation results, the ring began operating in April 2026. To conceal their criminal activities and evade detection, the suspects established strict security protocols.

The group hired several Vietnamese citizens to register phone SIM cards under their own names, which were then used to open a series of bank accounts at various credit institutions. Each account was granted a transaction limit ranging from VND1billion to 3 billion ($38,000-114,000).

Notably, to erase the money trail, the suspects instructed employees not to use phone numbers that matched those registered for the bank accounts, creating significant challenges for official tracking efforts.

The investigation revealed that this system specialized in providing money laundering services for online gambling portals operating both within and outside of Vietnam.

In just over two months—from April 2026 to the present—the ring utilized 266 bank accounts to circulate illegal funds with a total transaction value exceeding VND1 trillion (over $38 million).

After gathering sufficient evidence, in early June 2026, the Criminal Police Division of Ha Tinh Provincial Police mobilized dozens of officers to coordinate with local police in multiple regions. They conducted simultaneous raids and summoned 36 involved suspects across Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Ha Tinh, Lam Dong, and Da Nang.

During the searches, authorities seized 56 personal mobile phones, 266 specialized phones dedicated to money laundering operations, three laptops, and various related documents and evidence.

The Ha Tinh Provincial Police Investigation Bureau has officially initiated legal proceedings and charged the defendants to further investigate the gambling and money laundering activities in accordance with the law.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Tax incentives on petroleum products extended

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 03:00:00 GMT

The policy, taking effect from July 1 through September 30, 2026, aiming to support fuel supplies and ease cost pressures on businesses and consumers.

The Government has extended a package of tax incentives on petroleum products through the third quarter of 2026 in an effort to support fuel supplies and ease cost pressures on businesses and consumers.

Under Resolution No. 34/2026/NQ-CP, issued on June 30, the Government extended the application of preferential import tax policies, environmental protection tax exemptions and value-added tax (VAT) incentives for gasoline, petroleum products, fuel production inputs and aviation fuel.

The resolution takes effect from July 1 through September 30, 2026.

During this period, the environmental protection tax on gasoline (excluding ethanol), diesel, kerosene, fuel oil and aviation fuel will remain at zero dong (VND) per litre.

The resolution also maintains the VAT policy introduced under the National Assembly's Resolution No. 19/2026/NQ-CP dated April 12, 2026. Accordingly, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, fuel oil and aviation fuel will continue to be exempt from VAT declaration and payment requirements, while businesses will still be entitled to claim input VAT credits.

From July 1, 2026, however, the special consumption tax on gasoline will be governed by the Law on Special Consumption Tax and its implementing regulations. Under the new framework, E5 biofuel gasoline is subject to an 8% excise tax, while the tax rate for E10 gasoline is set at 7%, reflecting the Government's continued support for cleaner transport fuels.

VnEconomy-Mạnh Đức

Toward a viable rental housing market

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Policymakers and industry leaders discuss what is needed for affordable rental housing to facilitate Vietnam’s next stage of urban and real estate development.

Dr. Doan Van Binh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association and Chairman of the CEO Group

We recognize that Vietnam’s property market has traditionally favored homes for sale over rental housing.

First, this stems from the deeply-rooted Vietnamese culture of homeownership. The concept of “settling down before building a career” remains deeply ingrained, with many people believing that wherever they work, they should eventually buy a home, establish a family, and educate their children there. Renting is often associated with instability, lack of success, or an inability to provide for future generations.

As a result, Vietnam’s homeownership rate is among the highest in the world. According to Kentucky-based real estate company Garret, Vietnam ranks third globally with a homeownership rate of 90 per cent, behind only Romania and China. Meanwhile, data from Global Property Guide places Vietnam 13th globally, also with a homeownership rate of 90 per cent.

This mindset has also contributed to the rapid rise in housing prices. Figures show that Vietnamese property prices increased by approximately 59 per cent over the past five years, higher than in the US (54 per cent), Australia (49 per cent), Japan (41 per cent), and Singapore (37 per cent), according to VietnamPlus. Rental yields in Vietnam range from 2-4 per cent annually, depending on location; significantly lower than the 5-7 per cent typically seen in many regional markets.

Vietnam’s house price-to-income ratio is also extremely high, ranging from 23.7 to 30-times annual income. In other words, households would need to save the equivalent of 23-30 years of total income, without spending anything, to purchase an average home. This is roughly 1.6 to 2-times higher than the global average of 11 to 15-times, while the generally accepted affordable threshold is 5 to 7-times.

Second, Vietnam’s long-term capital market remains underdeveloped, including the market for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

Third, development costs, regulatory compliance costs, and borrowing costs remain high.

Fourth, the institutional framework has largely favored housing-for-sale development. The State derives significant revenues from land-use fees, while developers prefer projects for sale because they can access financing more easily, mobilize capital before project completion, recover investment more quickly, and face shorter-term obligations, which are generally fulfilled upon handover of homes to buyers and transfer of technical infrastructure to the authorities.

However, Vietnam’s socio-economic landscape is changing rapidly. Urbanization continues to accelerate, urban populations are expanding, and labor mobility is increasing at an unprecedented pace. At the same time, housing prices remain high and continue to rise, placing homeownership beyond the reach of many young people, workers, professionals, scientists, and middle-income households. This poses growing challenges for social welfare and housing accessibility.

As representatives of the real estate business community, we strongly support the government’s efforts and hope it will establish appropriate mechanisms to encourage private sector participation in the development of rental housing and affordable housing in line with the Party and government’s policy directions.

Specifically, the State should play a facilitating role through institutional reforms, planning, land allocation, and credit policies, based on the principle of neither providing blanket subsidies nor leaving the market entirely to self-regulate.

The role of businesses is to participate in developing rental housing with reasonable profit expectations while ensuring professional management and operations.

* * *

Over the past several years, the government has submitted a range of mechanisms and policies to the National Assembly (NA) aimed at removing bottlenecks in the land sector in general and the housing and real estate market in particular. The NA has issued Resolution No. 254 and the government has adopted Resolution No. 49, both of which contain important measures to unlock resources for the market.

Mr. Vu Sy Kien, Deputy Director of the Department of Land Administration at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment

First, regarding land resources for housing development, local authorities have been given greater autonomy to review, identify, and allocate suitable land for different housing types based on local demand and development needs.

Second, with respect to stalled projects, a number of mechanisms have been introduced to address obstacles related to compensation and site clearance. In practice, many projects have completed more than 70 per cent of compensation work but have been unable to move forward due to procedural difficulties. The introduction of these measures has enabled many real estate projects to resume implementation, helping increase market supply.

Third, on land pricing policy, the previous requirement to determine land values on a project-by-project basis created significant challenges for investors in managing timelines, cash flow, and investment costs, while also resulting in large disparities between projects. New regulations now allow the application of land price tables combined with land price adjustment coefficients in certain cases, helping simplify procedures, improve transparency, and create a more predictable investment environment. For social housing projects, exemptions from land-use fees remain an important policy tool to reduce development costs and support growth in this segment.

We view rental housing as a particularly important segment. At this stage, developing rental housing should be regarded as a priority, a key pillar and a major growth driver for the future direction of Vietnam’s housing and real estate market.

In my view, one of the biggest challenges today is that we have not yet fully identified the role, scale and actual demand for rental housing within the broader housing market. Therefore, it is important to conduct a comprehensive nationwide assessment of rental housing demand as soon as possible. This would provide the basis for local authorities to allocate land, prepare planning frameworks, and introduce appropriate policies to support the sustainable development of the sector.

There are two areas where pilot rental housing programs could be prioritized. The first is in city centers and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) areas, where large numbers of young professionals, skilled workers, and experts are concentrated. Land for such projects could be supported through preferential policies, including reduced or zero land-use fees, to attract private investment.

The second is rental housing in industrial parks, targeted at workers on modest incomes. This segment has significant potential to improve living conditions for workers while supporting workforce stability and economic development.

* * *

First and foremost, rental housing is an essential segment in the current context. However, from a legal perspective, the regulatory framework governing this segment remains incomplete.

Associate Professor Nguyen Quang Tuyen, Dean of the Faculty of Economic Law at Hanoi Law University and Arbitrator at the Vietnam International Arbitration Centre (VIAC)

The National Assembly has adopted several relevant resolutions, but a key issue remains: how rental housing should be formally defined within the legal system. Without a clear legal definition, it will be difficult to design appropriate policies and management mechanisms. At present, the Law on Housing 2023 contains a dedicated chapter on social housing, but there is no comprehensive and separate framework governing rental housing. This legal gap should be addressed as soon as possible.

Therefore, during the planned amendments to the Land Law 2024, the Law on Housing 2023, and the Law on Real Estate Business 2023 this year, I believe it is necessary to introduce at least one dedicated chapter or a specific set of provisions governing rental housing. This would help complete the legal framework and create a foundation for the systematic and sustainable development of the sector.

In addition to general provisions on land access, there should be stronger incentive mechanisms that make it easier for businesses to access land and develop rental housing projects.

Another important issue is planning. The government should clearly assign responsibility to local authorities for preparing land reserves specifically designated for rental housing. At the same time, legislation should specify the proportion, location, and allocation criteria for such land reserves to ensure transparency and consistency in implementation. This is a matter of particular concern to the business community.

It is also necessary to clarify mechanisms for exemptions and reductions of land rental fees, as well as the State’s responsibility in facilitating land access for developers of rental housing projects. Only when input costs are kept at reasonable levels can rental prices remain affordable for tenants, thereby supporting the sustainable development of the sector.

A key question is whether the current Land Law clearly defines the responsibilities of local authorities in land clearance and site preparation to create clean land funds for rental housing development.

In practice, existing regulations remain relatively general and do not clearly distinguish or specify these mechanisms.

In addition, it remains unclear what specific incentives exist regarding land-use rights and obligations for rental housing developers compared with other forms of real estate development. This is widely regarded as one of the major implementation bottlenecks.

For tenants, greater legal clarity is also needed regarding their rights and protections, including occupancy rights, lease terms, administrative procedures and dispute-resolution mechanisms. Currently, these matters are largely governed by general regulations rather than provisions tailored to the specific nature of rental housing.

In my view, these issues should be studied carefully and incorporated into the law through a more comprehensive and coherent framework. Only then will businesses have the confidence to invest, and only then can the rental housing market develop in a truly sustainable manner.

* * *

I believe rental housing is often treated as a special segment, but in reality it is not fundamentally different from what already exists in the market. Today, rental activity spans the entire housing spectrum, from luxury apartments and commercial housing to studio units and informal rental properties along the Red River. Rental housing is already an integral part of Vietnam’s real estate market.

Dr. Ngo Trung Hai, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association

Any market is ultimately driven by supply and demand. There must be landlords willing to rent out properties and tenants willing to lease them. Therefore, an important question is whether Vietnam truly needs a separate legal framework dedicated solely to rental housing.

In my view, the more important issue is how urban space is organized and how appropriate development mechanisms are designed. In China, for example, authorities have introduced the R4 land-use category, which is specifically designated for long-term rental housing developed and operated by private investors. Modern urban planning also no longer draws rigid distinctions between commercial housing, social housing, and rental housing. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that all urban residents have equal access to quality housing services. A well-integrated mix of housing types can help create more livable and inclusive cities.

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) linked to metro systems presents a particularly significant opportunity for commercial housing, social housing, and rental housing alike. In practice, demand for rental housing around TOD hubs is substantial. Along the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien Metro Line in Ho Chi Minh City, for example, many students and lower-income residents rely on the system and represent a strong potential tenant base.

However, relatively few developers remain genuinely interested in rental housing projects. This raises an important question: to what extent should the State intervene?

Japan’s experience offers useful lessons. There, developers are given considerable autonomy in TOD projects while being encouraged to allocate a certain proportion of development to rental housing, social housing, and commercial housing.

I believe developers can successfully invest in rental housing and generate reasonable returns, much as has been done in China. Such an approach would help gradually build a more stable, sustainable and self-regulating real estate market, rather than one that alternates between periods of excessive expansion and abrupt slowdowns.

I am not pessimistic about Vietnam’s real estate market. However, we should be mindful of the risk of creating cities that lack vibrancy; places where housing units are sold but remain largely unoccupied, leaving neighborhoods dark and inactive at night.

For *that reason, the most important question is determining the appropriate balance between rental housing and other housing segments. This is an issue that both policymakers and developers must carefully assess based on the specific characteristics and needs of each city.

* * *

In the past, homeownership was widely viewed as a prerequisite for stability and career success. Today, however, the labor market has changed significantly. Previous generations often spent their entire careers with one employer, making homeownership central to “settling down.” Younger generations are more mobile, frequently changing jobs and locations to pursue new opportunities.

Professor Hoang Van Cuong, Vice Chairman of the State Council for Professorship and Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Economic Association

As a result, being tied to a home purchased years earlier can be less practical than renting, which offers greater flexibility. Rental housing allows people to live closer to work, move between neighborhoods, and adjust their housing arrangements as their needs evolve. Young couples and financially-independent single adults are increasingly choosing to live separately from their parents before they have accumulated enough savings to buy a home.

Renting also helps avoid the burden of long-term mortgage debt. Many homeowners spend decades repaying housing loans, limiting their ability to invest in other aspects of their lives. Consequently, demand for rental housing is rising rapidly, particularly in major cities, making it an increasingly important component of urban development.

Given these realities, Vietnam needs a comprehensive strategy for developing the rental housing market. If rental housing is to become a sustainable segment, it will require both public and private sector participation.

If the State acts alone, resources will be insufficient and long-term operation and maintenance may be difficult to sustain. Conversely, if the market is left entirely to private investors under current conditions, rental housing cannot effectively compete with housing developed for sale. Development costs are high, while rental income is often insufficient to cover financing costs, let alone recover the initial investment. This makes State leadership particularly important.

The government should play a central role in urban planning by allocating land for rental housing in areas close to city centers, with good transportation links but lower commercial value.

Classical urban development theories suggest that the most commercially-valuable central areas should be reserved for business and service activities, while nearby areas with lower commercial value are better suited to high-density residential developments that meet rental housing demand.

This approach aligns with the evolution of mature real estate markets. During periods of rapid expansion, developers tend to build homes for sale because capital can be recovered quickly. As markets mature and land becomes scarcer, investment increasingly shifts toward generating long-term income from existing assets, creating natural conditions for a larger rental housing market.

For this reason, rental housing policies should initially focus on major urban centers where demand is strongest. Suitable land should be allocated in locations supported by quality infrastructure, public services, and convenient transportation.

Land costs are another critical issue. Land-use fees often account for a significant portion of development costs, particularly in central urban areas. To reduce financing burdens, land-use payments for rental housing should shift from large upfront payments for permanent residential land rights to annual land rental payments.

For the rental housing market to develop effectively, coordinated reforms are needed across legal, land-use and investment policies. The goal should be to create rental communities that offer quality living environments, comprehensive amenities, and genuine long-term value, rather than serving merely as temporary accommodation for those unable to purchase homes.

If Vietnam can implement a coordinated strategy, rental housing can become a major and sustainable pillar of the country’s real estate market in the years ahead.

* * *

Following the administrative merger, the new Ho Chi Minh City is home not only to nearly 3 million migrants already residing in the city but also to more than 1.2 million migrant workers from former Binh Duong province. As many as 974,000 people are estimated to need social housing through purchase, lease, or lease-to-own schemes. However, during the 2021-2025 period, only 17,902 social housing units were completed.

Mr. Le Hoang Chau, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association

The social housing development target for 2026-2030 is 181,498 units. Even if the city succeeds in delivering 199,400 social housing apartments by 2030, supply will still fall short of the housing needs of workers and low-income urban residents, particularly in the rental segment.

To encourage greater private sector participation in the development of affordable rental housing, the Association proposes incorporating a dedicated policy framework for “rental housing affordable to middle and low-income urban residents” into the amended Law on Housing and related legislation.

This framework should include exemptions from land-use fees and land rental payments for land acquired by developers through negotiated transfers for affordable rental housing projects. These incentives should apply throughout the entire life cycle of the project.

Affordable rental housing projects and social rental housing projects typically require at least 20 years to recover investment costs. Therefore, projects should be required to maintain rental operations for a minimum of 20 years in order to qualify for preferential policies. Such a requirement would align incentives with the long-term nature of these developments and ensure consistency throughout the project’s life cycle.

The Association proposes reinstating the policy of reducing value-added tax and corporate income tax rates by 70 per cent for developers of social rental housing projects and affordable rental housing developments. Relevant tax legislation should also be amended to further reduce development costs and rental prices.

In addition, the Association recommends that the State regulate only the maximum rental rate for affordable rental housing projects, similar to the existing framework for social housing rentals. Developers should retain the right to determine tenant eligibility for affordable rental units within their projects.

The Association further proposes amending the Law on Housing and related regulations to establish minimum standards for studio apartments and rental units, with a minimum floor area of no less than 15 sq m. This would facilitate the development of small rental apartments that are better suited to single-person households, two-person households, and changing demographic trends.

VET-

HCM City accelerates social housing program

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Construction of nine projects with 11,000 apartments have been commenced since the beginning of 2026.

Ho Chi Minh City has accelerated its social housing program, with nine projects comprising nearly 11,000 apartments breaking ground since the beginning of 2026.

A total of 19 projects, providing around 19,000 units, are currently under construction.

In the third quarter of 2026, the city plans to launch another 59 projects with approximately 54,900 apartments. During the 2026-2027 period, authorities aim to complete 78 projects delivering about 73,800 social housing units, while closely monitoring the progress of ongoing developments.

Under targets assigned by the Government, Ho Chi Minh City is required to develop 199,400 social housing units by 2030, including 181,257 units to be completed during 2026-2030. The city is also promoting rental housing to better meet the accommodation needs of workers and low-income households.

VnEconomy-Hồng Vinh

Major works kicked off for 50th anniversary of Ho Chi Minh City's name

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 07:05:00 GMT

The large-scale projects slated for commencement have all previously received investment policy approval from the City People's Council.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has officially issued a plan to organize groundbreaking ceremonies for a series of key infrastructure projects and works to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the city being honored with the name of President Ho Chi Minh (July 2, 1976 – July 2, 2026).

According to the plan, the main groundbreaking ceremony will take place at 8:30am on July 1 at the Nha Rong - Khanh Hoi Port area. The event will be broadcast live.

The municipal Department of Construction stated that the large-scale projects slated for commencement have all previously received investment policy approval from the City People's Council. The list includes the Nha Rong - Khanh Hoi Cultural Park and the Bach Dang Wharf Public Green Park.

In addition, the city will kick off the Ho Tram - Long Thanh International Airport urban expressway and a sea-crossing road project connecting Can Gio and Vung Tau.

The Binh Tien Bridge and Road project (spanning from Pham Van Chi Street to Nguyen Van Linh Street) is also scheduled for groundbreaking after the city approved the component project on March 20. Contractor selection is expected to be finalized by June 29 and the contract signed on June 30.

Similarly, Phase 1 of the Ho Chi Minh City - Moc Bai Expressway is included in the list, with the contract signing expected on June 30.

Regarding connectivity for the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway, the Department of Construction approved the interchange with Rung Sac Road on June 15. Another interchange connecting the same expressway with National Highway 50 was approved on March 19.

Furthermore, HCMC plans to start construction on Phase 1 of the Cai Mep Ha General and Container Port. To date, the project has completed its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which was approved by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment on June 25. The feasibility study report was also approved by the Ministry of Construction on June 26, meeting all requirements for the July 1 groundbreaking.

Vneconomy-Thanh Thủy

Hai Phong targets 17,000 rental housing units by 2030

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 03:00:00 GMT

As part of this strategy, 15 rental housing projects comprising around 4,900 apartments have already been launched.

Northern Hai Phong port city has identified rental housing as a key pillar of its long-term housing strategy, with plans to develop between 15,000 and 17,000 rental apartments by 2030.

According to the Hai Phong People's Committee, the city is shifting its housing policy toward ensuring citizens' right to adequate housing. As part of this strategy, 15 rental housing projects comprising around 4,900 apartments have already been launched.

More than 700 units have been completed and are ready for occupancy, while over 600 apartments are currently being leased, providing stable and affordable accommodation for local residents.

Hai Phong is also making significant progress in social housing development. The city has launched or is implementing 67 social housing projects with a total planned capacity of 85,261 units. Between 2021 and 2030, about 73,780 units are expected to be completed, exceeding the target assigned by the Government by approximately 40%.

On June 26, 2026, Hai Phong and project developer Dai An Industrial Zone Infrastructure Development One Member Co., Ltd. broke ground on a VND1.11 trillion ($42.5 million) accommodation complex for workers and experts.

The project, located within the expanded Dai An Industrial Park along National Highway 5 in Tu Minh Ward, covers 4.28 hectares. It will include seven 10-storey residential buildings providing 1,074 rental apartments for workers, as well as 14 three- to four-storey commercial and service buildings containing 55 rental units for experts.

The worker and expert housing complex is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2027.

VnEconomy-Đỗ Hoàng

Government orders localities to align with double-digit growth targets

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Localities are required to identify new growth drivers, regularly update growth scenarios, and remove long-standing development bottlenecks.

The Vietnamese Government has instructed provinces and centrally governed cities to align their development strategies with the country's ambitious double-digit economic growth targets, identify new growth drivers, regularly update growth scenarios, accelerate public investment disbursement and remove long-standing development bottlenecks.

The directive is outlined in the Government's Resolution No. 169/NQ-CP, issued on June 27, 2026, which sets economic growth objectives for localities in 2026 and the 2026-2030 period.

To achieve rapid, sustainable and substantive growth, the Government has instructed chairpersons of provincial and municipal People's Committees to closely monitor local economic performance while ensuring coordinated and effective implementation of existing socio-economic policies and solutions.

Local authorities are also required to strengthen forecasting and analytical capacity, closely monitor international and regional economic developments, particularly policy changes in major economies that could affect Vietnam, and proactively recommend timely and appropriate policy responses to the Government and the Prime Minister.

Under the resolution, local governments must closely follow the national double-digit growth roadmap for 2026 and the following five years. They are tasked with identifying new growth drivers and untapped development potential to formulate practical and breakthrough measures capable of achieving the assigned targets.

Provinces and cities are required to submit quarterly reports assessing implementation progress and updating growth scenarios where necessary.

The Government also called on local authorities to continue simplifying administrative procedures, reducing business conditions and regulatory barriers, improving the operating efficiency of the newly established two-tier local government system, and resolving the issue of underutilized or surplus public assets, including unused land and buildings.

VnEconomy-Hà Lê

Hue focuses resources on infrastructure and urban expansion for 2026-2030

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Public investment resources will be concentrated on key sectors, including transportation, urban development, economic and industrial zones, culture, tourism, healthcare, education, science and technology, agriculture, and the environment.

Chairman of the Hue City People’s Committee in central Vietnam, Mr. Nguyen Khac Toan, has recently chaired a meeting to review the finalization of the city's Medium-term Public Investment Plan using the State budget for the 2026-2030 period, as well as the current status of public investment disbursement for 2026.

Public investment resources will be concentrated on key sectors, including transportation, urban development, economic and industrial zones, culture, tourism, healthcare, education, science and technology, agriculture, and the environment. Additionally, the city is committed to allocating resources to local communes and wards , with a focus on high-impact "driving-force" projects that expand development space and enhance regional competitiveness.

Regarding the scale of capital, the city leader reached a consensus on the proposed total investment for the medium term. However, he directed the Department of Finance to further analyze the correlation between total public investment, total social investment, and the 10% growth target. This includes clarifying the underlying data, assumptions, and calculation methods used in the proposal.

In terms of project prioritization, the city has established a clear hierarchy: transitional projects that must be completed within the period; driving-force projects capable of stimulating growth, expanding development space, and generating revenue; social welfare projects, including healthcare, education, environment, national defense, and security; and projects that have already completed all necessary investment procedures.

New projects or those with incomplete procedures must finalize their documentation by July 15. The Chairman emphasized that projects failing to demonstrate necessity, lack clear funding sources, show insufficient efficiency, or fail to meet progress requirements will not be included in the official capital allocation plan.

Vneconomy-Nguyễn Thuấn

Government's new action plan for combatting money laundering and terrorism financing adopted

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 08:30:00 GMT

The plan aims to remove Viet Nam from the list of countries subject to increased monitoring issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – a global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog.

Under Prime Ministerial Decision No.1139/QD-TTg, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang on June 26, the Government's new action plan for combatting money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) has been adopted.

The plan constitutes part of Vietnam's efforts to implement its international commitments to prevent and combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing, the Government News remarked

The plan aims to remove Vietnam from the list of countries subject to increased monitoring issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – a global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog.

Under the plan, the Government required ministries and central agencies to develop, issue, and effecively carry out their action plans to reduce risks of money laundering for 2023-2028 period.

Ministries and central agencies are requested to develop and implement supervision mechanisms for the deployment of their action plans; enhance cooperation with foreign partners.

Since June 2023, when Vietnam made a high-level political commitment to work with the FATF and APG to strengthen the effectiveness of its AML/CFT regime, the country has taken some steps towards improving its AML/CFT regime.

FATF suggested Vietnam should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies, including increasing risk understanding; enhancing international co-operation; implementing effective risk-based supervision for FIs and DNFBPs, taking action to regulate virtual assets and virtual asset service providers.

Vietnam should conduct outreach activities with the private sector, establish a regime that provides competent authorities with adequate, accurate and up-to-date information on beneficial ownership.

VGP-Khanh Van

For a more balanced and sustainable rental housing market

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Mr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARS), and Director of the Vietnam Institute for Real Estate Research (VARS IRE), tells Huyen Ngan about the need to build a more balanced and sustainable rental housing market.

Many observers argue that Vietnam’s real estate market has grown rapidly but lacks stability. How do you view this assessment?

The rapid growth of Vietnam’s real estate market over the past several years has contributed significantly to economic expansion, infrastructure investment, urban development, and the growth of related industries. However, behind this strong performance lies a major structural imbalance: supply is heavily concentrated in the high-end segment, while housing that is affordable for the majority of the population remains scarce.

Vietnam has developed a robust market for homes for sale but has yet to establish a professional, long-term rental housing system with clear State guidance. Today’s rental market remains largely fragmented, small-scale, and unplanned, often failing to provide stable and quality living conditions.

Traditionally, Vietnamese people have preferred homeownership over renting. Do you believe rental demand is strong enough to support a professional rental housing market?

According to the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, around 4.5-5 million workers are employed at industrial parks, most of whom rent accommodation, often with inadequate living conditions. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the number of renting households continues to rise, particularly among young people, migrant workers, and those at the beginning of their careers. Yet quality rental housing remains in short supply.

Hanoi is a clear example. As northern Vietnam’s largest education and employment hub, the capital attracts hundreds of thousands of students and young workers each year. Demand for rental housing rises sharply between June and September as students prepare for the new academic year.

At the same time, urban renewal and infrastructure projects are creating new waves of population displacement. According to the Hanoi People’s Committee, local authorities are currently carrying out land clearance for about 1,428 projects, including major developments such as the Hoang Cau - Voi Phuc section of Ring Road 1, Tu Lien Bridge, and Tran Hung Dao Bridge, directly affecting thousands of households.

Between 2026 and 2030, Hanoi plans to recover nearly 24,824 ha of land for more than 3,100 socio-economic development projects. This will continue to drive demand for temporary and rental housing during the resettlement process.

Current resettlement housing supply cannot immediately meet demand. Many affected households choose to rent homes near their former residences to maintain jobs, schooling, and social ties, placing additional pressure on the rental market.

Rental demand extends beyond students and displaced households. For many young professionals, workers, and young families, homeownership requires years of savings. Long-term renting therefore becomes the most practical option before they are financially ready to buy a home. This demand creates a strong foundation for developing a professional rental housing sector that supports social welfare, labor mobility, and sustainable urban growth.

Some argue that privately-built boarding houses can meet housing demand without large-scale participation from developers. What is your view?

Most workers still live in informal rental housing developed by individuals around industrial parks and suburban areas. These properties are often small, overcrowded, poorly equipped, and vulnerable to fire safety risks. Following several serious boarding-house fires in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in recent years, concerns over rental housing quality have become increasingly urgent.

In this context, rental housing with clear legal status, reliable quality, convenient connectivity, and reasonable pricing will become increasingly important. Such developments are not only an alternative for those unable to buy homes but also a way to create a healthier balance between housing demand and investment demand.

The recent surge in boarding house demand reflects a deeper issue: the growing shortage of entry-level housing. In the past, young people had access to affordable options such as small apartments, renovated collective housing, and reasonably-priced suburban developments. These products served as the first step toward homeownership.

Today, rising land prices and construction costs have made affordable housing increasingly difficult to develop. As a result, the market has become more polarized, with demand continuing to outpace supply.

The challenge is not simply a lack of social housing or affordable housing. Vietnam needs a broader “starter housing ecosystem” that allows young people to access suitable housing early in their careers before gradually progressing toward homeownership. Within that ecosystem, professional rental housing should be regarded as a key component alongside social housing and affordable commercial housing.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure access to quality housing at reasonable costs. This is why many developed countries view rental housing as a pillar of social welfare and urban stability.

How have other countries successfully developed rental housing, and what lessons can Vietnam learn?

Germany has a homeownership rate of only about 46 per cent - the lowest in Europe - yet it consistently ranks among the world’s best places to live. Its success stems from strong tenant protections, including the Mietspiegel system, a reference rent index published by local authorities to regulate rent increases. This allows residents to view rental housing as a stable long-term option.

Singapore has taken a different approach, with the State playing a central role in housing development. More than 80 per cent of the population lives in housing developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). Alongside its ownership model, Singapore maintains a heavily subsidized public rental housing system for low-income households. These developments are integrated with schools, healthcare, transportation and public amenities, creating high-quality communities.

South Korea has expanded long-term rental housing through the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH). The government directly develops or acquires apartments and leases them for 20-30 years to students, newly-married couples, and low-income households. Long-term financing from the National Housing and Urban Fund helps support the model.

International experience shows that the State’s role is decisive. Unlike homes for sale, rental housing projects often require 15-25 years to recover investment costs while generating relatively modest returns. Under normal market conditions, private developers have limited incentives to participate at scale.

If rental housing projects require such long payback periods, how can more developers be encouraged to participate?

The State must play a leading role in creating supportive policies and coordinating resources, particularly in planning, land allocation, financing, rent management and ensuring benefits reach the intended groups.

Authorities could allow developers to defer land-use fee payments, reduce financial obligations during the early years of operation, or link payments to project performance. This would ease initial capital pressure while preserving government revenues.

Vietnam could also explore flexible mechanisms allowing projects to shift between rental and for-sale models. Units converted for sale would fulfill all land-related obligations, while long-term rental units could continue benefiting from phased payment arrangements.

In addition, long-term financing tools such as housing savings funds, low-interest credit programs and tax incentives should be developed. Without a specially-designed institutional framework, it will be difficult to attract large-scale private investment.

International experience shows that success depends less on capping profits and more on providing access to long-term, low-cost capital. Returns should be determined through market-based mechanisms that reflect financing costs and project risks. This approach balances the interests of government, developers, and tenants while supporting a sustainable rental housing market.

Mr. Nguyen Van Dinh Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARS), and Director of the Vietnam Institute for Real Estate Research (VARS IRE)

Vietnam also needs a dedicated legal framework for rental housing to better protect tenants’ rights.

If the rental market expands significantly, could it reduce people’s desire to own property?

For many years, real estate has been viewed as a safe and important store of wealth in Vietnam. While this has supported market growth, investment demand has at times overshadowed genuine housing needs.

Global experience suggests that a sustainable housing market is one that offers a wide range of options suited to different income levels and needs. Those with sufficient resources can pursue homeownership, while lower-income groups should have access to quality rental housing at affordable costs.

This is the foundation for a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable real estate market in Vietnam. It is also consistent with the housing policy direction outlined by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam.

Expanding rental housing does not mean limiting legitimate ownership or investment aspirations. Rather, it helps create a more balanced market structure that better accommodates housing, ownership, investment and rental needs.

VET-Huyen Ngan

Vietnam’s first carbon trading exchange is to launh soon

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 01:05:00 GMT

The domestic carbon trading exchange is organized and operated as regulated by the Government’s Decree 29/2026/ND-CP.

Vietnam’s first carbon trading exchange is scheduled for launching on June 29.

This will mark a significant milestone in the development of the country's carbon market, thus making contributions to fulfilling its international commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting green transition, fostering the development of a low-carbon economy, and providing businesses with an additional market-based instrument to support the achievement of their sustainable development goals.

Vietnam is actively developing a centrally managed domestic carbon market, with a pilot phase from late 2026 to 2028 and full implementation scheduled for 2029.

This development aims to achieve the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets by 2030 and ultimately reach an ambitious goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Earlier, the Vietnamese Government had approved pilot greenhouse gas emission quotas for key industrial sector in 2025 and 2026.

Under this pilot policy, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment had allocated greenhouse gas emission quotas to 110 facilities.

The ministry has also issued a circular regulating the management and operation of the national registry system for greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits, providing the foundation for managing and trading commodities on the carbon exchange.

In January this year, the Government promulgated Decree 29/2026/ND-CP, paving the way for setting up domestic carbon exchange. The Decree stipulates that the domestic carbon exchange is a comprehensive legal framework for the organization and operation of the carbon market in Vietnam.

VGP-Pham Long

Construction ministry urges provinces to launch rental housing projects

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 07:12:00 GMT

Localities are required to break ground on at least one rental housing project.

The Minister of Construction has instructed all provinces and cities to break ground on at least one rental housing project by the end of June and begin implementing larger-scale rental housing developments over the following two quarters.

The directive, issued on June 23, calls on local authorities to accelerate rental housing development during 2026 and the 2026-2030 period, in line with the Government's long-term housing strategy.

The directive outlines nine priority tasks for local governments.

First, provinces are required to assess rental housing demand and finalize development plans by the end of June 2026. Second, they must promptly begin publicly funded rental housing projects, with implementation targeted for completion in the third quarter of this year. The ministry also called for accelerated development of worker accommodation to support industrial zones.

Local authorities have been instructed to reserve well-connected, infrastructure-ready land for rental housing and social housing projects while ensuring social housing construction targets are met. The ministry also encouraged policies that support individuals and households in developing rental properties.

In addition, cities and bprovinces are required to improve the management and utilization of publicly owned housing assets by July 2026 and undertake comprehensive administrative reforms to simplify investment procedures for rental and social housing projects.

The minister stressed that reducing administrative barriers and ensuring effective coordination among local agencies will be essential to accelerating project implementation and expanding the supply of affordable rental housing.

VnEconomy-Phan Nam

In need of a well-designed rental housing ecosystem

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMT

A well-designed rental housing ecosystem in Vietnam would ease pressure on home prices, unlock long-term capital, and support broader economic restructuring.

The recent directive from Party General Secretary and State President To Lam to prioritize the development of rental housing is opening a new pathway for Vietnam’s real estate market. At a time when housing prices are rising far faster than incomes, the issue extends beyond social welfare and touches directly upon urban competitiveness, the structure of the financial system, and the long-term sustainability of the property market.

Breaking away from the old model

For many years, Vietnam’s real estate market has largely operated under a build-to-sell model. Developers have focused on maximizing sales and accelerating capital recovery, while the rental segment has remained fragmented, undersupplied, and largely unsupported by dedicated financing mechanisms.

As housing prices move increasingly beyond the reach of young people and middle-income households, the limitations of this model are becoming more apparent. Home prices in many areas exceed 20-times annual household income, while affordable housing supply has nearly disappeared due to rising development costs, lengthy approval procedures, and the heavy reliance on short-term bank loans and corporate bonds to finance long-term property projects. This maturity mismatch creates risks not only for developers but also for lenders and, ultimately, the broader financial system.

Against this backdrop, expanding rental housing offers a practical solution already proven in many countries. A stronger rental sector can reduce pressure on homeownership, support labor mobility, and create a more resilient urban and financial structure.

International experience suggests that large-scale rental housing markets rarely emerge through market forces alone. In Singapore, the State plays a central role in land planning and housing provision through the Housing and Development Board (HDB). In countries such as Germany and Austria, meanwhile, governments support rental housing through public land allocations, tax incentives, and access to long-term capital.

For Vietnam, a “State-led, market-driven” model deserves consideration. Under this approach, the government would focus on planning, long-term financing mechanisms, and legal frameworks, while private enterprises would undertake construction, operations, and property management under transparent market principles.

At the center of this model would be a national housing corporation operating as a State-controlled institution with modern corporate governance. Rather than directly developing projects, it would function as a coordinating platform for the rental housing ecosystem. Its responsibilities could include managing public land reserves and recovered land from delayed projects, organizing competitive bidding for construction, and serving as a bridge between rental housing projects and long-term sources of capital.

Unlocking long-term capital

Rental housing projects typically require 15-25 years to recover investment costs. Yet most Vietnamese developers rely on short and medium-term financing from banks, corporate bonds, and homebuyer prepayments. This financing structure is poorly suited to rental housing.

In countries such as Japan, Singapore, and Australia, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) play a critical role. Once rental projects generate stable cash flow, developers can transfer these assets into REITs, recover capital, and reinvest in new projects. The REITs then attract long-term institutional investors through capital markets, transforming rental housing into a stable income-generating asset class.

Vietnam’s rental housing ecosystem should likewise be connected to long-term institutional capital sources with significantly lower funding costs than commercial bank loans. One proposal is to establish a national housing corporation as a State-owned enterprise or a joint stock company with majority State ownership. Initial capital could come from proceeds of State divestments and public land resources. Operating under market principles, the corporation would serve as a platform for infrastructure and financing while outsourcing construction and operations to private sector specialists.

A second pillar would be the issuance of long-term national housing bonds with maturities of 20-30 years and government-backed payment guarantees. Debt repayment would be supported by rental income and other project-related revenues. To reduce financial pressure during construction, interest payments could be deferred and capitalized during the first three years, while liquidity reserves could be established using proceeds from State asset divestments.

Over time, rental income from hundreds of thousands of households, combined with revenues from commercial services integrated into rental communities, could provide sufficient cash flow to service debt and support operations.

Third, regulatory reforms could allow institutions such as Vietnam Social Security, life insurers, and pension funds to allocate part of their portfolios to national housing bonds. Given their long-term liabilities, these institutions are natural investors in long-duration, government-backed instruments.

In the medium term, Vietnam could also explore pilot programs for tokenized long-term rental rights under a regulatory sandbox framework. Such instruments could broaden retail investor participation, encourage younger generations to accumulate housing access rights and create a new transparent, liquid financial product.

Creating the conditions for scale

A dedicated policy framework should therefore include streamlined administrative procedures and preferential land policies. Projects committed to long-term rental operations and regulated rental rates could receive exemptions or significant reductions in land-use fees for a fixed period, while a fast-track approval process would help reduce financing costs associated with delays.

Reducing project development costs is essential for rental housing to remain affordable. If developers continue to face commercial land-use fees and lengthy approval processes, rental prices will inevitably rise.

Technology should also play a role. Wider adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout design, construction, and operations could reduce material waste, shorten construction timelines, and lower long-term maintenance costs.

For the rental housing ecosystem to scale successfully, policies must encourage voluntary participation by major domestic developers. Rather than relying on administrative mandates, authorities could create incentive-based arrangements. For example, developers could be allowed to substitute their obligations to allocate 20 per cent of project land for social housing by contributing resources to large-scale rental housing developments coordinated by the national housing corporation.

The government could also adopt a “State creates, private sector builds” model, under which qualified developers construct projects that are later acquired by the national housing corporation using long-term capital, ensuring reasonable and predictable returns.

To improve commercial appeal, the corporation could auction rights to manage properties and operate commercial services within rental communities. Revenues from these activities would help private operators offset the relatively modest returns typically associated with affordable rental housing.

Ultimately, developing a professional rental housing ecosystem is not merely a short-term measure to stabilize the property market. It is a strategic component of broader economic restructuring.

A stable rental housing sector can help moderate housing prices, reduce the financial system’s dependence on mortgage lending, and improve labor mobility by enabling workers to move more easily to industrial and high-tech production centers.

If supported by coherent institutional reforms, long-term capital mechanisms, and modern infrastructure planning, rental housing can become a key driver in creating a more transparent, resilient and demand-driven real estate market for Vietnam’s next stage of development.

VET-Hong Ha

Hanoi unveils 100-year master plan through digital exhibition

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:10:00 GMT

Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

To bring the 100-year vision of the Capital Master Plan closer to its citizens, Hanoi will launch a large-scale exhibition at the Hanoi Museum, featuring advanced digital technology to illustrate the city's future growth.

According to a press conference held on June 25 regarding the conference to announce the Hanoi Capital Master Plan with a 100-Year Vision and Investment Promotion 2026, the exhibition will be spread across multiple floors of the museum. On the first floor, a circular scale model with a 7-meter diameter will be displayed, providing fully updated information on the latest planning boundaries.

The fourth floor, spanning 1,200 sq.m, has been designed as a "special experience space." In addition to large-scale panels detailing Hanoi’s development throughout history, visitors can witness a 3D Mapping model that visually demonstrates the city’s technical infrastructure and spatial orientation. Guests will also have the opportunity to view 3D documentaries and trial-test an urban planning information lookup system.

The Master Plan covers a natural area of over 3,359 sq.km. It establishes a development structure based on a "multi-tier, multi-layer, multi-polar, and multi-center" model, utilizing the Red River as the primary ecological and cultural landscape axis.

By 2045, Hanoi aims to reach a GRDP of approximately $640 billion, transforming into a global city with a high quality of life. To realize this vision, the city has identified 11 breakthrough solution groups, notably an urban railway system integrated with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and a commitment to "Net Zero" emissions.

Scheduled for June 29, the event is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates, including 580 to 780 domestic and international investors.

On this occasion, the city will officially debut a 360-degree digitized data management system for investment projects. This system, along with the digital experience zone, promises to provide a comprehensive overview of investment potential and local products.

As part of the program, Hanoi is expected to grant investment policy decisions and investment registration certificates to key projects, while signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with major global corporations.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Rental housing as a strategic pillar of Vietnam’s housing policy

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The government is positioning rental housing as a strategic pillar of Vietnam’s housing policy, aiming to boost supply, improve affordability, and support sustainable real estate market development.

At a recent real estate forum organized by the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Van Sinh said the development of rental housing has been identified by the government and the Prime Minister as a key priority to address the housing needs of citizens and workers. Under this approach, the State will play a leading role in shaping the market and mobilizing social resources to expand the rental housing segment.

He also emphasized the real estate market’s strategic role in the economy, noting its contribution to infrastructure development, housing provision, social welfare, urbanization, tourism, and economic growth. According to the Deputy Minister, Vietnam’s legal framework already provides for a range of rental housing models, including social housing, worker accommodation, official residences, commercial rental housing, and privately-developed rental properties, creating an important foundation for expanding rental housing supply in the years to come.

Market recovery gains momentum

As Vietnam pursues ambitious economic growth targets while maintaining macro-economic stability, the Party, National Assembly, government, and Prime Minister have introduced a series of policies aimed at fostering a stable, transparent, and sustainable real estate market.

Authorities have revised key laws governing investment, land use, planning, construction, housing, and real estate business activities, while also accelerating project approvals to increase housing supply. These reforms have improved consistency across the legal framework, streamlined administrative procedures, and helped remove longstanding obstacles facing investors and developers.

The government has continued to advance its program to build at least 1 million social housing units by 2030. To date, 781 projects totaling 720,055 units are under development, equivalent to 72 per cent of the target. Of these, 231 projects comprising 180,850 units have been completed, while 234 projects with 233,962 units are under construction and 316 projects with 305,243 units have received investment approval.

In 2025 alone, 102,633 social housing units were completed, exceeding the annual target of 100,275 units. During the first five months of 2026, construction began on an additional 34 projects comprising nearly 30,000 units.

The government has also stepped up efforts to resolve bottlenecks affecting real estate projects, particularly legal and administrative issues. According to the Ministry of Construction (MoC), obstacles have been removed at 3,289 land-related projects covering more than 70,000 ha, allowing them to resume development and move toward completion.

“With the decisive and coordinated implementation of these measures, the real estate market has shown encouraging signs,” Mr. Sinh said. “Major projects have broken ground, stalled developments have resumed, and both supply and liquidity have improved.” However, he also stressed that several structural challenges continue to constrain the market.

One of the most significant is the mismatch between supply and demand. While the high-end segment continues to attract investment, affordable housing remains in short supply, particularly in major urban centers.

The market also remains heavily focused on homes for sale, while the long-term rental housing segment has yet to develop at a scale capable of meeting actual housing needs.

Housing prices have risen much faster than incomes in recent years, making homeownership increasingly difficult for low and middle-income households. At the same time, existing policies have not been sufficiently attractive to encourage large-scale private sector investment in rental housing.

Another challenge is the incomplete integration of housing information systems and databases between central and local authorities, limiting transparency and complicating market oversight. “These are issues that have accumulated over time and cannot be resolved overnight, but they require immediate and coordinated action,” Mr. Sinh said.

Strategic focus

Against this backdrop, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and Prime Minister Le Minh Hung have outlined a new direction for housing and real estate development. At the heart of the strategy is a shift from a model focused primarily on commercial housing toward a more balanced approach that promotes commercial housing, social housing, and rental housing simultaneously.

Under this vision, rental housing is no longer viewed as a supplementary segment but as a strategic, long-term component of the national housing system. It is expected to serve workers, laborers, students, civil servants, public employees, and members of the armed forces.

The government also aims to develop housing through a market-oriented approach supported by effective State management. The State will act as a facilitator through planning, policy, and financial tools designed to ensure market transparency and sustainability while maintaining affordability for residents.

Housing development will also be more closely integrated with urban planning, land-use planning, industrial development, public transportation systems, labor market strategies, and population management policies. Priority will be given to Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects, urban renewal programs, industrial parks, economic zones, and major economic corridors.

Another key objective is to diversify funding sources. Rather than relying heavily on State budgets, authorities plan to mobilize greater private sector participation and attract long-term investment from financial institutions and investment funds. Public resources will be used strategically to guide market development and catalyze private investment.

The government also plans to address underutilized public housing assets, strengthen anti-waste measures, improve accountability among local authorities, and enhance transparency in housing support programs to prevent abuse and speculation.

Expanding rental housing supply

Based on these policy directions, the MoC has outlined a number of priorities for the time ahead. These include reviewing the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW, issued by the Secretariat in May 2024, and drafting a new directive aimed at strengthening Party leadership over housing and real estate development. The Ministry is also preparing amendments to the Law on Housing, the Law on Real Estate Business, the Land Law, and related legislation for submission to the National Assembly this October.

At the same time, authorities will seek to better balance housing supply by prioritizing social housing, reasonably-priced commercial housing, worker housing, housing for low-income groups, and rental housing projects that meet genuine market demand.

The State will take the lead in guiding the market, while local authorities must proactively accelerate rental housing projects to meet the rapidly-growing housing needs of citizens and worker.

Mr. Nguyen Van Sinh, Deputy Minister of Construction

Speaking specifically about rental housing, Mr. Sinh said the MoC is working with ministries, agencies, and local governments to amend the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business to create more favorable conditions for rental housing development.

The Ministry has urged local authorities to conduct detailed assessments of rental housing demand among different groups, including workers, students, public servants, and armed forces personnel, which will serve as the basis for investment planning and capital allocation.

City and provincial governments have also been asked to review local planning frameworks, allocate suitable land resources, and ensure adequate infrastructure for rental housing developments, particularly at industrial parks and in densely-populated urban areas.

In addition, local governments are being encouraged to invest directly in rental housing through local budget resources and to strengthen the role of local housing funds. Authorities have been instructed to reserve land for social rental housing projects and expand rental housing stock through the conversion of public assets and the acquisition of suitable housing from developers.

“The State will take the lead in guiding the market, while local authorities must proactively accelerate rental housing projects to meet the rapidly-growing housing needs of citizens and workers,” Mr. Sinh said.

He also called on city and provincial governments to accelerate social housing development, fast-track administrative procedures, remove obstacles facing delayed projects, improve market transparency, and speed up the development of housing and real estate databases.

The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that, with strong leadership from the Party and the State, close coordination between ministries and local governments, and active participation from businesses and industry stakeholders, Vietnam’s real estate market will continue to develop in a transparent, healthy, and sustainable manner.

He believes the sector will remain an important driver of economic growth, urban modernization, national competitiveness, and improved living standards while supporting the country’s broader long-term development goals.

VET- PHAN NAM

A fundamental shift in housing strategy

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Vietnam is accelerating the development of a rental-led housing model, with new policies and projects aimed at expanding access to affordable housing.

At a working session with the government Party Committee and relevant ministries and agencies on the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW, issued by the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat on strengthening the Party’s leadership in social housing development under the new circumstances, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam stressed that housing policies in the new era must be designed with a new mindset and vision to ensure that everyone has access to housing. Housing, he added, should serve as a place to live rather than a vehicle for business or wealth accumulation.

“Vietnam’s housing development model in the new period is neither a subsidized housing model nor one that leaves everything to the market,” he continued. “The State will create land banks, develop planning frameworks, provide financial support, establish standards and regulations, and simplify administrative procedures. The market will participate in construction and operation while earning reasonable returns. Citizens will have access to stable, safe, and affordable housing suited to their needs. From now until 2030, housing for sale will remain necessary, but rental housing must be established as a strategic pillar, particularly in major cities, industrial parks, labor migration hubs, and areas where housing prices far exceed household incomes.”

Strategic pillar

Notice No. 64-TB/VPTW, issued by the Party Central Committee’s Office summarizing the conclusions of the Party General Secretary and State President, reaffirmed that future housing development, particularly social housing, should focus on several key priorities.

First, authorities must recognize that access to lawful housing is a fundamental right of citizens. Access to safe and affordable housing should be viewed as a measure of social progress, providing a foundation for stable and sustainable development while strengthening public confidence. Housing development should be integrated into urban and rural development strategies, contributing to social welfare, security, higher labor productivity, and the healthy development of the real estate market. The State should pursue housing policies aimed at ensuring that everyone has a place to live.

Second, housing development should follow a market-oriented model under effective State guidance and management. The State will not subsidize housing, but neither will it leave the market entirely to regulate itself. Instead, it will play a facilitating role through institutions, policies, and planning to promote a transparent and healthy market, allowing businesses to participate with reasonable profit expectations while ensuring citizens can access stable, safe, and affordable housing.

Third, alongside housing for sale, priority should be given to rental housing development, particularly apartment rental projects in major urban centers, industrial parks, economic zones, growth regions, and key economic corridors. Housing development should be aligned with urban planning, land-use planning, industrial park development, public transportation systems, labor markets, and population management.

The Notice also calls for a review of the current housing classification system and the development of a new framework consisting of four categories: commercial housing, rental housing, official residences, and policy-supported housing. This would allow the government to develop tailored policies for each segment, including State-supported pricing schemes and free housing provision for certain eligible groups.

Fourth, the government Party Committee has been tasked with developing appropriate land and credit policies to accelerate the affordable rental housing market and encourage greater private sector participation. Authorities are also required to establish standards for each housing category and streamline development procedures through a one-stop administrative mechanism.

Procedures related to investment, planning, land allocation, construction permits, and access to preferential financing should be shortened and made more transparent, with clearly-defined timelines and accountability.

Local authorities are instructed to review land resources and update planning frameworks. Housing development across all segments must be integrated with technical infrastructure, essential social services, cultural facilities, healthcare, and education, particularly in urban areas, economic zones, industrial parks, high-tech parks, and rapidly-urbanizing regions. They are also expected to proactively clear land and prepare serviced sites for rental housing projects while strengthening oversight to prevent abuse of housing support policies and speculative activity in the housing market. At the same time, greater use of digital technologies and data-driven management tools is encouraged in housing development and real estate operations.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam chairs the working session with the government Party Committee and relevant ministries and agencies on the implementation of Directive No. 34-CT/TW.

Fifth, the government Party Committee has been assigned to develop a new housing policy framework aligned with the Constitution, Party policies, and public demand. It will also review the implementation of Directive No. 34 and propose a new directive from either the Secretariat or the Politburo, providing the basis for amendments to the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business, which are expected to be submitted to the National Assembly (NA) this year.

Turning plans into action

To accelerate the implementation of the Party General Secretary and State President’s directives, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung emphasized during meetings with local authorities that the development of affordable commercial housing and rental housing is a major policy priority of the Party and the State, reaffirmed through Directive No. 34 and Notice No. 64. “These are not issues that can be resolved overnight, but they require immediate and decisive action and cannot be delayed,” he said.

For Hanoi, the Prime Minister called for a pioneering approach, including assessments of housing demand, target groups, and investment mechanisms to develop large-scale rental housing projects for people living and working in the capital, including officials and civil servants from central government agencies.

Hanoi is expected to begin construction on several rental housing projects during June and make flexible use of social housing financial contributions, with the State investing and professional operators managing the projects.

The capital has also been tasked with preparing an investment, construction, and operational plan for rental housing projects and reporting the results to the Prime Minister in July. In addition, Hanoi should propose mechanisms to mobilize social resources and support investment in and the operation of rental housing projects through appropriate land allocation and land lease policies.

The Prime Minister issued similar instructions to the northern port city of Hai Phong and nearby Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, Ninh Binh, and Hung Yen provinces, requiring that each begin construction of at least one rental housing project this month and accelerate larger developments in the third and fourth quarters.

“The policy direction is already clear,” he continued. “Local authorities must take the initiative and not wait passively for central guidance. Any obstacles should be clearly identified so that institutions, mechanisms, and policies can be updated and improved accordingly.”

He stressed that the issue is urgent and requires the State to take the lead, using public resources as leverage to attract private investment. National and local housing funds should be used effectively to stimulate the market, while diverse funding sources, particularly private capital and long-term investment, should be mobilized rather than relying solely on the State budget.

Regarding planning, the Prime Minister instructed local authorities to review and adjust planning frameworks based on approved master plans and provincial plans, identifying specific locations and scales for rental housing development linked to key industrial parks and strategic growth areas. This work must be completed by the end of June.

Local governments are also required to assess rental housing demand and prepare rental housing development plans through 2030, including annual targets, priority project lists, anticipated funding sources, and implementation roadmaps. These plans must also be submitted to the Ministry of Construction (MoC) by the end of June.

The Prime Minister also assigned specific responsibilities to ministries and agencies. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the State Bank of Vietnam have been tasked with proposing financial, tax, and credit incentives for long-term rental housing projects, to attract private investors and long-term investment funds.

Meanwhile, the MoC has been instructed to continue implementing tasks outlined in Notice No. 262/TB-VPCP, review the implementation of Directive No. 34, and propose a new directive to replace the current one. The Ministry is also responsible for finalizing draft legal amendments for submission to the NA, issuing national technical standards for small and medium-scale rental housing projects, including mini apartment buildings and family-operated rental housing, and ensuring compliance with safety and fire prevention requirements.

In addition, the Ministry will consolidate policy proposals from local authorities and coordinate with the MoF to review mechanisms allowing businesses and cooperatives to acquire commercial and social housing solely for rental purposes.

Moving into action

To implement the new housing development strategy, the MoC is now reviewing and amending relevant policies, with rental housing identified as a strategic segment of the housing market. The approach aims to develop housing under a market-based framework with effective State oversight, while mobilizing diverse investment sources, reducing reliance on the State budget, and unlocking private capital for housing development.

At its May review meeting and June task deployment conference, the Ministry said the new housing development orientations have been incorporated into policy dossiers for amendments to the Law on Housing and the Law on Real Estate Business. Draft legislation is expected to be submitted to the NA for approval this October.

Under the proposed framework, housing policies will be organized into four categories: commercial housing, rental housing, official residences, and policy-supported housing. Long-term rental housing with affordable rates will be prioritized through incentives related to land, finance, taxation, and credit.

The Ministry is also developing separate standards and regulations for different housing types, particularly rental housing, worker accommodation, student housing, and housing for the elderly. The standards aim to ensure quality of life and building safety while promoting the professional management and operation of long-term rental housing projects.

To ensure rental housing development aligns with actual demand, the MoC has conducted nationwide assessments covering different population groups, localities, and development stages. It is also reviewing land availability in urban areas, industrial parks, economic zones, high-tech parks, and rapidly-urbanizing regions to create a pipeline of serviced land for future rental housing projects.

In addition, the Ministry has requested local authorities to assess rental housing demand and propose targets for rental housing stock funded by local housing funds in 2026 and the 2027-2030 period.

“Alongside accelerating social housing development, local authorities are actively implementing rental housing programs and projects, while many businesses have registered to participate as investors,” Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh told the 14th Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor for the 2026-2031 term. “Through State support policies, particularly in credit and interest rates, social housing and rental housing are expected to better meet the accommodation needs of low-income workers.”

Following directives from the Party and the government, local authorities have also moved quickly to implement the policy. Chairing a meeting on rental housing projects in Hanoi on May 27, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang said the capital would promptly study and implement new models in line with guidance from the central government. Hanoi aims to establish several pilot rental housing projects that can be rapidly developed and later replicated on a wider scale.

Authorities in the capital have instructed departments and agencies to develop attractive policies to encourage private sector participation and to urgently review urban planning, housing development plans, and land resources to allocate land for rental housing projects. Hanoi has also pledged to streamline administrative procedures and prioritize fast-track approvals.

In Ho Chi Minh City, meanwhile, the Department of Construction and the southern city’s Construction Science and Technology Association held a conference on June 9 to promote investment in rental housing development.

Officials said the city, with a population of around 14 million, faces significant housing demand from professionals, workers, students, and other residents. However, the rental housing market still lacks long-term mechanisms and incentives strong enough to attract investors.

The city aims to develop more than 181,000 social housing units between 2026 and 2030, including approximately 50,000 rental social housing units. It is also considering converting part of its unused resettlement housing stock and surplus State-owned housing into rental housing to improve the use of public assets.

At the conference, 13 companies - four State-owned enterprises and nine private companies - signed commitments to develop approximately 97,900 rental housing units.

“Ho Chi Minh City will provide maximum support and establish a green lane for social housing and rental housing projects,” Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc said. “We are reviewing rental housing demand and allocating land accordingly within the city’s housing master plan. With more than 97,000 rental housing units committed at this conference alone, I believe we have a solid foundation to successfully implement the city’s rental housing development strategy.”

In Quang Ninh, provincial leaders have also moved to accelerate implementation. At a meeting on June 11, Chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee Bui Van Khang described rental housing development as an important political task that would contribute to social welfare, improve living standards, attract and retain talent, and support the province’s sustainable growth objectives.

He called on authorities at all levels to fully implement the conclusions of Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and Prime Minister Hung, treating rental housing development as a key priority requiring decisive action and measurable outcomes.

The province plans to establish a steering committee for rental housing development, led by the provincial Chairman, along with an implementation task force headed by the director of the Department of Construction. Local authorities will be required to submit weekly or bi-weekly progress reports and will be held accountable for delays or failure to deliver results.

Provincial agencies have also been tasked with studying the creation of a major projects management board to oversee housing projects and reviewing planning documents to incorporate rental housing developments into provincial and urban plans for 2026-2030.

Quang Ninh has been instructed to ensure rental housing projects are located in convenient areas with adequate infrastructure and aligned with the needs of target groups. At least one State-funded housing project is expected to break ground in June, while privately-funded developments are scheduled to accelerate in the third and fourth quarters.

According to Prime Minister Hung, the government has directed ministries, agencies, and local authorities to develop and refine policies supporting the housing market. By the end of the year, the legal framework for rental housing development must be completed.

“If we can meet this demand, it will improve living standards, strengthen social welfare and public order, and provide a solid foundation for maintaining the workforce, attracting investment, and supporting rapid and sustainable economic growth,” he said. “If local authorities actively engage, they can not only meet housing demand but also reduce pressure on home ownership and help address many broader economic challenges.”

VET-Nam Huyen

Foreign female Consuls General in HCMC share career insights with students

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Eight foreign female Consuls General serving in Ho Chi Minh City shared personal experiences with students, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain for women pursuing careers in diplomacy.

To mark the International Day of Women in Diplomacy on June 24, eight foreign female Consuls General serving in Ho Chi Minh City met with around 40 female students from the Faculty of History and International Relations at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City), to discuss opportunities, challenges, and the growing role of women in diplomacy.

The event brought together Consuls General from Australia, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, the Netherlands, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. Instead of traditional speeches, the program was organized as a series of roundtable discussions, allowing students to engage directly with each Consul General in 10-minute conversations.

Topics ranged from leadership, gender equality, and career development to work-life balance, personal identity, and the future of women in diplomacy.

Building confidence, networks and leadership skills

H.E. Ms. Kate Wallace, Australian Consul-General in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasised the importance of professional networks and mentorship in helping women advance their careers. “All around us are people who will go on to achieve remarkable things in different fields. It is important to value and nurture those relationships from today,” she said.

According to Ms. Wallace, although women are increasingly represented in leadership and diplomatic positions, gender stereotypes and structural barriers continue to exist. She encouraged young women to have confidence in their abilities, actively seek opportunities, and build supportive networks that can help sustain long-term career growth.

H.E. Ms. Alexandra Smith, British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that gender balance has largely been achieved at the entry level of the UK diplomatic service, with women and men joining the profession in nearly equal numbers.

However, she noted that gender gaps tend to emerge later in careers, particularly at senior leadership levels. According to Ms. Smith, many women face additional responsibilities related to family care, which can affect career progression, while less visible barriers, such as informal professional networks, may also limit opportunities.

According to Ms. Smith, rather than introducing special recruitment policies for women, the UK focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion across the public sector. This includes internship programmes for people from diverse backgrounds, regular workforce surveys, and data-driven human resources policies aimed at ensuring public institutions reflect the diversity of British society.

She also highlighted the UK's "blind recruitment" approach, under which information such as an applicant's name, gender, and educational background is removed during the initial screening process to reduce unconscious bias and ensure candidates are assessed primarily on their skills and capabilities.

Ms. Smith encouraged students to seek mentors throughout their careers, noting that trusted advisers can provide valuable guidance, fresh perspectives, and support during key professional milestones.

Progress made but barriers remain

Sharing her perspective on women in diplomacy, H.E. Ms. Wiraka Moodhitaporn, Consul General of Thailand in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that while opportunities for women have improved significantly, a number of barriers remain. In many Asian societies, traditional perceptions of leadership are still often associated with men, while the demands of diplomatic careers, including frequent relocation and extensive travel can create additional challenges for women balancing professional and family responsibilities.

However, she observed that female representation in diplomacy is steadily increasing. In Thailand, women now account for a growing share of diplomats, ambassadors, and senior officials within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to Ms. Wiraka, today’s generation of women is more confident in speaking up, pursuing leadership roles, and balancing career aspirations with personal life.

She also emphasized that many of the challenges faced by women in diplomacy are universal rather than regional. Regardless of whether they work in Asia or Europe, women often encounter similar decisions regarding career progression, family commitments, and leadership opportunities. "There are more opportunities today, and we are seeing more women in leadership positions. The key is to continue creating an environment where women can contribute and advance on equal footing," she said.

Speaking with Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy, H.E. Ms. Raïssa Marteaux, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that the Netherlands pursues a feminist foreign policy that promotes equal representation of women in leadership positions, peace processes, and diplomatic affairs. However, she acknowledged that gender parity has not yet been fully achieved, even within the Dutch diplomatic service. Ms. Marteaux herself is the first woman appointed by the Netherlands as Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City.

According to the Dutch diplomat, women are playing increasingly important leadership roles not only in the public sector but also in business. Nevertheless, many barriers remain, and continued dialogue is needed to identify and address them.

Reflecting on the event, Ms. Marteaux said she was particularly impressed by the students’ curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn. Diplomacy, she noted, is fundamentally about communication, listening, and continuous learning, all qualities that the participants demonstrated throughout the discussions.

Sharing her advice with the students, the Consul General emphasized two key messages: find your voice and be yourself. Every individual has a unique perspective that deserves to be heard, regardless of age, experience, or gender. Greater diversity of perspectives, she said, ultimately leads to better decision-making in both diplomacy and society. “As long as we have not achieved genuine equality, we cannot say that our efforts to advance women in diplomacy are enough,” Ms. Marteaux stressed.

Vneconomy -Nhu Quynh

Hanoi to host 2026 job fair for the elderly

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:20:00 GMT

The fair aims to create job connections, provide career counseling, offer vocational training, and support livelihoods for about 300 elderly participants (attending both directly and virtually).

The Hanoi Department of Home Affairs is set to organize the "2026 Career Counseling and Job Fair for the Elderly" on June 27. The initiative aims to proactively adapt to the aging population trend while leveraging the vast experience and wisdom of senior citizens.

The event serves as a practical bridge, helping the elderly access employment opportunities tailored to their health and qualifications. It also seeks to foster an inclusive and humane labor market.

According to the department, the program is expected to attract approximately 30 enterprises, cooperatives, and business establishments for both in-person and online recruitment. The fair aims to create job connections, provide career counseling, offer vocational training, and support livelihoods for about 300 elderly participants (attending both directly and virtually).

Additionally, the program will mobilize 5 to 10 vocational education institutions to provide counseling and introduce programs for vocational training, retraining, and upskilling for seniors. The goal is to provide vocational advice to at least 100 individuals and award 20 job-creation loan contracts to elderly workers.

The event is designed as an integrated model featuring diverse support services. Regarding job matching, businesses will conduct interviews and recruitment both on-site and online via the Hanoi Job Exchange.

The fair will also include vocational counseling, retraining sessions, and guidance on basic digital skills to help seniors adapt to modern working environments. Furthermore, to ensure stable livelihoods, the program will offer guidance on administrative procedures and facilitate access to preferential loans for household economic development.

Vneconomy-Nhật Dương

Dien Bien launches Vietnam’s first UAV low-altitude economy sandbox

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:10:00 GMT

The trial covering four key sectors: agriculture, logistics, healthcare and digital mapping.

The People’s Committee of northern mountainous Dien Bien Province has approved a controlled pilot program, or regulatory sandbox, for digital services and products supporting the development of the low-altitude economy with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) engaged.

The initiative is the first local sandbox model in Vietnam focused on UAV-powered low-altitude economic activities. The pilot is expected to provide practical insights and support the development of policies and regulations governing low-altitude airspace and drone-based services.

State-owned postal operator Vietnam Post will lead the implementation and operation of the pilot program. FPT Corporation and other UAV manufacturers will provide technical support, drone equipment, software platforms and flight-control solutions.

The trial will run from the date the decision takes effect until May 31, 2027, covering four key sectors: agriculture, logistics, healthcare and digital mapping.

Planned activities include the transportation of agricultural products, farming supplies, medicines, medical equipment, laboratory samples and essential goods. In agriculture, UAVs will be used for seeding, crop spraying, fertilizer application, crop monitoring and pest detection. The program will also support topographic surveys, digital mapping and the creation of digital elevation models (DEM).

Dien Bien aims to conduct approximately 6,000 UAV flights during the pilot period while maintaining a flight safety rate of more than 99%.

Local authorities expect the initiative to help evaluate the effectiveness of UAV technology in remote and mountainous areas while laying the groundwork for broader development of Vietnam’s emerging low-altitude economy.

VnEconomy-Hạ Chi

Societal shift and economic development

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Vietnam’s social structure is becoming increasingly differentiated as its economy expands and modernizes, presenting both opportunities and challenges for inclusive development.

Vietnam’s economy continues to post strong growth despite a volatile global environment. GDP expanded by an estimated 8.02 per cent in 2025, taking the economy to approximately $514 billion and lifting GDP per capita to around $5,026. Momentum carried into 2026, with first-quarter GDP rising 7.83 per cent year-on-year.

This rapid economic expansion, coupled with urbanization and digital transformation, is reshaping Vietnam’s social landscape. While poverty has declined and the middle class has grown, inequalities in income, assets, skills, geography, and social protection are becoming more visible, creating new policy and governance challenges.

Stratified social structure

According to the Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey 2024, conducted by the National Statistics Office at the Ministry of Finance, average monthly income per capita reached VND5.4 million ($208), up 9.1 per cent from 2023. Significant geographic disparities remain. Urban residents earned an average of VND6.9 million ($265) a month, or more than 1.5-times the VND4.5 million ($173) recorded in rural areas. Regionally, the Southeast ranked highest, at nearly VND7.1 million ($273) per person per month, while the Northern Midlands and Mountainous Region recorded the lowest average income at around VND3.8 million ($146).

The poverty rate continued to decline, falling to 2.3 per cent nationwide in 2024, down 1.1 percentage points from a year earlier. While this marks a significant achievement in poverty reduction, poverty is no longer the only concern. Within the multidimensional poverty framework, employment deprivation accounted for 40.3 per cent of total deprivation, followed by deficiencies in adult education attainment at 30.7 per cent and nutrition at 21.4 per cent.

Vietnam’s labor market has also improved, though structural challenges persist. In 2025, the workforce aged 15 and above reached approximately 53.5 million people, with 52.4 million employed. The average monthly income rose 8.9 per cent year-on-year to VND8.4 million ($323), before increasing further to VND9 million ($346) in the first quarter of 2026. The proportion of workers holding formal qualifications or certifications reached 29.6 per cent during the same period.

However, youth unemployment remains a concern. The unemployment rate among those aged 15 to 24 stood at 8.86 per cent; significantly higher than the overall working-age unemployment rate of 2.21 per cent. More fundamentally, decent work remains a major challenge. According to the International Labour Organization’s 2026 framework, informal employment accounted for 62.2 per cent of total employment in the first quarter of 2026, including 71.1 per cent in rural areas and 48.4 per cent in urban areas. A large share of Vietnamese workers therefore continue to lack stable contracts, social insurance coverage, and protection against economic shocks.

Against this backdrop, social stratification in Vietnam is not evolving into a broad-based divide between the very rich and the very poor. Rather, it is increasingly defined by five interrelated dimensions.

The first is income inequality. Though Vietnam’s income Gini coefficient stood at 0.372 in 2024, indicating a moderate level of inequality, the wealthiest 20 per cent of the population earned an average of VND11.8 million ($454) per person per month, or 7.4-times higher than the VND1.6 million ($62) earned by the poorest 20 per cent. Such disparities directly influence access to education, healthcare, housing, and skills development, increasing the risk of inequality being passed from one generation to the next.

The second dimension is asset inequality. The growing importance of real estate, land ownership, equity holdings, and business assets is widening social divides. Those with substantial assets enjoy advantages that differ markedly from younger generations who rely primarily on wage income. If property prices continue to rise faster than earnings, opportunities for upward mobility among young people and migrant workers could become increasingly constrained.

The third dimension is geographic inequality. Differences between urban and rural areas, as well as between regions, reflect unequal access to infrastructure, employment opportunities, and public services. Without stronger regional development policies, these disparities risk persisting across generations.

The fourth dimension is inequality in skills and job quality. While the share of trained workers has risen to 29.6 per cent, most employment remains informal. As Vietnam moves toward a higher-value-added economy, highly-skilled workers are likely to benefit from expanding opportunities, while lower-skilled workers face growing pressure from automation and technological change.

The fifth dimension concerns access to social protection. Though health insurance coverage reached 95.16 per cent in 2025 and social insurance coverage expanded to 45.1 per cent of the workforce, equivalent to 21.53 million people, significant gaps remain. As Vietnam continues its transition toward an aging society and could become an aged society by 2035, according to the World Bank, disparities between those with pensions and those without adequate social protection are expected to become increasingly pronounced.

Five social groups

Based on these patterns of differentiation, Vietnam’s social structure can be broadly grouped into five major strata.

The first comprises the wealthy and ultra-wealthy, whose status is largely derived from asset ownership. This group includes major business owners, investors, and individuals with substantial holdings in real estate, land, equities, financial assets, and businesses. They have been among the biggest beneficiaries of economic growth, urbanization, infrastructure development, financial market expansion, and the rise of the private sector. Their wealth is generated primarily through assets and investment rather than labor income.

The second group is the upper middle class, including professionals, managers, senior officials, entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled workers in sectors such as finance, technology, logistics, healthcare, education, professional services, and foreign-invested enterprises. While they generally enjoy comfortable incomes and the ability to invest in education, healthcare, and housing, they also face growing pressure from rising living costs, intense professional competition, and the need for continuous reskilling.

The third group consists of the mainstream middle class and lower middle class. It includes civil servants, office workers, skilled workers, small business owners, and households with stable incomes but relatively limited accumulated wealth. As one of the country’s largest social groups, it plays a vital role in domestic consumption and social stability. However, it remains vulnerable to employment disruptions, illness, education costs, mortgage obligations, and income shocks.

The fourth group comprises industrial, service-sector, and informal workers. This includes factory workers, construction workers, transport workers, delivery drivers, retail and hospitality employees, seasonal workers, freelancers, and those employed in household businesses. Though they contribute significantly to economic growth and urban economic activity, they typically face lower incomes, less stable employment, and limited social protection. As a result, they are particularly exposed to fluctuations in demand, automation, inflation, and economic downturns.

The fifth group includes the poor, near-poor, and other vulnerable populations. It encompasses ethnic minority communities, residents of remote areas, small-scale farmers, elderly people without pensions, people with disabilities, and households affected by natural disasters, climate change, or unstable livelihoods. Despite substantial progress in poverty reduction, many continue to experience multidimensional deprivation in employment, education, nutrition, healthcare, and market access.

Five transformative trends

Driven by sustained growth, urbanization, digital transformation, and international integration, Vietnam’s social structure is expected to undergo five transformative shifts.

First, the middle class will continue to expand as the service sector, digital economy, and private sector grow. However, rising healthcare, education, and housing costs may place increasing pressure on this group, potentially creating a segment of the “vulnerable middle class.”

Second, wealth inequality may emerge as the most significant axis of social stratification. Those who own property and equity assets are likely to strengthen their position, while younger generations and migrant workers dependent on wage income could find upward social mobility increasingly difficult if housing prices continue to rise rapidly.

Third, skills-based differentiation will accelerate under the influence of AI, automation, and the green economy. Society will become divided not only by wealth, but also by the ability to reskill, adapt to technological change, and remain competitive in evolving labor markets.

Fourth, population aging is creating a new form of social division between older people with pensions and accumulated assets and those who spent their working lives in informal employment and face the risk of relative poverty in retirement.

Fifth, climate change threatens to deepen regional disparities. According to World Bank estimates, climate-related losses could reach between 12 and 14.5 per cent of GDP annually by 2050 and push as many as 1 million people into extreme poverty by 2030. Farmers, fishermen, and informal workers are expected to bear the greatest risks.

Challenges for social stability

Changes in social structure are a natural consequence of economic development and can generate positive outcomes, including stronger consumption, greater innovation, and improved accountability in governance. However, if not managed effectively, these changes risk transforming natural differences into unequal opportunities, entrenching social stratification, and creating major challenges for governance and social stability.

Among the most significant challenges are growing pressure on social equity and public trust; increasing demands for interest representation and conflict management; the risk of vested interests distorting resource allocation in the absence of transparency and effective oversight; mounting pressure on urban management, migration, and public services; greater risks of localized social tensions arising from insecure employment and incomplete social protection coverage; widening digital divides; increasing fiscal pressure on the State; and the potential erosion of social cohesion if unequal opportunities persist across generations.

To manage social differentiation while ensuring inclusive development, policymakers must move beyond traditional poverty alleviation toward a broader framework focused on expanding opportunities. The objective should not simply be to reduce poverty, but to ensure that all citizens have access to quality education, employment, housing, social protection, and public services.

First, reducing inequality of opportunity must become the central focus of social policy. Second, wealth disparities should be addressed through transparent housing and land management policies.

Third, improving skills and job quality remains the most fundamental long-term solution to social stratification. Fourth, social insurance and social protection coverage should be expanded for informal workers.

Fifth, social governance should become more transparent, responsive, and data-driven.

And sixth, regional development and climate adaptation strategies should be pursued through a framework of climate justice and equitable transition.

(*) Associate Professor Phung The Dong is from the Ministry of Finance.

VET-Associate Professor Phung The Dong(*)

Politburo greenlights plan to establish Bac Ninh as centrally-run city

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:30:00 GMT

The city aims to develop a modern high-tech industrial sector that integrates deeply into global supply chains, establishing itself as a leading national and regional hub for electronics, with a focus on semiconductors, microchips, and artificial intelligence (AI).

On behalf of the Politburo, Politburo member and permanent member of the Party Central Committee's Secretariat, Mr. Tran Cam Tu, has signed Conclusion No. 52-KL/TW of the Politburo regarding the master plan to establish Bac Ninh as a centrally-run city. The new administrative entity will be formed based on the current boundaries of Bac Ninh province, northern Vietnam.

The conclusion sets out a vision to develop Bac Ninh into a model green, smart, modern, and civilized city that deeply preserves the cultural identity of the Kinh Bac region. Economic growth is to be harmonized with environmental protection, driven primarily by science, technology, and innovation.

The city aims to develop a modern high-tech industrial sector that integrates deeply into global supply chains, establishing itself as a leading national and regional hub for electronics, with a focus on semiconductors, microchips, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Furthermore, Bac Ninh will focus on completing a synchronous infrastructure network—encompassing road, waterway, railway, and airway transport—alongside smart urban development. This includes connecting major urban centers with multi-modal logistics infrastructure and ensuring balanced development across all local areas within the city.

Following the merger between Bac Ninh and Bac Giang provinces in July 2025, the new administrative unit will span a natural area of more than 4,718 sq.km with a population of approximately 3.6 million. This will make it one of the most densely populated regions in the country, characterized by a young demographic structure.

Vneconomy-Thanh Xuân

Vietnam leads ASEAN in AI readiness: Microsoft study

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Vietnam currently ranks first in ASEAN in the proportion of AI pioneers, with 39% of workers classified as advanced AI users—more than double the global average of 16%, according to Microsoft Vietnam’s Work Trend Index 2026 report.

Vietnam’s workforce is among the most prepared in Southeast Asia to embrace artificial intelligence, but businesses must redesign their operating models to fully translate that advantage into higher productivity and competitiveness, according to Microsoft Vietnam’s Work Trend Index 2026 report released on June 24.

The report, based on analysis of trillions of anonymized productivity signals from Microsoft 365 and a survey of 2,000 knowledge workers in Vietnam, suggests the country is rapidly entering the AI era.

Vietnam currently ranks first in ASEAN in the proportion of AI pioneers, with 39% of workers classified as advanced AI users—more than double the global average of 16%.

According to the report, AI pioneers are employees who have integrated AI deeply into their daily work. Rather than using the technology solely for routine tasks, they apply it to higher-value activities such as information analysis, complex problem-solving, evaluating options and generating innovative ideas.

The findings also indicate that Vietnamese workers largely view AI as a tool to enhance human thinking rather than replace it. As many as 89% of AI users in Vietnam said they treat AI-generated outputs as a starting point for deeper analysis rather than as final answers.

This suggests that AI is increasingly being used to support decision-making, while critical judgment, evaluation and accountability remain firmly in human hands.

The impact on workplace performance is already becoming evident. The report found that 76% of Vietnamese AI users are now producing work outcomes that would have been impossible for them to achieve a year ago. Among AI pioneers, the figure rises to 83%.

While these results highlight Vietnam’s growing strength in AI-enabled talent, Microsoft noted that workforce capability alone is not enough. To turn this advantage into sustainable competitive gains, businesses will need to adopt new organizational structures, operating processes and governance models that fully leverage AI-driven transformation.

VnEconomy-Dũng Hiếu

Vietnamese Trade Union proposes 9.8% increase in regional minimum wage for 2027

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

The proposed adjustments are intended to better ensure a basic standard of living for workers.

Vietnam’s National Wage Council held its first meeting on June 23 to discuss regional minimum wage adjustments for 2027, with the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour proposing two options that would raise wages by up to 9.8%.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the meeting, Ms. Tran Thi Thanh Ha, Deputy Head of the Labour Relations Department at the confederation, said the organization had submitted two proposals for consideration.

Under the first option, regional minimum wages would increase by between VND360,000 ($13.6) and VND520,000 per month, representing an average rise of 9.8% compared with 2026 levels.

The second option proposes increases ranging from VND315,000 to VND450,000 per month, equivalent to an average increase of 8.5%.

According to Ms. Ha, the proposed adjustments are intended to better ensure a basic standard of living for workers. The recommendations were formulated based on key economic indicators, including GDP growth, consumer price inflation (CPI), labor productivity and factors affecting business operations.

She added that, considering Vietnam’s economic growth performance in 2025 and other influencing factors, the 7.2% increase in regional minimum wages that took effect on January 1, 2026 was relatively modest compared with actual living cost pressures.

The most recent wage adjustment raised regional minimum wages by an average of 7.2%, a move that was widely viewed as balancing the interests of both employers and employees while helping to maintain minimum living standards.

Vietnam’s minimum wage serves as the lowest legal salary for workers performing the simplest jobs under normal working conditions. It is designed to ensure a minimum living standard for employees and their families while reflecting the country’s socio-economic development conditions.

VnEconomy-Thu Hằng

Vietnam hosts international workshop on UN peacekeeping

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This annual event will bring together more than 50 senior government officials, UN representatives, policymakers, experts, and peacekeepers.

The Government of Vietnam, in coordination with the governments of Australia and Japan and the United Nations, hosts the 2026 Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP) Stakeholder Workshop in Hanoi from June 24 to 26, according to the United Nations Department of Operational Support (DOS).

Launched by the UN in 2015, the TPP is considered a flagship cooperation initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of troop- and police-contributing countries (T/PCCs) for peacekeeping missions.

This annual event will bring together more than 50 senior government officials, UN representatives, policymakers, experts, and peacekeepers. It serves to exchange solutions for strengthening international cooperation, improving deployment readiness, and fostering innovation in global peacekeeping operations.

The workshop comes at a time when traditional and non-traditional security challenges are becoming increasingly complex. This reality places higher demands on the capabilities, coordination, and readiness of peacekeeping forces stationed in conflict zones worldwide.

Through a collaborative mechanism between the UN, supporting member states, and contributing countries, the program focuses on key areas such as engineering, military medicine, Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), and Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) capabilities.

In addition to in-person training, the program promotes the application of telemedicine to support healthcare services, ensure safety, and improve working conditions for peacekeepers serving at UN missions.

According to the United Nations, enhancing training quality and interoperability among peacekeeping nations not only boosts field efficiency but also minimizes risks for personnel operating in complex security environments.

A notable highlight of this year’s workshop is a field visit program designed to showcase Vietnam’s contributions to UN peacekeeping training and capacity building.

Vneconomy-Nguyệt Hà

HCMC develops megacity-scale flood control strategy through 2060

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 23:50:00 GMT

A notable highlight of the project is the development of growth scenarios that account for population increases, rapid urbanization, climate change, sea-level rise, and land subsidence.

Ho Chi Minh City is drafting a comprehensive master plan for flood control and wastewater treatment for the 2026–2060 period, alongside a detailed implementation plan for 2026–2036. For the first time, urban water management will be studied based on river basins rather than restricted by administrative boundaries.

According to the city Department of Construction, this basin-based approach allows for a more accurate identification of water flows, the relationship between upstream, downstream, and estuaries, hydraulic bottlenecks, and areas affected by the ripple effects of flooding. Furthermore, the project sets out an integrated approach combining flood control, drainage, wastewater treatment, urban water management, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation.

As an initial step, the project will review the entire legal framework, existing urban planning, and previous programs related to drainage and wastewater. This includes evaluating the continuity of past initiatives, such as "Project 299," which has already been implemented in the city.

In parallel, the city will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current state of flooding, drainage systems, tidal control, and wastewater collection across all districts post-merger. This effort will include the creation of a digital GIS (Geographic Information System) database mapping flood points, drainage works, tidal control structures, and wastewater treatment systems.

A notable highlight of the project is the development of growth scenarios that account for population increases, rapid urbanization, climate change, sea-level rise, and land subsidence. Based on these scenarios, technical analyses and flood-risk modeling will be conducted to identify priority basins for intervention and create a flood-risk zoning map for the entire city.

The draft outline also specifies that the city will establish a set of quantitative indicators for various sectors, including flood reduction, drainage capacity, wastewater collection and treatment rates, operational efficiency, resilience, and water reuse.

Beyond traditional "gray infrastructure"—such as sewers, dikes, pumping stations, tidal control gates, and treatment plants—the plan places heavy emphasis on integrating "green" and "blue" infrastructure alongside nature-based solutions.

Detention basins, water storage spaces, permeable surfaces, canal systems, ecological wetlands, and aquatic landscapes are viewed as vital components to enhance water regulation and reduce pressure on the city's technical infrastructure.

Vneconomy-Thiên Ân

Evolution of visual journalism

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

The use of data journalism makes information more engaging and understandable for readers via charts, graphs, and other visualization tools.

Data journalism is emerging as an inexorable trend amid the rapid advancement of digital technologies, reshaping how information is produced and consumed. In Vietnam, this transformation is not only a challenge but also an opportunity for the media industry. By enabling journalists to analyze and visualize complex information, data journalism is gradually becoming essential to enhancing the quality and reliability of news coverage.

The term data journalism refers to a form of reporting that uses data to tell stories. Rather than relying solely on text and images, it combines charts, graphs, maps, and other visual tools to present information in a more engaging and understandable manner. This approach helps readers better grasp complex issues while also strengthening transparency and trust in the information being presented.

Growing influence

Major news organizations in Vietnam have begun paying greater attention to and investing in data journalism. Publications such as VnEconomy, Tuoi Tre, Thanh Nien, and VnExpress have increasingly incorporated data-driven reporting into their coverage, particularly in areas such as economics, politics, and social affairs. The use of data not only makes stories more compelling but also provides readers with deeper and more comprehensive insights into current events.

One of the greatest advantages of data journalism is its ability to transform complex information into clear visual narratives. Instead of presenting readers with raw figures and statistics, journalists can use charts, graphs, and other visualization tools to make information more engaging and easier to understand. This not only improves accessibility but also enhances transparency and public confidence in the reporting.

However, achieving this requires journalists to possess strong data analysis skills and proficiency in data visualization tools. This remains a significant challenge for many traditional journalists who may not yet be familiar with technology-driven reporting methods. To address this gap, many newsrooms have introduced training programs focused on data journalism, equipping reporters with the skills and knowledge needed to work effectively with data.

Legal and data access challenges

Data journalism, however, also presents a range of ethical and legal challenges. The use of data requires journalists to comply with privacy and data protection regulations while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the information they publish. As a result, news organizations must establish rigorous processes for data verification and validation to ensure that published information is both accurate and trustworthy.

One of the most significant obstacles facing data journalism in Vietnam is access to reliable data sources. The collection and retrieval of data remain difficult due to the limited availability of open and transparent public datasets. This requires journalists to develop strong skills in sourcing information from multiple channels, as well as the ability to assess the reliability and accuracy of the data they obtain.

Despite these challenges, data journalism continues to gain momentum in Vietnam. Many news organizations are investing in both technology and human resources to strengthen their data journalism capabilities, with the goal of improving the quality and credibility of their reporting. These investments not only help attract larger audiences but also contribute to enhancing the reputation and standing of Vietnamese journalism on the international stage.

Looking ahead, data journalism is expected to continue expanding and become an integral part of the news industry. As technology advances and the volume of available data increases, data-driven reporting will become more widespread and play an increasingly important role in delivering accurate and reliable information to the public.

According to experts, data journalism is not merely a trend but a major opportunity for Vietnam’s media sector. By harnessing the power of data and technology, news organizations can improve the quality and credibility of their reporting while reaching a broader audience. To realize this potential, however, journalists must continually enhance their skills and remain committed to ethical and legal standards in the use of data. Only then can data journalism fully demonstrate its value and contribute meaningfully to the development of Vietnam’s news industry.

Mr. Le Quoc Minh, Member of the Party Central Committee, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan newspaper, and Deputy Head of the Central Commission for Communication and Mass Mobilization.

The adoption of AI in Vietnam is accelerating rapidly. AI is now being applied across a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, climate change, and journalism, significantly reducing the amount of human labor required. In reality, journalism today is already operating in fundamentally different ways.

However, the rapid adoption of AI and the extensive use of data also bring significant challenges. Around the world, AI-powered websites have emerged that can produce far more content than major news organizations such as the New York Times or the Washington Post. At the same time, AI has heightened the risks of misinformation, propaganda, and information manipulation. As a result, the ability to verify information increasingly depends on the knowledge and critical thinking skills of audiences.

Copyright is another growing concern. In the past, copyright infringement largely involved copying or repurposing journalistic content. Today, AI systems routinely scrape news content to train their models without providing any compensation to the organizations that produce the original material.

Beyond these issues, AI also poses broader social risks. Training data often contains inherent biases and lacks consistent ethical standards. Without proper safeguards, AI systems can reinforce “echo chambers” that amplify existing prejudices, including gender bias, discrimination, and other forms of social bias. If left unchecked, these effects could become increasingly difficult to control.

Mr. Bui Binh Minh, Head of the Multimedia Division, VietNamNet

Data journalism is not a new concept, and many news organizations in Vietnam have already embraced it. However, implementing it effectively remains a challenge.

One of the biggest hurdles facing news organizations today is the initial investment required, along with identifying data-driven content that aligns with audience interests. At its core, data journalism is about transforming data into valuable information. Broadly speaking, there are two approaches: broad scanning, which involves collecting data from a wide range of sources, and deep analysis, which focuses on mining, aggregating, and interpreting data to uncover meaningful insights.

Currently, many Vietnamese news organizations favor the broad-scanning approach, gathering and organizing information around a particular topic before presenting it to readers. While this method is relatively easy to implement, it can also overwhelm audiences with excessive amounts of content. Readers may not have the patience to work through large-scale formats such as mega stories or e-magazines packed with datasets, charts, and visualizations.

News organizations therefore need to place greater emphasis on deep analysis. Interactive maps could, for example, provide concise yet detailed statistics on cities and provinces following the transition to a two-tier local government model. Another practical application would be analyzing high school and university entrance examination score distributions, helping students assess their admission prospects and make better-informed choices about where to apply.

Technology experts often describe data as the world’s new oil. It has indeed become a critical resource, with perhaps the most visible example being its role in training increasingly sophisticated AI models. Journalism is no exception. By analyzing and uncovering insights from data, news organizations can generate information of significant value, helping readers make faster, more informed, and more effective decisions.

VET-HONG VINH