VET Exclusive

Foreign investment into Vietnam surged in the first half of 2026, driven by manufacturing, high-tech industries, and record FDI disbursement as investors reinforced their confidence in the country’s long-term growth prospects.

H.E. Ito Naoki, Ambassador of Japan to Vietnam, shared with Vietnam Economic Times/ VnEconomy about the strength of Vietnam-Japan relations and outlined the priorities shaping bilateral cooperation in the new era.

Solid export performance and record imports of production machinery and materials underscore Vietnam’s expanding role in global supply chains despite again posting a trade deficit.

Industrial production accelerated to a six-year high in the first half of 2026, supported by strong manufacturing growth, rising investment, and improving business conditions.

Vietnam kept inflation broadly under control in the first half of 2026, but narrowing policy headroom is expected to make price management increasingly challenging in the months ahead.

With first-half growth exceeding expectations, Vietnam now faces the tougher challenge of sustaining momentum while balancing investment, inflation, and financial stability.