Vietnam has become one of Asia’s most affordable and rewarding destinations, especially for Indian travelers and other budget-conscious tourists. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant street food culture, and rich history, the country offers an immersive holiday experience that doesn’t have to cost more than $500 for a six- to seven-day trip—if you plan wisely.
Managing the Biggest Costs: Flights and Visa
Airfare is the largest expense. Round-trip flights from India to Vietnam typically range between $215 and $265 when booked in advance. Low-cost carriers like VietJet Air, AirAsia, and IndiGo frequently offer competitive fares, often via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore.
The visa process is also simple and affordable. Indian travelers can apply online for an e-visa at about $25, with processing times of 3–5 working days.
Tip: Book flights two to three months ahead and use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price drops.
Choosing the Right Itinerary
To avoid extra travel costs, focus on one region instead of trying to see the entire country in a single trip. Two popular options are:
North Vietnam: Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, combining history, culture, and dramatic landscapes.
South Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, blending vibrant city life with rustic riverside charm.
Covering both regions in one budget trip adds significant internal travel costs, so it’s better to explore deeply in one area.
Foreign tourist in Vietnam. Photo: @clumsy_charly & @backofthebiketours
Affordable Accommodation
Vietnam offers excellent value for accommodations. Clean and comfortable hostels start around $6–8 per night, while budget hotels and guesthouses typically range from $14–22 per night. For six nights, expect to spend $72–96 in total.
Eating on a Budget
Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, and eating well on a budget is easy. Street food staples like pho (noodle soup), banh mi(baguette sandwich), and spring rolls usually cost $1–2.50 per meal. Daily meals can be managed for about $7 if you stick to local eateries.
Must-try dishes include Hanoi’s famous egg coffee, Da Nang’s fresh seafood, and Ho Chi Minh City’s smoky street-side barbeques.
Getting Around
Within cities: Ride-hailing apps like Grab are inexpensive, with most rides costing $1–2.
Between cities: Sleeper buses and trains are an affordable adventure, priced at $18–24 for routes like Hanoi–Da Nang.
Day tours: Shared group tours to Ha Long Bay or the Mekong Delta cost around $24–30, including transport and meals.
Attractions That Won’t Break the Bank
Vietnam’s cultural sites and museums charge modest fees, usually $1–4. Highlights include:
Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter – free to explore
Travel during shoulder seasons (March–April or September–October) to avoid peak prices.
Carry U.S. dollars for currency exchange, which generally yields better rates than Indian rupees.
Skip luxury cruises and resorts; opt for shared tours and hostels.
Pre-book tours online to lock in discounts.
Bring essentials like a power bank, basic medicines, and a reusable water bottle to avoid extra costs.
FAQs
Is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand? Yes—Vietnam is generally more affordable for food, accommodation, and sightseeing. How many days are enough? Six to seven days are ideal for exploring one region, while a full-country trip requires 12–14 days. Is vegetarian food available? Yes, though somewhat limited. Look for “chay” restaurants that specialize in vegetarian cuisine. Do I need to book a package tour? Not at all. Independent travel is easy, thanks to budget airlines, online booking platforms, and apps like Grab.
With thoughtful planning, a week-long Vietnam trip can be enjoyed for under $500, covering flights, stay, food, transport, and attractions. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers priceless experiences—without the price tag.
Vietnam Insider — A new study by Yale University warns that President Donald Trump’s import tariff policies could drive nearly one million additional Americans into poverty by 2026.
On September 9, The Budget Lab, a research center at Yale, released a report estimating that Trump’s tariff plan would increase the U.S. poverty population by about 875,000 people within two years, including approximately 375,000 children.
The findings are based on the Official Poverty Measure (OPM) — the long-standing benchmark of the U.S. Census Bureau, which evaluates poverty using pre-tax income. According to researchers, the impact of higher import taxes and consumer prices will fall disproportionately on low-income households, as they spend a larger share of their earnings on essential goods. This makes them more vulnerable to price shocks.
Economists also note that poorer households tend to purchase more imported goods — the very products most affected by tariffs. Official U.S. data released on September 9 showed nearly 36 million Americans were living in poverty by the end of last year.
“Import tariffs are essentially taxes on American families because they target goods and services, not income,” explained John Ricco, Policy Research Director at The Budget Lab. The center projects that the U.S. poverty rate could rise from 10.4% to 10.7% as a result of tariff policies.
Responding to the report, White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers told CNN that Trump’s first-term economic agenda “helped families grow wealthier while reducing income inequality.” He argued that in a second term, a combination of domestic tax cuts, import tariffs, and increased investment would “end the economic disaster caused under Joe Biden.”
Rogers also pointed to fresh government data showing that U.S. inflation is cooling, claiming tariffs have not raised prices “as so-called experts predicted.” The Producer Price Index (PPI) unexpectedly fell 0.1% in August. However, Barclays economists cautioned that the headline PPI data “masked underlying strength” and warned that “inflation remains persistent.”
On average, U.S. tariffs on imported products now stand at 17.4% — the highest level since 1935, according to The Budget Lab.
Trump’s tariff policies also face legal headwinds. After unfavorable rulings from the U.S. Court of International Trade in Manhattan and the federal appeals court in Washington, the government has appealed to the Supreme Court. On September 9, the Court agreed to hear the case.
If the tariffs are ultimately deemed unlawful, roughly 70% of Trump’s announced trade measures this year could be struck down. Still, analysts and even Trump administration officials suggest the president will look for alternative ways to preserve them.
The cryptocurrency market has emerged as one of the most dynamic investment frontiers, offering both immense opportunities and significant risks. Alongside legitimate projects and innovations, a growing number of scams are targeting investors worldwide.
Understanding how these scams work is the first step in protecting your assets.
Exploiting Investor Emotions
Volatility is a hallmark of the crypto market, and scammers exploit it skillfully. Many schemes feed on fear of missing out (FOMO), urging investors to “act now” before prices skyrocket. Others manipulate fear of loss, pushing investors into rash decisions. When urgency overrides rational thinking, fraudsters gain the upper hand.
Phishing: Fake Emails and Websites
Phishing remains one of the most common tricks in the digital asset space. Fraudsters send emails that appear to be from trusted exchanges or wallet providers, often embedding links to convincing fake websites. Once investors input their credentials or seed phrases, criminals gain full access to their wallets. Even experienced traders can be deceived by the sophistication of these imitations.
“Ghost” Projects and False Promises
Another widespread scam is the creation of fake investment projects—complete with professional-looking websites, whitepapers, and social media campaigns. These so-called startups promise revolutionary technology and extraordinary returns. In reality, they are designed to siphon funds before disappearing, leaving investors with worthless tokens or nothing at all.
How to Stay Protected
Practical steps can help investors minimize risk:
Verify before you trust: Always double-check URLs, email domains, and official project details.
Do your own research: Go beyond promotional material; seek independent, credible analysis.
Question unrealistic returns: Any promise of guaranteed profit should be treated as a warning sign.
Protect your keys: Never share private keys or recovery phrases under any circumstances.
The promise of cryptocurrency comes with undeniable risks. While the market offers legitimate opportunities, it also attracts bad actors seeking to exploit investor enthusiasm. By staying informed, verifying sources, and exercising caution, investors can avoid costly traps and focus on real, value-driven opportunities in this rapidly evolving space.
(Vietnam Insider) – Vietnam’s stock market staged a late-session recovery on September 11, with the VN-Index climbing 10 points after a steep morning decline. Gains in key large-cap stocks—particularly VIC, VHM, and LPB—provided the backbone for the turnaround, while MWG, FPT, and STB also reversed course to support the rally.
Market Reversal in Afternoon Session
The VN-Index began the afternoon still in negative territory, slipping further below its reference level. However, momentum improved after 2 p.m., lifting the benchmark index above water and eventually closing the session up by around 10 points.
Blue-chip strength was critical: Vingroup (VIC), Vinhomes (VHM), and LienVietPostBank (LPB) held firm in positive territory with steady liquidity. Meanwhile, Mobile World (MWG), FPT, and Sacombank (STB) bounced back from losses, giving the index further support.
Despite the rebound, the overall market picture remained fragile—described as “green shell, red core”—with more than 200 stocks still declining on the HoSE.
Morning Session Dragged by Heavy Selling
Earlier in the day, the VN-Index plunged below the 1,640-point mark during the opening auction (ATO) and slid further as selling pressure spread across sectors. The benchmark ended the morning at 1,629.5 points, down nearly 14 points from the previous session.
Decliners dominated: 261 stocks fell (73% of listings), while only 75 advanced.
Notable outliers: Eight mid- and small-cap stocks hit their ceiling prices.
Sector performance: Only real estate, chemicals, retail, and technology recorded gains, with Vingroup and Vinhomes providing the strongest cushion.
Banking and Securities Under Pressure
The banking and securities sectors led the morning downturn:
Securities: VIX slumped 5.3% with over VND 1 trillion in trading value. SSI dropped nearly 3% but led the market in liquidity at over VND 2.3 trillion. Other brokers—VND, HCM, FTS, VDS, CTS—fell 2–3.9%.
Banking: VPB dropped 3.5%, while SHB, ACB, CTG, EIB, HDB, and MSB all shed more than 2%. Only LPB and KLB managed to hold gains across the sector.
Liquidity and Foreign Flow
Liquidity surged: HoSE turnover reached nearly VND 19.9 trillion in the morning, 1.5 times higher than the same period yesterday.
Foreign investors net sold: roughly VND 1.23 trillion, with SSI facing nearly VND 398 billion in outflows. MSB and SHB also saw heavy net selling above VND 100 billion each.
Analyst Outlook
In a morning note, VPBank Securities (VPBankS) commented that the previous day’s rebound was largely technical and dependent on blue-chip support. The VN-Index remains below its 20-day moving average (MA20), with liquidity still weaker than the 20-session average—signaling insufficient demand to confirm a sustained recovery.
VPBankS expects the index to fluctuate between 1,625 and 1,655 points in the near term, with performance diverging across sectors. The firm advises investors to avoid chasing rallies and instead consider short-term T+ trades (buying and selling quickly) in stocks that hold above MA20 or show reversal signals at technical support levels.
(Vietnam Insider) – Vietnam has officially taken its first step toward a regulated cryptocurrency market, with Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc signing Resolution 05/2025/NQ-CP on September 9. The landmark decision authorizes a five-year pilot program for digital asset trading, signaling a cautious but significant shift in the country’s financial landscape.
A Controlled Opening
The resolution emphasizes Vietnam’s measured approach: promoting innovation while maintaining strict oversight to safeguard investors and ensure financial stability. All issuance, trading, and payment activities involving digital assets must be carried out exclusively in Vietnamese dong.
Only enterprises licensed by the Ministry of Finance will be permitted to operate digital asset exchanges, manage issuance platforms, or market related products. Compliance with existing laws on anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, cybersecurity, and data protection is mandatory.
Key Restrictions and Investor Protections
The resolution stipulates that only Vietnamese enterprises may issue digital assets, and these assets must be backed by tangible underlying assets—excluding securities and fiat currencies. Such tokens can be offered to and traded by foreign investors only through licensed providers, with issuers required to publish a prospectus at least 15 days prior to any offering.
To qualify, service providers must hold minimum registered capital of VND 10 trillion (USD 379 million), with at least 65% contributed by institutional investors. Foreign ownership is capped at 49%.
Applicants are also subject to stringent governance standards, including robust risk management frameworks, advanced IT systems, and qualified personnel such as certified securities professionals and cybersecurity experts.
Outlook
This move places Vietnam among a growing number of Asian economies experimenting with regulated cryptocurrency frameworks. While the pilot reflects a cautious embrace of digital finance, its strict requirements underscore the government’s intent to balance innovation with investor protection and systemic stability.
(Vietnam Insider) – Russia has announced that its cancer vaccine has successfully completed preclinical testing, delivering strong results in both safety and effectiveness. The news was shared by Veronika Skvortsova, head of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA), during the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).
Skvortsova explained that the vaccine has been under development for years, with the past three years focused on mandatory preclinical studies. “The vaccine is now ready for use, and we are awaiting official approval,” she said.
According to the FMBA, tests showed the vaccine was safe even with repeated doses, while also achieving significant outcomes: tumor shrinkage and slower progression in 60% to 80% of cases, depending on the type of cancer. Researchers also reported improved survival rates among test subjects.
Early Targets and Expansion
The vaccine’s initial target will be colorectal cancer. At the same time, research teams have also made promising progress in developing vaccines for glioblastoma and certain types of melanoma, including ocular melanoma, which are already at advanced stages of development.
Personalized mRNA Cancer Vaccine
In August, Alexander Gintsburg, Director of the Gamaleya Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, announced that the first patients in Russia may soon receive a new AI-powered cancer vaccine.
This vaccine, based on mRNA technology, is personalized for each patient. It is designed to attack malignant tumors using the individual’s genetic profile. Clinical trials are set to begin within months at two leading oncology centers in Moscow – the Hertsen Research Institute and the Blokhin Cancer Center.
“The Ministry of Health has approved a trial plan involving melanoma patients,” Gintsburg said. “This vaccine is completely personalized, made specifically for each patient based on their tumor data, and cannot be used for anyone else.”
AI-Accelerated Development
The project began in mid-2022 using mRNA technology. The vaccine works by training the immune system to identify tumor-specific antigens and destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
Originally intended for melanoma, the vaccine has shown encouraging results in animal testing and limited human trials. Thanks to artificial intelligence, the process—from analyzing a tumor to producing a personalized vaccine—can be completed in just one week.
Nhân kỷ niệm dấu mốc trọng đại 150 năm gắn bó cùng sự hình thành và phát triển của ngành bia Việt Nam, Tổng Công ty Cổ phần Bia – Rượu – Nước giải khát Sài Gòn (SABECO) chính thức khởi động chiến dịch “150 Năm Di Sản Vươn Cao” nhằm tôn vinh di sản ngành bia và vai trò của SABECO trên hành trình gìn giữ và phát huy truyền thống nghề nấu bia, đồng thời khẳng định cam kết tiếp tục vươn lên, đồng hành cùng bước tiến của đất nước trong chặng đường tương lai.
Trong suốt chặng đường phát triển, SABECO đã trở thành một hình ảnh quen thuộc gắn liền với đời sống của người Việt với những thương hiệu bia biểu tượng như 333 và Bia Sài Gòn. Khởi nguồn từ năm 1875 tại một cơ sở sản xuất nước đá nhỏ phục vụ nhu cầu giải khát ở miền Nam Việt Nam, SABECO đã không ngừng vươn cao, kế thừa tinh thần tiên phong để vượt qua nhiều giai đoạn chuyển mình, và viết nên một di sản bền vững.
Không chỉ là nhân chứng cho sự chuyển mình và tiến bộ của đất nước, SABECO ngày nay đã trở thành một người bạn đồng hành của Việt Nam – một thương hiệu mang tinh thần tiên phong, khát vọng vươn lên, đại diện cho niềm tự hào dân tộc, sự đổi mới sáng tạo và bản sắc Việt tiến bộ. Với đội ngũ chuyên gia nấu bia người Việt lớn nhất cả nước – những người am hiểu sâu sắc khẩu vị bản địa và cam kết mang đến chất lượng chuẩn quốc tế với hương vị đậm chất Việt – SABECO tự hào là một thương hiệu quốc gia được xây dựng bởi chính bàn tay và tâm huyết của người Việt.
Chiến dịch “150 Năm Di Sản Vươn Cao” là lời tri ân của SABECO dành cho di sản ngành bia và mối gắn kết sâu sắc của thương hiệu với người dân Việt Nam, đồng thời là lời khẳng định mạnh mẽ về cam kết tiếp tục đồng hành cùng đất nước vươn tới một tương lai thịnh vượng.
Cùng Tôn Vinh Hành Trình Vươn Cao Cùng Đất Nước với “Hành Trình Di Sản” và “Đêm Di Sản”
Thành công của SABECO không chỉ được đo bằng lợi nhuận, mà bằng những giá trị tích cực mang đến cho cộng đồng quanh mình. Từ hệ thống đèn đường thắp sáng các làng quê, đến sự hỗ trợ dành cho những người lính biên phòng và gia đình trong dịp Tết, và cả tinh thần kiên cường mà SABECO cùng nhau xây dựng qua những khó khăn từ thiên tai, biến động và thử thách.
Trong khuôn khổ chiến dịch “150 Năm Di Sản Vươn Cao”, SABECO mang đến nhiều hoạt động ý nghĩa nhằm lan tỏa những câu chuyện truyền cảm hứng về tinh thần cùng nhau vươn lên, đồng thời tạo cầu nối gắn kết bền chặt với cộng đồng địa phương trên khắp mọi miền đất nước. Nổi bật trong đó là sáng kiến “Hành Trình Di Sản” – hành trình đặc biệt tượng trưng cho sự kết nối và sẻ chia, được tổ chức với mục tiêu lan tỏa câu chuyện 150 năm di sản của SABECO đến gần hơn với người dân địa phương tại các tỉnh thành nơi SABECO đã và đang gắn bó, để mỗi điểm dừng chân không chỉ là một sự kiện, mà còn là dịp cộng đồng cùng chung niềm tự hào và khát vọng vươn cao.
Chuyến xe bus “Hành Trình Di Sản” sẽ đi qua 9 tỉnh thành nơi SABECO đã và đang gắn bó để lan tỏa câu chuyện 150 năm di sản, hành trình này sẽ mang tinh thần và niềm tự hào SABECO đến gần hơn với người dân khắp nước.
“Hành Trình Di Sản” sẽ kéo dài trong hai tháng và đi qua 09 tỉnh thành trên khắp cả nước. Khởi đầu tại TP. Hồ Chí Minh – nơi đặt nền móng cho hành trình di sản của SABECO – hành trình sẽ tiếp tục đến với Cần Thơ, Vĩnh Long, Vũng Tàu, Đắk Lắk, Khánh Hòa, Bình Định, Nghệ An và dừng chân tại Thủ đô Hà Nội, khép lại một hành trình kết nối cộng đồng địa phương xuyên suốt từ Nam ra Bắc.
Song hành cùng “Hành Trình Di Sản”, chuỗi sự kiện “Đêm Di Sản” sẽ được SABECO tổ chức tại 5 tỉnh thành trọng điểm gồm TP. Hồ Chí Minh, Vĩnh Long, Khánh Hòa, Đắk Lắk và Hà Nội. Đây không chỉ là những sự kiện văn hóa – giải trí cộng đồng, mà còn là dịp để người dân địa phương khám phá sâu hơn di sản thương hiệu SABECO thông qua các trải nghiệm sống động, không gian trưng bày cảm xúc về hành trình phát triển và những dự án cộng đồng mà SABECO đã và đang theo đuổi. Bên cạnh đó, chuỗi sự kiện “Đêm Di Sản” còn mang đến nhiều hoạt động tương tác thú vị nơi người tham dự có thể thưởng thức và gắn kết cùng các thương hiệu biểu tượng như 333, Bia Sài Gòn, và Bia Lạc Việt – những hương vị gắn bó cùng đời sống và niềm tự hào của người Việt.
Các sáng kiến “Hành Trình Di Sản” và “Đêm Di Sản” không chỉ tôn vinh giá trị di sản lâu đời của SABECO, mà còn mang trong mình sứ mệnh lớn hơn: gắn kết cộng đồng khắp mọi miền và lan tỏa tinh thần vươn lên cùng nhau.
Cam Kết Mạnh Mẽ Vì Một Tương Lai Vươn Cao – Giải thưởng “Vinh danh Người Truyền Lửa”
Cũng trong khuôn khổ chiến dịch, SABECO công bố Giải thưởng vinh danh cấp quốc gia do SABECO khởi xướng và phối hợp triển khai cùng Báo Đại Đoàn Kết, dưới sự đồng hành chỉ đạo của Trung ương Mặt trận Tổ quốc Việt Nam. Giải thưởng được tổ chức nhằm tôn vinh 150 người hùng thầm lặng trên khắp cả nước – những con người bình dị nhưng đã và đang có những đóng góp tích cực cho sự phát triển của Việt Nam, đồng thời thể hiện rõ tinh thần kiên cường, đoàn kết, và khát vọng tiến bộ mà SABECO luôn theo đuổi. Trong số đó, 15 câu chuyện truyền cảm hứng nhất sẽ được công chúng cả nước bình chọn trực tuyến trên trang web chính thức của giải thưởng, để lan tỏa rộng rãi những giá trị nhân văn và khát vọng vươn lên của người Việt.
Ông Vũ Văn Tiến, Ủy viên Đoàn Chủ tịch, Trưởng Ban Tuyên giáo Ủy ban Trung ương Mặt trận Tổ quốc Việt Nam chia sẻ: “Mặt trận Tổ quốc Việt Nam chia sẻ chung tầm nhìn với SABECO trong việc ghi nhận và tôn vinh những đóng góp thầm lặng của người dân Việt Nam trên khắp cả nước. Giải thưởng này là một hoạt động ý nghĩa để lan tỏa những tấm gương bình dị, cao quý trong cộng đồng, khơi dậy giá trị nhân văn tốt đẹp, và truyền cảm hứng cho thế hệ trẻ cùng nhau xây dựng xã hội tiến bộ và tốt đẹp hơn. Chúng tôi tin rằng sáng kiến này sẽ được lan tỏa rộng rãi, góp phần nuôi dưỡng nét đẹp văn hóa, tinh thần trách nhiệm và đoàn kết trong cộng đồng”.
Giải thưởng này là minh chứng cho cam kết mạnh mẽ của SABECO trong việc đồng hành cùng mục tiêu phát triển đất nước bằng những hành động thiết thực hướng về cộng đồng. Với 6 hạng mục giải thưởng gắn liền với các trụ cột phát triển bền vững của SABECO, giải thưởng “Vinh Danh Người Truyền Lửa” tượng trưng cho sự tiếp nối di sản của các thế hệ trước, đồng thời tạo động lực cho những bước tiến mới của đất nước trong tương lai.
Ông Lester Tan – Tổng Giám đốc SABECO chia sẻ: “Từ truyền thống đến đổi mới, di sản của SABECO được tạo dựng bởi tinh thần tiên phong, đổi mới sáng tạo, và cam kết đóng góp cho cộng đồng. Chiến dịch ‘150 Năm Di Sản Vươn Cao’ là lời tri ân của SABECO dành cho những giá trị này và thể hiện niềm tự hào của chúng tôi về di sản lâu đời, đồng thời khẳng định cam kết chung tay kiến tạo một tương lai bền vững cho Việt Nam. Chiến dịch cũng phản ánh khát vọng vươn lên cùng đất nước của SABECO, bởi tinh thần đồng hành chính là yếu tố làm nên SABECO, là nguồn động lực cho sự phát triển và là nguồn cảm hứng để chúng tôi không ngừng hướng tới một tương lai tươi sáng, không chỉ với tư cách một doanh nghiệp đầu ngành, mà còn là một thương hiệu đại diện cho niềm tự hào và tinh thần Việt Nam.”
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VỀ SABECO
Với di sản 150 năm trong ngành nấu bia, Tổng Công ty Cổ phần Bia – Rượu – Nước giải khát Sài Gòn (SABECO) là một trong những doanh nghiệp hàng đầu tại Việt Nam. SABECO không ngừng phát triển với vai trò tiên phong cùng tư duy đổi mới, đồng thời gìn giữ những giá trị di sản, đóng vai trò kiến tạo nên một diện mạo mới cho ngành đồ uống Việt Nam.
SABECO sở hữu 25 nhà máy, 11 công ty thương mại thành viên và mạng lưới phân phối rộng khắp cả nước. Hai thương hiệu biểu tượng là Bia Saigon (bao gồm Bia Saigon Lager, Bia Saigon Chill, Bia Saigon Special, Bia Saigon Gold, Bia Saigon Export, Bia Saigon Export Premium) và 333 (bao gồm 333 và 333 Pilsner) là niềm tự hào và dấu ấn mạnh mẽ của SABECO trên thị trường.
Cam kết về chất lượng của SABECO không chỉ thể hiện qua công nghệ nấu bia tiên tiến mà còn ở sự chuyên nghiệp trong các hoạt động thương mại, xây dựng thương hiệu và uy tín doanh nghiệp. SABECO đã vinh dự nhận được nhiều giải thưởng quốc tế uy tín như World Beer Awards, International Beer Cup 2024, và đặc biệt là được vinh danh trong danh sách Top 500 doanh nghiệp hàng đầu Đông Nam Á do tạp chí Fortune bình chọn năm 2024. Điều này khẳng định năng lực, sự tin cậy và bản lĩnh của một thương hiệu Việt trên trường quốc tế.
Lấy sứ mệnh “Kiến tạo một Việt Nam thịnh vượng” làm kim chỉ nam, SABECO tích cực triển khai các sáng kiến ESG toàn diện. Từ bảo vệ môi trường, thúc đẩy lối sống cân bằng năng động đến trao quyền cho cộng đồng và lan tỏa giá trị bền vững, SABECO cam kết mang đến những giá trị tích cực cho SABECO, các đối tác đồng thời đóng góp vào sự phát triển của cộng đồng.
Chất lượng – Tính di sản – Sự đổi mới chính là nền tảng giúp SABECO tiếp tục khẳng định vai trò là biểu tượng đáng tự hào của ngành bia Việt, ngày một vững mạnh, vươn xa.
Apple’s iPhone 17 series will be available for pre-order in Vietnam starting September 12, with delivery and launch expected on September 19—placing Vietnam among the earliest markets globally to receive the new devices.
At Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, the company unveiled four new models: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Pre-orders begin on Friday, September 12, and full release is scheduled for Friday, September 19—in the U.S. and more than 63 countries, including Vietnam.
Vietnam being included among the first-wave launch markets marks a notable shift—in 2023 and 2024, iPhone 15 and 16 saw releases in Vietnam delayed by about a week.
Authorized retailers FPT Shop and F.Studio by FPT have published official starting prices (approximate conversion to USD):
Model
Starting Price (VND)
Approx. USD
iPhone 17 (256 GB)
24,990,000 VND
~$985
iPhone Air (256 GB)
~32,000,000 VND
~$1,260
iPhone 17 Pro
~35,000,000 VND
~$1,380
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Up to 64,000,000 VND
Highest-tier variant
The Pro Max 2 TB version takes the flagship’s price to an unprecedented 64 million VND, making it the most expensive official iPhone ever sold in Vietnam. All models now confirm a minimum of 256 GB of storage and adopt a 120 Hz display refresh rate.
iPhone Air is being billed as Apple’s thinnest iPhone, at just 5.6 mm thickness, featuring a titanium frame, “Ceramic Shield 2” protective glass, and a 6.5-inch 120 Hz ProMotion display.
iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max sport larger camera modules and aluminum bodies designed for improved heat dissipation. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 17 retains the previous generation’s design language but now includes the 120 Hz display and Apple’s A19 chip.
Retailers attribute the modestly elevated prices—3 to 4 million VND more than last year’s models—to factors including foreign exchange fluctuations, import duties, and tax policies. Nonetheless, analysts anticipate the iPhone 17 Pro Max will likely be the best-seller, potentially selling out during the initial release.
Vietnam’s elevation to a first-wave launch market is not only a boon for consumers—who may now prefer official units over parallel imports—but also reflects Apple’s growing confidence in Vietnam’s market maturity. The Ministry of Science and Technology’s Telecommunications Department has cited recent cooperation with Apple on security certification processes, helping accelerate release timelines.
Summary
Pre-orders begin September 12; available in Vietnam on September 19.
Starting prices: iPhone 17 from ~25M VND; iPhone Air ~32M; iPhone 17 Pro ~35M; iPhone 17 Pro Max up to 64M VND (2 TB).
Notable new features: 120 Hz displays on all models, minimum 256 GB storage, iPhone Air’s record-thin design.
Pricing influenced by currency, taxes.
Vietnam’s inclusion in the first wave indicates Apple’s strategic shift and rising regional importance.
Nepal, a nation of nearly 30 million people, has an economy roughly comparable to Cambodia’s, with a 2024 GDP of about USD 50 billion. Its unemployment rate hovers around 10%, and approximately 82% of the population works in informal or freelance jobs.
Remittances from Nepalese working overseas amount to around 11 billion USD, representing over 25% of GDP. Remarkably, many Nepalese—due to acute economic desperation—have reportedly traveled to Russia to fight in Ukraine in exchange for compensation, risking their lives in the process. These figures lay bare a systemic failure in national governance.
Generation Z in Nepal (born 1997–2012) stands out from previous generations. They are less defined by ideological loyalties or historical legacies and have been exposed to global views earlier—thanks to the internet. They grew up with social media, have a keener sense of global norms, and are less preoccupied with immediate survival struggles than their parents were.
As a result, even a relatively small government misstep—like a social media ban modeled on restrictive approaches seen in countries such as China—can become a catalyst for widespread outrage and collective action.
Frustration has been building for some time over limited job opportunities and the glaring social inequities between the common populace and an elite class of political dynasties. This sentiment has coalesced around the “NepoBaby – NepoKids” (i.e., “children of elites”) movement in recent days. Youth are openly denouncing the luxuries flaunted by politicians’ offspring against the backdrop of poverty that many young people endure.
This movement demonstrates that Nepal’s youth—and, indeed, many in South Asian countries like Indonesia or Bangladesh—are developing a deeper, more critical awareness of governance issues. Given their readiness to mobilize, a small spark—from unjust laws, worsening inequality, or internet censorship—can ignite widespread demands for change.
The government banned access to 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp, and YouTube, for not registering under new regulatory rules. This triggered nationwide protests led primarily by Gen Z—resulting in at least 19 deaths and over 100 injuries. In response, the ban was quickly lifted, and an investigation panel was announced.
Observers and protesters alike emphasized that the ban was just the tipping point. Core grievances include youth unemployment, lack of economic opportunity, corruption, and the visible privilege of political elites.
Remittances remain a vital economic lifeline—generating close to a third of Nepal’s GDP—highlighting the fragile domestic job market and emigration pressures.
Nepal’s recent youth-led protests illustrate how economic precarity, digital activism, and frustration with political inequity can converge rapidly—especially among a tech-savvy, socially conscious generation. What may have begun as opposition to a social media ban soon became a broader expression of rage against entrenched corruption and stagnation.
Nepal is not just a case study in political unrest—it is a reminder of how fragile social legitimacy can become when youth’s aspirations are ignored. As Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries confront similar challenges—rising youth expectations, digital mobilization and inequality—Nepal serves both as a warning and a potential catalyst for reflection.
Rumors have swept across Vietnamese social media in recent weeks, claiming that Vingroup (HoSE: VIC), one of the country’s largest conglomerates, is “about to go bankrupt” under a supposed VND 800 trillion (USD 31 billion) debt load.
On September 8, 2025, Vingroup issued an official statement refuting the claims, confirming it has filed civil lawsuits, reported to authorities, and notified embassies about 68 individuals and organizations accused of spreading false information about the company and its executives, including Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong. The group said the misleading reports circulated mainly on TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.
False Claims vs. Actual Numbers
The online speculation alleged that Vingroup carried VND 800 trillion in bank debt. However, the group’s consolidated financial statements tell a different story. As of June 30, 2025:
Total liabilities: VND 799.5 trillion.
Actual borrowings: VND 278.9 trillion, split between VND 122.6 trillion in short-term debt and VND 156.3 trillion in long-term debt.
Debt-to-equity ratio: 1.8x, considered safe by both international and Vietnamese corporate standards.
The rest of the liabilities are mostly business-related obligations common to large corporations, including:
VND 109.9 trillion in customer prepayments for real estate projects.
VND 243.4 trillion in deposits from partners under joint development agreements.
Trade payables, accrued expenses, and tax obligations balanced by short-term receivables worth VND 254.1 trillion.
Breakdown of Borrowings
Short-term loans are concentrated among major domestic lenders such as VPBank (VND 19.9 trillion), Techcombank (VND 16.1 trillion), BIDV (VND 7.3 trillion), HDBank (VND 7.0 trillion), and Vietcombank (VND 6.5 trillion). Long-term debt includes VND 4.8 trillion each from BIDV and Vietcombank, VND 4.6 trillion from VietinBank, and about VND 29.4 trillion from corporate partners.
Subsidiary Strength and Outlook
According to Vietcap Securities, most of Vingroup’s debt is set to mature within three years. With the exception of VinFast, the group’s subsidiaries are expected to remain financially independent, generating enough cash flow to cover obligations and sustain operations.
Vinhomes has unrecognized sales contracts worth VND 138 trillion as of Q2 2025. New contract sales are forecast at VND 131 trillion in 2025, VND 145 trillion in 2026, and VND 156 trillion in 2027.
Vinpearl, Vinmec, and Vinschool are expected to continue improving results thanks to Vietnam’s expanding middle class and rising margins. The planned listing of Vinpearl on the HoSE could also strengthen Vingroup’s access to capital markets.
The sensational claims about an imminent Vingroup bankruptcy are not supported by its financial disclosures. While the group carries large liabilities consistent with its scale, its actual debt burden is significantly lower than rumored. With diversified business lines and strong cash flow from real estate and services, Vingroup remains positioned to manage its obligations and pursue growth.
Hanoi tourism is entering a new era as the city turns public transport into unique cultural and travel experiences. With the launch of the “Hanoi Five City Gates” cultural train, new tourism products on Metro Line 2A, and expanded electric bus services, visitors now have more eco-friendly ways to discover the capital.
Cultural Train Brings Hanoi’s Heritage to Life
Launched on September 3, 2025, to mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution, the “Hanoi Five City Gates” cultural train connects Hanoi with Bac Ninh – the land of Quan ho (love duet) folk music.
Onboard, passengers enjoy:
Performances of xam (wandering musicians’ songs), cheo (traditional opera), and Quan ho singing.
Hanoi specialties like green rice (cốm) and lotus tea.
Carriages decorated with cultural themes, from the Long Bien Bridge to Hanoi’s subsidy-era lifestyle.
Tickets for the first trips sold out, showing strong tourist demand for innovative cultural products.
Metro Line 2A: Linking Hanoi’s Top Attractions
In August, Hanoi Metro Line 2A (Cat Linh–Yen Nghia) became part of the city’s tourism offerings. Stretching 13 km with 12 stations, the line connects major landmarks such as:
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Temple of Literature
National Cinema Center
Royal City shopping mall
Van Phuc Silk Village
Van Quan Lake
Tourists can also tour the metro control centre, experience a train-driving simulator, and take photos along the journey.
Eco-Friendly Bus Routes for Tourists
Hanoi is also expanding its bus network to serve tourism:
Electric buses connect the city centre with Bat Trang Pottery Village.
During the national exhibition celebrating Vietnam’s 80-year independence, 20 free electric bus routes carried thousands of visitors.
These services highlight Hanoi’s commitment to green, sustainable tourism.
Experts Call for Long-Term Tourism Strategies
Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of Hanoi’s Department of Tourism, said public transport products not only ease congestion but also create modern, eco-friendly tourism experiences.
Nguyen Van Ngoc, Deputy General Director of Hanoi Metro, described the initiative as “creative reuse” of urban infrastructure for cultural and economic development.
Truong Quoc Hung, Chairman of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club, suggested package tours that combine metro or train tickets with accommodation and sightseeing.
Nguyen Tien Dat, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi Tourism Association, emphasized the need to diversify destinations, enhance culinary stops, and build on global best practices.
Hanoi Tourism Moving Towards a Green Future
According to Dang Huong Giang, Director of Hanoi’s Department of Tourism, more pilot programs will be launched to design and improve public-transport-based tourism products. The aim is to make Hanoi a leading destination for sustainable, cultural, and urban travel.
HO CHI MINH CITY – With just two days in Vietnam before heading to Cambodia, Australian traveler Ben Groundwater set himself one mission: eat as much local food as possible.
Arriving from Sydney at the end of March, Ben explored Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling food scene, sampling iconic Vietnamese dishes from street stalls to hidden eateries – all at affordable prices.
On his first evening, Ben tried bò lá lốt (grilled beef wrapped in betel leaves) at a local eatery, describing the smoky-sweet flavors as a “perfect introduction to Vietnamese cuisine.” Just steps away, he bit into a legendary bánh mì Huỳnh Hoa, packed with cold cuts, pâté, pickled vegetables, and pork floss, calling it “a flavor explosion.”
The next morning began with the ultimate Vietnamese breakfast: phở bò at Phú Vương, which he crowned as “the best bowl of pho I’ve ever had.” Washed down with iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá), Ben continued his food marathon with bún riêu cua (crab noodle soup), which he described as “not for the faint-hearted.”
For dinner, he chose bánh canh cua, a thick, chewy tapioca noodle soup rich in crab flavor, before wrapping up his whirlwind stay with bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls) filled with shrimp and pork.
After 48 hours of nonstop eating, Ben said Vietnam had delivered unforgettable flavors and ranked phở as his top breakfast dish worldwide.
HANOI, September 10 – Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn and her spouse paid tribute to President Ho Chi Minh at his Mausoleum in Hanoi this morning, as part of her state visit to Vietnam from September 9–12 at the invitation of President Lương Cường and his spouse.
Governor-General Mostyn laid a wreath and visited the Mausoleum, accompanied by Vietnam’s Minister of Science and Technology Nguyễn Mạnh Hùng and senior officials from both countries.
During her visit, Mostyn is scheduled to hold talks with President Lương Cường, meet Vietnam’s top Party and State leaders, attend the Vietnam–Australia Forum 2025, and inaugurate the Australia–Vietnam Policy Institute. She will also visit Ho Chi Minh City to meet local leaders, the Australian community in Vietnam, and tour cultural and historical sites.
Australia and Vietnam established diplomatic relations on February 26, 1973. In March 2024, the two countries elevated ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Bilateral trade reached $14.1 billion in 2024, up 2.3% year-on-year, with Australia ranking as Vietnam’s 7th largest trading partner.
Tourism and people-to-people links remain strong. Nearly 500,000 Australian tourists visited Vietnam in 2024, making Australia one of Vietnam’s top 10 tourism markets. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese community in Australia numbers around 375,000, the fifth-largest overseas Vietnamese community worldwide.
Thaco Seeks Partnership with South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem for Urban Railway Development
HCMC, September 9 – Trường Hải Auto Corporation (Thaco), one of Vietnam’s largest private conglomerates, is exploring cooperation with South Korean rail giant Hyundai Rotem to develop Vietnam’s urban and high-speed rail systems.
During a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Hồ Đức Phớc, Thaco Chairman Trần Bá Dương emphasized the group’s intention to invest in urban railway infrastructure and highlighted potential collaboration with Hyundai Rotem in technology transfer, rolling stock manufacturing, and sustainable operations.
Hyundai Rotem CEO Lee Yong-bae underscored Vietnam’s growth potential in high-speed rail, proposing solutions that include technology transfer, workforce training, localization of production, and comprehensive maintenance services.
Deputy PM Hồ Đức Phớc raised questions on train design speeds, operating costs, component production, and signal systems. Both sides provided detailed responses, reinforcing their commitment to long-term cooperation.
Thaco, which generated over 23.7 trillion VND in state budget contributions last year and employs more than 60,000 people, holds nearly one-third of Vietnam’s auto market. Earlier this year, Thaco submitted a proposal to invest in the North-South high-speed railway project, estimated at $61.35 billion.
Hyundai Rotem, founded in 1977 and part of Hyundai Motor Group, is a leading global manufacturer of high-speed trains, locomotives, signaling systems, and hydrogen-powered rail technology.
Deputy PM Hồ Đức Phớc welcomed the partnership, stressing the importance of synchronized infrastructure development, from rail design to signaling and rolling stock manufacturing. He encouraged Thaco and Hyundai Rotem to work with the Ministry of Construction to present a comprehensive railway development plan.
Vietnam is set to expand its urban and high-speed rail networks in the coming years, creating major opportunities for international cooperation, technology transfer, and sustainable transport development.
Ho Chi Minh City – September 9, 2025 – Vietnamese companies say a surge in counterfeit products, cheap imports, and slow digital adoption is threatening the competitiveness of domestic brands both at home and abroad.
Speaking at the conference “Expanding Market Share – Positioning Vietnamese Brands in the Digital Space” on September 9, Bông Hoa Việt, Assistant to the CEO of Binh Minh Plastic JSC, admitted that even after more than 50 years of building its brand, the company still suffers from widespread counterfeiting.
“Customers often complain about product quality, but upon inspection we find they bought fake items carrying the ‘Binh Minh’ label,” he said. Just one added character or phrase can turn a fake into a convincing imitation, causing confusion and damaging consumer trust. Despite repeated petitions and even lawsuits, enforcement remains slow, eroding decades of brand value.
Counterfeit Goods Threaten Multiple Industries
The problem is not limited to plastics. Vietnamese companies in food, pharmaceuticals, and fertilizers face the same risk. Nguyen Dang Hien, CEO of Bidrico, stressed the importance of registering trademarks both domestically and internationally. He cited the case of ST25 rice, which was trademarked overseas before Vietnamese firms acted, calling it a “costly lesson” for local businesses.
Cheap Imports Add Pressure
At the same time, cheap Chinese imports, often 10–20% less expensive, flood into Vietnam within days. According to Lu Nguyen Xuan Vu, Chairman of the Saigon Entrepreneurs Association, many Vietnamese companies also lack skilled digital staff and online sales expertise. “If we fail to embrace digital commerce, we will certainly fall behind,” he warned.
Retail and Consumer Trends
From a retail perspective, Nguyen Ngoc Thang, Deputy CEO of Saigon Co.op, noted that domestic purchasing power remains stable, with overall market growth expected to surpass 10% this year. However, he emphasized that only brands built on authenticity and consumer trust can truly endure.
“Branding is the soul of a product,” he said, highlighting opportunities in green consumption and sustainable development.
E-Commerce Growth but Structural Barriers
According to economist Dinh The Hien, e-commerce already accounts for about 10% of Vietnam’s retail market, doubling growth in recent years. But traditional retail still faces barriers in digital transformation and brand investment. “To upgrade their position, businesses must invest in content creation, customer experience, and long-term brand value,” he explained.
Call for Stronger Policies and Digital Transformation
Nguyen Anh Duc, Vice Director of Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Industry and Trade and Chairman of the Vietnam Retailers Association, said digital trade offers enormous opportunities. However, Vietnam needs a more structured approach. He pointed to global giants like Amazon, Alibaba, and Walmart, which have successfully shifted to online channels, while Vietnamese e-commerce platforms remain fragmented and loss-making, plagued by counterfeit goods.
“No Vietnamese brand can succeed without establishing a strong presence in Ho Chi Minh City,” he added.
Meanwhile, Nguyen Van Dung, Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City’s People’s Committee, warned that intellectual property violations not only harm the economy but also threaten consumer health. He called for faster digital transformation and transparent governance to create a healthier business environment.
City leaders urged Vietnamese companies to define their unique brand identity, adopt clear financial strategies, and strengthen resources to compete globally.
