A seminar to discuss opportunities and challenges for Vietnamese businesses in joining the North-South high-speed railway project was held in Hanoi on November 19, attracting the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Transport and businesses.

Experts said that with the orientation of using public investment capital and less reliance on foreign countries, the project is expected to create unprecedented opportunities for Vietnamese enterprises.

Nguyen Quoc Hiep, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Construction Contractors, noted that although the capabilities of Vietnamese enterprises have been improved remarkably, the project poses significant technological requirements.

Vietnamese contractors should be aware of these challenges, and learn and adopt cutting-edge technologies to serve the implementation, he noted.

Dao Ngoc Vinh, General Director of Transport Engineering Design Inc (TEDI), highlighted the complexity of railway systems, which operate as integrated networks comprising multiple components such as infrastructure, signaling, equipment, and power supply, requiring meticulous planning and calculation.

The most crucial factor is precision in construction, with no room for errors in quality control, he stressed.

Delegates said the lack of collaboration among Vietnamese enterprises is a critical issue that needs to be addressed promptly, noting that if they fail to proactively collaborate and invest in state-of-the-art technology, they would miss the opportunity.

Business representatives also emphasised the need for policy preparations to help domestic firms enhance their capabilities, thus seizing the opportunity effectively.

General Director of Deo Ca Group Nguyen Quang Huy underlined the urgency of establishing a legal framework for implementing this great project, especially issuing standards related to survey, design, acceptance, payment, and construction with the involvement of scientists and contractors.

Vu Hong Phuong, Director of the Railway Project Management Board under the Ministry of Transport, revealed that 19 groups of special mechanisms related to the project are currently under review, and the ministry is continuing to scrutinise and refine them to ensure their suitability.

He affirmed that the Party and government’s view is to prioritise domestic enterprises in all sectors, from consulting, construction, and installation to material production and railway-related industries.

The North-South high-speed railway project is the largest of its kind to date, with an estimated investment capital of approximately 67.34 billion USD. This level of investment will impact economic growth throughout the construction process. According to preliminary assessments, if this amount is disbursed from now to 2035, the country's GDP will increase by approximately 0.97 percentage points.

The project will have direct impacts on 7-8 economic sectors, including construction; support industries, particularly those supplying construction materials; services; and urban development. It also features urban areas attached to each station, serving as a catalyst for economic growth and urbanisation.

It is also poised to drive growth in the transportation sector, aiming to modernise the transportation system and enhance revenue, productivity, and service capacity./.

Scoot airline to launch Singapore-Phu Quoc route in late December

Budget Singaporean airline Scoot has unveiled that it will operate a direct flight from Singapore to Phu Quoc with a frequency of three flights running per week from December 20.

Following the launch of this direct flight, Phu Quoc will not only have the opportunity to welcome tourists from Singapore or Malaysia, but also from many countries in the region and around the world.

With the upcoming direct flight to Phu Quoc, Scoot will operate more than 30 flights per week to three destinations nationwide, including Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Phu Quoc.

The carrier is expected to increase the frequency to five flights per week from January 25, 2025, using Embraer E190-E2 narrow-body aircraft.

Nguyen Duc Khanh, general director of Tay Ho Tourism and Trade Joint Stock Company, said that the firm has high expectations for the new route as Phu Quoc is an attractive destination popular among international tourists due to its beautiful beaches and high-class resorts.

Scoot is in the process of expanding its flight network in Southeast Asia, whilst Phu Quoc is a strategic destination, he added.

Apart from securing its position in the regional low-cost airline market, the airline is expected to attract more tourists from Singapore and international markets to Phu Quoc, thereby making signficant contribution to developing the local economy, boosting tourism, and creating new business opportunities, he said.

Vu Tien Van, chairman of the Board of Directors of Adavigo Company, revealed that Phu Quoc is currently in its peak tourism season, with many direct domestic and international flights being added.

By the end of the year and into early 2025, more than 20 airlines are expected to operate flights to the island via regular and charter forms, with more than 100 flights per week coming in from many countries.

US imposes global safeguard measures on Vietnamese fine denier polyester staple

The United States has decided to impose global safeguard measures on fine denier polyester staple fiber being imported into the US market from many countries, including Vietnam, according to the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam (TRAV).      

The product with the HS code 5503.20.00 is classified under HS 5503.20.0025 or 9813.00.0520. This decision will take effect from November 23.

Accordingly, safeguard measures will be applied in the form of an import quota for four years, with the quota being set at zero in the first year and subsequently increasing by one million pounds in each of the following three years. The US intends to conduct a mid-term review for the measures before the end of the second year.

The case was initiated by the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) on February 28, following a petition filed by US manufacturers of fine denier polyester staple fibers, including Fiber Industries LLC d/b/a Darling Fibers, Nan Ya Plastics Corp, America, and Sun Fiber LLC.

The producers allege that the import of fine denier polyester staple fiber have increased significantly compared to domestic production and consumption, a factor causing serious injury and affecting the domestic industry.

According to statistics compiled by the USITC, the country exported approximately US$5.9 million worth of the products to the US between 2021 and 2023, ranking eighth among global exporters and accounting for 3% of the US’ total import value of the products.

Back in 2017, products from the Republic of Korea, India, China, Taiwan (China), and Vietnam were all subject to an anti-dumping investigation by the US. Later, Vietnam was excluded from the scope of investigation at the request of the US producers.

At present, the 2017 decision remains in effect, with the exception of Vietnam.

Shrimp exports likely to fetch US$4 billion this year

The Vietnamese shrimp industry is anticipated to rake in US$4 billion from exports this year amid a rapid rebound occurring in major markets coupled with cooling inflation, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).

Statistics indicate that shrimp exports brought in US$3.2 billion during the past 10 months of the year, up 13% on-year.

With regard to export markets, Vietnamese shrimp exports to China and Hong Kong (China) in the first 10 months of the year soared by 31% to reach US$676 million against the same period from last year.

According to VASEP, there are positive signs ahead for shrimp export in these markets, especially lobster exports which skyrocketed by 157% on-year to US$298 million in the reviewed period.

Insiders pointed out that the Chinese policy for stimulating consumption has also contributed to further promoting exports to this market.

Meanwhile, the country’s shrimp exports to the US during the 10-month period earned US$646 million, up 10% on-year, while shrimp exports to the EU reached US$408 million, up 17% on-year.

They pointed out that with inflation cooling down and import demand from major markets rising significantly, global shrimp prices tend to see an upward trajectory with the shrimp sector likely to gross US$4 billion this year.

Vietnam grosses US$52.6 million from star anise exports in 10 months

Vietnam exported 11,152 tonnes of star anise worth US$52.6 million during the past 10 months of the year, down 13.3% on-year, according to statistics released by the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA).

In October alone, the country shipped 1,330 tonnes of star anise worth over US$5.8 million abroad, representing a sharp rise of 88.9% compared to the previous month.

India continued to be the main export market with 7,395 tonnes during the past 10 months of the year, accounting for 66.3%, followed by the United States with 411 tonnes and China with 358 tonnes.

Leading Vietnamese export firms include Prosi Thang Long, Tuan Minh, Senspice Vietnam, Hong Son Vietnam, and Huy Chuc M&M.

Statistics indicate that the country’s star anise output ranks second in the world, behind only China, with an estimated annual output of 22,000 tonnes from a planting area spanning ​​about 55,000 hectares. Lang Son was the locality with the largest cultivation area, making up 72.7% of the country’s total areas.

Vietnamese star anise is mainly consumed in several South Asian regions such as India, Bangladesh, the Middle East, Japan, China, the Republic of Korea, the US, and EU nations.

Of these, India and China are considered to be the two major purchasers of Vietnamese star anise, accounting for 50% and 25% of total exports, respectively.

Vietnam is a potential supplier of spice to the world market with turnover of US$21.3 billion in 2021 and being anticipated to increase to US$27.4 billion in 2026.

Tra fish sector aiming for production, processing greening for sustainable development

Greening production and processing to meet export requirements is both a trend and a necessity for many industries, including the tra fish sector.

The sector is forecast to complete the export target of over 2 billion USD this year, contributing to bringing the export turnover of aquatic exports to surpass 10 billion USD as set out by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in early 2024.

At present, Vietnamese tra fish has been available in over 150 markets, enduring many ups and downs, but it has remained resilient, thanks to the efforts of processing and export businesses.

According to To Thi Tuong Lan, Deputy Secretary General of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), greening the entire production, processing, and consumption chain of agricultural products, including tra fish, is a requirement of the European market. However, this is also a global trend, as countries aim to protect the global environment and reduce emissions in production sectors. This work has been discussed within the industry for many years. However, the preparation for this shift has been relatively slow.

According to Tran Dinh Luan, Director General of the Directorate of Fisheries, the agency has guided units to invest in technology for tra fish breeding, with an aim to ensure that the industry can meet the market demand for reduced emissions throughout the production and processing process in the near future. This is also part of its preparation efforts for next year.

The directorate is also providing technical guidance on tra fish care using probiotics to treat emissions directly at the farm. By applying technology in farming to reduce energy consumption and water usage, the industry aims to demonstrate the economic effectiveness of sustainable production and processing. Regarding capital requirements, the government has implemented several policies to help enterprises access funding at favourable interest rates. Specifically, the directorate has introduced small projects and initiatives focused on energy reduction and production cost savings, encouraging businesses to adopt green production and processing practices within the tra fish supply chain, Luan added.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien urged ministries, sectors, and localities to develop industrial-scale farming with a focus on biosafety, tight control over antibiotic use, green production, the formation of a supply chain, and the development of potential markets./.

World Bank delegation visits Can Tho’s low-emission rice production model

A delegation of the World Bank (WB) led by Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific Manuela V. Ferro on November 19 paid a working visit to the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho during which they discussed with representatives of local authorites, sectors, businesses, and farmers related to low-emission rice production.

The delegation made a fact-finding tour of and learned about a circular production model at the New Green Farm Cooperative in the city’s Thot Not district; discussed with local authorities, farmers and businesses rice cultivation under the WB-funded Sustainable Agricultural Transformation Project in Vietnam (VnSAT) and the project to develop 1 million ha of high-quality, low-emission rice cultivation associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta by 2030.

Based on the VnSAT project, Vietnam has been implementing the project of developing 1 million ha of high-quality rice, which is a good opportunity for Vietnamese farmers in general and Mekong Delta farmers in particular.

During the visit, Ferro said that the WB is ready to cooperate and accompany the Government of Vietnam to carry out the project of developing 1 million ha of high-quality rice.

Vice Chairman of the Can Tho municipal People's Committee Nguyen Ngoc He thanked Ferro for directly surveying and visiting the circular production model of farmers in the city.

He expressed his wish for the further facilitation from the WB and Ferro for the project.

Can Tho city hopes that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Mekong Delta provinces will soon complete mechanisms and policies to submit them to the Prime Minister for the implementation of the project of developing 1 million ha of high-quality rice as soon as possible./.

Japanese prefecture seeks investment opportunities in Vinh Phuc, Vietnam

A delegation from Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture led by Yoko Ishii, Director of the Department of Industry, Labour, and Tourism, visited the northern province of Vinh Phuc on November 19 to explore investment opportunities.

Welcoming the delegation, Vice Chairwoman of the provincial People’s Committee Phung Thi Kim Nga briefed them on the province’s socioeconomic development situation as well as its potential and advantages.

Nga expressed her hope that they will help promote Vinh Phuc's tourism to businesses and people of Japan, and act as a bridge to introduce Japanese businesses and investors to explore investment opportunities in the province. Additionally, she highlighted the need for continued close cooperation in education and training, and exchange and collaboration in technology transfer, as well as investment and business promotion in the agricultural sector, especially in clean agriculture.

Yoko Ishii emphasised that businesses from the Tochigi Prefecture want to better understand Vinh Phuc’s investment environment and explore its human resources for future collaboration opportunities. She suggested the two localities organise delegation exchanges and meetings annually to establish a long-lasting, strong relationship and ensure effective cooperation across various fields.

On this occasion, a seminar connecting the enterprises from each country was held. Representatives from Tochigi businesses proposed Vinh Phuc create favourable conditions for Japanese companies to invest in clean agriculture, and the production of bio-based fertilisers, plastic products, and materials and components for the automotive industry.

Japan now ranks second in terms of the number of investment projects in Vinh Phu, with 75 projects totalling over 1.9 billion USD. To date, the Vietnamese province has established cooperative relationships with Japan’s Akita and Tochigi prefectures./.

Long An, Germany’s Cologne forge closer trade ties at roundtable

A delegation from Vietnam's Mekong Delta province of Long An and German enterprises gathered at a roundtable in the city of Cologne on November 18 to explore new horizons in trade and investment.

Leading the Long An delegation was Secretary of the provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the provincial People’s Council Nguyen Van Duoc.

In his opening speech, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Huynh Van Son highlighted Long An's proactive business trips to Germany and the province's eagerness to tap into German expertise in automobile manufacturing, industrial machinery, medical equipment, logistics, renewable energy, financial services, and quality workforce training.

Despite Germany's modest investment in Long An thus far, totaling 66 million USD across 10 projects, the potential for growth is immense, he said.

Frank Hemig, Deputy Executive Director of the Cologne Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Cologne), underscored Cologne's strategic importance as an European transportation hub and a powerhouse for key industries. He extended a warm welcome to the Vietnamese delegation, expressing IHK Cologne's interest in investment opportunities in Long An.

Dang Thi Thanh Phuong, Vietnamese Commercial Counselor in Germany, underlined the complementary strengths of Vietnamese and German localities, positioning Long An as an ideal destination for German firms on the back of its skilled and abundant workforce, investor-friendly policies, and strengths in agriculture and trade.

Truong Van Liep, Director of the provincial Department of Planning and Investment, highlighted the province's success in attracting FDI from 41 countries and territories, with a total of 1,367 projects worth over 12.5 billion USD. He noted that notable German investments, such as the Messer Group's liquefied gas technology, have already made a substantial impact on local economic growth.

Chief Representative of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam (AHK Vietnam) Peter Komppala spotlighted Vietnam's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, which presents not only a challenge but also a great opportunity for German enterprises, especially in green energy and sustainable development, automation and industry 4.0, and quality workforce training.

Duoc, for his part, proposed the establishment of the Long An-Cologne industrial park in Long An province as a dedicated hub for German businesses. He called on the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the Vietnam Trade Office in Germany, and relevant German agencies to support this visionary project.

The roundtable also witnessed the signing of a letter of commitment for a 50 million USD renewable energy project by Hoang Gia Investment Group, alongside a Memorandum of Understanding between Long An Industrial Park JSC and Germany’s Quickpack on the development of a packaging factory in the Southeast Asia Industrial Park.

On November 19, the Long An delegation will attend the first Vietnam Dialogue in Frankfurt, focusing on financial cooperation between Vietnam and Europe./.

Enterprises urged to tap potential to expand official exports to EU

Since the EU-Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) came into effect in August 2020, the European Union (EU) has emerged as a leading trade partner for Việt Nam. Vietnamese businesses could unlock significant opportunities from the EVFTA if they know how to capitalise on its benefits.

That is what delegates heard at a seminar on promoting trade in the European market, focusing on the potential for expanding exports to the European market via official channels held by the Việt Nam Trade Promotion Agency under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) on Monday.

Speaking at the event, Đinh Sỹ Minh Lăng, an official from the MoIT’s European-American Market Department, said that data from Việt Nam Customs indicated that in the past four years, Việt Nam’s exports to the EU were estimated to exceed US$200 billion, achieving an annual growth of 12–15 per cent.

In July 2024 alone, Việt Nam recorded a trade surplus of over $20.2 billion with the EU, a 19.4 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023. Its export turnover grew by approximately 16.8 per cent, while imports rose by around 10 per cent. The EU is now among Việt Nam’s six largest import-export markets.

A survey by the European Chamber of Commerce in Việt Nam (EuroCham) showed that the EVFTA had significantly boosted Việt Nam's exports to the EU, from EUR35 billion ($36.9 billion) in 2019 to over EUR48 billion in 2023. Sectors such as electronics, textiles, footwear, agriculture and seafood had particularly benefitted from the phased tariff reductions under this agreement.

Lăng emphasised that formal export methods were more complex due to stricter documentation and higher taxes and fees, but ensure rigorous quality control. This approach enhanced the reputation of Vietnamese enterprises and products in global markets.

Participation in official channels also allowed businesses to access markets, particularly demanding markets and benefit from state support policies, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth, he added.

To succeed in exports via official channels, businesses needed to identify target markets, research standards and regulations and assess their own capabilities to develop effective strategies, he suggested.

Moreover, they should adopt suitable standards for their products, build and maintain quality management systems, enhance employee skills, upgrade technology, and focus on producing high-quality goods that satisfy stringent export market demands.

Meanwhile, according to former trade envoy at the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK Nguyễn Cảnh Cường, the UK is one of the world’s largest economies, with a population of over 67 million. British consumers prioritise quality, sustainability and unique value propositions. They are willing to pay a premium for products that meet high-quality standards and demonstrate a commitment to environmental protection.

However, the UK market is governed by stringent technical standards and regulations, particularly in food safety and environmental practices. To succeed in this highly competitive landscape, businesses must be thoroughly prepared to meet these requirements and differentiate themselves effectively.

Cường highlighted the opportunities provided by the UK-Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA), which eliminates over 99 per cent of tariff lines within six years. Key beneficiaries include seafood, textiles, footwear, furniture and processed agricultural products.

For example, catfish and frozen shrimp are expected to achieve an export turnover of over $30 million in 2024, an increase of more than ten per cent over the previous year. Products made from natural and sustainable fibres are attracting British consumers. Moreover, this is Việt Nam's second largest import market in Europe, with a high demand for modern furniture.

He suggested using digital marketing and artificial intelligence (AI) for entry into the UK market, as well as participating in international trade fairs and collaborating with trade support organisations.

The British Standards Institution (BSI) plays a crucial role in ensuring that products meet the technical, legal and commercial requirements of the UK market. Products that adhere to BSI standards are highly regarded for their quality and safety, making them more likely to gain the trust of British importers and consumers. By meeting these standards, businesses also reduce the risk of their products being rejected at customs for failing to comply with technical or safety regulations.

Moreover, BSI certifications are widely recognised, which can facilitate access not only to the UK market but also to the broader European market.

He also advised businesses to align products with British consumer preferences by using recyclable and biodegradable materials, providing clear information on product composition and origin and choosing neutral colours for packaging.

Nguyễn Thành Hưng, a senior advisor to the Government, stressed the importance of minimising risks in cross-border transactions. Accordingly, businesses should verify information, proactively validate broker-supplied information through official channels such as industry associations or Vietnamese diplomatic missions in the buyer’s country.

Companies should engage directly with partners to avoid over-reliance on intermediaries, he said, adding in any transactions, they must draft contracts with clear and comprehensive terms to tightly bind all parties involved.

By adopting these strategies, Vietnamese firms could enhance their competitive edge in the European market while navigating the complexities of formal export processes, he said. 

VN takes part in food and beverage fair in Chicago

Twenty-one Vietnamese businesses are participating in the 2024 Private Label Trade Show, which is taking place from November 17-19 at the Rosemont Exhibition Centre in Chicago, the US.

The event is a food and beverage fair organised by the Private Label Manufacturers' Association (PLMA).

It features over 1,500 exhibitors from more than 50 countries and thousands of leading retailers and importers, offering an ideal platform for Vietnamese brands to capture the attention of international partners.

Việt Nam’s exhibition area, with 21 pavilions spanning 200 square metres, highlights a variety of key products, including processed food, traditional spices, high-quality agricultural products, and specialty beverages.

Outstanding items from Việt Nam such as coffee, natural spices, dried fruits, and herbal drinks have left a strong impression on US partners, praised for their exceptional quality, health-conscious appeal, and environmentally friendly attributes – qualities highly valued by today’s consumers.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Hoàng Minh Chiến, deputy director of the Việt Nam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, highlighted the food and beverage sector's achievements.

“In the first 10 months of 2024, exports to the US reached nearly US$1.5 billion, an 18.3 per cent increase compared to the same period last year,” he said.

“The PLMA Show offered not only a platform for businesses to promote their products but also a strategic opportunity to forge sustainable partnerships in this promising market,” he added.

The US market is undergoing a strong shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly products, with growing preference for natural, organic, and environmentally-friendly goods. This trend presents a significant opportunity for Vietnamese products such as coffee, natural spices, dried fruits, and herbal beverages.

To meet the stringent quality and safety standards of the US market, Vietnamese enterprises have adopted international production practices, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), and compliance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

The participation in the PLMA Show 2024 not only helped Vietnamese enterprises connect with US partners but also established a foundation for the long-term development of the food and beverage industry.

It also helped reinforce Việt Nam’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality, sustainable products in the global market. 

Solutions discussed to ensure coal supply for electricity generation in 2025

Việt Nam Electricity (EVN), Việt Nam National Coal and Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (TKV) and Đông Bắc Corporation are working together to come up with solutions to ensure an adequate supply of coal for electricity production.

The supply must be reliable as thermal power is expected to rise significantly to meet the electricity demand for socio-economic development in 2025.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has developed three scenarios for electricity supply and operation in 2025. The electricity load growth is projected at 11 per cent in the base scenario and 13-14 per cent in the highest scenario.

Coal demand for thermal power production is expected to remain high across all scenarios, particularly for plants in the northern region. Consequently, most thermal power plants will need to operate between 6,400 and 6,500 hours in 2025, necessitating efforts to secure an adequate coal supply under all circumstances.

Since September, EVN’s thermal power plants have been negotiating coal supply contracts with TKV and Đông Bắc for 2025.

These companies all committed the efforts to enhance coordination to develop appropriate coal supply plans for electricity production as well as improving coal quality.

EVN’s Deputy Director General Ngô Hải Sơn said that ensuring adequate coal supply for electricity production and national energy security are the top political task of EVN, TKV and Đông Bắc.

In the first ten months of this year, coal supply for electricity production was assured. Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hồng Diên said that the electricity supply must increase by at least 11 per cent next year to meet the power demand for socio-economic development.

Despite the efforts to accelerate energy transition, Việt Nam remains heavily dependent of coal-fired power. EVN’s statistics showed that thermal electricity output totalled 126 billion kWh in January-October, or 48.7 per cent of the electricity mix in the period.

Hydroelectricity came the second, accounting for 29.5 per cent while renewable energy, including solar power, wind power and gas-fired power, accounted for 12.7 per cent altogether.

Việt Nam has pledged to phase out coal-fired power in a bold effort to achieve net zero by 2025, while increasing renewable energies to 47 per cent of the energy mix. 

Market falls for fourth straight session as foreign bloc intensifies net selling

The stock market extended its losing streak for a fourth consecutive session on Tuesday, with the VN-Index posting another sharp decline amid persistent foreign investor net selling of over VNĐ1.5 trillion.

On the Hồ Chí Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index closed at 1,205.15 points, down 11.97 points or 0.98 per cent.

Market breadth was notably negative, with 233 stocks declining, 77 advancing and 49 remaining unchanged. Liquidity dropped to VNĐ13.2 trillion (US$519.7 million), marking a 14.8 per cent decrease from the previous session.

The VN30-Index, which tracks the top 30 stocks by market capitalisation on the HoSE, also fell by 11.15 points or 0.88 per cent, to close at 1,259.08 points. Within the VN30 basket, 22 stocks declined, seven advanced and one remained unchanged.

Key sectors under pressure

The market's downward trend was led by technology and banking sectors. FPT Corporation (FPT) recorded the sharpest drop, falling 2.99 per cent and dragging down the VN-Index by nearly 1.4 points. This was followed by declines in the Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB), which fell 1.1 per cent and the Investment and Industrial Development Corporation (BCM), which dropped 4.48 per cent.

Offsetting some of the losses were gains in a few major stocks, including Vinhomes JSC (VHM), which surged 3.43 per cent, adding over 1.5 points to the VN-Index.

According to analysts from Việt Dragon Securities: “The market struggled to sustain gains as it approached the 1,200–1,210-point resistance range, eventually weakening further. Liquidity declined from the previous session, reflecting ongoing cautious sentiment as the market tested resistance levels. The downward movement suggests diminishing support at the 200-day moving average (MA200) around the 1,205-point level, with the market gradually pulling away from this benchmark.”

They added: “The 1,200-point threshold continues to act as a psychological support level, mitigating the decline. However, weak performance in recent sessions has heightened pressure and the risk of the market falling below the 1,200-point mark remains substantial.”

Given these conditions, investors are advised to maintain caution and closely monitor supply-demand dynamics to assess market stability. “Current market stability is low and potential risks remain. Investors should focus on prudent portfolio management and avoid excessive buying in this environment,” the analysts suggested.

On the Hà Nội Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also ended lower, dropping 0.95 per cent to close at 219.68 points. During the session, shares worth nearly VNĐ632 billion were traded, with a total volume of almost 37 million shares.

Foreign investors continued their net-selling streak, withdrawing over VNĐ1.5 trillion from the HoSE. This persistent outflow has been a key contributor to the market's sustained weakness. 

Workshop seeks ways to attract Japan’s green investment to Việt Nam

A workshop was held in Tokyo on Monday to introduce to Japanese businesses investment trends in Việt Nam and its pioneering industrial parks with carbon neutral initiatives.

The event was jointly organised by the ASEAN Japan Centre (AJC), the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Việt Nam’s Viglacera Group, and Mizuho Bank with the aim of further attracting Japanese green investment to Việt Nam.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Nguyễn Đức Minh at the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan said that green investment is of strategic significance not only for Việt Nam but also for the whole region, in the context of the global trends towards sustainable development and greenhouse gas emission reduction.

He emphasised Việt Nam’s policy on attracting selective foreign investment, targeting high-quality investment with high efficiency, technology and environmental protection.

One of the important strategies for Việt Nam to achieve sustainable development goals is to closely connect the industries that Việt nam prioritises calling for investment and the development of green industrial parks. This combination not only attracts more foreign investment but also helps Việt Nam build a sustainable industrial production ecosystem, meeting the requirements of economic efficiency for businesses and protecting the environment.

He also mentioned the key role of banks in providing financial support and connecting businesses to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into Việt Nam.

Hiroshi Imano, Executive Vice President of THK Corporation - one of Japan's leading mechanical components companies, said that his corporation is expanding its investment into Việt Nam.

Imano said that in order to supply its products to customers around the world, THK has stepped up its production system in four places, namely Japan, America, Europe and Asia. In that trend, THK has decided to expand to Tiên Sơn Industrial Park in the northern province of Bắc Ninh and is planning to expand further in Việt Nam.

One of the reasons for THK to invest in Việt Nam is about environmental protection because THK products are very environmentally friendly, requiring very little energy. In addition, in Việt Nam, the manufacturing industry is growing strongly, so the demand for THK products will continue to increase, Imano said.

Noriyuki Urabe, Executive Director, Head of Global Strategy Advisory at Mizuho Bank, said that the bank is supporting its clients expand their operations overseas. In that trend, consultations related to Việt Nam are at a very high level and this trend has continued in recent years. 

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