Vietnam Insider

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.

Washington, D.C. / Georgia – September 5, 2025 – A sweeping immigration raid in Georgia has sent shockwaves through the international business community after U.S. authorities arrested more than 300 South Korean workers at a Hyundai–LG battery plant construction site.

The operation, led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on September 4, saw 457 suspected undocumented workers detained, including over 300 South Koreans. Videos released by ICE showed workers in handcuffs and leg restraints being escorted onto prisoner transport buses, sparking outrage in South Korea and concern among foreign investors.

Visa Abuse Allegations

ICE stated that the workers had misused B-1 business visas or visa waiver programs, which normally allow only short-term visits, not employment. Immigration lawyers argue that the rules around such visas remain vague, and some questioned whether ICE had overstepped its authority.

Charles Kuck, an Atlanta-based immigration lawyer, said many of the detained workers had been contracted to install equipment for the facility, a task arguably within the scope of their visas. “Foreign companies with major U.S. operations are now asking how to prepare if ICE agents show up at their plants,” he noted.

Investor Anxiety Grows

The raid has rattled multinational corporations operating in the U.S. with large foreign workforces. Law firms report a surge in calls from clients worried about potential risks to executives and employees under company-sponsored visas.

Tami Overby, former head of the U.S.–Korea Business Council, said some global companies have even halted sending staff to the U.S. until they fully assess the legal fallout. “The sight of hundreds of South Korean workers treated like criminals is shocking—not just in Seoul, but also in Japan, Taiwan, and other trade partners with heavy investments in the U.S.,” she warned.

Political and Economic Fallout

The Biden administration has stepped up workplace raids, echoing earlier Trump-era crackdowns. Tom Homan, immigration adviser to President Donald Trump, told CNN that more workplace raids would follow, arguing that hiring undocumented foreign workers drives down U.S. wages.

In South Korea, images of Hyundai and LG employees in shackles triggered anger and a sense of betrayal. Analysts say the incident could strain U.S.–South Korea relations, at a time when Seoul has pledged to invest $350 billion in U.S. industries as part of a recent trade agreement.

“This episode risks leaving lasting damage to America’s reputation as a reliable partner,” said John Delury, senior fellow at the Asia Society.

Meanwhile, industries reliant on foreign technical talent—including battery manufacturing, shipbuilding, and semiconductors—are bracing for closer scrutiny. Taiwan’s TSMC, which is investing $165 billion in new U.S. plants, said it views the Georgia raid as an “isolated case,” though executives admitted it has made foreign businesses more cautious.

A Climate of Fear

Immigration lawyer Robert Loughran described the raid as creating “an atmosphere of fear” at factories employing foreign nationals. He noted that ICE agents, once mostly reactive, are now encouraged to proactively seek out visa violations.

“Frankly, they have plenty of targets,” Loughran said.

Hanoi (September 2025) – Former CEO of Saigon Jewelry Company Limited (SJC), Le Thuy Hang, has been indicted for allegedly orchestrating a large-scale scheme to divert gold bars intended for price stabilization into the black market, pocketing billions of dong in illegal profits.

According to the indictment issued by the Supreme People’s Procuracy of Vietnam, Hang faces charges of asset embezzlement and abuse of power while performing official duties. A total of 16 defendants have been prosecuted in connection with the case.

Price Stabilization Policy Exploited

In June 2024, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) began selling SJC gold bars directly to four state-owned banks and SJC itself, aiming to stabilize the gold market and narrow the gap between domestic and international prices. The gold was to be sold transparently to the public at regulated prices, with strict instructions prohibiting markups or resale outside official channels.

However, prosecutors allege that Hang abused her position as SJC’s CEO by ordering subordinates to sell only a portion of the gold at official prices, while diverting the rest into the unofficial market at higher rates. The profits were then split among Hang and her accomplices.

Fake Buyers and “Ghost” Transactions

Investigators discovered that Hang directed Tran Ngoc Minh Thu, SJC’s Head of Gold Trading, to create hundreds of fake purchase orders using fictitious customer names. This allowed large amounts of SJC gold to be siphoned off under the guise of legitimate sales.

From July 20 to August 30, 2024, Thu and her team issued 591 fraudulent invoices, diverting 883 taels of gold worth VND 69 billion. The scheme generated about VND 400 million in extra profits, of which Hang allegedly pocketed VND 330 million.

Expanding the Scheme Nationwide

The investigation further revealed that Hang extended her scheme to SJC branches in Hai Phong and Central Vietnam:

• In Hai Phong, branch director Nguyen Thi Hue created a list of 1,711 fake customers, diverting 2,820 taels of SJC gold valued at VND 221 billion. She resold at inflated prices, earning an illegal profit of over VND 1.1 billion, shared with Hang.

• In Central Vietnam, branch director Hoang Le Hue allegedly sold thousands of taels outside regulated channels, profiting more than VND 4.1 billion. Employees were even asked to “contribute gold” for repeated speculative cycles, multiplying illegal earnings.

Massive Personal Gains

Authorities estimate that Hang personally profited VND 73.5 billion from the manipulation scheme. Police have seized:

• 429 taels of gold and 1.09 kg of bullion

• VND 28.4 billion in cash

• Six properties owned by Hang

• Two luxury apartments belonging to a co-defendant

National Impact

The case has raised major concerns about transparency and corruption in Vietnam’s gold market, especially as SJC holds a dominant role in the country’s bullion trade. The SBV has reiterated that gold allocated for price stabilization must be sold publicly, at listed prices, and with full accountability.

Hanoi, September 9, 2025 (VNA) – National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has announced new safety rules banning the use of lithium backup batteries on all flights operated by the Vietnam Airlines Group, which includes Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, and Vasco. The move aims to reduce risks associated with lithium batteries and ensure maximum aviation safety.

Under the new regulations, passengers carrying lithium backup batteries in their hand luggage must declare them at check-in. The devices will be inspected to detect any irregularities before boarding.

To enhance safety, Vietnam Airlines has also equipped its aircraft with fire- and smoke-proof containment bags, heat-resistant gloves, and other specialised tools certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV). Flight crews have undergone intensive emergency training to handle incidents involving lithium batteries.

On the ground, the airline is working closely with the Immigration Department (A08) under the Ministry of Public Security to strengthen baggage screening at major airports, including Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat.

Lithium batteries, commonly used in personal electronic devices, are strictly prohibited in checked baggage under international aviation regulations due to risks of fire or explosion if damaged or overheated. Recent incidents on international flights, including fires and smoke linked to lithium batteries, have raised global safety concerns.

Vietnam Airlines affirmed that it will continue to update safety protocols in line with guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and domestic regulators. The carrier reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for passengers and crew.

Police in Dak Lak Province have detained Nguyen Van Ty (30), a resident of Hamlet 4, Xuan Loc Commune, on suspicion of fatally stabbing Lieutenant Nguyen Dong Canh, an officer of Xuan Loc Commune Police.

According to the investigation, on the evening of September 7, Ty allegedly assaulted his sister-in-law, N.T.K, 36, at their shared home. The following morning, local residents reported the case to authorities.

A five-member police team from Xuan Loc Commune was dispatched to invite Ty to the station for questioning. However, as officers approached his residence around 10:30 a.m. on September 8, Ty fled. During the pursuit in Hamlet 4, Ty allegedly pulled out a knife and repeatedly attacked Lieutenant Canh, who later succumbed to his injuries.

Police immediately launched a manhunt. By 12:40 p.m. the same day, Ty was apprehended at his home in Xuan Loc Commune. At the police station, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime during initial questioning.

Authorities are continuing their investigation and legal proceedings.

A growing trend called “paying hospital fees for strangers” is spreading across Vietnamese social media, sparking waves of compassion and inspiring more young people to join in. While philanthropists have quietly supported hospital patients for years, the trend has amplified the spirit of solidarity and empathy in communities nationwide.

At Children’s Hospital No. 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, reporters witnessed moving scenes where families of seriously ill children received unexpected financial help from generous strangers. The emotional moments brought both tears and relief to parents burdened by overwhelming medical bills.

Quiet Donations That Change Lives

Ms. L.T.H.T., 32, from Nghe An Province, and her husband recently visited the hospital for the first time to cover medical costs for patients they had never met. Initially planning to donate VND 50–100 million, the couple decided to pay off the remaining hospital fees—worth VND 133 million—for 20 children battling critical illnesses.

“These families are under immense pressure. We just want to ease part of their burden,” she explained.

One of the beneficiaries was 13-year-old Vo Tran Tan Du from Dong Thap, who suffers from brain inflammation and heart infection. His father, Vo Van Hoai, said: “Our family had no way to afford the VND 180 million treatment. Knowing someone helped us pay the remaining VND 40 million gave me hope again.”

Supporting Children With Critical Illnesses

Another child helped was five-year-old Ho Gia Bao from Ben Tre Province, diagnosed with bone marrow failure and severe infections. His parents, exhausted after months of hospital stays, said they would have been unable to continue treatment without the timely support of kind strangers.

Young People Join the Movement

The trend has resonated especially with young Vietnamese. Inspired by social media videos, 23-year-old Dao Le Khang Huy and 22-year-old Vuong Nhu Y visited the hospital to donate VND 4 million from their monthly salaries.

“It’s not much, but it can make a huge difference for someone else,” Huy said. “We just wanted to share what we could.”

Instead of receiving thank-you letters, they asked to personally hand hospital fee receipts to the children’s parents—offering not just financial help but also words of encouragement.

A Growing Wave of Solidarity

According to Chu Van Thanh, acting head of the hospital’s Social Work Department, 20–30 new cases in need of financial support are reported daily. Donations can be made directly at the hospital or via bank transfer.

“What’s remarkable is that more young people are participating,” he said. “Some return multiple times to support different patients. Their willingness to listen, understand, and give in meaningful ways is a very positive sign for the future of charity work.”

Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, senior medical advisor and former head of the hospital’s social work unit, agreed: “Philanthropic contributions to hospital fees are not new. But the fact that young people are stepping up, even for strangers, shows a new and encouraging direction in community giving.”

From covering millions of dong in treatment costs to smaller but heartfelt donations, the “paying hospital fees for strangers” trend has become a powerful symbol of compassion in Vietnam—one that not only saves lives but also strengthens the bonds of humanity.

Ho Chi Minh City plans to invest more than VND 1,573 billion (around USD 62 million) between 2025 and 2030 to expand and modernize its waterway transport network, aiming to boost inter-provincial connectivity and unlock tourism potential.

Untapped Potential Along Saigon’s Rivers

At the September 9 conference on “Developing HCMC’s Waterway Transport for Passenger and Tourism Connectivity 2025–2030,” experts highlighted the city’s vast river system as a major advantage for growth.

“Despite the potential, HCMC’s waterway and riverside tourism infrastructure remains fragmented and underdeveloped. A sustainable, modern strategy is urgently needed,” said Trần Thanh Bình from the HCMC Institute for Development Studies.

Currently, services like the Bạch Đằng – Linh Đông river bus, sightseeing cruises, and floating restaurants mainly serve the inner city, while inter-provincial links remain limited.

Regional Connections and Tourism Growth

The proposed plan focuses on building a comprehensive network linking HCMC, Bình Dương, and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.

• Urban routes: Connect new residential and commercial hubs such as Thủ Thiêm, Phú Mỹ Hưng, and Hiệp Phước.

• Regional routes: Develop high-speed ferry lines to Cần Giờ and Vũng Tàu, forming key economic–tourism corridors.

• Upgraded ports: Expand Bạch Đằng Wharf (HCMC) and Cầu Đá Wharf (Vũng Tàu) into modern intercity passenger hubs.

• Tourism services: Create riverside stops featuring local cuisine, specialty markets, eco-tourism sites, and cultural heritage villages such as Long Sơn fishing village.

Investment Model

The project, valued at over VND 1,573 billion, will be implemented under a public–private partnership (PPP) with a Build–Own–Operate (BOO) model, ensuring no state budget subsidies. Revenue will mainly come from commercial and tourism services.

Long-Term Vision

• 2025–2030: Strengthen river bus routes, connect to Bình Dương and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.

• 2030–2050: Expand long-haul lines, modernize fleets, and build integrated riverside tourism infrastructure.

Experts stressed that administrative reforms and stronger regional cooperation are essential to unlock the full potential of HCMC’s waterways, transforming the Saigon River into a vibrant transport and tourism hub comparable to Paris or Bangkok.

The fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina, has ignited fierce debate in American politics over crime control and public safety.

Zarutska, 23, had fled Kyiv earlier this year to seek asylum in the U.S. and was working at a pizza shop while rebuilding her life. On August 22, she was attacked and killed by a man with a history of arrests while riding the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) train.

Although the incident initially received little media attention, it has since become a flashpoint after Republican lawmakers and right-wing commentators shared surveillance footage of the attack.

A Brutal Attack Caught on Camera

Video released by CATS shows the suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, behaving erratically while seated alone on the train. Around 9:50 p.m., Zarutska boarded and sat in front of him. Moments later, Brown pulled a folding knife from his pocket and stabbed her three times in the neck. She collapsed on her seat and died at the scene. Brown discarded the bloodied weapon near the station before fleeing.

Trump and Republicans Seize on Case

The killing has fueled support for former President Donald Trump’s proposal to deploy federal troops to Democrat-run cities such as Chicago to crack down on crime.
“These are evil people,” Trump wrote on September 8, calling the attacker “a professional criminal” who had been arrested 14 times. “The blood of Zarutska is on the hands of Democrats who refused to lock him up.”

Trump insisted that “only Republicans can restore law and order” in states like North Carolina.

Backlash Against Charlotte’s Mayor

The case drew further attention after Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, a Democrat, offered condolences but avoided mentioning Zarutska by name, instead focusing on the suspect’s condition.
“I don’t want to villainize people struggling with mental health or homelessness,” she said.

Her remarks triggered outrage from conservatives, who accused her of minimizing the crime. When the video was later made public, Mayor Lyles urged the media not to share it “out of respect for the victim’s family,” fueling further criticism.

“Charlotte’s mayor doesn’t want you to see the brutal reality. Why? Because she and other city leaders are responsible,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote on X. He accused Democrats of “downplaying murders by portraying criminals as victims of circumstance.” Trump adviser Stephen Miller went further, claiming Democrats “side with the depraved over the innocent.”

A National Flashpoint

The controversy comes as Trump has already deployed National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., and signaled he will do the same in Chicago, despite crime rates in both cities having declined in recent years.

For Zarutska’s family, the tragedy underscores the dangers faced by newcomers seeking safety in America. For U.S. politicians, it has become another battleground in the fight over crime, public safety, and partisan blame.

Rice transactions in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta have stalled after the Philippines, the country’s largest buyer, suspended imports for 60 days starting September 1.

The Philippines typically accounts for over 40% of Vietnam’s total rice exports. The sudden pause has left traders and exporters hesitant to stockpile, fearing falling prices and weak demand.

“Previously, I could buy up to 100 tons a day, but now I only dare to purchase a few tons for domestic sales,” said Ms. Hang, a trader in An Giang Province. Export contracts, she added, are on hold.

Exporters share similar caution. “Even though purchase prices are relatively low, we’re not stockpiling. We’re only buying enough for immediate needs,” said Nguyen Chi Thanh, director of Angimex’s rice division.

Prices Flat, Competition Rising

On September 8, raw and processed rice prices remained unchanged: IR 50404 at VND 8,500–8,600 per kilo, OM 5451 at VND 7,700–7,900, and OM 18 around VND 9,600–9,700. Premium varieties like Thai fragrant rice and Huong Lai continued to retail at VND 20,000–22,000 per kilo.

On the international market, Vietnam’s 5% broken rice is offered at USD 399 per ton—higher than Thai and Indian rice of the same grade. This price gap adds competitive pressure as buyers turn to cheaper alternatives amid softening demand.

Export Hubs Under Strain

In Vinh Long Province, where many firms export to the Philippines, operations are directly impacted. The provincial Department of Industry and Trade has urged local businesses to stay cautious, avoid panic buying, and diversify export markets to reduce risks. Companies were also encouraged to buy and temporarily stockpile rice to stabilize farmer incomes.

Wider Market Outlook

Between January and August, Vietnam exported 6.3 million tons of rice worth USD 3.17 billion. While volumes rose slightly, revenue fell nearly 18% due to lower average prices. The Philippines purchased 2.6 million tons, remaining Vietnam’s top customer.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has warned exporters against over-reliance on a single market and stressed the need to expand into China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Africa, and the Middle East. The ministry also urged more long-term contracts, official trade routes, and improvements in quality and traceability to meet stricter import requirements.

Industry experts say Vietnam’s higher prices compared to Thailand and India reduce its competitive edge but do not erase its market share. “Major buyers still value Vietnam for its reliable quality and delivery,” one analyst noted. “There are opportunities in Africa and the Middle East as supply from Thailand and India faces weather and policy constraints.”

Despite the shock from the Philippines’ suspension, Vietnam is still expected to export over 8 million tons of rice in 2025, holding its position as the world’s second-largest supplier. Exporters remain hopeful prices will recover toward year-end when global demand rises and the Philippines resumes imports.

Kem Beach on Phu Quoc Island, southern Vietnam. Photo by SG

Vietnam has emerged as the leading alternative to Thailand for tropical beach getaways, according to a recent Bangkok Post survey.

More than a quarter of respondents (26.3%) named Vietnam their preferred destination, ahead of the Philippines (18.9%), Indonesia (18.3%), Malaysia (12.7%), Cambodia (12.7%), and Singapore (11.1%). The online survey was conducted between July 30 and August 12.

The Bangkok Post highlighted Phu Quoc Island as a standout, praising its pristine, poetic beaches that are increasingly attracting global travelers.

The survey also noted that Thailand faces mounting challenges in maintaining its dominance, from safety and law enforcement to transport infrastructure and the creation of distinctive tourism products. Despite these issues, Thailand remains renowned for its culture, cuisine, hospitality, and affordability.

Vietnam, meanwhile, offers more than 3,200 kilometers of coastline and iconic destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ha Long Bay. Many of its beaches have been ranked among Asia’s and the world’s best by international travel magazines.

Recent years have seen strong investment in coastal tourism, with luxury resorts, high-end hotels, and a rising number of direct international flights connecting seaside cities.

Phu Quoc, in particular, has earned repeated global recognition. Travel + Leisure recently ranked it the third-best island in the Asia-Pacific, after Bali and Koh Samui. In 2024, Condé Nast Traveler readers voted Phu Quoc the second most beautiful island in Asia, behind only Bali.

Dẫn nhập: Người dẫn dắt chuyên nghiệp trong biến động ngành

Dưới tác động kép của toàn cầu hóa sâu rộng và sự biến đổi không ngừng của chính sách di trú, ngành dịch vụ di trú đang trải qua những thay đổi mang tính cơ cấu. Hiện nay, chính sách di trú Mỹ ngày càng siết chặt, độ phức tạp trong hồ sơ EB1A, NIW… liên tục tăng cao. Trong bối cảnh chính sách thay đổi nhanh chóng và nhu cầu khách hàng phân mảnh, việc chọn lựa một tổ chức chuyên nghiệp đã trở thành yếu tố quyết định đến kết quả di trú.

Với vai trò là công ty hàng đầu trong lĩnh vực di trú Mỹ EB1A và NIW, Tập đoàn Kiên Thạch đã định nghĩa lại tiêu chuẩn dịch vụ bằng sức mạnh chuyên môn. Với quy mô xử lý hơn 300 khách hàng mỗi năm, Kiên Thạch không chỉ giữ vững vị thế dẫn đầu mà còn thực hiện cam kết “lấy dịch vụ chuyên nghiệp tái định nghĩa trải nghiệm di trú”, mang đến cho khách hàng giải pháp an toàn, hiệu quả trước môi trường chính sách phức tạp.
Sứ mệnh doanh nghiệp: Biến quá trình di trú của khách hàng thành một kỷ niệm đẹp trong đời.
Cam kết cốt lõi: Dùng dịch vụ chuyên nghiệp tái định nghĩa trải nghiệm di trú, đối diện thách thức chính sách bằng thực lực, mang lại giải pháp an tâm và hiệu quả.

Định vị doanh nghiệp & mạng lưới toàn cầu

Tận dụng lợi thế khu vực trung tâm Vùng Vịnh Quảng Đông Hong Kong Macau, Kiên Thạch đặt trụ sở chính tại Thâm Quyến (Trung Quốc) và xây dựng mạng lưới dịch vụ toàn cầu. Công ty đã mở văn phòng tại Hong Kong, Việt Nam, Mỹ, Canada, Singapore, mở rộng sang Bắc Mỹ, châu Âu, châu Á Thái Bình Dương, hình thành ma trận điểm đến di trú trọng điểm.

Cách bố trí “gốc rễ tại Vùng Vịnh, kết nối toàn cầu” giúp Kiên Thạch đáp ứng nhanh nhu cầu tại từng địa phương, cung cấp dịch vụ vừa bản địa hóa vừa quốc tế hóa.

Các mảng kinh doanh chính

Chương trình Nhân tài Kiệt xuất EB1A của Mỹ: Dành cho cá nhân có năng lực nổi bật trong khoa học, nghệ thuật, giáo dục, kinh doanh, thể thao.
Chương trình Miễn trừ Vì Lợi ích Quốc gia (NIW) của Mỹ: Cho chuyên gia phù hợp lợi ích quốc gia Mỹ, không cần bảo lãnh từ doanh nghiệp.
Chương trình Nhân tài Kiệt xuất Québec của Canada: Nhắm tới cá nhân hàng đầu trong nghệ thuật, thể thao, kinh tế, nghiên cứu; không yêu cầu bảo lãnh hay trình độ ngoại ngữ, có lộ trình nhanh để lấy PR.
định cư Singapore theo diện tự kinh doanh: Thành lập công ty tại Singapore, tự làm chủ để đạt mục tiêu di trú, đồng thời cả gia đình được cấp quyền cư trú.
Hộ chiếu Dominica: Thông qua chương trình đầu tư lấy quốc tịch, khách hàng nhận hộ chiếu Dominica với quyền miễn visa đến hơn 140 quốc gia và vùng lãnh thổ.
Công dân Hong Kong: Dựa vào chính sách và lợi thế địa chính trị đặc biệt, cung cấp nhiều con đường nhận công dân Hong Kong, tận hưởng lợi ích phát triển của Vùng Vịnh.

Đội ngũ chuyên nghiệp: “Đội ngũ tinh hoa” xây dựng rào cản ngành

Đội ngũ tinh hoa là lợi thế cốt lõi của Kiên Thạch, với hơn 50 chuyên gia hồ sơ, luật sư di trú, nhân sự marketing,nhiều người có hơn 10 năm kinh nghiệm.
Hai thế mạnh lớn:
1. Hiểu sâu sắc chính sách và kinh nghiệm thực tiễn: Nắm rõ quy định, tích lũy thực tế, hiểu trọng điểm xét duyệt, năng lực vượt xa mặt bằng ngành.
2. Nguyên tắc tuân thủ: Mọi dự án đều tuân thủ pháp luật nước sở tại, đảm bảo quyền lợi khách hàng.
Sự kết hợp “nhân tài và tuân thủ” tạo nên rào cản dịch vụ không thể thay thế, là chìa khóa giữ vững niềm tin lâu dài từ khách hàng.

Thành tích phê duyệt xuất sắc

EB1A Mỹ:

Tỷ lệ phê duyệt khách hàng chuẩn: 97%
Tỷ lệ phê duyệt khách hàng không chuẩn: trên 90%

Vượt trội so với mặt bằng ngành.

Điều đặc biệt: dù cho quy mô ngày càng lớn nhưng không vì thế mà chất lượng giảm đi. Nhờ “Quy trình chuẩn hóa và Giải pháp cá nhân hóa”, Kiên Thạch vừa đảm bảo tốc độ xử lý, vừa giữ chất lượng ổn định.

Trải nghiệm dịch vụ toàn chu kỳ

Không chỉ là “quy trình minh bạch”, Kiên Thạch mang đến “hành trình trải nghiệm” cho mỗi khách hàng:

Quy trình minh bạch: Khách hàng theo dõi trực quan tiến độ hồ sơ, không phải chờ trong lo lắng.
Chăm sóc tinh thần: Đội ngũ là chuyên gia nhưng cũng là người lắng nghe, đồng hành, hỗ trợ về ngôn ngữ, văn hóa.

Mỗi bộ hồ sơ không chỉ ghi lại thủ tục mà còn lưu giữ hành trình giấc mơ nhập cư của cả gia đình.

Công nghệ hoá & tầm nhìn toàn cầu

Kiên Thạch áp dụng AI & hệ thống  xử lý dữ liệu để:
Phát triển công cụ đánh giá thông minh, chọn đúng dự án di trú phù hợp.
Xây dựng nền tảng trực tuyến, cho phép khách hàng theo dõi tiến trình trong thời gian thực, từ đó chuyển từ bị động sang chủ động.

Kết luận: Dẫn dắt nâng cấp ngành, xây dựng hệ sinh thái mới

Trong tương lai, Kiên Thạch sẽ:
Mở rộng mạng lưới toàn cầu.
Củng cố EB1A & NIW.
Đa dạng hóa sản phẩm di trú.
Kiến tạo hệ sinh thái “Hội nhập chia sẻ cùng nhau thành công” với đối tác.

Từ dịch vụ cho từng cá nhân đến kiến tạo hệ sinh thái ngành, Kiên Thạch đang dùng sức mạnh chuyên môn viết tiếp chương mới cho ngành dịch vụ di trú,giúp nhiều người biến giấc mơ di cư toàn cầu thành hiện thực.