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Vietnam Market Entry: Build vs. Buy? A Foreign Investor’s Guide to Setting Up Shop

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A practical guide to the two primary ways foreign investors can establish a company in Vietnam‘s high-growth economy, and how to decide which is right for you.

Vietnam’s dynamic economy continues to be a prime target for foreign investment, but navigating the entry process presents a critical first choice. Before you can tap into one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets, you must decide how you will establish your legal presence.

This decision, governed by Vietnam’s Law on Investment, boils down to one simple question: Do you build or do you buy?

Put simply, you have two primary pathways for establishing a company:

Direct Establishment: Building a new company from the ground up (a “greenfield” investment).
Acquisition (M&A): Buying shares or contributing capital to an existing Vietnamese company.

Your choice will fundamentally impact your setup timeline, licensing requirements, and initial operational challenges. This guide breaks down these two strategic options to help you determine the most effective entry strategy for your business.

Path 1: Direct Establishment (The “Greenfield” Approach)

This is the traditional “build” strategy. You are the founder, registering a brand new legal entity in Vietnam from scratch. This method involves contributing capital from the very beginning to form a 100% foreign-owned enterprise or a new joint venture.

How it works:

You initiate the project by applying for an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC). This is the primary license proving your status as a foreign investor.
After receiving the IRC, you then apply for an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) to formally create the company, just as a local founder would.

The Key Detail: Under Vietnam’s commitments to the WTO and various free trade agreements, foreign investors can hold between 1% and 100% of the company’s charter capital.

Editor’s Note: The 100% ownership rule is not universal. It is crucial to check if your specific business line is subject to foreign ownership limits. For example, sectors like advertising, logistics, and broadcasting have specific caps.

Best for: Investors who want full control over company culture, operations, and branding from day one, and who are not in a rush to market.
The Challenge: This path is more time-consuming and bureaucratic, as it requires you to navigate the full, two-step licensing process from the start.

Path 2: Acquisition (The “M&A” Approach)

This is the “buy” strategy, and it is often a significantly faster route to market. In this scenario, you acquire a stake in an existing Vietnamese company that already possesses its Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).

How it works:

You identify a local target company and negotiate the purchase of shares (in a joint-stock company) or capital contribution (in a limited-liability company).
Instead of starting with the lengthy IRC process, you apply for a “Notice of Approval for Capital Contribution” from the Department of Planning and Investment. This is generally a simpler, faster procedure.
Once the transaction is complete, the Vietnamese company is officially converted into a Foreign-Invested Enterprise (FIE).

The Key Detail: As with the direct approach, you can acquire from 1% to 100% of the company, subject to any sector-specific ownership limits.

Best for: Investors who prioritize speed-to-market. You gain an instant operational entity, an existing business license, and potentially a workforce, client list, and supply chain.
The Challenge: Due diligence is everything. You inherit the company’s entire history, including any hidden debts, tax liabilities, or labor disputes. Integration of a new business culture is also a significant post-acquisition hurdle.

Beyond the “Big Two”: What About BCCs?

While the “Build” and “Buy” methods are the most common ways to establish a company, the Law on Investment also provides for other forms of investment.

The most notable is the Business Cooperation Contract (BCC). A BCC is essentially a partnership agreement where investors cooperate to conduct business and share profits without creating a new legal entity. This structure is common in large-scale, specific-term projects, such as in telecommunications, resource exploration, or infrastructure development.

The Bottom Line: Your Strategic Choice

Choosing between “Build” and “Buy” is a strategic decision, not just a legal one.

Choose Direct Establishment (Build) if you value control, a clean slate, and a custom-built corporate culture, and you have the time to manage the licensing process.
Choose Acquisition (Buy) if you value speed, an existing license, and immediate market access, and you are confident in your due diligence and post-merger integration capabilities.

Would you like a deeper dive into the specific business sectors that are restricted or conditional for foreign investors in Vietnam? Contact Sophie Dao, (sophie@gbs.com.vn) Senior Partner at GBS – Global Business Services LLC – a professional investment business and legal services company in Vietnam if needed.

Vietnam’s Startup Boom Defies Global Headwinds — But Challenges Still Loom Large

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Nearly 150,000 new businesses registered in the first nine months of 2025, reflecting investor optimism and government reforms. Yet many startups still struggle to survive amid rising costs and limited capital access.

HANOI — October 27, 2025 (Vietnam Insider) — Vietnam’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to surge, with a remarkable 145,000 new enterprises established in the first nine months of 2025, up 18.9% year-on-year, even as the global economy grapples with uncertainty.

The total registered capital of these new firms exceeded VND 1.42 quadrillion (US$56 billion), while another 86,400 businesses resumed operations, marking a 41.3% rebound from the previous year.

“This wave of new business formation shows that confidence in Vietnam’s domestic market remains robust,” said Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS – Global Business Services LLC, a leading investment consulting firm in Ho Chi Minh City. “What’s more important is that many of these entrepreneurs are building in high-value sectors — manufacturing, digital services, and green industries — signaling a maturing economy that’s looking beyond short-term gains.”

A Story of Growth — and Growing Pains

While the figures underscore Vietnam’s continued dynamism, they also reveal underlying vulnerabilities.

During the same nine-month period, 99,500 firms temporarily suspended operations, and 22,300 were dissolved, highlighting the sharp contrasts within the country’s competitive landscape.

Many small and newly established enterprises continue to struggle with limited access to credit, rising input costs, and lingering administrative hurdles — despite a series of government measures such as VAT reductions, deferred tax and land rent payments, and preferential credit packages.

“The government has made genuine efforts to ease the burden for SMEs,” Sophie Dao added. “But administrative complexity and informal costs remain persistent pain points. Simplifying regulatory processes and improving transparency would go a long way in helping startups move from survival to scale.”

Services and Manufacturing Lead the Charge

Among the new businesses, the service sector, manufacturing and processing, and wholesale and retail trade continue to dominate, aligning with Vietnam’s structural shift toward higher-value production and domestic consumption.

The average registered capital per enterprise reached VND 9.8 billion (US$386,000) — a modest 3.1% increase compared with 2024, showing cautious optimism amid cost pressures and tightening credit conditions.

The Road Ahead

As Vietnam strives toward its 2030 development vision, the private sector remains a vital engine for innovation and job creation. Experts note that sustaining the startup momentum will require not just financial incentives, but also stronger institutional support, digital infrastructure, and global partnerships.

“Vietnam’s business landscape is evolving rapidly,” Dao concluded. “To unlock its full potential, the next chapter must focus on resilience — helping companies not only start but thrive in a changing global economy.”

Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic startup ecosystems, ranking among the top five in the region for new business creation. With ongoing reforms and a young, tech-savvy workforce, the country remains a magnet for both local entrepreneurs and international investors seeking growth in emerging markets.

Tourists Flock to Flooded Hoi An as Ancient Town Turns Into a ‘Water World’

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Rising floodwaters have submerged nearly every street in Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, but instead of keeping visitors away, the surreal “water city” scene is drawing even more tourists.

Streets become rivers — and tourists keep coming

By Monday evening (Oct. 27), floodwaters reached half a meter to two meters deep across main streets like Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Bach Dang. Locals navigated by boat while visitors waded barefoot through knee-deep water to snap photos and enjoy what many called a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

“It’s amazing — the whole old town is underwater, yet people are calm and smiling,” said Armand, a visitor from Belgium. “It’s my first time seeing this, and it’s strangely beautiful.”

On Tran Phu Street — the only accessible route into the Old Quarter — shopkeepers stacked goods on high shelves while tourists laughed, splashing through floodwaters to reach the lantern-lit alleys.

Locals resilient as water rises

For residents, the floods are less of a spectacle and more a challenge.
“This is the biggest flood we’ve had this year,” said Nguyen Kiem, 72, a longtime resident of An Hoi. “Water rose over 1.5 meters in my home. We had to move everything — even our motorbikes — to higher ground.”

Shop owners worked through the night to protect merchandise from the rising waters. “I didn’t expect it to flood this quickly,” said Thanh Thuy, who runs a souvenir shop. “We just hope it doesn’t rise any higher.”

Authorities on alert

According to the Central Vietnam Hydrometeorological Center, flood levels on the Thu Bon River are expected to reach 3 meters within the next 6–12 hours — a full meter above the highest warning level.

Local authorities have stationed emergency teams at low-lying areas and are preparing evacuations if needed. Tourists staying in An Hoi have been advised to temporarily relocate to safer zones.

Despite the rising water, Hoi An’s quiet resilience — and the sight of its iconic yellow walls reflected in floodwater — continue to captivate visitors.

“It’s sad and beautiful at the same time,” said Ha Ngoc Anh, a tourist from Hanoi. “I’ll stay a few more days and wait for the water to recede — because Hoi An in the flood season is something you have to see to believe.”

“Day of Reckoning”: Man Faces Trial for Deadly Hanoi Café Arson That Killed 11

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A 52-year-old man who set fire to a crowded café in Hanoi, killing 11 people in one of Vietnam’s deadliest arson cases in recent memory, is set to face trial next month.

A revenge act that turned into a mass tragedy

Authorities said Cao Van Hung, from Dong Ngac Ward, Hanoi, became enraged after being slapped during an argument at the same café weeks earlier.

On the night of December 18, 2024, Hung returned to the café on Pham Van Dong Street, carrying a plastic can of gasoline worth about VND 150,000 (US$6).
After arguing with staff and demanding to confront the man who had previously hit him, Hung poured the gasoline over the entrance and set the café ablaze.

Within minutes, flames engulfed the two-story venue, trapping customers and employees inside. Eleven people were killed, including nine patrons and two café workers. The blaze also spread to an adjacent workshop, causing more than VND 2.6 billion (US$100,000) in damages.

Hung suffered burns to his legs as the fire spread to his shoes, but survived and turned himself in at the Ministry of Public Security headquarters shortly afterward.

A long criminal history

Court documents reveal that Hung had multiple prior convictions, including robbery in 1998 and theft in 2005.

He now faces charges of murder and property destruction, both of which carry the death penalty under Vietnamese law.

Trial and public reaction

The Hanoi People’s Court is expected to begin the trial on November 17, nearly a year after the tragedy that horrified the nation.

The case reignited public debate over urban violence, mental health, and Vietnam’s sentencing policies for violent offenders.

“This was not a spontaneous act — it was cold-blooded revenge that wiped out innocent lives,” one local commentator wrote on social media.

Chinese Boxing Champion to Divorce Wife After Violent Bus Attack in Australia Goes Viral

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A Chinese boxing champion announced his decision to divorce his wife after both were violently attacked by strangers on a bus in Australia — a shocking incident that left him with a concussion and his wife covered in bruises.

The incident, which took place in New South Wales, has gone viral across Chinese social media, sparking heated debates over gender roles, self-defense, and guilt in relationships.

Zhou Ruanqi, 25, from Henan province, is a professional boxer who won the WBA Asia Championship in 2023, becoming China’s first continental champion born after 2000. He and his wife had moved to Australia last year to rebuild his career after disputes with his management team in China.

In a video posted on October 14, Zhou and his wife were attacked by a woman and two men after a verbal confrontation on a bus. When Zhou’s wife protested against the group’s offensive remarks, they allegedly began assaulting her.

Zhou attempted to protect his wife but was struck in the head with a sharp object, causing a minor brain concussion, while his wife suffered multiple bruises and severe emotional distress.

Police later arrested two suspects, and under Australian law, assault causing bodily harm can carry up to five years in prison.

After being discharged from the hospital, Zhou faced online criticism for “failing to protect his wife.” Some netizens mocked the professional fighter for not retaliating during the attack.

In response, Zhou said his wife had stopped him from fighting back, fearing any violent reaction could damage his career. “If I can’t keep her safe, then what’s the point of success?” he said in a video posted on October 21, where he announced their upcoming divorce.

He described his wife as brave and selfless, recalling that she once intervened to stop three teenagers from causing trouble at a mall. “She gave up her life in China to support me. I’ve failed to protect her — I’m not worthy to be her husband,” he said.

The statement has since ignited mixed reactions online. Many called Zhou’s decision “too emotional,” urging him to “take responsibility and heal together” instead of breaking up.

Others sympathized with his guilt, saying the attack likely left lasting trauma for both.

As of now, Zhou’s wife has not commented publicly on the incident.

Teenage Boy Fatally Stabbed by Classmate in Hanoi After Heated Argument

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A 14-year-old ninth-grade student in Hanoi was fatally stabbed by a schoolmate following a brief argument and challenge to a fight, local police confirmed on Monday evening.

Authorities say the attack took place on October 25 in Noi Bai Commune, near Hanoi’s international airport, when an argument between two boys — both 14 — escalated into violence.

From Online Insults to Tragic Confrontation

According to the investigation, the victim, identified as V.M.K., had invited his friend L.M.K. to hang out earlier that afternoon. When the latter declined, the two exchanged heated words over the phone, with insults and a challenge to meet in person.

Later that evening, at around 8:10 p.m., the two met at the Tan Trai Village community hall, where the confrontation turned deadly. Police said the suspect, L.M.K., pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim in the chest.

The boy was rushed to the hospital but died shortly after due to severe injuries.

After the incident, the suspect reportedly hid the knife in his motorbike and returned home, where he was arrested two hours later by Hanoi police.

Police Reject ‘Love Triangle’ Rumors

Authorities moved quickly to dispel rumors circulating on social media suggesting the stabbing stemmed from a love-related dispute.

“This is false information,” Hanoi police said in a statement. “The incident resulted from a personal quarrel between the two boys, not a romantic conflict.”

Officials also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified details online, warning that sharing false information could lead to legal consequences.

Youth Violence Concerns in Vietnam

The case has sparked renewed discussion in Vietnam about youth aggression and online bullying, particularly in suburban and rural areas where supervision and counseling resources are limited.

In recent years, several cases involving school-age violence — often triggered by minor disagreements or social media insults — have shocked communities across the country.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the case while providing psychological support to the families and school involved.

Four Foreign Jobseekers Stab Vietnamese Taxi Driver After Fearing Human Trafficking Scam

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A late-night taxi ride near Vietnam’s northern border turned violent when four foreign nationals allegedly attacked their driver, fearing they were being trafficked.

Authorities in Lạng Sơn Province, which borders China, have detained four foreigners accused of stabbing a 40-year-old Vietnamese taxi driver in the neck on Sunday night.

The group, police say, had illegally crossed into Vietnam seeking work through an informal broker. But when the driver began taking them toward Hanoi, they panicked — believing they were being sold into human trafficking — and allegedly turned on him with a knife.

A Border Job Hunt Gone Wrong

The incident unfolded around 11:10 p.m. on October 26 along National Highway 1A, a major trade and transport corridor connecting the Chinese border to Hanoi.

A passing truck driver spotted the victims’ taxi swerving across lanes before its door flung open and passengers fled into the night. Inside, he found the driver bleeding heavily from a neck wound and rushed him to a nearby hospital.

Police later identified the victim as Nguyễn Văn Định, a driver from Bắc Ninh Province, now recovering at Viet Duc Hospital in Hanoi after emergency surgery. He is no longer in critical condition.

Authorities Probe Human Trafficking Fears

Investigators say the attack was not motivated by robbery, as initially suspected, but by fear and confusion. The four suspects told police they believed they were being tricked into a trafficking network after being promised jobs in Vietnam.

Police have not yet disclosed the suspects’ nationalities but confirmed that they entered Vietnam illegally through a border area near Lạng Sơn. The case remains under investigation.

Border Region Under Scrutiny

Northern Vietnam has seen a rise in illegal border crossings involving migrant jobseekers and trafficking victims from neighboring countries. Many are lured by online recruitment scams or false promises of factory jobs in industrial zones near Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Authorities have warned that such networks — often run by brokers operating along the Vietnam–China border — are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting language barriers and migrants’ desperation for work.

Context: The Broader Issue

Vietnam’s northern provinces, including Lạng Sơn and Cao Bằng, serve as crossroads for human trafficking and illegal migration routes. While Vietnam has toughened border security and cooperation with neighboring countries, incidents like this highlight ongoing challenges in managing irregular labor migration and cross-border crime.

United Airlines Launches New Daily Service Between Ho Chi Minh City and the United States

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United Airlines has launched its new year-round daily service between Ho Chi Minh City and the U.S., making United the only U.S. airline to offer flights to and from Ho Chi Minh City.

The new route offers customers seamless connections via Hong Kong to and from Los Angeles and San Francisco, where they can connect to up to 75 other destinations across the continental U.S. United will operate the new flight year-round, departing Ho Chi Minh City at 6.00 a.m. and arriving in Hong Kong at 9.35 a.m. From there, customers can conveniently connect to United’s San Francisco service at 10.35 a.m. or Los Angeles service at 11.25 a.m. All times local. United will operate the flights with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft offering 257 seats, including 48 all-aisle-access flatbed seats in United PolarisSM business class.

“United continues to expand in places our customers want to travel, and our new service to Ho Chi Minh City is a great example of that,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President – Network Planning and Alliances. “By enhancing connectivity between the U.S. and Ho Chi Minh City, with convenient connections through Hong Kong, we’re further solidifying United’s position as the leading U.S. carrier in the region and giving our local and international customers the opportunity to explore the city’s deep history.”

United’s flight was greeted with a water cannon salute upon arrival in Tan Son Nhat International Airport yesterday evening, and guests enjoyed a flute performance as they left the aircraft. Executives from United Airlines took part in a ribbon cutting to mark the first flight, with U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper and U.S. Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Melissa A. Brown participating in the event.

Soon after the Air Services Agreement between the U.S. and Vietnam was signed on December 4, 2003, United became the first U.S. airline to enter the Vietnamese market. United’s regular flights linking the United States and Vietnam marks a significant milestone in realizing the objectives of the Agreement. Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, Deputy Director General, Captain Ho Minh Tan, said: “I highly commend the United’s efforts to resume flights between the U.S. and Viet Nam. Together with the existing services operated by Vietnam Airlines, United’s operations will further enhance air connectivity between our two countries and better serve the growing expectations of passengers.”

The introduction of flights from Ho Chi Minh City marks yet another significant step in United’s ongoing expansion across the Pacific with the airline also launching a new service today between Bangkok, Thailand and Hong Kong, as well as a second daily flight between Manila and San Francisco which will offer travelers from both cities the option of a daytime or evening flight for greater convenience. By the end of 2025, United will offer flights from 32 different cities in the Pacific region – four times that of any other U.S. airline. Earlier this month, United reopened its United Club location in Hong Kong, offering customers nearly 6,000 sq.-ft. space, a self-serve bar, premium buffet and shower rooms.

United is the largest airline in the world, as measured by available seat miles, and flies to more international destinations than any other U.S. carrier. Across the globe, United will offer more than 850 daily flights to and from over 150 international destinations – including 41 that no other U.S. airline serves – next year.

Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) – Hong Kong (HKG)

All times are local and subject to change.

Onboard Products and Services

The service from Ho Chi Minh City to Hong Kong, connecting onwards to Los Angeles and San Francisco, will be operated with United’s Boeing 787-9 aircraft, featuring a total of 257 seats – 48 all-aisle-access flatbed seats in United PolarisSM business class, 21 United Premium PlusSM and 188 in economy, including 39 Economy PlusSM seats with added legroom and increased personal space.

The revolutionary design of the Dreamliner offers customers many features for increased comfort such as large windows, spacious overhead storage and modern LED lighting to simulate a full day, helping passengers adjust their internal clock on the long-haul flight. In addition, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and smoother ride help customers feel rested on arrival.

United Polaris business class is a premium travel experience that prioritises relaxation and comfort, featuring quality inflight dining, amenity products and services from Therabody and Saks Fifth Avenue and full flat-bed seats with all aisle access.

United Premium Plus features a spacious seat with more legroom, elbow room and recline than a standard Economy Plus or economy seat, as well as an amenity kit, Saks Fifth Avenue blanket and plush pillow.

United Economy Plus offers added legroom and increased personal space. Located near the front of the economy cabin, the seats give the added benefit of a swifter exit from the plane on arrival. Economy Plus seating is available on all trans-Atlantic flights.

United economy offers complimentary food, soft drinks, juices, beer and wine, tea, coffee and inflight entertainment. On most aircraft, seats feature an adjustable headrest and a personal on-demand entertainment system.

Tragic Death at Hanoi’s Iconic Hoan Kiem Lake Raises Questions About Bystander Response

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Police launch investigation after a young woman drowns in one of Vietnam’s most visited landmarks

HANOI — Authorities in Vietnam’s capital are investigating the death of a young woman who drowned in Hoan Kiem Lake, the city’s most famous landmark, early on October 25, after wading into the water unclothed as onlookers reportedly watched in shock.

The Hoan Kiem Ward People’s Committee confirmed on Sunday that police have been directed to file an official report on the incident, which has drawn widespread attention both for its tragic nature and for the public’s reaction.

According to witnesses, the woman was first seen walking along the lakeside without clothing, before she entered the water and began moving farther from the shore. Despite the presence of several bystanders, no immediate rescue attempt was made until emergency responders arrived.

Firefighters and rescue teams were dispatched to the scene within minutes, performing first aid and rushing the woman to a nearby hospital. She was later pronounced dead.

Viral Footage Sparks Public Debate

Videos circulating on Vietnamese social media have fueled public outrage, showing crowds standing by and filming as the woman struggled in the lake. The footage has triggered a heated discussion online about bystander behavior, mental health awareness, and public responsibility during emergencies.

Local authorities have not yet confirmed the victim’s identity or the cause behind her actions. “The police are still verifying the circumstances and reviewing the footage to determine what happened before and during the incident,” an official from the Hoan Kiem Ward People’s Committee said.

A Sobering Moment at Hanoi’s Symbol of Peace

The tragedy occurred at Hoan Kiem Lake, a centuries-old site in the heart of Hanoi often referred to as the city’s “spiritual center.” Surrounded by ancient temples, walking paths, and bustling tourist cafés, it is one of Vietnam’s most photographed destinations — making the incident particularly unsettling for both residents and visitors.

While drowning incidents are rare at the lake, the case has reignited calls for improved mental health support and public intervention training in Vietnam, where social stigma and hesitation often prevent people from acting in crises.

Public Reaction

Across social networks, many Vietnamese expressed sorrow over the woman’s death and frustration at the lack of immediate assistance. “It’s heartbreaking to see people recording instead of helping,” one commenter wrote on Facebook.

As police continue their investigation, the incident has become a somber reminder that even in Vietnam’s most peaceful places, compassion and awareness remain crucial.

Nearly 2 Million Foreign Visitors Arrived in Vietnam in October, Police Report Shows

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Traffic deaths drop slightly as inbound tourism stabilizes and safety improves nationwide.

HANOI — Vietnam welcomed nearly 1.8 million foreign visitors in October 2025, according to fresh data from the Ministry of Public Security, reflecting a steady inflow of international travelers amid the country’s growing appeal as one of Asia’s most dynamic tourist and business destinations.

Between September 15 and October 14, Vietnam recorded 1,771,213 foreign arrivals, while 913,085 Vietnamese citizens traveled abroad — a 17.7% drop compared to the previous month. The near-record inflow of foreign visitors signals Vietnam’s continued recovery and popularity with tourists and investors, bolstered by relaxed visa rules and improved air connectivity across Asia and Europe.

Road Safety and Crime: A Mixed Picture

The ministry’s monthly report also provides a snapshot of the country’s public safety situation. During the same period, Vietnam recorded 1,544 traffic accidents, resulting in 834 deaths and 1,055 injuries. While the number of accidents slightly increased by 1.45%, fatalities declined by 2.3% — a small but welcome improvement in road safety across the nation.

Authorities handled over 280,000 traffic violations, imposing fines totaling VND 559 billion ($22 million) and temporarily impounding more than 60,000 vehicles.

Fire and explosion incidents also dropped compared with the previous month, though property losses surged due to several large-scale urban fires. There were 209 fires, causing 13 deaths and an estimated VND 49.5 billion ($2 million)in damages.

Crime Crackdowns and Drug Enforcement

Police across the country investigated 4,345 criminal cases, successfully solving 76.5% of them. The report noted 2,567 drug-related offenses, marking a significant 19% decrease from September, suggesting ongoing progress in Vietnam’s efforts to combat narcotics trafficking.

Meanwhile, 291 cases of economic crimes were reported (up nearly 4%), while environmental and food-safety violations dropped sharply by more than 40%.

Nationwide, law enforcement also apprehended 201 wanted fugitives, including 86 classified as dangerous or extremely dangerous.

Tourism and Investment Outlook

Analysts say the latest figures highlight Vietnam’s dual momentum — a safe and increasingly attractive destination for international visitors, while maintaining tight control over public order and economic crimes.

The consistent influx of foreign travelers aligns with the government’s ambitious goal of reaching 18–20 million international visitors by 2030, alongside major infrastructure upgrades in tourism hubs such as Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

As Vietnam continues to balance rapid tourism growth with safety and urban management, the October data offers reassurance to both investors and travelers: the country remains open, secure, and on a steady upward trajectory.

Da Nang Leads Vietnam’s Push for Smoke-Free Hotels and Restaurants

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As Vietnam’s coastal tourism hub aims to become a “City of Health and Livability,” Da Nang hotels and restaurants are saying no to cigarettes — and setting a new benchmark for sustainable tourism.

Da Nang, Vietnam — October 26, 2025 (Vietnam Insider) — The central city of Da Nang, known for its pristine beaches and fast-growing tourism sector, is taking bold steps to clear the air — literally. A new campaign is encouraging hotels, restaurants, and public venues to go completely smoke-free, aligning with global health goals and positioning the city as a model for responsible, health-conscious tourism in Asia.

The initiative, launched by Vietnam’s Fund for Tobacco Harm Prevention (under the Ministry of Health) in partnership with the Da Nang Department of Health, underscores the city’s commitment to protecting both residents and the millions of visitors who flock here every year.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills more than 8 million people annually, including 1.3 million non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke. In Vietnam alone, tobacco-related illnesses claim an estimated 103,000 lives every year — nearly 290 deaths every single day.

“Every ‘No Smoking’ sign isn’t just a regulation; it’s a message of respect and civility,” said Phan Thi Hai, Deputy Director of the Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund. “It protects the health of travelers, workers, and families — and enhances the image of Da Nang as a clean, modern, and welcoming city.”

Beyond health, the economic toll is staggering. A 2022 study by the Vietnamese Health Economics Association estimated that tobacco-related diseases and productivity losses cost the country 108 trillion VND annually (around US$4.3 billion).

For the tourism and service industry, cigarette smoke doesn’t just hurt people — it hurts business. Hoteliers and restaurateurs are realizing that smoky environments can tarnish brand reputation, lower service quality, and deter international visitors who increasingly value wellness-oriented travel experiences.

“Da Nang welcomes 8 to 9 million visitors each year, including over 2 million international tourists,” Ms. Hai added. “Creating a smoke-free environment isn’t just a health policy — it’s good hospitality.”

City officials echoed this sentiment. Truong Quang Binh, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Health, emphasized that tobacco control is central to the city’s strategy of becoming a “Healthy City – Livable City.”

“Protecting and improving public health is our top priority,” he said. “We’re working to ensure smoke-free spaces in hospitals, schools, and public venues — and to promote ‘Green, Clean, Friendly’ hotels and restaurants.”

The campaign also encourages hospitality businesses to take proactive steps:

Establish clear “No Smoking” policies and signage.
Train staff to communicate the policy diplomatically to guests.
Join citywide recognition programs for smoke-free establishments.

As Da Nang continues its evolution from a coastal getaway to a global tourism brand, this smoke-free push reinforces its reputation as one of Asia’s most progressive and livable cities — where the air is as fresh as the seafood.

Vietnam Stocks Tumble Over 30 Points as Investors Dump Blue-Chip Shares

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The VN-Index suffered a sharp sell-off on Monday as foreign investors pulled out and panic selling hit major property and banking stocks, wiping out earlier gains and extending a two-day losing streak.

HO CHI MINH CITY (October 27, 2025) — Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index plunged more than 30 points on Monday after a wave of heavy selling swept through large-cap stocks in the final minutes of trading, reversing early gains and signaling growing investor caution amid volatile market sentiment.

The index briefly approached the 1,700-point mark in morning trading, buoyed by optimism across the board. But that rally quickly unraveled as investors rushed to offload major blue chips in the real estate and banking sectors, dragging the VN-Index down 1.8% to close at 1,652 points, marking its second consecutive decline.

Nearly 180 stocks ended in the red on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange, with the large-cap basket dominated by sell-offs. Vinhomes (VHM) and Vincom Retail (VRE) — both part of the Vingroup conglomerate — hit their floor pricesand saw no buyers by the close. Smaller developers such as DIG and CII also plunged to their daily limits, while mid-cap peers like Novaland (NVL), Ha Do (HDG), Nam Long (NLG), and Khang Dien (KDH) fell between 3–5%.

The banking sector, a key market driver, also faltered. HDBank (HDB), VPBank (VPB), Techcombank (TCB), and MB Bank (MBB) all reversed early gains to close down 3–5%, while industry leaders Vietcombank (VCB), BIDV (BID), and VietinBank (CTG) slipped around 1–2%. Sacombank (STB) was a rare outlier, inching up 0.2% to VND 54,600.

Brokerage stocks showed mixed performance — SSI, HCM, and VNDIRECT declined, while ORS, BSI, and VIXmanaged to hold on to gains. Notably, ORS hit its ceiling at VND 15,500 with surging liquidity.

Steelmakers offered a rare bright spot amid the sell-off. Except for Hoa Phat (HPG), which edged slightly lower, other steel stocks such as Hoa Sen (HSG), Nam Kim (NKG), and TLH rose between 1–4%.

Despite the sharp drop, market liquidity improved, suggesting strong trading activity. The total transaction value on the Ho Chi Minh bourse climbed to VND 30.7 trillion (US$1.2 billion), with large-cap stocks contributing more than half. SSI Securities led in matched orders at over VND 2.5 trillion, followed by VIX, SHB, GEX, FPT, and MBB, each exceeding VND 1 trillion.

Foreign investors continued to offload Vietnamese equities, selling VND 4.3 trillion worth of shares while buying only VND 3.2 trillion. MBB suffered the heaviest net outflow with 18 million shares sold, followed by SSI, SHB, and PDR.

According to analysts at MB Securities, the market is currently moving sideways, with a notable divergence between the VN-Index and individual stock performance — a sign that gains in the index are not broadly supported.

Meanwhile, Yuanta Securities warned that the short-term trend remains bearish, as investor sentiment stays cautious despite occasional rebounds. The firm advised against chasing rallies and suggested maintaining a stock allocation of only 20–40% of portfolios.

Vietnam’s stock market — one of Asia’s fastest-growing over the past decade — has been struggling to regain momentum after a strong first half of 2025. Rising global uncertainty, profit-taking, and persistent foreign outflows have weighed on sentiment, even as Vietnam’s economy continues to post resilient growth above 5%.

Floods Force Temporary Closure of Hue’s Historic Imperial Sites as Heavy Rain Batters Central Vietnam

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Tourists are being turned away from Vietnam’s UNESCO-listed former royal capital after days of torrential rain caused widespread flooding across Hue and the central region.

HUE, Vietnam (October 27, 2025) — Authorities in Hue, Vietnam’s ancient imperial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, have temporarily closed all major historical attractions after days of relentless rain left much of the city under water.

The Hue Monuments Conservation Center announced on Monday morning that all heritage sites within the Complex of Hue Monuments — including the Imperial Citadel, Tu Duc Tomb, and Minh Mang Tomb — would be closed to visitors from 11:30 a.m. to ensure public safety and protect the monuments from flood damage.

The Perfume River (Sông Hương), which flows through the heart of the city, rose to nearly alarm level 3, submerging streets around the Imperial City. The Nghênh Lương Pavilion, located just outside the Citadel’s walls, was reported to be half a meter deep in floodwater.

Elsewhere, popular tourist sites such as Bao Vinh Ancient Town, the wooden pedestrian bridge on the Perfume River, and Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge have also been submerged, cutting off access to several areas.

Officials said the closures are temporary and the sites will reopen once the weather stabilizes and safety checks are completed. In the meantime, teams have been deployed to reinforce vulnerable structures and monitor areas at risk of landslides or water damage.

Hue’s imperial complex, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, is one of Vietnam’s most treasured cultural landmarks, featuring hundreds of royal palaces, temples, and gates dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945).

Over the past three days, central Vietnam has been hit by torrential rains triggered by a combination of a cold front, tropical convergence zone, and strong easterly winds. Rainfall in Hue alone has reached 200–500 millimeters, with some nearby mountainous areas such as Bach Ma Peak recording nearly 900 millimeters — among the heaviest in years.

Meteorologists warn that heavy downpours are expected to continue through October 28, with rainfall in some areas exceeding 700 millimeters, raising concerns about further flooding and reservoir discharges in the coming days.

Hue, located about 700 km south of Hanoi, is a must-visit destination for its imperial heritage, poetic river views, and royal cuisine. Visitors currently in central Vietnam are advised to monitor local weather updates, avoid flooded areas, and check with tour operators for the latest reopening schedules of historical sites.

Vietnam’s MB Bank Reports Record Profit of Over $900 Million, Driven by Digital Push and Strong Lending Growth

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HANOI — Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank (MB Bank), one of Vietnam’s top private lenders, reported a pre-tax profit of VND 23.1 trillion ($915 million) for the first nine months of 2025 — a 12% increase year-on-year, underscoring the bank’s strong performance amid Vietnam’s fast-growing financial sector.

Rapid Asset and Lending Expansion

According to its financial report, MB’s total consolidated assets rose 17.7% from the beginning of the year to nearly VND 1.33 quadrillion ($52.6 billion) — placing it among the fastest-expanding banks in the Vietnamese market.

The bank has already achieved 73% of its full-year profit target, driven by robust credit growth. Outstanding loans reached VND 931 trillion ($36.8 billion), up almost 20%, with strong momentum across all segments — SME lending up 18.5% and retail loans up 15.8%. MB said it continues to prioritize capital for key sectors such as manufacturing, consumption, and infrastructure investment.

Diversified Revenue and Solid Balance Sheet

MB’s total operating income climbed 24% year-on-year to VND 48.1 trillion ($1.9 billion), while net service income surged nearly 40%, reflecting successful diversification beyond traditional lending.

Customer deposits also showed resilience, reaching VND 788 trillion ($31.1 billion), a 10.3% increase compared to last year. Notably, the bank’s low-cost CASA (Current Account Savings Account) deposits grew 27%, reaching VND 292 trillion ($11.5 billion). This high CASA ratio has helped MB maintain a low funding cost and strong net interest margin (NIM).

The cost-to-income ratio (CIR) improved to 27.9%, down 2.3 percentage points from the same period last year, while non-performing loans (NPLs) dropped to 1.87%, with a coverage ratio of 80%, above the industry average.

Digital Transformation as a Growth Engine

A key growth driver for MB continues to be digital transformation. The bank now serves over 33.9 million customersand recorded 9.6 billion digital transactions in the first nine months of 2025 alone. Digital channels contributed nearly 40% of total revenue — a testament to MB’s success in building a comprehensive financial ecosystem that spans payments, lending, insurance, and investment services.

“The results of the first nine months demonstrate the effectiveness of MB’s sustainable growth strategy, sound risk management, and strong digital investment,” an MB executive said. “We remain focused on balancing scale, efficiency, and sustainability while supporting Vietnam’s economic development.”

Vietnam and U.S. Announce Framework for Reciprocal Trade Agreement

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VIETNAM INSIDER – The United States and Vietnam have unveiled a joint statement outlining the framework for a Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade Agreement, marking a significant advancement in their bilateral economic relationship. The announcement was made on October 26th, coinciding with the attendance of U.S. President Donald Trump and Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

Key Principles of Market Access

The joint statement confirms the two nations have agreed on core principles aimed at providing deep and broad market access for each other’s exported goods. Critically, Vietnam has committed to expanding market preferences for the majority of U.S. industrial and agricultural products. In a reciprocal move, the U.S. will maintain a 20% retaliatory tariff on goods originating from Vietnam, while concurrently considering a zero-tariff rate for certain specific Vietnamese products. This measured approach signals a move toward mutually beneficial trade liberalization.

Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers and Regulatory Alignment

A key component of the forthcoming agreement is a firm commitment by both sides to collaborate on resolving and preventing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that currently impede bilateral trade. Vietnam has specifically agreed to tackle several key NTBs, including accepting vehicles manufactured under U.S. emission standards, streamlining approval processes for medical devices and pharmaceuticals, simplifying procedures for agricultural products, and fully implementing its international obligations regarding intellectual property rights.

Furthermore, both countries are committed to addressing and preventing barriers to U.S. agricultural products entering the Vietnamese market. This includes establishing a mechanism for monitoring and accepting mutually agreed-upon certificates issued by U.S. regulatory agencies.

Momentum and Next Steps

The diplomatic breakthrough follows months of technical-level negotiations led by Vietnam’s Government Negotiating Delegation, headed by Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hồng Diên. This process began shortly after the U.S. announced a delay in applying the retaliatory tariffs and agreed to initiate trade talks with Hanoi.

The backdrop to the announcement includes several major commercial milestones, notably Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft valued at over $8 billion, alongside the signing of 20 Memoranda of Understanding between private sector entities for the purchase of U.S. agricultural goods totaling approximately $2.9 billion. These deals underscore the growing economic synergy the new trade agreement is designed to formalize and accelerate.

The joint statement indicates that technical details and necessary procedures are expected to be finalized within the coming weeks, paving the way for the agreement to be signed and enter into force, further cementing the evolving economic partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam. This development follows President Trump’s earlier executive order on August 1st, which adjusted the retaliatory tariff rate for Vietnam from 46% down to the current 20%.