On May 31, a representative from the Department of Transport of Quang Ninh Province confirmed that Tuan Chau International Passenger Port Joint Stock Company and Ha Long Sun Company Limited announced their intention to raise ticket prices weeks ago. From June 1, passenger tickets at both ports will rise from 40,000 VND to 60,000 VND (~2.5 USD) per person per trip.
Approval Pending
Despite the announcement, the fee increase is not yet finalized. The Department of Transport requires a formal explanation and approval process before any changes occur. As of the afternoon of May 31, no such documentation had been received from the managing companies.
Impact on Cruise Operators
Cruise ship owners in Ha Long Bay have not received official notice regarding additional port fees. This uncertainty comes at a challenging time, as these operators often sign package tour contracts with international tourists well in advance.
Previous Price Increases
This proposed hike marks the second increase in a few months. On February 28, 2024, both companies raised service prices, including port tickets and boat anchoring fees, effective from April 1, 2024. This quick succession of increases has raised concerns among travel companies and cruise ship operators.
Government Response
Following feedback from the Ha Long Cruise Ship Association, Quang Ninh Province instructed the Department of Transport to hold a meeting to discuss the proposed increases. The meeting concluded with a temporary halt on the price hikes from April 1, 2024, recommending that the companies draft a detailed plan for future price adjustments. This plan should include a clear timeline and involve discussions with relevant stakeholders.
The price declaration documents will be reviewed by the Quang Ninh Department of Transport and other relevant departments before being submitted to the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province for final approval.
Tourists planning to visit Ha Long Bay should stay updated on these developments to understand the potential impact on their travel plans.
Thành công trong việc ứng dụng kết quả nghiên cứu đề tài khoa học công nghệ cấp quốc gia vào sản xuất là minh chứng sống động cho hiệu quả của mô hình liên kết “Ba Nhà” của Tập đoàn Phenikaa, không chỉ khẳng định vị thế của Phenikaa trong lĩnh vực đổi mới sáng tạo, mà còn nâng cao hiệu quả sản xuất đá nhân tạo cốt liệu thạch anh của Tập đoàn cũng như mở rộng hoạt động và hợp tác kinh doanh với các doanh nghiệp trong việc ứng dụng sản phẩm nhựa PEKN trong chế tạo vật liệu composite cốt sợi như: vật liệu xây dựng, chế tạo tàu thuyền, bồn chứa, đường ống…
Trong khuôn khổ Lễ tổng kết và trao Giải thưởng Sáng tạo Khoa học công nghệ Việt Nam (VIFOTEC) lần thứ 29 diễn ra tạ Hà Nội vừa qua, Tập đoàn Phenikaa vinh dự nhận Giải Nhất lĩnh vực công nghệ vật liệu với công trình “Nghiên cứu Công nghệ và xây dựng nhà máy sản xuất nhựa polyester không no (PEKN) công suất 25.000 tấn/năm phục vụ sản xuất đá nhân tạo cốt liệu thạch anh”. Đây là kết quả nghiên cứu của nhóm tác giả do Chủ tịch HĐQT Tập đoàn Phenikaa – PGS. TS Hồ Xuân Năng làm Chủ nhiệm, GS. TSKH Trần Vĩnh Diệu – Đồng chủ nhiệm, cùng 8 cộng sự là những chuyên gia hàng đầu trong các lĩnh vực: Vật liệu, Hóa học, Cao phân tử và tổ hợp… của Tập đoàn.
Giải thưởng Sáng tạo Khoa học – Công nghệ Việt Nam do Liên hiệp các hội Khoa học và Kỹ thuật Việt Nam, Bộ Khoa học và Công nghệ, Tổng Liên đoàn Lao động Việt Nam, Trung ương Đoàn TNCS HCM phối hợp tổ chức thường niên. Giải thưởng nhằm tôn vinh các nghiên cứu đang ứng dụng thực tế của các nhà khoa học cả nước giúp nâng cao hiệu quả kinh tế xã hội, góp phần thúc đẩy sản xuất của các doanh nghiệp, nâng cao năng suất, chất lượng, hạ giá thành sản phẩm, thay thế nhập khẩu và tạo ra thị trường công nghệ phục vụ đời sống, an ninh và quốc phòng. Năm 2024, trong số 130 công trình tham dự từ 6 lĩnh vực, Hội đồng giải thưởng lựa chọn 47 công trình tiêu biểu, trao 4 Giải Nhất, 10 Giải Nhì, 16 Giải Ba và 17 Giải Khuyến khích. Giải Nhất lĩnh vực công nghệ vật liệu là thành quả, ghi nhận cho sựphát huy trí tuệ của người Việt, nghiên cứu, phát triển vật liệu với những đặc điểm cơ lí tính nổi trội, đáp ứng được các tiêu chuẩn quốc tế khắt khe để không chỉ làm chủ nguồn vật liệu đầu vào, tăng tính cạnh tranh cho sản phẩm đá nhân tạo cốt liệu thạch anh của Việt Nam trên trường quốc tế, mà còn mở ra cơ hội cho lĩnh vực sản xuất vật liệu polymer composite tại Việt Nam, tạo thêm nhiều giá trị cho kinh tế, xã hội nước nhà. Trong khuôn khổ chương trình, Phenikaa còn đạt giải Công trình xuất sắc do Tổ chức Sở hữu trí tuệ Thế giới (WIPO – Liên hợp quốc) trao tặng,nhằm vinh danh sự đổi mới sáng tạo của Tập đoàn trong việc sử dụng một cách thông minh tài sản trí tuệ để thương mại hóa đồng thời mang lại đóng góp tích cực cho xã hội.
Chủ tịch HĐQT Tập đoàn Phenikaa – PGS. TS Hồ Xuân Năng – Chủ nhiệm công trình & GS. TSKH Trần Vĩnh Diệu – Đồng Chủ nhiệm còn đạt giải Công trình xuất sắc do Tổ chức Sở hữu trí tuệ Thế giới (WIPO- Liên hợp quốc) trao tặng.
Tham gia vào lĩnh vực sản xuất đá nhân tạo cốt liệu thạch anh từ năm 2002, Tập đoàn Phenikaa hiện sở hữu thương hiệu VICOSTONE® – Top 3 Nhà sản xuất đá thạch anh thế giới, có mặt tại hơn 50 quốc gia ở cả 5 châu lục. Mỗi năm, để duy trì ổn định hoạt động sản xuất hơn 3 triệu m2 đá thạch anh với chất lượng vượt trội, Phenikaa cần sử dụng hơn 20.000 tấn nhựa PEKN làm chất kết dính. Sau nhiều năm phụ thuộc vào nguồn nhập khẩu từ các quốc gia như Đài Loan, Singapore, Hàn Quốc, với thế mạnh sở hữu đội ngũ chuyên gia R&D trong lĩnh vực vật liệu, Tập đoàn đã đầu tư nguồn lực để triển khai đề tài “Nghiên cứu công nghệ và thiết kế chế tạo dây chuyền pilot sản xuất nhựa polyester không no chịu bức xạ UV và bền thời tiết, ứng dụng trong sản xuất đá nhân tạo cốt liệu thạch anh” nhằm nội địa hóa nguồn nguyên vật liệu đầu vào cho sản xuất. Đây cũng là đề tài do Tập đoàn đăng kí và được Bộ Khoa học & Công nghệ giao nhiệm vụ thực hiện đề tài nghiên cứu khoa học cấp quốc gia năm 2018.
Sau thời gian triển khai, nhóm nghiên cứu đã phát triển thành công quy trình công nghệ sản xuất nhựa PEKN từ quy mô phòng thí nghiệm đến dây chuyền pilot với các chỉ tiêu kĩ thuật đáp ứng yêu cầu sử dụng trong sản xuất đá nhân tạo, là cơ sở để Tập đoàn đầu tư thiết kế, chế tạo và lắp đặt dây chuyền sản xuất nhựa PEKN trên quy mô công nghiệp với dự án đầu tư xây dựng Nhà máy sản xuất Hóa chất Phenikaa. Khánh thành từ năm 2021, Nhà máy sản xuất Hóa chất Phenikaa hiện có khả năng cung cấp tới 25% tổng nhu cầu về loại nhựa PEKN tại thị trường Việt Nam, là doanh nghiệp Việt Nam đầu tiên và duy nhất đến nay sở hữu bí quyết công nghệ riêng và dây chuyền sản xuất vật liệu này.
Nhà máy Hóa chất Phenikaa có khả năng cung cấp tới 25% tổng nhu cầu về loại nhựa PEKN tại thị trường Việt Nam.
Đại diện Tập đoàn Phenikaa cho biết: “Nhà máy Hóa chất Phenikaa có tổng công suất giai đoạn I là 25.000 tấn/năm. Sau hơn 3 năm vận hành, dây chuyền công nghệ sản xuất nhựa PEKN hoạt động ổn định và cung cấp đủ 100% khối lượng nhựa PEKN cho nhu cầu sản xuất của Tập đoàn, thay thế hoàn toàn khối lượng nhập khẩu, góp phần quan trọng giúp Phenikaa thực hiện thành công chiến lược nội địa hóa nguyên vật liệu, làm chủ hơn 95% nguyên liệu đầu vào cho sản xuất đá thạch anh thương hiệu VICOSTONE®, từ đó hạn chế tối đa rủi ro phụ thuộc vào nhà cung cấp bên ngoài, rủi ro về biến động tỉ giá, kiểm soát chất lượng sản phẩm và tối ưu giá thành”.
Thị trường nhựa Polyester không no (PEKN) toàn cầu đạt tổng giá trị 12,9 tỉ USD vào năm 2023 và dự kiến tăng lên 20,9 tỉ USD vào năm 2030 với mức tăng trung bình hàng năm là 7,1%. Với bí quyết công nghệ mới cho ra sản phẩm có nhiều ưu điểm vượt trội, sản phẩm nhựa polyester không no của Phenikaa có lợi thế cạnh tranh nhất định so với các sản phẩm trên thị trường khu vực và quốc tế.
Ngoài việc cung cấp nhựa PEKN phục vụ sản xuất đá thạch anh cao cấp tại Tập đoàn, sản phẩm nhựa PEKN có thể cung cấp cho các công ty sản xuất đá nhân tạo khác và ứng dụng rộng rãi trong chế tạo vật liệu composite cốt sợi như: chế tạo tàu thuyền, bồn bể chứa, ống dẫn, vật liệu bọc phủ bề mặt, vật liệu xây dựng… qua đó mở rộng kinh doanh bán hàng trong và ngoài nước, gia tăng doanh thu bền vững cho Công ty. Đại diện Phenikaa chia sẻ thêm.
Giải Nhất Giải thưởng Sáng tạo Khoa học Công nghệ Việt Nam lần thứ 29 không chỉ cho thấy cam kết mạnh mẽ của Tập đoànPhenikaa trong đầu tư phát triển khoa học, công nghệ mà còn làminh chứng cho hiệu quả của mô hình liên kết “Ba nhà”: Doanh nghiệp – Nghiên cứu khoa học – Giáo dục và đào tạo của Hệ sinh thái Phenikaa, là niềm tự hào của người Phenikaa khi nghiên cứu và chuyển giao thành công công nghệ 100% Made-in-Vietnam.Với định hướng phát triển bền vững và tầm nhìn dài hạn, Phenikaa đang cho thấy vị thế tiên phong trong lĩnh vực công nghiệp vật liệu, không ngừng đổi mới, sáng tạo để phát triển và đưa vào ứng dụng các công nghệ tiên tiến, giải quyết các bài toán thực tế trong sản xuất kinh doanh của Tập đoàn cũng như nhu cầu của xã hội.
Nghiên cứu khoa học, phát triển công nghệ là nền tảng thúc đẩysự phát triển của xã hội hiện đại. Với những kết quả đã đạt đượcvà nhiều dự án nghiên cứu đang tiếp tục được triển khai, Phenikaa mong muốn góp phần đưa tên tuổi của Việt Nam nổi trội trên bản đồ khoa học thế giới, ghi dấu bằng những thành tựu nghiên cứu khoa học, công nghệ mang tính ứng dụng cao, có sức ảnh hưởng đột phá trong nền kinh tế, hướng tới những loại vật liệu thân thiện với môi trường, theo định hướng ESG, được phát triển thành công bởi tinh thần sáng tạo và trí tuệ Việt.
* Ảnh bìa: Chủ tịch HĐQT Tập đoàn Phenikaa – PGS. TS Hồ Xuân Năng – Chủ nhiệm công trình & GS. TSKH Trần Vĩnh Diệu – Đồng Chủ nhiệm đại diện nhóm nghiên cứu nhận Giải Nhất lĩnh vực công nghệ vật liệu
This represents a significant challenge for airlines grappling with increased costs and constrained aircraft availability.
The global aviation sector is witnessing a delicate balance between flight supply and pent-up demand as travel resumes post-pandemic, leading to inflated ticket prices. However, industry insiders suggest that the initial enthusiasm for travel, regardless of cost, is giving way to a more price-conscious approach among consumers facing rising living expenses.
Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, recently cautioned that ticket price hikes would be less dramatic than anticipated, prompting a dip in the European carrier’s stock price.
Data from travel research firm ForwardKeys indicates that airfare in Europe has remained relatively steady compared to 2023, while prices in the Asia-Pacific region have seen a notable decline of around 16% in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year.
Despite posting record annual profits, Singapore Airlines has experienced diminishing net profit growth over the past three quarters, anticipating further declines in passenger numbers amid capacity expansions.
In Asia, the pace of lifting restrictions and ramping up international flights has been comparatively slower, contributing to the region’s evolving airfare landscape.
Cathay Pacific’s CEO, Ronald Lam, foresees a gradual equilibrium between supply and demand, expecting airfare prices to normalize as the year progresses.
International tourism flows, particularly from China to key markets like Europe, America, and Australia, are yet to recover fully. Chinese outbound flights remain at only 70% of pre-pandemic levels and a mere 16.5% on US-China routes.
Although airfare in the Asia-Pacific region has surged by over 7% compared to 2019, with prices in 2021 soaring by 70% over pre-pandemic levels, economists emphasize that travel remains a priority expenditure for many consumers, particularly in Europe and the US.
However, the landscape of cheaper airfares in Europe underscores broader economic realities, with lower incomes and savings rates prompting consumers to seek more budget-friendly alternatives, especially with the escalating costs of accommodations and car rentals.
Natalia Lechmanova from Mastercard highlights European consumers’ heightened price sensitivity, noting a growing interest in lower-cost destinations such as Turkey, Romania, and the Balkans as alternatives to traditional favorites like France and Italy.
Data from the European Tourism Board forecasts consumer spending of €742.8 billion ($803 billion) on the continent this year, marking a 14.3% increase from last year, with a significant portion of revenue expected to stem from affluent American tourists.
By the close of the trading session, Brent crude oil futures had dropped 62 cents, or 0.7%, settling at $83.60 per barrel. Similarly, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell by 60 cents, or 0.8%, to $79.23 per barrel. This decline reflects market worries about economic stability and future demand for oil.
A recent survey showed an unexpected rise in US consumer confidence in May, breaking a three-month decline, mainly due to optimism about the labor market. However, inflation concerns persist, with many households expecting higher interest rates next year. Analysts from Gelber and Associates noted that forecasts for interest rate cuts are being delayed further, while Ritterbusch and Associates pointed out that gasoline demand has remained surprisingly weak.
Traders are now looking ahead to the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) report, due on May 31. This report is closely watched as it is the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation and will provide insights into potential interest rate changes later this year.
On the supply side, attention is focused on the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, known as OPEC+. They are expected to continue production cuts of about 2.2 million barrels per day at their upcoming meeting, aiming to balance the market amidst fluctuating demand and economic uncertainties.
AirlineRatings.com, the global airline rating organization, has just announced the list of the best airlines in the world for 2024. Among them, two Vietnamese airlines made it into the top 25.
AirlineRatings.com evaluates airlines by combining government and safety audits with 12 key factors, including fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, safety ratings, product ratings, innovation, and forward fleet orders.
At the top of the 2024 ranking is Qatar Airways, which was named Airline of the Year for its outstanding service and innovation. This victory allowed Qatar Airways to surpass Air New Zealand, which topped the list in 2023.
The global aviation market is expected to explode this year
This year’s top 5 includes: Korean Air, Cathay Pacific Airways, Air New Zealand, and Emirates.
Vietnam’s national carrier, Vietnam Airlines, nearly made it to the top 10, ranking 11th, just after Air France, All Nippon Airways, Etihad Airways, Qantas, Virgin Australia, and above notable names like Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, United Airlines, American Airlines…
In addition to the overall ranking of global airlines, AirlineRatings.com also awards airlines in various categories. This year, Qatar Airways was honored as the best business class for the fifth consecutive year, as well as the best catering.
Other notable winners for 2024 include Air New Zealand (best economy class), Singapore Airlines (best first class), Virgin Australia (best cabin crew), Emirates (best in-flight entertainment, best premium economy), Qantas (best lounges), and Etihad Airways (best environmental airline).
AirlineRatings.com also ranks the best low-cost airlines by region, and the winners are Southwest (for the Americas), Fly Dubai (Middle East), AirAsia Group (Asia), Jetstar Group (Australia/Pacific), and easyJet (Europe).
Vietnamese airline Vietjet won two awards for best low-cost airline and best low-cost airline for onboard hospitality (recognizing the value of onboard service).
The top 25 best low-cost airlines in the world include: AirAsia Group, Air Baltic, Air Canada Rouge, Cebu Pacific, easyJet, Eurowings, FlyDubai, FlyNAS, GOL, Jetblue, Jet2, Jetstar Group, Jeju Air, Norwegian, Peach, Ryanair, Scoot, Spicejet, Suncountry, Southwest, Transavia, Vietjet, Volotea, Vueling, WizzAir.
Thailand is seeking to attract more Vietnamese tourists, even though the number of Vietnamese visitors is already double that of Thai visitors to Vietnam.
Tour operators on the resort island of Phuket, in southern Thailand, are hopeful to welcome more Vietnamese tourists following a recent promotional campaign in the country’s two largest cities.
Specifically, travel companies aim to welcome at least 120,000 Vietnamese tourists this year, a 50% increase from 80,000 last year, following destination promotion events held in Ho Chi Minh City on May 21 and in Hanoi two days later, said Thanet Tantipiriyakit, Chairman of the Phuket Tourism Association, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
Vietnamese tourists coming to Thailand are increasingly crowded
According to data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports, around 290,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Thailand from January to April this year, a decrease of 5.4% compared to the same period last year.
Nevertheless, this figure is still much higher than the number of Thai tourists visiting Vietnam in the past four months. Specifically, in the first four months of 2024, there were 164,000 Thai visitors to Vietnam, an 18% decrease compared to the same period in 2023.
Thailand recorded approximately 1 million Vietnamese tourists last year, but only 8% chose Phuket as one of their destinations. He added that operators hope to see at least 12% of the total Vietnamese tourists visiting Phuket, thanks to direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City.
This figure of 1 million tourists is more than double the number of Thai tourists visiting Vietnam. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Vietnam attracted about 489,000 Thai tourists last year.
Vietnamese travel companies cite several reasons for the increasing number of Vietnamese tourists to Thailand, such as diverse flight routes, cheap airfare, many constantly updated entertainment venues, subsidized tour programs resulting in low package prices, and especially frequent promotional programs organized to attract tourists directly in the Vietnamese market.
In May, Vietnam welcomed nearly 1.4 million international visitors, a 10% decrease compared to April. Besides the end of the peak season, high airfares were also a factor causing the decline in visitor numbers.
The open visa policy has attracted tourists to Vietnam. Photo: Linh Huynh.
According to data recently released by the General Statistics Office (National Tourism Administration) on the morning of May 29, in the first five months of the year, Vietnam’s tourism sector received approximately 7.6 million international visitors, an increase of nearly 65% compared to the same period last year, and nearly 4% higher than the same period in 2019.
Thanks to an open visa policy and tourism promotion programs implemented nationwide, the number of visitors was significantly higher compared to the same period last year and saw an increase compared to the same period in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic occurred.
In May alone, the number of international visitors to Vietnam reached 1.4 million, down 10% from April but up more than 50% compared to the same period in 2023. Most international visitors arrived in Vietnam by air, totaling over 6.3 million, accounting for about 83.7% of the total visitors to Vietnam in the first five months of the year.
Tourists prioritize using means of transport such as trains, ships, and buses when exploring Vietnam. Photo: Linh Huynh.
The high cost of air tickets to Vietnam is also one of the reasons why the number of tourists from the European and American markets is not as high as in previous years. Lemar, a Russian tourist, said that traveling in Vietnam is very inexpensive. “Most of our budget is spent on airfare, the rest doesn’t require much consideration,” he said.
The peak season for international visitors in Vietnam is from October to the end of April, so the 10% decrease in international visitors in May compared to the previous month is normal.
In the first five months of the year, South Korea continued to be the largest source market for visitors to Vietnam with 1.9 million arrivals, followed by China with 1.2 million arrivals. May saw a positive recovery in the Chinese market with 357,000 arrivals (surpassing South Korea’s 351,000 arrivals), bringing optimistic signals with rapidly increasing visitor numbers.
Statistics also show that the number of visitors arriving in Vietnam by land in the first five months of the year reached nearly 1.1 million, accounting for 14.2%, and by sea reached 162,400 visitors, accounting for 2.1%, a 3.2 times increase compared to the same period last year.
The image of Vietnam as a destination will appear in two episodes of The Travel Show on BBC TV.
Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director General of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, on May 28, had a meeting and worked with Mr. John Williams, Vice President of Southeast Asia – Global Media and Online Company BBC Studios (a subsidiary of the BBC Media Group), regarding the proposed plan to produce The Travel Show Special Vietnam to promote Vietnam tourism on the BBC.
According to Mr. John Williams, The Travel Show on BBC TV is attracting a large audience worldwide.
Director Nguyen Trung Khanh presented souvenirs to BBC leaders
The Travel Show will take viewers on an adventure of exploration and experience with real-life characters, creating memories together. Notably, the participants in the BBC program have diverse experiences and backgrounds, affirming the BBC’s criterion that travel is for everyone, thereby conveying a positive message and inspiring travel, exploration of people, and culture.
The proposed project by the BBC is named The Travel Show Special Vietnam, comprising two episodes, each 23 minutes long, scheduled to air in October 2024. The goal of The Travel Show Special Vietnam is to promote the beautiful and attractive destinations, friendly people, long-standing history, and rich cultural identity of Vietnam. Mr. John Williams believes this is a great opportunity for the BBC and the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism to collaborate in promoting and spreading the image of Vietnam tourism worldwide.
Director General Nguyen Trung Khanh highly appreciated the idea of BBC TV and affirmed his readiness to support the film crew in carrying out this special project, assigning focal points from the units under the Administration to coordinate during the implementation process.
Previously, Vietnam tourism has promoted destinations on various BBC channels multiple times.
In May, the number of international visitors to Vietnam reached nearly 1.4 million, an increase of 51% compared to the same period last year, even during the low season. Notably, for the first time in five years, China regained the top spot in terms of the number of visitors to Vietnam.
According to the General Statistics Office, in the first five months of 2024, Vietnam welcomed nearly 7.6 million international visitors, an increase of nearly 65% compared to the same period last year and an increase of 3.9% compared to the same period in 2019, the year before the Covid-19 pandemic.
At that time, Vietnam only received nearly 1.33 million visitors in May, and for the first five months of 2019, it was approximately 7.3 million visitors.
Among these, for the first time, China regained the leading position in the Vietnamese tourism market in May, with nearly 357,200 visitors, an increase of 143% compared to the same period last year. The total number of Chinese visitors in the first five months of this year reached 1.6 million, an increase of more than 300% compared to the same period last year.
However, overall for the five months, the number of Chinese visitors to Vietnam was still lower than that of South Korean visitors, with 1.95 million. In May, Vietnam welcomed over 351,000 South Korean visitors.
The total number of Korean visitors to Vietnam in the first 5 months of this year is still higher than Chinese visitors. Photo: Hoang Ha
Vietnam also saw a significant increase in international visitors from Taiwan (China) with nearly 111,000 visitors, up 90%; the US with more than 48,600 visitors, up 10.7%; Cambodia with 41,200 visitors, up 30%; and India with over 38,300 visitors, up 31%, among others.
Some distant markets like Europe also saw significant increases, with Italy up nearly 52%, Spain up 34.4%, France up 30%, the Netherlands and Switzerland up 25%, and Australia up 23.4%.
The Russian market began to recover, with more than 16,000 visitors to Vietnam in May, an increase of more than 80% compared to the same period last year. Although the number of Polish visitors was still small, just over 2,240, it recorded an impressive increase of over 300%.
The strong increase in international visitors to Vietnam during the low season (the peak inbound season is from September of the previous year to April of the following year) is attributed to favorable visa policies and strengthened tourism promotion programs in 2024, which have initially shown results.
According to the General Statistics Office, this has led to revenue from accommodation and food services nationwide in the first five months of 2024 being estimated at 296.3 trillion VND, an increase of 15.1% compared to the same period last year.
Some localities saw significant increases, such as Khanh Hoa up 26.4%; Quang Ninh up 23.5%; Da Nang up 22.2%; Hai Phong up 14.9%; Hanoi up 12.4%; and Can Tho up 11.5%.
Revenue from travel services in the first five months of the year is also estimated at 24.2 trillion VND, an increase of 45.1% compared to the same period last year. Among these, Da Nang increased by 52%; Ho Chi Minh City by 46%; Hanoi by 44.6%; and Quang Ninh by 18%.
Imagine waking up and feeling relaxed. You’re all set for your big trip! You don’t need to worry about getting to the airport. You’ve hired a San Diego car service. Every detail is taken care of. No stress, no rushing. Just a smooth ride from your home to the terminal. This is what happens when you use a professional car service. Let’s look at the top reasons to book one for your next trip.
Unbeatable Convenience: Door-to-Door Service
Have you ever struggled with heavy bags while looking for airport parking? Those days are over with car service to san diego airport. A professional driver picks you up at your door. They drop you off right at your terminal. No need to worry about parking traffic or carrying bags across huge parking lots. This is helpful when you’re in a hurry or traveling with family.
Easy Booking
San Diego car services make booking simple. With user-friendly online sites, you can reserve your ride quickly. Pick your vehicle to note any special requests and get instant confirmation. The hassle-free approach lets you focus on other parts of your trip. Your transportation is all set.
Superior Comfort and Luxury: Travel in Style
Why settle for an ordinary ride? San Diego car services offer a fleet of luxurious vehicles. From sleek sedans to spacious SUVs. Imagine sinking into plush leather seats. Enjoy the smooth ride. Arrive at the airport refreshed. Whether it’s a business trip or vacation, starting in a luxury car sets a positive tone.
Your Trip Made Easy
San Diego car services make your travel smooth. They pay attention to what you like. Want a drink? Or maybe your favorite music? No problem. They make sure your ride to the airport is comfortable and fun, not just a boring trip.
Always On Time For Your Flight
Missing a plane is stressful. But car services in San Diego won’t let that happen. Their drivers are trained to be on time. They check traffic so you arrive early for your flight. No need to worry about being late.
Professional and Helpful
These services have professional drivers. They are polite and ready to help. They carry your bags and open doors for you. Your ride will be smooth and pleasant. It’s a luxury that regular taxis or ride-shares just can’t match.
Trained Drivers Keep You Safe
San Diego car services make safety a top concern. Their drivers go through strict training. They also get background checks to meet high standards. The chauffeurs know driving laws and safety rules. You can feel secure during your whole trip.
Well-Cared Vehicles
The cars used by San Diego luxury black car service go through regular checks and maintenance. Everything is carefully looked at from checking tires to inspecting engines. This care ensures you ride in a safe reliable vehicle.
Cost-Efficient Choice: Get Your Money’s Worth
Some may think booking a San Diego car service to the airport is too costly. But it often proves cost-effective. Consider the parking fees, potential tickets and driving stress. The professional service fee is well worth it. Plus the added ease and comfort make it a valuable choice.
Time-Saving Convenience
Time is precious when traveling. Limo service San Diego County From VIP Ride to the airport saves you from parking hassles, traffic navigation and finding the terminal. With professionals you can relax, prepare for your trip or enjoy extra moments with loved ones before leaving.
Extra Perks: Family-Friendly Options
Traveling with family, especially young kids can be challenging. San Diego car services offer family-friendly options for a smoother journey. Look for services providing car seats, spacious vehicles for strollers and luggage and entertainment to keep little ones occupied. A stress-free ride to the airport means a great start to your family vacation.
Business Traveler Benefits
For people traveling for work, saving time is crucial. Car services in San Diego provide a trustworthy and efficient way to get around. This allows you to concentrate on work tasks instead of driving. The cars have amenities like Wi-Fi and quiet interiors. So you can check emails, make important calls or get ready for upcoming meetings.
Special Occasion Services
Planning a honeymoon anniversary trip or celebratory getaway? Starting your journey in a luxurious car adds something special to the occasion. San Diego car services cater to these special moments. They ensure your trip begins in a delightful way.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Experience
Using a San Diego car service to the airport offers many benefits. These enhance your travel experience. Benefits include unmatched convenience superior comfort reliability, safety and cost-effectiveness. Professional car services provide an exceptional travel solution. Whether traveling for business with family or for a special occasion booking one ensures your journey starts and ends smoothly.
For your next trip consider the smart choice. Book a San Diego car service to the airport. Travel with ease and elegance. Because when it comes to travel, every detail matters. With the right car service, every journey can be a pleasure.
Let’s imagine you’re leaving your home with bags packed. A nice car is waiting to take you to LaGuardia Airport (LGA). The driver greets you warmly and helps with your luggage. You sit comfortably as the city sights go by. You sip a free drink and check flight details on your phone. This isn’t just a dream – it’s the reality of using a luxury Laguardia Airport Car Service to New York. In this section we’ll discuss these services and their great convenience and style.
The Appeal of Luxury Car Services
Why Choose a Luxury Car Service?
Have you ever felt stressed before even reaching the airport? The traffic parking and chaos of getting to LGA can be overwhelming. But what if there was a way to avoid all that stress and start your journey in style? A luxury car service to LGA Airport offers just that.
Picture this: It’s raining and you’re dreading driving to the airport. Instead a luxury car arrives at your door. The driver carefully handles your bags. You step into a warm dry and spotless vehicle. Your stress fades as you head to the airport.
The Luxury Experience
When you choose a luxury car service you’re not just booking a ride – you’re investing in an experience. These services offer top comfort professionalism and convenience.
Imagine sitting comfortably in plush leather seats. The car engine hums softly as pleasant cooling surrounds you. A luxury car service makes each detail pleasing for your journey.
Benefits of Using a Luxury Car Service to LGA Airport
Unmatched Convenience
Using a luxury car service to LGA vs JFK Airport is very convenient. From booking everything is handled for you. No concerns about parking, navigating traffic or finding the terminal.
You book a Connecticut limo service online easily. You get a confirmation email with all the details. On your trip day, the driver arrives early, helps with bags, and provides a smooth airport ride. You arrive relaxed and on time for your flight.
Professional and Reliable Service
Luxury car services pride themselves on professional reliable service. Drivers are polite, experienced and committed to getting you to your destination safely on time.
Your Connecticut limo service driver is skilled and attentive. They know the best traffic-free routes. They monitor your flight status to adjust timing if needed.
Enhanced Comfort and Luxury
The comfort of a luxury car service is unparalleled. These vehicles have premium amenities for a pleasant journey.
Think about having WiFi and drinks on your ride. The big inside lets you stretch out and relax. The trip to LGA Airport feels like first-class.
Choosing the Right Luxury Car Service
Research and Reviews
First, look up good car service companies. Find ones with high ratings and good customer reviews. Look on websites like Yelp Google Reviews and travel forums. These can show you which services are reliable and good quality.
You can find a limo service in Connecticut with great reviews. People say they are on time professional and have nice vehicles. This makes you feel good about getting top-notch experience.
Fleet Options
A good luxury car service should have different vehicles for your needs. Maybe you need a luxury sedan, an SUV or a stretch limo. Make sure the company has the right option for you.
You see that the car service has many vehicles. They have sleek sedans for solo travelers. They also has roomy SUVs for families. They even have limos for ultimate luxury travel.
Transparent Pricing
Cost shouldn’t be the only thing but it’s important to compare prices. Make sure you’re getting a fair deal. Look out for any hidden fees or extra charges added to the base fare.
The company you like has transparent pricing with no hidden fees. They give a detailed breakdown of costs upfront. This means there won’t be any surprises.
Booking Your Luxury Car Service
Easy Online Booking
Booking your car service should be simple. Look for companies that offer easy online booking. You can reserve your car to LGA Airport with just a few clicks.
The website should be easy to use. You select your vehicle, enter your details and confirm your booking quickly. You’ll get an email with all the information you need.
Confirm Your Reservation
A day or two before your trip confirms your reservation. This ensures everything is ready. It gives you peace of mind.
You’ll get a reminder email the day before your trip. It confirms the details of your booking. A quick call reassures you that your luxury car service to LGA Airport is waiting.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Experience
Choosing a luxury car service to LGA Airport is more than just transportation. It’s about comfort, convenience and peace of mind. From booking to arrival every detail enhances your travel. Whether you choose a sedan or limo service in Connecticut the benefits are clear. Next time you travel book a luxury car service to LGA Airport. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
The addresses supposedly owned by DBS has already made $200 million on its ether holdings, according to Nansen.
DBS, the largest bank in Singapore, is an ether (ETH) whale, according to on-chain analytics firm Nansen.
The blockchain address – 0x9e927c02c9eadae63f5efb0dd818943c7262fb8e – supposedly owned by DBS held 173,753 ETH, worth $647 million at press time. At the time of writing, Ether changed hands at $3,730.
Nansen said that the address has made over $200 million from its ether holdings. CoinDesk reached out to DBS seeking confirmation of the holdings.
Ether is the native token of Ethereum, the world’s leading distributed computing platform for creating smart contracts and decentralized applications. Over the years, Ethereum has become a go-to technology for investment banks to tokenize capital markets.
The bank is not new to crypto and offers a range of services, including digital asset custody, a trading exchange for security tokens, and a portfolio management app for both traditional and crypto assets.
A recent report by the bank highlighted the growing interest in the crypto market from retail investors, high-frequency traders, and hedge funds.
Nansen’s revelations of DBS’ ether holdings come as the crypto market patiently awaits the debut of spot ether exchange-traded funds in the U.S., which are expected to boost the cryptocurrency’s mainstream institutional adoption.
Since 2020, several listed firms have turned to crypto, mainly bitcoin, to diversify their reserves. Bitcoin ETFs began trading in the U.S. in January.
China’s long-standing position as the world’s manufacturing hub is evolving. Businesses are increasingly looking to diversify their sourcing strategies to build more resilient supply chains.
Vietnam has emerged as a compelling “China Plus One” destination, offering a unique blend of advantages that can benefit businesses of all sizes.
Sourcing-chine.fr, a leading reference in global sourcing diversification, has written this guide on “Vietnam as an Emerging Alternative for China Sourcing”. In this article, we highlight some of the key takeaways and strategies that foreign brands are implementing to diversify their supply chains away from China.
Vietnam’s significantly lower labor costs compared to China are a major draw for businesses seeking to cut production expenses. To illustrate this, provide industry-specific comparisons of average wages between the two countries.
The geographical closeness to China offers a strategic advantage. Companies can maintain a regional focus for their Asian supply chains, minimizing disruptions and easing the transition from a China-centric model.
Vietnam’s young and dynamic population is a major asset. The country is experiencing a demographic dividend, with a large working-age population eager to enter the workforce.
Manufacturing zones in Vietnam have made significant strides in infrastructure development. Ongoing investments in ports, airports, highways, and power grids are improving connectivity and reliability.
The Vietnamese government actively courts foreign investment with policies designed to create a welcoming business climate.
The country’s participation in free trade agreements, notably the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the European Union–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) provides companies with preferential access to a vast network of markets. Reduced tariffs and trade barriers within these trade blocs can open new opportunities for expansion and revenue growth for businesses sourcing from Vietnam.
Strategic Implementation: Steps for Sourcing Success in Vietnam
Finding the Right Suppliers: Your Search Strategies
1. Online Marketplaces: The Digital Gateway
Online marketplaces like Alibaba, Global Sources offer a vast pool of potential suppliers. However, a critical approach is essential. Analyze each platform’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, Alibaba offers a massive selection, while regional platforms might cater to specific Vietnamese industries.
Narrow down options by product category, supplier location (focusing on relevant Vietnamese regions), certifications (if applicable), and minimum order quantities (MOQs) to match your production needs.
Be cautious of common warning signs on supplier profiles. These include poor communication, inconsistencies in information, unreasonably low pricing compared to market averages, or hesitation to provide samples. Go beyond the initial profile and request references, certificates, and additional information to conduct a more thorough evaluation.
Industry-specific trade shows held within Vietnam offer valuable opportunities to meet suppliers and examine products firsthand. Key events include Vietnam Expo and Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam.
Don’t overlook international exhibitions where Vietnamese manufacturers exhibit collectively.
At the booths, observe the quality of products, assess the professionalism of the staff, and engage in conversations to gauge their capabilities. Use these interactions to gather information and identify potential partners. Don’t underestimate the power of networking at these events. Connect with industry professionals and leverage their insights to gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese market and potential suppliers.
3. Your Network: The Power of Referrals
Recommendations from trusted industry colleagues, sourcing consultants with Vietnam expertise, local chambers of commerce, or even online industry forums (with careful consideration) can be invaluable. Referrals often come with pre-vetting and insights into a supplier’s track record, reliability, and strengths.
Network with individuals who have experience sourcing from Vietnam. Their knowledge can be an invaluable resource. Tap into their network to gain first-hand information about a recommended supplier’s strengths, potential weaknesses, and overall suitability for your specific needs.
Additional Strategies to Consider
Partnering with a reputable sourcing agent based in Vietnam like MovetoAsia can offer a more personalized approach.
They can identify suppliers that precisely align with your requirements, conduct on-site visits and quality checks, and navigate cultural nuances to facilitate communication and negotiation.
Some countries, including Vietnam, offer online directories of verified exporters through their trade ministries or export promotion agencies. While not an exhaustive search method, these directories can be a starting point for your research.
Due Diligence
Site Visits
Assessing production capacity is essential; can the supplier realistically handle your order volumes? Evaluate their machinery, number of production lines, and lead times. Observe the quality standards during production processes to ensure they meet your expectations and look for signs of established quality control procedures. The factory’s organization also plays a significant role in output quality and reliability—ensure it is clean, well-organized, and efficiently laid out.
Additionally, check for adherence to safety protocols, reflecting the supplier’s overall approach and potential liabilities.
Check References
Prepare questions focused on reliability, on-time delivery, responsiveness to issues, quality control effectiveness, and overall communication style. Aim to speak with at least two references that represent a range of order sizes and complexities to get a comprehensive understanding of the supplier’s performance. For a deeper dive, consider third-party audits. Social compliance audits assess adherence to labor laws, ethical treatment of workers, and environmental standards, while factory capability audits evaluate production capacity, technical capabilities, and quality management systems.
Final Thoughts on Global Sourcing in Vietnam
Understanding differences in business etiquette, such as negotiating styles and respect for hierarchy, can significantly impact your interactions.
Respect for seniority matters, so acknowledging the most senior person in meetings, even if they aren’t your primary contact, is crucial. Demonstrating cultural sensitivity lays the foundation for strong partnerships based on mutual respect and trust. Viewing suppliers as partners, not just vendors, fosters loyalty, commitment to quality, and flexibility in addressing challenges.
While Vietnam offers a compelling alternative to China, relying solely on a single supplier, even within a seemingly stable country, exposes your business to unnecessary risks. Here’s why a diversified supplier base within Vietnam is crucial:
Labor disputes could potentially impact your supplier’s ability to fulfill orders. Spreading your sourcing across different regions mitigates the impact of such localized disruptions.
A single supplier might experience unexpected production delays due to equipment malfunctions, material shortages, or internal capacity limitations.
While rare, unforeseen circumstances can lead to a supplier becoming insolvent. Diversification protects you from the financial and operational consequences of losing a single supplier.
By implementing a well-planned diversification strategy within Vietnam, you can minimize risks and build resilience into your supply chain.
Learning about the registration process for trademarks, patents, and copyrights, as well as receiving advice on the enforceability of your IP rights in Vietnam, can secure your intellectual property for the long run. Proactive measures include requiring suppliers and relevant personnel to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to protect confidential information like technical specifications, designs, and trade secrets.
Vietnam presents a compelling alternative for businesses seeking to diversify their sourcing beyond China. By strategically implementing the steps outlined, companies can tap into Vietnam’s cost advantages, skilled workforce, and growing infrastructure. Careful planning, strong supplier relationships, and an adaptable mindset are crucial for success in this dynamic market.
In the first five months of this year, foreign investors injected nearly 1.98 billion USD into the real estate business, marking a staggering 70% increase compared to the same period last year.
Data released by the Ministry of Planning and Investment on May 27 underscores the continued robustness of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam. Over the five-month period, the total registered capital reached 11 billion USD, reflecting a 2% growth from the previous year. Notably, newly registered capital surged by 50%, reaching an impressive 7.94 billion USD. The number of new projects also saw a significant uptick, totaling nearly 1,230.
Moreover, disbursed capital maintained a positive trajectory, exceeding 8.25 billion USD during these five months—an impressive 7.8% increase year-on-year.
Foreign investors have diversified their interests across 17 out of 21 national economic sectors. Leading the pack is the processing and manufacturing industry, which attracted over 7.43 billion USD—constituting 67.1% of the total registered investment capital and representing an 11.9% growth over the same period.
The real estate sector secured the second spot, signaling a positive trend with an influx of nearly 1.98 billion USD. This accounts for 18% of the total registered investment capital and represents a remarkable 70% surge compared to the corresponding period in 2023. Other notable industries include wholesale and retail, as well as transportation and warehousing.
The surge in foreign capital into real estate aligns with the market’s evident signs of improvement. Experts predict that the real estate landscape in 2024-2025will continue to thrive, especially as inflation remains under control and interest rates remain low.
Additionally, legal challenges are gradually being addressed. The government’s proposal to expedite the implementation of the Law on Land, Housing, and Real Estate Business by five months promises further stability. Simultaneously, public investment and infrastructure development initiatives are poised to propel the real estate market forward.
During this period, several large-scale projects in energy (including battery production, photovoltaic cells, and silicon bars), component manufacturing, electronic products, and high-value-added goods have been newly invested in and launched, contributing to the capital expansion.
In terms of investment partners, 78 countries and territories have participated in Vietnam’s growth story during the first five months of the year. Singaporeremains at the forefront, with a total investment capital exceeding 3.25 billion USD—a remarkable 28.2% increase year-on-year.
The top investment partners during this period are predominantly traditional allies of Vietnam from the Asian region. The combined markets of Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, mainland China, and Korea account for 73% of new investment projects and a substantial 74% of the country’s total registered investment capital.
The Foreign Investment Department highlights that foreign capital continues to concentrate in localities with strategic advantages, including robust infrastructure, skilled human resources, and streamlined administrative procedures. Notable cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Giang, Quang Ninh, and Hai Phong remain focal points. In fact, the top 10 localities collectively host nearly 75% of new projects and contribute significantly to the nationwide investment capital.
In the bustling streets of Saigon, there was a restaurant that held the secrets of an ancient culinary delight. This was Pho Le, a place where the steam from the bowls rose like mist in the morning sun, carrying with it the aroma of spices that had been simmering for decades.
In a land far away, an American chef named Chad Kubanoff heard tales of this legendary pho. His heart yearned for a taste, and so he embarked on a journey across oceans, from the US to Vietnam, with a singular mission: to savor the pho that had captivated his imagination.
Upon his arrival, Chad was greeted by Fred, a friend whose passion for authentic pho knew no bounds. Fred led Chad through the vibrant chaos of Saigon to the doors of Pho Le. “This,” Fred said with a twinkle in his eye, “is where magic happens.”
As they stepped inside, the history of the place enveloped them. The walls whispered stories of the 54 years that Pho Le had stood there, serving bowls of pho that had earned the praise of The Wall Street Journal and the love of the Saigonese.
Fred, with the enthusiasm of a true aficionado, shared his pho escapades with Chad. “I’ve tasted pho from eleven different places, but none compare to the symphony of flavors here,” he declared.
Chad listened intently as Fred described the nuances that set the Northern and Southern pho apart—the rich broth, the succulent beef, the sweet onions of the South contrasted with the North’s simpler taste.
When the pho arrived, Chad was taken aback by the traditional Southern flavors, so different from the pho he knew in the North. The side basket of herbs, bean sprouts, and an array of vegetables added colors to the canvas of their table.
The broth was a revelation—rich and beefy, with a sweetness that spoke of the South’s culinary heritage. Fred suggested a dash of satay, a sprinkle of coriander, and a squeeze of lemon to elevate the dish to perfection.
Photo: Screen captured
As they ate, Fred confessed his dream of making pho at home. Chad, with a chuckle, advised him, “To capture this essence, you’d need to prepare a feast for twenty!”
They talked of how pho was perfect for any time—be it a night’s end or a morning’s start, in sickness or in health, in sobriety or in spirits. It was a dish that never grew old.
As their adventure drew to a close, Chad proclaimed, “Pho Le is a treasure. I’d cross the world again just for a taste of this pho.”
And so, Chad Kubanoff, the chef who bridged the culinary worlds of America and Vietnam, returned home. But he carried with him the flavors of Pho Le, sharing the story of his journey through videos, introducing the world to the street food wonders of Vietnam.
