VIETNAM: NEW ERA

The tourism industry will accelerate the application of digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart platforms to boost growth in the coming period to develop a smart tourism ecosystem.

Vietnam, an emerging financial centre, is seizing a “golden opportunity” to become a competitive player in the international financial arena with progressive legal frameworks and standout initiatives, according to Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung.

Vietnam has cemented its position as an attractive destination for foreign businesses looking to expand their operations in Southeast Asia, driven by robust growth and expanding infrastructure.

In 2024, Vietnam saw over 157,200 newly registered businesses and nearly 76,200 businesses resuming operation, bringing the total number of new and revived businesses to over 233,400, a 7.1% increase compared to 2023.

Vietnam and India have long maintained a strong and sustainable relations, built on a shared historical foundation, cultural exchanges, and common strategic interests.

A warm Tet celebration was held on January 13-14 for residents of Bach Long Vi island district in the northern port city of Hai Phong.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged the Red River Delta and Hanoi to play a pioneering role in propelling the nation into a new era of growth and prosperity while chairing the fifth conference of the Red River Delta Coordinating Council in Hanoi on January 14.

Vietnam's fruit and vegetable sector aims to achieve 8 billion USD in export revenue in 2025, building on significant market expansion and sound growth, according to the Vietnam Fruits and Vegetables Association (VINAFRUIT).

Argentine media has lauded Vietnam’s landmark decision to establish an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City – the nation’s economic and commercial powerhouse, marking a pivotal shift in the Government’s economic development strategy.

Every lunar new year, Sinh village in the central city of Hue comes alive with vibrant energy, as the nearly 450-year-old tradition of folk painting takes center stage. These iconic artworks are more than just a testament to artistic craftsmanship. They're a profound reflection of the region's spiritual and cultural identity, making Sinh Village a unique gem of the ancient capital.

In 2024, Vietnam welcomed nearly 17.6 million international visitors, marking a 39.5% increase compared to the previous year. The figure is equivalent to 97.6% of the total in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A decision on the formation of the Central Steering Committee for the Development of Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation was announced at a national conference held by the Politburo and the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat in Hanoi on January 13 morning.

Vietnam continues to solidify its position as one of the world's leading exporters of agro-forestry-fishery products, achieving an export turnover of 62.4 billion USD in 2024, an 18.5% increase compared to 2023.

In 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Trade successfully achieved and exceeded all targets and tasks, delivering exceptional results across all areas.

In 2024, Vietnam's trade revenue reached 786.29 billion USD, a 15.4% increase compared to 2023. Of this, exports rose by 14.3%, and imports grew by 16.7%. The trade balance recorded a surplus of 24.77 billion USD.

Overseas Vietnamese (OV) continued to make significant contributions to their homeland last year through direct projects, remittances, and engagement in science, technology, and education collaboration, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang told the press in Hanoi on January 9.

By the end of 2024, the disbursed FDI capital in Vietnam is estimated to reach approximately 25.35 billion USD, up 9.4% compared to 2023, marking the highest disbursement level ever recorded. Total newly registered capital, additional capital adjustments, and foreign investors' capital contributions and share purchases are estimated at nearly 38.23 billion USD.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in the real estate sector for 2024 reached 3.72 billion USD, making up 18.8% of the total FDI that Vietnam attracted in the year, second only to the manufacturing sector, reported the General Statistics Office (GSO).

At the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh along with a high-ranking delegation of the Vietnamese Government, visit Laos and co-chair the 47th Meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee on January 9-10, 2025.

Building a strong brand continues to play a pivotal role in enabling businesses to recover swiftly and grow sustainably in the future, said Vu Dang Vinh, CEO of Vietnam Report JSC, during a ceremony held on January 8 to announce the country’s top 500 largest enterprises in 2024.