Incident caused major property damage and renewed focus on tourist behavior and public safety in Vietnam’s coastal tourism hub.
As Vietnam continues to attract record numbers of international visitors, a violent incident involving an Australian tourist in the central city of Da Nang has drawn attention to the challenges of maintaining public safety in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
Authorities in the city of Da Nang have charged a 35-year-old Australian man with disturbing public order after an alleged rampage at a café in the Hai Chau district that left hundreds of millions of Vietnamese dong in damages and triggered panic among customers and staff.
According to investigators, the incident occurred in the early hours of May 30 at a café on Le Hong Phong Street. Police say the man became involved in a dispute with another customer before allegedly smashing the person’s mobile phone and using a wooden chair to destroy property throughout the venue. Witnesses reported scenes of chaos as furniture and equipment were damaged and customers rushed outside to escape.
Authorities allege that the suspect then moved to a mezzanine level, kicked doors, continued damaging property, and restrained a young man inside the premises until police arrived and intervened. Security camera footage reportedly captured the entire incident, providing investigators with detailed evidence of the events.
Police estimate the damage at nearly VND383 million (approximately US$15,000), including mobile phones, laptops, and tablet devices belonging to customers. Officials said the disturbance attracted large crowds and significantly disrupted public order in a busy central area of the city during the night.
Investigators also stated that the Australian national showed signs of resistance and failed to cooperate during questioning. While he has initially been charged with disturbing public order, authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and are considering additional allegations related to property destruction.
The case comes as Vietnam experiences a surge in international tourism, with destinations such as Da Nang becoming increasingly popular among foreign travelers, expatriates, and digital nomads. While incidents involving foreign visitors remain relatively uncommon, high-profile cases tend to attract significant public attention due to their potential impact on the country’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
As Vietnam expands its role as a leading tourism and investment hub in Southeast Asia, authorities face a growing challenge: balancing an open, visitor-friendly environment with strict enforcement of laws designed to protect public safety. The outcome of this case may serve as another reminder that foreign visitors are fully subject to Vietnamese law—and that disruptive behavior can carry serious legal consequences regardless of nationality.
South Korean tech giant deepens its Vietnam footprint as AI, 5G and semiconductor demand reshape global supply chains
As governments and corporations race to secure semiconductor supply chains amid the AI boom, South Korea’s LG is making a major new bet on Vietnam. The move highlights Southeast Asia’s growing role in the global chip ecosystem and reinforces Vietnam’s emergence as a strategic manufacturing hub beyond traditional electronics assembly.
LG Innotek, the electronics components arm of LG Group, has announced plans to build its first semiconductor substrate manufacturing facility in Vietnam. The project will be located in Hai Phong, a northern industrial center that has become a magnet for high-tech foreign investment.
The company signed a memorandum of understanding with Hai Phong authorities on June 4 in Seoul, paving the way for construction to begin next month. The facility is expected to be completed by May 2027 and will be developed through LG Innotek’s Vietnamese manufacturing subsidiary.
The new factory marks a significant step up in Vietnam’s semiconductor ambitions. While LG Innotek already operates a camera module manufacturing plant in the country, this will be its first facility dedicated to semiconductor substrates—critical components that connect and support advanced chips used in smartphones, AI devices, data centers and telecommunications equipment.
Covering approximately 330,000 square meters, the plant will manufacture advanced packaging substrates including Radio Frequency System-in-Package (RF-SiP), Flip Chip-Chip Scale Package (FC-CSP), and Flip Chip Ball Grid Array (FC-BGA) products. These technologies are increasingly important as chipmakers seek higher performance and greater energy efficiency for AI computing and next-generation wireless networks.
The investment reflects LG Innotek’s broader dual-hub manufacturing strategy. Its facility in Gumi, South Korea, will continue focusing on research, development and premium semiconductor products, while the Hai Phong operation will serve as a large-scale production center for standard substrate manufacturing. This approach mirrors a broader trend among global technology companies that are diversifying production footprints to improve resilience and reduce costs.
Vietnam’s appeal extends beyond labor costs. LG Innotek cited Hai Phong’s developed industrial infrastructure, proximity to semiconductor packaging and testing companies, and efficient logistics network as key factors behind the decision. The city has already attracted billions of dollars in foreign direct investment from major technology manufacturers and is increasingly positioning itself as a critical node in Asia’s semiconductor value chain.
The timing is notable. Demand for RF-SiP substrates is expected to accelerate as 5G adoption expands globally and preparations for future 6G networks gather pace. Meanwhile, FC-CSP and FC-BGA products are benefiting from surging investment in artificial intelligence, particularly the growing market for AI-enabled devices that process data directly on smartphones, PCs and edge computing systems.
According to LG Innotek, its existing semiconductor substrate production lines in South Korea are operating close to full capacity, making additional manufacturing capability essential to meet rising global demand. CEO Moon Hyuk-soo has stated that the company aims to grow its semiconductor packaging solutions business into a division generating more than KRW 3 trillion (approximately US$2.2 billion) in annual revenue by 2030.
For international investors, the announcement offers another signal that Vietnam is moving higher up the technology value chain. The country is no longer competing solely as a low-cost manufacturing destination; it is increasingly attracting investment in advanced semiconductor production, a sector viewed as central to the future of AI, telecommunications and digital infrastructure. The bigger question now is whether Vietnam can leverage investments like LG’s to establish itself not just as a manufacturing base, but as a long-term semiconductor powerhouse in Asia.
Choosing between a distributor and direct sales is one of the most critical decisions when entering Vietnam. This guide breaks down the Vietnam distributor strategy, when direct sales make sense, and how to build the right Vietnam market entry strategy based on your budget, Vietnam sales strategy, and long-term goals.
For foreign companies considering Vietnam market entry, one of the first and most consequential decisions they face is not about product, pricing, or even timing; it is about how to reach the market. Should you build your own sales structure from the ground up, or should you work with a local distributor who already knows the terrain? This single choice shapes everything from your speed to market to your long-term brand positioning, and getting it wrong early can be costly to reverse.
There is no universal answer. The right approach to selling in the Vietnam market depends on your budget, how well you understand local business culture, and what you are ultimately trying to build. This guide walks you through both models, the Vietnam distributor strategy, the case for going direct, and a hybrid approach that many companies are adopting in 2026, so you can make an informed decision based on your specific situation rather than assumptions borrowed from other markets. If you are serious about building a sustainable Vietnam sales strategy, understanding this trade-off is where everything starts.
Why Distribution Matters in Vietnam
Vietnam’s growth story in 2026 is hard to ignore. The economy expanded 7.83% in the first quarter of the year, the fastest pace in Southeast Asia. Investors from 68 countries and territories put capital into Vietnam in Q1 alone. For international companies watching these numbers, the pull is real, and the competition for positions is accelerating.
But arriving in Vietnam with confidence and actually building a functioning Vietnam sales strategy are two very different things. The distribution landscape here is unlike most markets foreign companies have operated in before. Traditional trade, independent retailers, and neighborhood shops still account for 60 to 65% of FMCG sales volume across the country. Modern retail is expanding, but unevenly. E-commerce is growing fast, yet dominated by a small number of platforms with their own dynamics. The result is a market where selling in the Vietnamese market almost always requires going through someone who already understands it, and that is usually where the distributor question becomes unavoidable.
One of the most common mistakes foreign companies make is treating the distributor decision as a logistical afterthought, something to sort out once the product is ready to ship. In practice, it is a strategic choice that shapes how quickly you gain market traction, how much it costs to build presence, and whether you retain control over your brand as you grow.
The Distributor Model in Vietnam
For many international companies, a distributor is often viewed simply as a channel for selling products. In reality, a successful Vietnam distributor strategy involves much more than product distribution. The right distributor brings local market knowledge, established customer relationships, and operational capabilities that can significantly accelerate market entry. This is particularly important in Vietnam, where business networks and trust frequently influence purchasing decisions. An experienced distributor may already have access to wholesalers, retailers, and key decision-makers that would otherwise take years for a foreign company to develop independently.
The distribution structure in Vietnam is often layered and involves multiple intermediaries.
In practice, the distribution structure in Vietnam is often more layered than many international businesses expect. Depending on the industry and target market, products may move through several stages before reaching end customers: distributor, wholesaler, retailer, and end customer.
In major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, distribution channels are generally more streamlined. However, in provincial markets, additional intermediaries may be involved, making local expertise even more valuable. The importance of strong distribution networks is reflected in Vietnam’s growing consumer market. According to Vietnam’s National Statistics Office, total retail sales of goods and consumer services reached approximately VND 1,902.8 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 10.9% increase year-over-year. This continued growth creates significant opportunities for companies focused on selling in the Vietnam market, but it also increases the need for effective channel management.
However, businesses should understand that distributors are not responsible for everything. While they can provide market access, local relationships, and sales execution, they may not fully control brand positioning, marketing strategy, or customer experience. For this reason, choosing the right market entry partner in Vietnam should be viewed as a strategic decision rather than simply a sales arrangement. As part of a broader Vietnam market entry strategy, distributors can help companies enter the market faster and with lower risk. The key is understanding both what a distributor can deliver and where direct involvement from the company remains essential for long-term success.
Benefits of Local Distributors in Vietnam
For many international businesses, a common and practical way to enter a new market is through a local distributor. Rather than investing significant resources into setting up operations from scratch, companies can leverage an established network, local expertise, and market knowledge to accelerate growth. As a result, a strong Vietnam distributor strategyis often considered a practical first step within a broader Vietnam market entry strategy.
Faster Access to the Market
Building a customer base from the ground up takes time. A local distributor already has established relationships with retailers, wholesalers, and business buyers, allowing companies to start selling in the Vietnamese market much faster than if they entered independently. This can significantly reduce the time and cost required to gain initial traction.
Valuable Local Market Knowledge
Understanding consumer behavior in Vietnam requires more than market research reports. Local distributors often possess first-hand knowledge of regional preferences, pricing expectations, purchasing habits, and competitive dynamics. These insights help businesses adapt their products and marketing approach to local conditions, improving the effectiveness of their Vietnam sales strategy.
Reduced Operational Risk
Establishing a legal entity, hiring employees, managing payroll, and building logistics capabilities can be both costly and time-consuming. By partnering with a distributor, businesses can test market demand and validate their business model before making larger investments. This approach allows companies to enter the market with lower operational risk while maintaining flexibility for future expansion.
Stronger Business Relationships and Market Credibility
Relationships play a crucial role in Vietnam’s business environment, particularly in B2B industries. An experienced market entry partner in Vietnam can help foreign companies navigate local business culture, build trust with stakeholders, and access opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to secure. In many cases, these established relationships become a key competitive advantage and contribute significantly to long-term success.
For businesses evaluating different expansion models, partnering with a distributor offers a balanced combination of speed, market insight, and risk reduction. When supported by a clear Vietnam market entry strategy, the right local partner can help companies achieve sustainable growth while avoiding many of the common challenges associated withentering the Vietnamese market.
When Direct Sales Makes More Sense Than Using a Distributor
While a strong Vietnam distributor strategy can accelerate market entry, it is not always the best option for every business. Depending on the product, target audience, and long-term objectives, some companies may achieve better results through a direct sales approach. Understanding when to build an internal sales team versus working with a distributor is an important part of any Vietnam market entry strategy. Direct sales is often a better fit in the following situations:
Complex B2B products or services: Businesses selling technical solutions, industrial equipment, or enterprise software often require extensive product demonstrations, consultations, and after-sales support. Direct interaction with customers allows companies to communicate value more effectively.
Strong brand recognition: Companies that already have market awareness in Vietnam may prefer direct sales to maintain greater control over pricing, customer experience, and brand positioning.
Need for customer insights: Selling directly enables businesses to collect firsthand customer feedback, understand purchasing behavior, and refine their Vietnam sales strategy based on real market data.
Niche or specialized products: Some products may not generate enough sales volume to attract large distributors. In these cases, a direct sales model can provide greater focus and flexibility.
However, businesses should also recognize that direct sales typically require a larger upfront investment. Recruiting local talent, building a sales team, establishing operational processes, and developing customer relationships can take significant time and resources. As a result, while direct sales offer greater control, it is often a slower path to selling in the Vietnam market during the early stages. Ultimately, the right approach depends on business goals, available resources, and the level of market control required. Many successful companies even combine both models, using distributors in some regions while maintaining direct sales capabilities for key accounts.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam offers significant opportunities for international businesses, but successful market entry requires more than simply identifying market potential. Whether a company chooses to work with a distributor, build a direct sales team, or adopt a hybrid approach, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right strategy depends on factors such as industry, product complexity, available resources, and long-term business objectives.
What matters most is making decisions based on the realities of the Vietnamese market rather than assumptions carried over from other countries. By understanding local customer behavior, business culture, and operational challenges, companies can develop a more effective Vietnam market entry strategy and reduce the risk of costly mistakes. For businesses considering expansion into Vietnam, speaking with professionals who have first-hand market experience can often be one of the most valuable investments before taking the next step.
Infrastructure, capital market reforms, and domestic investment are becoming the new drivers of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing major economy.
As global trade faces mounting uncertainty, higher-for-longer interest rates, and persistent geopolitical tensions, Vietnam is quietly reshaping its economic growth model. Rather than relying primarily on exports, consumer spending, or favorable global cycles, the country is increasingly betting on domestic investment, infrastructure expansion, institutional reform, and deeper capital markets to sustain growth.
This shift helps explain why Vietnam’s rising trade deficit may not be the warning sign some investors assume. Instead, the surge in imports increasingly reflects what economists call the “import footprint” of an economy expanding its productive capacity. Machinery, equipment, industrial materials, and construction inputs are flowing into the country as Vietnam accelerates efforts to build the foundations for long-term growth.
The deeper story of 2026 is that Vietnam is becoming less dependent on external opportunities and more focused on creating its own. Across infrastructure development, housing policy, state-owned enterprise reform, and administrative simplification, policymakers are moving beyond short-term demand management toward expanding the economy’s long-term productive capacity. Public investment, foreign direct investment (FDI), regulatory liberalization, and legal reforms are increasingly aligned around a common objective: lowering the cost of doing business and improving the economy’s ability to absorb capital efficiently.
Nowhere is this transformation more visible than in Vietnam’s financial markets. For years, investors have focused on whether global index providers such as FTSE Russell and MSCI will upgrade Vietnam from frontier-market status. Yet the more important development may be what is happening behind the scenes. The government is pursuing reforms designed to make Vietnam genuinely investable, including increasing free-float levels, accelerating state divestments, improving market infrastructure, strengthening corporate governance standards, enhancing investor protections, and expanding the supply of investable assets.
In this context, market reclassification is becoming less about achieving a symbolic label and more about building the conditions necessary to deserve one. The same principle applies to sovereign credit ratings. Infrastructure reforms, fiscal discipline, public-private partnership restructuring, stronger legal enforcement, and efforts to resolve long-standing project bottlenecks are all strengthening Vietnam’s attractiveness to long-term global capital. Credit upgrades and market-status promotions are increasingly viewed as outcomes of reform rather than the reforms themselves.
Short-term volatility is unlikely to disappear. Tight global liquidity, elevated interest rates, foreign investor selling pressure, and geopolitical uncertainty may continue to limit gains in the Vietnamese stock market. Yet beneath the cyclical noise, macroeconomic fundamentals are steadily improving. Infrastructure projects are becoming more financially viable, capital markets more accessible, housing policies more aligned with real demand, and government institutions increasingly focused on implementation rather than policy announcements alone.
For investors, the opportunities are becoming more specific. Building materials companies and consumer-focused sectors appear well-positioned to benefit from Vietnam’s infrastructure and domestic demand cycle, while financial institutions continue to enjoy support from stable credit growth. Corporate earnings growth is expected to remain robust across much of the market, while expanding IPO pipelines and the resilience of Vietnam’s technology sector are creating new avenues for capital allocation. In an environment of elevated interest rates, market leaders with strong pricing power, healthy balance sheets, and superior asset quality are likely to command increasing investor attention.
The most important takeaway is that Vietnam’s investment story is evolving. The country is no longer simply waiting for favorable global conditions or external demand to drive growth. Instead, it is building its own wave through infrastructure investment, institutional reform, capital market development, and policies aimed at making both the economy and the stock market more investable. Market upgrades and credit-rating improvements may still come, but they are increasingly becoming the consequence of Vietnam’s transformation—not the catalyst. For global investors searching for the next phase of growth in Southeast Asia, that distinction may prove more important than any index decision.
A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on June 8th. A tsunami with waves reaching 1.4 meters in height was generated. At least 19 people died and more than 200 were injured.
At least 19 people have died, and thousands have been evacuated.
According to AP, Junie Castillo, spokesperson for the Civil Defense Office, said at least 19 people were killed and more than 200 others injured, and thousands of villagers were evacuated after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Philippines on June 8.
Authorities are also verifying reports that some students may be trapped in a collapsed two-story school building in General Santos, according to the Director of the Civil Defense Office, Rod Sosmeña.
At least 12 people have been reported missing in this city.
Rescue workers are assessing the damage after the earthquake in General Santos City – Photo: AP
General Santos International Airport Closed
The Philippine Civil Aviation Authority announced that the international airport in General Santos has been temporarily closed and 17 domestic flights have been canceled.
Teresito Bacolcol, Director of the Seismological Institute, said that tsunami waves approximately 1 meter high were recorded in the Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani provinces. At one point, a wave reaching 1.4 meters was observed near the coast of Kiamba town in Sarangani province.
However, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center assessed that the tsunami threat had generally passed about five hours after the earthquake occurred. Philippine authorities also lifted the warning in the early afternoon of the same day.
In Zamboanga del Sur province, large waves combined with an earthquake damaged six homes in a coastal village.
At least 15 people died and more than 129 were injured.
According to the Philippine disaster management agency, the death toll from the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Philippines on June 8 has risen to at least 15, with more than 129 injured.
Rodrigo Sosmena, Director of the Mindanao Civil Defense Office, said that in the Socksargen area of the island alone, 12 people have died and 129 have been injured.
Meanwhile, Davao Occidental province also reported three additional deaths.
Philippines recorded tsunami waves 1.4m high.
The Philippine Seismological Bureau reported that it recorded tsunami waves of varying heights at six monitoring stations, with the highest reaching 1.4 meters.
The Philippine Bureau of Information advised residents living in coastal areas of the nine affected provinces in Mindanao to evacuate immediately to higher, safer ground.
According to CNA, the list of these localities includes Sarangani, Davao Occidental, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato.
Philippine police have reported at least three deaths and four injuries following a 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. on June 8 (local time).
According to AFP, citing the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of 35km, about 24km west of Sarangani province on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines , on the morning of June 8.
Local police have updated their report that the powerful earthquake has killed at least one person and injured four others, while also causing several buildings to collapse.
“Many buildings have been affected, but we cannot give a specific number at this time as we are still carrying out rescue operations,” Robert Dagon, a representative of the General Santos city police force, told AFP.
Videos posted on Facebook showed a shopping mall with a Jollibee fast-food restaurant in General Santos City on the island collapsing. A building on the grounds of a local school also collapsed in another video.
In one video clip, someone can be heard shouting, “Oh my God, it’s really collapsed! The building has actually fallen down!”
In Davao City on Mindanao Island, a disaster response official said authorities are monitoring the situation and will provide updates on social media.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said authorities are urgently coordinating a disaster response.
“The central government is taking action, and we will not abandon Mindanao,” Marcos said.
One of the buildings at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos collapsed after the strong earthquake – Photo: INQUIRER
Vehicles damaged by debris after a strong earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines on June 8 – Photo: AP
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warned that a tsunami could occur “within the next three hours” along the coastal areas of the Philippines, Indonesia, Palau, Taiwan, and Papua New Guinea.
Japanese authorities also issued tsunami warnings for many areas along the country’s Pacific coast, predicting waves up to 1 meter high could hit various locations from around 11:30 a.m. local time on June 8.
Meanwhile, Indonesia has ordered the evacuation of residents in northern areas of the country due to fears of a tsunami following the earthquake.
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency said officials in high-risk areas, including Manado City – the capital of North Sulawesi province, Gorontalo province, and the Sangihe archipelago, were instructed to “immediately guide residents to evacuate in an orderly manner to higher ground.”
A 6.1 magnitude aftershock struck southern Philippines.
At 9:05 AM on June 8th (Vietnam time), AFP reported that the US Geological Survey said a strong 6.1 magnitude aftershock shook southern Philippines, just hours after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake triggered tsunami warnings in the region.
The USGS said the second earthquake occurred at a depth of 67 km, about 8 km north-northwest of Sarangani province on Mindanao island.
Earthquakes occur frequently in the Philippines, a country located on the Pacific Ring of Fire – an area of intense seismic activity stretching from Japan through Southeast Asia to the entire Pacific basin.
Police gather in front of a collapsed Jollibee fast-food restaurant after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck General Santos City in the Philippines on June 8. – Photo: AFP
A powerful earthquake is causing damage in the Mindanao region of southern Philippines on June 8th – Photo: Facebook/Philippine Information Agency
A still image from a video shows a severely damaged building in General Santos City on Mindanao Island, Philippines – Photo: AP
A still image from a video shows dust and debris outside a building after a strong earthquake in General Santos City on Mindanao Island, Philippines, on June 8. – Photo: AP
Screenshot of a GFZ map depicting the earthquake that occurred in Mindanao, Philippines on June 8 – Photo: GFZ
One of Vietnam’s most humble everyday dishes has earned international recognition after being ranked among Southeast Asia’s best side dishes by global food platform TasteAtlas.
Garlic stir fried water spinach, known locally as rau muống xào tỏi, secured third place in TasteAtlas’ latest ranking of the region’s top side dishes, outperforming dozens of better known specialties from across Southeast Asia.
For many Vietnamese, the recognition may come as a surprise. Unlike iconic dishes such as phở, bánh mì, or bún chả, rau muống xào tỏi is rarely viewed as a culinary showpiece. Instead, it is a staple of family meals, found everywhere from roadside eateries to home kitchens and upscale restaurants.
Yet its simplicity may be exactly what makes it so beloved.
TasteAtlas describes the dish as a traditional vegetarian friendly specialty made from water spinach stir fried with garlic and seasoned with ingredients such as fish sauce, salt, sugar, and oyster sauce. The result is a dish that balances freshness, crunch, aroma, and umami in a way that has made it a fixture of Vietnamese dining for generations.
The preparation is straightforward but requires careful timing. Water spinach is typically blanched briefly before being stir fried over high heat with fragrant garlic. Fish sauce is often added at the final stage to enhance the vegetable’s natural flavor while preserving its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
Served hot, the dish commonly accompanies rice, soups, steamed dishes, and grilled meats, making it one of the most versatile components of a traditional Vietnamese meal.
While often overshadowed by Vietnam’s more famous culinary exports, rau muống xào tỏi has quietly built an international reputation.
Food publication The Restaurant previously described the dish as one of the stars of Vietnamese cuisine despite its status as an everyday vegetable side. It has also appeared at high profile diplomatic dinners, demonstrating how even Vietnam’s simplest foods can play a role in representing the country’s culinary identity.
The dish attracted renewed attention last year during the visit of Emmanuel Macron to Vietnam. During a meal in Hanoi, garlic stir fried water spinach reportedly appeared alongside other Vietnamese specialties, introducing the humble vegetable dish to an international audience.
It has also found admirers among foreign celebrities. South Korean actress Jung Si Ah and former beauty queen Oh Hyun Kyung praised the dish during a culinary trip to Vietnam, describing its flavor as distinctive and memorable.
The ranking highlights a broader trend in global food culture: growing appreciation for simple, ingredient driven dishes that reflect local traditions rather than culinary complexity.
Topping TasteAtlas’ list was Indonesia’s Perkedel, a fried potato fritter influenced by Dutch cuisine, while fellow Indonesian favorite Tempeh Mendoan shared a similar rating to Vietnam’s water spinach dish. Indonesia’s Nasi Kuning, a turmeric infused rice dish, rounded out the top four.
For Vietnam, the recognition serves as another reminder that some of the country’s most celebrated foods are not necessarily its most famous. While travelers often arrive searching for phở or bánh mì, many leave with fond memories of the simpler dishes that locals eat every day.
Few examples capture that better than a plate of freshly stir fried water spinach, sizzling with garlic and served at the center of a family meal.
Sometimes, the dishes that best represent a country’s food culture are also the ones its people take most for granted.
A simple act of kindness at a local noodle restaurant in Hanoi has captured hearts online after staff members rushed to help a foreign tourist who suddenly fell ill while dining in the Vietnamese capital.
The incident took place on the evening of May 31 at a popular bún chả restaurant in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, an area frequented by international visitors seeking some of the city’s most famous culinary experiences.
According to restaurant staff, a foreign couple in their late 30s or early 40s had just begun eating when the woman suddenly became dizzy and visibly unwell. Witnesses said she appeared weak and struggled to continue her meal.
Seeing the tourist in distress, two female employees immediately stepped in to help.
Despite not speaking English, the staff quickly enlisted the assistance of another customer to help translate. They then used medicated oil and traditional massage techniques commonly practiced in Vietnam to help ease the woman’s discomfort while continuously reassuring her through gestures and body language.
Within a few minutes, the tourist’s condition improved noticeably. She regained her strength, was able to continue her meal, and later expressed her gratitude for the unexpected assistance. Her companion repeatedly thanked the restaurant staff for their care and attentiveness.
The moment was captured on video by another employee and later shared online as a personal memory. The clip quickly attracted attention from Vietnamese social media users, many of whom praised the staff’s instinctive willingness to help a stranger in need.
According to employees at the restaurant, the incident was not an isolated case.
Earlier in May, a French tourist reportedly experienced similar symptoms while dining at the same establishment. Staff again stepped in to assist, helping the visitor recover before she was able to continue her day.
Restaurant representatives emphasized that employees always assess situations carefully. For minor cases of fatigue or dizziness, staff may offer basic assistance. However, they said emergency medical services would be contacted immediately if a customer appeared to require professional treatment.
The story has resonated with many readers because it reflects a side of Vietnam that visitors frequently mention after their travels: the warmth and hospitality of ordinary people.
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s historic district, the restaurant serves a clientele that is estimated to be 60 to 70 percent international visitors. Employees say many travelers come specifically to try bún chả, a dish of grilled pork, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce that has become one of Vietnam’s best known culinary exports.
The dish gained worldwide attention in 2016 when former U.S. President Barack Obama famously enjoyed a bún chả meal during a visit to Hanoi, helping introduce the specialty to millions of people around the world.
Today, alongside phở and bánh mì, bún chả remains one of the foods most frequently recommended to visitors exploring Vietnamese cuisine. Yet for one tourist, the most memorable part of the experience may not have been the meal itself, but the compassion shown by restaurant workers who went out of their way to help when it mattered most.
In a tourism industry increasingly focused on visitor experiences, moments like these serve as a reminder that genuine hospitality often leaves a stronger impression than any attraction or landmark.
Vietnam’s bánh mì is widely celebrated as one of the world’s greatest street foods. It regularly appears on international lists of must try dishes, is praised by celebrity chefs, and has become a global symbol of Vietnamese cuisine.
Yet after four consecutive editions of the Michelin Guide in Vietnam, not a single bánh mì shop has been recognized in any Michelin category.
The omission has sparked growing debate among chefs, food industry experts, and diners, many of whom are asking the same question: How can one of Vietnam’s most iconic foods remain absent from the country’s Michelin selections?
The discussion resurfaced this week after Michelin Guide Vietnam unveiled its 2026 selections, featuring 193 restaurants and eateries across various categories, including Michelin Stars, Bib Gourmand, Michelin Selected, and Michelin Green Star. While dishes such as phở, bún chả, bánh cuốn, mì Quảng, and bún bò Huế continued to earn recognition, bánh mì once again failed to appear.
For many observers, the absence feels surprising. Bánh mì is arguably Vietnam’s most internationally recognizable food, enjoyed by travelers from around the world and frequently cited as one of the country’s top culinary experiences.
However, food experts say popularity alone is not enough to secure Michelin recognition.
According to Vietnamese chef Nguyễn Văn Khu, Michelin inspectors evaluate restaurants based on several criteria, including ingredient quality, culinary technique, harmony of flavors, the personality expressed through the food, and consistency over time.
“A famous dish does not automatically qualify for Michelin recognition,” he explained. “The evaluation process is much more comprehensive than simply determining whether a food is popular or widely loved.”
One challenge may lie in the nature of Vietnam’s bánh mì industry itself.
Unlike many Michelin recognized phở or bún restaurants that offer dedicated dining spaces and standardized operations, most bánh mì businesses remain small scale, often operating from street carts, compact storefronts, or takeaway counters.
While Michelin officially states that decor and luxury do not determine ratings, experts note that consistency, food safety practices, operational standards, and the overall dining experience can influence inspectors’ assessments.
Many of Vietnam’s most famous bánh mì vendors serve hundreds of customers daily but operate through informal models that can make standardization more difficult. Maintaining identical quality, preparation methods, and customer experiences over time is often more challenging for small independent vendors than for larger restaurant operations.
Industry observers also point to differences in dining behavior among international visitors.
While bánh mì is frequently purchased as a quick meal on the go, dishes such as phở and bún chả naturally encourage diners to sit down and spend more time at a restaurant. Some experts believe this may increase the likelihood that Michelin inspectors encounter and evaluate those establishments.
Others argue the issue may simply be one of coverage.
Actor Nicholas Tse enjoys a sandwich from a shop called “Nếm” – a Michelin Selected establishment – in Hong Kong, China (Photo: Screenshot).
Nguyễn Hoàng Tùng, chairman of hospitality investment firm F&B Investment, expressed surprise that no Vietnamese bánh mì shop has appeared in Michelin Guide Vietnam despite the country’s deep and highly competitive bánh mì culture.
He believes Vietnam already has numerous bánh mì businesses with loyal customer bases, distinctive recipes, and decades of operating history that could potentially meet Michelin standards.
“There are many bánh mì shops with strong reputations, consistent quality, and unique identities,” he said. “The category certainly has the potential to be recognized.”
Supporters of this view often point to international examples. One notable case is Nếm, a Vietnamese sandwich concept in Hong Kong, which has been included in Michelin Selected, demonstrating that bánh mì can receive recognition from Michelin inspectors under the right circumstances.
The debate has also prompted broader questions about how culinary excellence should be evaluated. Some Vietnamese industry leaders argue that while Michelin remains one of the world’s most influential restaurant guides, local cuisine should not rely exclusively on foreign rating systems for validation.
For them, the absence of bánh mì from Michelin’s lists does not diminish its cultural significance, popularity, or culinary value.
Nevertheless, many believe recognition is only a matter of time.
As Vietnam’s dining scene continues to evolve and more food businesses adopt professionalized operations while preserving traditional recipes, industry experts expect bánh mì to eventually secure a place within the Michelin ecosystem.
Whether that happens next year or further into the future remains uncertain. What is clear is that one of Vietnam’s most beloved foods continues to thrive without Michelin recognition, proving that global popularity and cultural impact do not always depend on awards.
For now, the question remains open: Has Michelin overlooked Vietnam’s most famous street food, or are bánh mì shops still adapting to the standards required for international recognition?
A friendly cultural exchange in Vietnam’s northern highlands has gone viral after a foreign tourist found himself outmatched by a local woman during a traditional stick pushing competition, despite having a clear advantage in size and strength.
The lighthearted contest took place in Mộc Châu, one of northern Vietnam’s most popular mountain destinations, where visitors gathered at a cultural tourism space showcasing the traditions of the country’s ethnic minority communities.
The challenge featured David Stack, a foreign visitor, competing against a young woman from the local Thai ethnic community in a traditional game known as đẩy gậy (stick pushing), a sport widely practiced during festivals across Vietnam’s northwest region.
The rules are deceptively simple. Two competitors stand inside a circle while gripping opposite ends of a bamboo pole. Lowering their center of gravity, each participant attempts to push or pull the other out of the ring. The first person forced outside the boundary loses.
At first glance, the outcome appeared predictable. The male tourist stood approximately 1.8 meters tall and weighed close to 80 kilograms, giving him a significant physical advantage over his opponent, who weighed roughly 50 kilograms.
However, the contest quickly demonstrated why traditional games often reward skill and technique over raw strength.
While the tourist struggled to maintain the low squatting position required by the game, his opponent remained remarkably stable and composed. Using careful balance, timing, and leverage, she repeatedly disrupted his footing and forced him onto the defensive.
As spectators gathered around the ring and cheered both competitors on, the match became increasingly entertaining. After roughly three minutes of intense competition, the foreign visitor voluntarily conceded defeat, drawing applause and encouragement from the crowd.
The atmosphere remained lighthearted throughout the event, with the tourist reportedly joking afterward that “Vietnamese women are very strong,” a comment that generated laughter among onlookers.
The match was recorded by local tour guide Nguyễn Văn Hiệp, whose video quickly attracted attention online. According to Hiệp, traditional folk games such as stick pushing are regularly organized at Mộc Châu’s evening pedestrian zone to give visitors a more interactive way to experience local culture.
Alongside stick pushing, tourists can also participate in other traditional activities including ném còn (a folk throwing game) and balance challenges commonly featured during festivals in Vietnam’s mountainous northwest.
Hiệp noted that many international visitors are surprised by the technical nature of stick pushing.
“Many people assume the game is purely about strength, but technique is actually the deciding factor,” he explained. “Players need balance, timing, and strategy. Physical size alone does not guarantee victory.”
The viral match also reflects a broader tourism trend in Mộc Châu, where growing numbers of international travelers are seeking authentic cultural experiences rather than simply visiting scenic attractions.
Known for its cool climate, tea plantations, flower fields, and ethnic minority heritage, Mộc Châu has become one of Vietnam’s fastest growing domestic and international tourism destinations. Visitors increasingly come not only for the landscape but also for opportunities to engage directly with local traditions, food, and community life.
For many spectators, the contest offered an entertaining reminder that in traditional sports, experience and technique can often outweigh physical advantages. For one foreign tourist, it also provided a memorable lesson in the competitive spirit of Vietnam’s highland communities.
Ngày 2 tháng 6, tại thành phố Thiên Tân thuộc miền bắc Trung Quốc, Triển Lãm Quốc Tế Ngành Vận Tải Biển Thiên Tân lần thứ 4 (TISIE) đã chính thức khai mạc. Do Tập đoàn Triển Lãm Quốc Tế Zhenwei (Zhenwei International Exhibition Group) đứng ra tổ chức, sự kiện phác họa rõ nét cách trí tuệ nhân tạo (AI) đang khơi dậy một làn sóng cơ hội mới mẻ cho toàn ngành hàng hải.
Mang chủ đề “Vươn ra biển lớn, cùng AI dẫn lối hướng tới tương lai tràn đầy cơ hội phát triển mới cho cảng biển và vận tải biển”, triển lãm diễn ra trong bốn ngày và trải rộng trên nhiều lĩnh vực trọng yếu: từ vận tải biển xanh, thiết bị hàng hải, cho tới dịch vụ logistics v.v. Tất cả cùng hướng về một mục tiêu chung, đó là thắt chặt hợp tác vận tải biển toàn cầu, khai thông dòng vốn đầu tư và mở rộng nhịp cầu giao thương.
Theo ông Xu Kai, Giám Đốc Thông Tin (CIO) của Viện Vận Tải Biển Quốc Tế Thượng Hải (Shanghai International Shipping Institute), Trung Quốc hiện sở hữu mạng lưới bến container tự động hóa quy mô lớn nhất thế giới, ghi dấu loạt bước tiến ấn tượng ở cần cẩu trên bờ không người lái, xe dẫn đường thông minh (intelligent guided vehicles) và những bãi container vận hành hoàn toàn tự động.
“Thiết bị tại bến cảng không chỉ cần vận hành hiệu quả, mà còn phải tối ưu hóa linh hoạt theo từng khu vực dựa trên những biến động theo thời gian thực của lưu lượng tàu cập cảng, các thay đổi thời tiết bất ngờ cũng như những đợt tăng vọt đột biến của dòng hàng hóa”, ông Xu nhận định. “Yêu cầu này đòi hỏi AI phải tiến hóa từ chỗ chỉ thực thi mệnh lệnh sang khả năng tự suy luận, và từ trí tuệ đơn lẻ trên từng cỗ máy sang phối hợp theo nhóm.”
Ông Waqas Samad, Tổng Giám Đốc (CEO) của Lloyd’s List Intelligence, nhìn nhận rằng với đội tàu lớn nhất hành tinh, đồng thời giữ vị thế quốc gia đóng tàu và sản xuất container vận tải biển hàng đầu thế giới, Trung Quốc nắm giữ vai trò then chốt trong bức tranh hàng hải đương đại. Song điều quan trọng hơn cả, theo ông, là Trung Quốc đại diện cho một tầm nhìn ý nghĩa về tương lai của ngành vận tải biển, không đơn thuần ở quy mô và hạ tầng, mà ở sự hội tụ giữa khả năng kết nối, công nghệ và trí tuệ.
“AI sẽ tái định hình ngành của chúng ta theo những cách vừa thiết thực, vừa mạnh mẽ”, ông Thomas Sim, Chủ Tịch Liên Đoàn Quốc Tế các Hiệp Hội Giao Nhận Vận Tải (International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations, tức FIATA), nhận định.
Ông nhấn mạnh rằng AI nên trở thành công cụ trao quyền cho các nhà giao nhận vận tải chứ không thay thế phán đoán chuyên môn của họ; nâng tầm năng lực con người thay vì xóa bỏ trách nhiệm giải trình; và củng cố vai trò của nhà giao nhận như những “kiến trúc sư logistics” đáng tin cậy, thay vì hạ thấp họ xuống thành những người dùng đơn thuần của nền tảng.
Ông Feng Boming, Phó Chủ Tịch Tập đoàn China Merchants Group Limited, nhìn nhận AI đang dần thoát khỏi vai trò một trợ lý hội thoại chuyên hỗ trợ ra quyết định và nâng cao hiệu suất, để vươn lên thành một tác nhân thông minh hướng hành động (action-oriented intelligent agent): có thể tự mình thấu hiểu ý định, chủ động gọi và vận dụng công cụ, rồi trực tiếp hoàn tất từng tác vụ cụ thể.
“Tuy nhiên, quyền tự chủ càng lớn thì trách nhiệm bảo mật đi kèm cũng càng nặng nề”, ông Feng lưu ý. “Chúng ta phải nhận thức rõ ràng rằng đằng sau năng lực của AI khi tiếp sức cho hàng nghìn ngành nghề, vô số loại rủi ro an ninh kiểu mới và thách thức về quản trị vẫn không ngừng nảy sinh, đặt ra những bài toán hoàn toàn mới đối với sự phát triển có trật tự của ngành và sự vận hành an toàn của toàn lĩnh vực.”
Tập đoàn Triển Lãm Quốc Tế Zhenwei (Zhenwei International Exhibition Group)
Nearly 20 investment funds posted losses even as Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index reached an all-time high, exposing a widening gap between headline gains and underlying market performance.
VIETNAM INSIDER – Vietnam’s stock market may be celebrating record highs, but a closer look reveals a more troubling reality for investors. While the VN-Index briefly climbed to an all-time peak of 1,933 points in May, nearly two-thirds of actively managed investment funds failed to keep pace, and 18 funds remained in negative territory after the first five months of 2026.
The divergence highlights a challenge increasingly familiar to global investors: headline index gains driven by a handful of heavyweight stocks can mask widespread weakness beneath the surface. In Vietnam’s case, the rally was heavily supported by shares linked to major property conglomerate Vingroup, while many sectors struggled to attract sustained capital inflows.
Vietnam’s benchmark index closed May at 1,863 points, up just 0.5% from April despite reaching record territory earlier in the month. The broader picture was even less impressive, with the VN30 Index—tracking the market’s largest companies—falling 1.3% during the same period. Since the start of 2026, the VN-Index has gained 4.4%, while the VN30 remains down 1.7%.
Data compiled from fund reports shows that only three of 30 actively managed funds outperformed the benchmark during the first five months of the year. VNDAF led the field with a 9.3% return, followed by TVGF3 at 4.8% and TVGF4 at 4.7%. Meanwhile, only 12 funds delivered positive returns, while 18 posted losses—an increase from just 11 loss-making funds a month earlier.
The performance gap underscores the growing difficulty of active management in highly concentrated markets. Several funds managed by Dragon Capital ranked among the weakest performers despite holding significant positions in index-leading stocks. DCDS and DCDE both maintained exposure to Vingroup-related names such as VIC and VHM, yet still recorded losses of 6.5% and 6.1%, respectively, after broader portfolio holdings struggled. Retail giant Mobile World Investment Corporation, one of their major positions, fell more than 9% in May, offsetting gains elsewhere.
Even the market’s best-performing fund, VNDAF, illustrates how fragile performance leadership can be. Its year-to-date return of 9.3% remains impressive, but that figure has sharply retreated from 16.5% recorded just one month earlier. Several of its largest holdings, including NVL, VCG, VCI, and HHV, came under pressure in May. Property developer NVL alone dropped roughly 26% after surging 45% in April, highlighting the volatility that continues to define Vietnam’s equity market.
For international investors, the lesson extends beyond Vietnam. Similar patterns have emerged in markets ranging from the United States to India, where a small group of dominant stocks has increasingly driven benchmark returns while the average stock lags behind. Such environments often reward passive index exposure while making stock selection considerably more challenging.
As Vietnam enters the second half of 2026, investors remain focused on potential market-upgrade status, resilient economic growth, and improving corporate earnings. Yet risks persist, including foreign investor outflows, global interest-rate uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions. The real story behind Vietnam’s record-breaking stock market may not be how high the index climbed—but how few investors were actually able to benefit from the ride.
Dh Foods’ founder reveals how listening to criticism—not defending your ideas—can determine whether a startup joins the 5% that survive.
MARKET INSIDER – In the startup world, product quality alone is rarely enough. The difference between companies that scale and those that disappear often comes down to a founder’s ability to accept criticism. For entrepreneurs chasing growth in increasingly competitive global markets, ego can become a hidden liability—blinding them to customer needs, market shifts, and opportunities for improvement.
The lesson comes from Vietnam-based food brand Dh Foods, whose products were repeatedly criticized by buyers, distributors, and industry experts before the company found success. Rather than viewing negative feedback as an attack, founder Nguyễn Trung Dũng says those moments became some of the company’s most valuable business intelligence. In a startup ecosystem where only a small fraction of companies survive long term, the ability to listen may be one of the most underrated competitive advantages.
Over the years, Dh Foods participated in numerous international trade fairs and exhibitions, where foreign buyers from demanding markets such as Europe and the United States often provided blunt assessments of the company’s products. Those conversations revealed insights that small businesses rarely have access to. Buyers managing thousands of products could quickly identify weaknesses in packaging, product range, positioning, and consumer appeal—knowledge that often takes startups years and significant capital to discover on their own.
Some of that feedback directly reshaped the company’s strategy. Buyers pointed out that Dh Foods offered too few product variations, prompting the company to expand its portfolio of Tây Ninh-style seasoning salts. Others noted that its packaging was oversized for everyday consumers, leading to a complete redesign with smaller, more ergonomic containers. As global demand shifted toward clean-label food products, feedback about natural ingredients encouraged the company to develop a dedicated “Natural” product line, aligning with emerging consumer trends.
Yet the founder also admits that ignoring criticism came at a cost. In 2017, industry buyers warned that Dh Foods’ instant noodle cup products lacked meaningful differentiation in a market dominated by multinational giants. The company persisted despite the warnings and only discontinued the line in early 2018 after prolonged underperformance. Looking back, Dũng says acting sooner would have saved substantial resources and accelerated growth elsewhere.
That experience reinforced another principle familiar to successful companies worldwide: once the need for change becomes clear, execution speed matters. Many businesses delay strategic pivots because of sunk costs tied to packaging, inventory, or marketing materials. But in fast-moving consumer markets, hesitation can be more expensive than the write-offs themselves. By the time improvements reach the market, customers may have already switched to competitors.
The broader lesson extends far beyond Vietnam’s startup scene. Whether in Silicon Valley, Singapore, Berlin, or Ho Chi Minh City, founders often fall in love with their own products while overlooking the market signals that matter most. The companies that endure are rarely those that insist they are right—they are the ones that learn faster than everyone else. In an era where customer preferences evolve at unprecedented speed, perhaps the most valuable startup skill is not innovation, but humility.
Vietnamese electric mobility company Green SM has officially entered India, launching its all electric taxi service in one of the world’s fastest growing transportation markets and marking another milestone in the international expansion of Vietnam’s emerging EV ecosystem.
The launch took place on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day, as Green SM seeks to position itself as a provider of sustainable transportation solutions in a country that is rapidly accelerating its transition toward cleaner mobility.
India becomes the fifth market for Green SM after Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines, highlighting the company’s ambitions to build a regional electric transportation network centered around vehicles manufactured by Vietnamese automaker VinFast.
The service will initially operate in the Delhi National Capital Region (Delhi NCR), one of India’s largest urban areas and a key battleground for ride hailing and mobility providers. Green SM said expansion into additional locations will follow in phases based on market demand.
Unlike traditional taxi services, the fleet will consist entirely of VinFast Limo Green vehicles, a seven seat electric model developed specifically for passenger transportation services. The vehicle forms part of VinFast’s broader strategy to expand beyond vehicle sales and establish a complete electric mobility ecosystem.
Green SM says its premium service will include complimentary drinking water, wet towels, and a range of safety features designed to enhance passenger confidence. These include the company’s Secure to Safe (S2S) system, which incorporates interior and exterior cameras, AI powered monitoring technology, and emergency support functions for both drivers and passengers.
Drivers operating on the platform have also undergone specialized training covering electric vehicle operation, road safety, and customer service standards.
Customers in India can book rides through the Green SM mobile application, contact the company’s call center, or hail vehicles directly. To attract early adopters, the company is offering promotional discounts of up to 50 percent on app based bookings during the launch period.
The launch event brought together representatives from Green SM, VinFast, Indian government agencies, and diplomatic missions, underscoring the growing economic ties between Vietnam and India, particularly in the green technology and sustainable transportation sectors.
Green SM also announced the addition of five strategic partners from the transportation, tourism, technology, and services industries to its Green Alliance Frontier initiative, a platform designed to connect businesses committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
India represents one of the most significant opportunities for electric mobility companies globally. With severe urban air pollution challenges, supportive government policies, and a rapidly expanding middle class, the country has become a major target market for EV manufacturers and mobility operators seeking long term growth.
For Green SM, the move signals more than a geographic expansion. It reflects the growing international ambitions of Vietnamese companies looking to compete in global green technology sectors. As VinFast continues expanding its presence in overseas markets, Green SM’s launch in India provides another test of whether Vietnam’s electric mobility model can gain traction beyond Southeast Asia.
Founded in 2023, Green SM has quickly become one of Vietnam’s most recognizable electric transportation brands. Its entry into India marks the company’s largest international expansion to date and places it in direct competition within one of the world’s most dynamic mobility markets.
Vietnamese police have detained dozens of foreign nationals after uncovering what authorities believe may be a sophisticated criminal operation involving drug use and suspected online fraud activities in Ho Chi Minh City.
The investigation began after local residents reported unusual activity at a lodging facility in Thu Duc, a rapidly developing district on the eastern side of Vietnam’s largest city. According to police, a group of foreign nationals had rented rooms for extended periods while maintaining an unusually low profile, rarely interacting with outsiders and typically leaving the premises only at night.
Acting on the reports, authorities carried out a late night raid on June 3, discovering five Malaysian nationals inside the property. During the search, officers allegedly found suspected narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and evidence suggesting illegal drug use.
The operation quickly expanded as investigators uncovered signs that the group’s activities may have extended beyond narcotics offenses.
Inside the premises, police reportedly found equipment resembling a small scale online call center, including computers, networking devices, and materials believed to be connected to telecommunications scams. Authorities also seized fake documents and props designed to imitate foreign law enforcement agencies, along with prepared call scripts allegedly used to contact potential victims.
Investigators said they discovered signage, backdrops, and other materials resembling police offices in Malaysia, raising suspicions that the group may have been involved in impersonation scams targeting individuals overseas.
Police also found discarded electronic equipment in nearby areas, which investigators believe may have been abandoned in an attempt to destroy evidence.
Further searches conducted the same night led authorities to another hotel and business location on a nearby street, where 21 additional Malaysian nationals were located.
According to preliminary testing results, 18 individuals among those detained tested positive for illegal drugs.
Authorities are now interviewing those involved and working to determine each person’s role within the suspected operation. Investigators are particularly focused on identifying any organizers or ringleaders who may have coordinated activities across multiple locations.
While the investigation remains ongoing, the case highlights growing concerns across Southeast Asia over transnational cybercrime networks, many of which use temporary accommodation, online communication infrastructure, and international recruitment to conduct fraudulent activities across borders.
Ho Chi Minh City police said the operation forms part of a broader 45 day nationwide campaign aimed at cracking down on organized crime, drug offenses, and other serious criminal activities.
Authorities have not yet announced whether formal charges will be filed, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
Authorities in central Vietnam are investigating an incident involving a foreign tourist whose choice of clothing in Hoi An’s UNESCO listed Ancient Town has triggered widespread debate online about cultural respect and appropriate attire at heritage sites.
The incident gained national attention after a video circulated on social media showing a foreign woman walking through Hoi An while wearing a Vietnamese áo dài in a manner many local viewers considered inappropriate.
According to local officials, authorities in Hoi An Ward, now part of Da Nang City, have launched an inquiry into the incident following strong public reaction. Officials said they are gathering information and will provide further details once the review is completed.
The video, which has been shared tens of thousands of times across Vietnamese social media platforms, shows a local woman approaching the tourist and politely explaining that her outfit was not appropriate for the cultural setting. The local resident reportedly enlisted the help of a tour guide to translate her concerns and encourage the visitor to dress more suitably while touring the historic district.
The exchange has resonated with many Vietnamese viewers, who praised the local woman’s calm and respectful approach. Rather than confronting the visitor aggressively, she sought to explain the cultural significance of the garment and why many people found the presentation inappropriate.
At the center of the controversy is the áo dài, Vietnam’s iconic national dress. Widely recognized as a symbol of Vietnamese culture and identity, the traditional outfit is typically worn with long trousers and is often associated with formal occasions, education, and cultural celebrations.
Many social media users argued that the issue was not simply about fashion but about respecting local customs while visiting one of Vietnam’s most culturally significant destinations.
The incident has also reignited a broader conversation about cultural awareness among international travelers. As Vietnam continues to attract record numbers of foreign visitors, local authorities have increasingly emphasized the importance of respecting cultural norms at historic sites, religious landmarks, and heritage destinations.
Officials in Hoi An say they regularly remind visitors about appropriate attire and behavior while exploring the Ancient Town, one of the country’s most popular tourism attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In an unusual move, local authorities have also indicated they may formally recognize the resident who intervened, viewing her actions as a positive example of protecting and promoting Vietnamese cultural values through respectful communication rather than confrontation.
While the investigation continues, the episode has become one of Vietnam’s most widely discussed tourism related stories of the week, highlighting the delicate balance between welcoming international visitors and preserving the cultural traditions that make destinations such as Hoi An unique.
