Vietnam Economic Times November 17, 2025

Dear readers,

As we reflect on Vietnam’s socio-economic trajectory from 2021 to 2025, a story of resilience, adaptability, and strategic reform emerges, underscored by the country’s ability to navigate unprecedented global and domestic challenges.

The recent “Vietnam Socio-Economy 2021-2025: Resilience and Breakthrough” seminar illuminated this remarkable journey, with experts highlighting Vietnam’s capacity to not only weather storms but also to achieve transformative breakthroughs. This period, marked by global shocks such as supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, very much tested Vietnam’s mettle. Through proactive governance, private sector dynamism, and a forward-looking vision, however, Vietnam has solidified its position as a rising star in the global economy.

It has faced storms from many directions since 2021, including the lingering impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, trade volatility, and domestic structural constraints. Despite such obstacles, the country’s GDP growth averaged an estimated 6.3 per cent annually in the 2021-2025 period, driven by robust export performance, solid FDI attraction, and rising domestic consumption.

A pivotal moment along this journey was Vietnam’s commitment to a green and digital economy, as reaffirmed at the Vietnam Business Forum (VBF) 2025, held in Hanoi on November 10. The government and local business community showcased their resolve to align with global sustainability trends, prioritizing renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh affirmed that the digital and green transitions are “objective imperatives, strategic choices and top priorities”. He called on foreign investors to invest in new growth engines such as AI, semiconductors, new energy and renewable energy.

The private sector’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated. In our interview with the Deputy Minister of Finance in this issue, the significance of Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo in May 2025, was highlighted, with the landmark policy aiming to elevate Vietnam’s private economic sector as a cornerstone of growth and to have at least 3 million enterprises contributing over 60 per cent of GDP by 2045.

By streamlining regulations, enhancing access to capital, and fostering innovation, the Resolution has empowered small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to thrive. The Deputy Minister noted that in the first ten months of this year, 255,800 new and resuming enterprises were recorded, for a 26.5 per cent increase over the same period of 2024; a testament to the policy’s impact.

Our Cover Story this week illustrates Vietnam’s journey from 2021 to 2025, driven by its strategic foresight and collective resilience. As we move into the 2026-2030 period, the country’s focus on green growth, digital innovation, and private sector empowerment will shape a sustainable and inclusive future. This is not just a story of development but of a country boldly charting its path into the “New era - The era of the nation’s rise”.

Warmest regards

Dr. CHU VAN LAM
CHAIRMAN OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD