A water pipe under Truong Chinh Street leaked, eroding the rock mixture, creating a sinkhole on the evening of July 26, according to the Hanoi Department of Construction.
On July 27, a representative of the Department of Maintenance of Transport Infrastructure Works (Hanoi Department of Construction) said that a D400 mm water pipe (400 mm in diameter) of the Clean Water Company was leaking. The water pressure eroded the mixture of crushed stone and crushed stone dust, creating a sinkhole.
For nearly half a month, the Hanoi Clean Water Company had identified a clean water leak but had not yet found its location until the sinkhole appeared. Immediately after that, the unit repaired the pipeline, leveled and spread rocks to restore the road surface.
The pipeline has been repaired and the sinkhole has been filled. Photo: Traffic Infrastructure Maintenance Board
At around 9pm on July 26, a man was riding a SH motorbike on Truong Chinh Street towards Nga Tu So, old Dong Da District. When approaching the Ton That Tung – Truong Chinh intersection, the front wheel of the motorbike fell into a deep hole, the driver fell onto the road, suffering minor scratches.
More than an hour later, the car was pulled up, revealing a hole about one meter deep and one meter in diameter, shaped like a frog’s jaw, with no water.
The Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt (Germany) is coordinating with local authorities to clarify the incident and is ready to protect and ensure the full, legitimate rights and interests of citizens.
On July 25, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that according to information from the Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt (Germany), on the evening of July 6, an accident caused the deaths of two Vietnamese citizens, twin brothers Nguyen Duy Q. and Nguyen Quang M..
The accident also injured two other citizens, one of whom, Hoang Trung H., was seriously injured and is being treated at the hospital.
Following the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt has contacted and closely coordinated with local authorities to investigate the incident and take necessary citizen protection measures.
The Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt has also contacted the victims’ relatives, providing guidance on funeral procedures and legal issues for the two deceased victims. At the same time, the Vietnamese community in Germany has coordinated with the Vietnamese community in Germany to support the relatives of the victims who are being treated at the hospital.
“The Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt is continuing to closely coordinate with local authorities to clarify the incident and is ready to take measures to support, protect, and ensure the full and legitimate rights and interests of Vietnamese citizens,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed.
Previously, according to German media, on the evening of July 6, a 23-year-old man drove a car and hit the victims.
The two victims who died were twins. Before the accident, the two brothers were studying to be dental assistants at a clinic in Hamburg, Germany.
On the night of the accident, the twin brothers and their friends attended a concert held in Frankfurt.
The news that Trung Hieu (Bop) – the owner of a TikTok channel with nearly 120,000 followers – is in critical condition after a serious accident in Germany has made many people feel sorry.
Recently, the Vietnamese online community and international student groups in Germany spread information about a serious accident that occurred in Frankfurt (Germany), leaving a Vietnamese TikToker in critical condition.
According to Hamburg T-online , on the morning of July 6 (local time), a 23-year-old man driving a car crashed into two electric scooters. The incident left two Vietnamese twin brothers dead on the spot, and another person with serious head and leg injuries. The suspect has been arrested, and the case is under further investigation.
The victim in critical condition is Hoang Trung Hieu (27 years old), known by his nickname Bop. He is the owner of a TikTok channel with nearly 120,000 followers. On this platform, Trung Hieu often posts short, inspirational videos about life and love, attracting hundreds of thousands to millions of views.
Speaking to Dan Tri reporter , Tran Thi Khanh Van – Trung Hieu’s girlfriend – confirmed that her lover was one of the three victims in the accident. At the time of the incident, Trung Hieu was traveling by tram with two close friends. Both friends did not survive, while Trung Hieu was rushed to the emergency room in critical condition.
Trung Hieu’s girlfriend is currently in Vietnam. The two are in a long-distance relationship and have shared many affectionate photos on social media. She said that when she heard the news, she was shocked and worried, but could not go to Germany to take care of her lover due to the geographical distance. Trung Hieu’s mother has now flown to Germany to be by her son’s side.
Khanh Van said that since the accident, Trung Hieu has undergone many emergency surgeries to fight for his life. He is still in a deep coma, has a traumatic brain injury, many wounds on his body and had to have part of his leg amputated.
More than a week ago, Trung Hieu underwent brain surgery and was transferred to a specialized hospital for further treatment. During the recovery process, he had a high fever of 40 degrees Celsius, severe anemia, and was given a blood transfusion. According to Trung Hieu’s mother, his fever has now subsided, but his brain is still swollen.
The family is currently focusing all their efforts on treatment, while legal issues will await conclusions from German authorities.
It is known that Trung Hieu works as a nurse at a nursing home in Germany, specializing in taking care of the elderly and post-operative patients.
The incident left the Vietnamese online community heartbroken, constantly sharing information and sending prayers for him. On TikTok, many people left encouraging comments under Trung Hieu’s old videos.
Hai Phong – City police are investigating the case of a father in Kien Thuy commune who used a knife to seriously injure his daughter.
Father slashes daughter in Hai Phong. Photo cut from clip
Initial information, at around 12 noon on July 22, Do Van Hien (53 years old, residing in Kien Doi 1 village, Kien Thuy commune) and his ex-wife, Ms. NTH (51 years old, Kien Thuy commune) had a conflict and argued. Seeing that, Ms. D.TT (28 years old, daughter of Mr. Hien and Ms. H) stepped in to stop him but was slashed straight in the head by her father with a knife, causing him to collapse on the road. After committing the crime, the subject walked away for about 3 meters and then returned to slash Ms. T again.
Seeing her daughter being slashed, Mrs. NTH ran to call for help from the locals. Many people in the neighborhood also immediately showed up, coordinated to take the victim to the emergency room, and reported the incident to the police.
Upon receiving the news, Kien Thuy Commune Police arrived at the scene and arrested Do Van Hien.
Currently, the Kien Thuy Commune Police have handed over the case to the Hai Phong City Police Investigation Agency for handling according to regulations. It is known that Do Van Hien has a criminal record.
Son La – A 19-month-old boy died from RSV virus , 8 other children in the same class at Hong Ngoc Kindergarten got sick, many cases had to be transferred to the hospital for treatment.
Medical staff check the health of a child suspected of being infected with RSV virus at a medical facility. Photo: Nguyen Thu
On July 25, according to a report from the Mai Son Regional Medical Center, at 10:00 p.m. on July 23, the unit received information from the Mai Son Commune Health Station about the case of a child named NNBH (born in 2023), studying at Hong Ngoc Kindergarten, who died at Son La Provincial General Hospital after nearly a week of intensive treatment.
Earlier, on the morning of July 17, baby H was taken to kindergarten by his grandfather. By the afternoon of the same day, the baby had symptoms of cough, runny nose, fever and fatigue. The teacher discovered unusual signs and called the mother to take the baby home.
Mai Son Regional Medical Center held an urgent meeting after a death caused by RSV virus at Hong Ngoc Kindergarten. Photo: Nguyen Thu
The family gave the child fever-reducing medicine and monitored him at home. However, by noon on July 18, the child’s condition did not improve, so he was taken to a private clinic and was advised to be transferred to another hospital.
At around 12:40 p.m. the same day, the baby was admitted to Son La Provincial General Hospital, diagnosed with pneumonia caused by RSV virus and taken to the Emergency Resuscitation Department. Despite being put on a ventilator and receiving intensive treatment, the baby did not survive and died at 7 a.m. on July 23.
Immediately after recording the death, Mai Son Regional Medical Center established a monitoring team at Hong Ngoc Kindergarten.
The health department sprayed disinfectants in all classrooms and school grounds, made a list of children in the same class, advised parents to take their children to see a doctor and get early treatment, and educated teachers and parents about the transmission routes, symptoms, and prevention of RSV virus.
RSV respiratory syncytial virus test for children at Mai Son Regional General Hospital. Photo: Nguyen Thu
The report said that Hong Ngoc Kindergarten currently has 270 children, and has recorded 9 positive cases of RSV virus.
Of these, 1 case has died, 5 children are being treated at the National Children’s Hospital (Hanoi), 2 children are being monitored at Mai Son Regional General Hospital and 1 child is being treated at the Provincial General Hospital.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the common causes of lower respiratory tract infections in young children, especially infants and children under 2 years of age. RSV spreads rapidly through droplets from an infected person when coughing, sneezing, or contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with secretions containing the virus.
Common symptoms include: cough, fever, runny nose, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. In young children, RSV can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis, acute respiratory failure, and even death if not treated promptly.
Ho Chi Minh City will pilot green transportation in Con Dao and Can Gio, only allowing registration of new vehicles using electricity or clean fuel, while existing gasoline vehicles will still be allowed to circulate.
The information was given by Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc at a working session with the People’s Committee of Con Dao Special Zone on the afternoon of July 25.
At the meeting, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Con Dao Special Zone Phan Trong Hien proposed allowing four-wheeled vehicles with electric engines to operate in the area; at the same time, he proposed a policy to develop electric vehicles, encourage the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles, and gradually turn Con Dao into a model of “green island and smart island”.
Concluding the meeting, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc requested to clearly identify the unique identity of Con Dao in order to build a suitable development strategy, ensuring the preservation of its unique values. “The ecosystem in Con Dao is very special, found nowhere else. The wild nature and peaceful life are valuable assets that need to be protected and promoted,” Mr. Duoc emphasized.
The Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee assigned relevant departments and branches to coordinate and advise on building a comprehensive development strategy for Con Dao in the direction of “green – identity – livable”. Investment policies and projects must harmonize the goals of economic development with the conservation of nature and historical relics.
Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc speaks at the meeting. Photo: Minh Quan
To realize the sustainable development orientation, the Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee requested the construction of a modern and environmentally friendly transport infrastructure system.
Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc said that Ho Chi Minh City chose Con Dao and Can Gio as the two leading localities in developing green transportation.
Existing gasoline vehicles will be kept, while new vehicles will use clean fuel or electricity. Investors should also orient vehicles to operate on electricity and renewable energy.
The Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee also requested careful consideration of the proposal to develop a cable car line combining transportation and tourism in Con Dao, both creating a highlight to attract tourists and ensuring national security and defense.
The orientation for green transport development in Con Dao and Can Gio is part of the Vehicle Emission Control Project that Ho Chi Minh City is implementing in two phases.
Phase 1 focuses on building a roadmap and policies to support the development of charging stations and the conversion of buses to electricity or renewable energy. The goal is that by 2030, all buses in Ho Chi Minh City must use electricity or clean energy.
The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction is coordinating to complete the project in the direction of expanding the scale of implementation throughout the new Ho Chi Minh City (after the merger), expected to be submitted to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Phase 2 of the project will expand the scope of application to the entire new Ho Chi Minh City, with key contents including developing policies for purchasing and exchanging old vehicles and implementing support and incentive packages for people and businesses in the process of converting from gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles and clean fuel.
Ho Chi Minh City is planning to replace more than 400,000 gasoline motorbikes of technology drivers with electric vehicles.
Hanoi’s tourism industry is estimated to welcome 18.36 million visitors and earn VND73,000 billion in the first 7 months of 2025.
Hanoi Department of Tourism informed on July 25 that the total number of tourists to Hanoi in July 2025 is estimated at 2.8 million, an increase of 10.3% over the same period in 2024.
International tourists are estimated at 553,190 arrivals, up 25.2% over the same period in 2024 (including 390,000 international tourists with accommodation); domestic tourists are estimated at 2.25 million arrivals, up 7.1% over the same period in 2024.
Total revenue from tourists is estimated at VND 10.68 trillion, up 13.9% over the same period in 2024. The average room occupancy rate of the hotel sector is estimated at 56.94%.
In the first 7 months of 2025, the total number of tourists to Hanoi is estimated at 18.36 million, an increase of 11.6% over the same period in 2024. International tourists are estimated at 4.21 million, an increase of 22.3% over the same period in 2024 (including 2.97 million international tourists with accommodation), domestic tourists are estimated at 14.15 million, an increase of 8.7% over the same period in 2024.
Total revenue from tourists in the first 7 months is estimated at 73,000 billion VND, up 14.5% over the same period in 2024.
It is expected that the capital’s tourism industry will continue to attract visitors through a series of events aimed at celebrating the 80th anniversary of the successful August Revolution and National Day, September 2.
Director of Hanoi Department of Tourism Dang Huong Giang said that the capital’s tourism industry has prepared very early to be able to launch new products, as well as ensure service quality at accommodation establishments.
To welcome a large number of tourists to the capital during the upcoming A80 anniversary, the Hanoi Department of Tourism has directed units and businesses to improve the quality of tourism products and upgrade accommodation facilities, especially those in the city center.
According to statistics from online travel booking platforms Agoda and Booking.com, Hanoi leads the travel trend during the National Day holiday on September 2.
Travel agencies also recorded a similar trend, as a large number of tourists are interested in Hanoi and want to participate in activities celebrating the A80 anniversary, especially the large-scale military parade.
Passenger Tran Huy Tung suddenly felt a strong shake and then the bus overturned. The survivors panicked, called for help and tried to escape.
Passenger Tran Huy Tung was shocked to recount the accident that killed 10 people – Photo: HA
After many hours of being taken to Ky Anh General Hospital, Mr. Tran Huy Tung (42 years old, living in Bac Ninh province) is still in shock after experiencing a bus accident that killed 10 people and injured 14 others.
Mr. Tung recalled that at around 8:00 p.m. on July 24, the bus left Nuoc Ngam bus station (Hanoi) to go to Da Nang. After midnight, the bus arrived in Ha Tinh province and stopped for about 10 minutes before continuing its journey.
At around 2am on July 25, the bus suddenly shook violently and flipped to the right. Lying on the second floor, Mr. Tung quickly crawled out and guided many other people to get out of the bus.
“At that time, the car was quite dark, with many suitcases and belongings scattered everywhere. I heard many cries for help because many people were stuck in the car and could not get out,” passenger Tung recounted.
The passenger bus was severely damaged after the accident – Photo: HA
Pham Quang Rin (27 years old, living in Da Nang City) said he woke up when he heard a loud noise and the car overturned. At that time, everyone was panicking, screaming and calling for help. The car’s windows were shattered, some people were thrown out, others were lying on top of each other.
“Everything was so chaotic at that time, I broke the window to escape. While the car was being lifted up, I saw several people lying underneath,” Mr. Rin recalled.
Mr. Hoang Dinh Phong recounts the moment he saved the victims in the accident – Photo: HA
As one of the first people to rescue the victims, Mr. Hoang Dinh Phong (42 years old, residing in Song Tri ward) said: “The scene at that time was very chaotic with many cries and cries for help from the victims”.
“It was around 2am, the whole neighborhood was quiet, everyone was sleeping when they were awakened by a loud noise. I quickly got out of bed and ran outside to see what was happening and saw the bus lying on its side in front of the house, many people inside the bus were screaming and calling for help,” said Mr. Phong.
Mr. Phong immediately called the police and then, along with some other people, took hammers to the scene to try to break the glass door to get the victim out.
“At that time, the car was overturned so it was very difficult to approach. My brother-in-law broke the rear window, and a person inside crawled out. Then the police force came to support, everyone split into groups to get into the car and pull each victim out.
People were lying everywhere, some were stuck, it was very difficult to lift each person into the ambulance,” Mr. Phong said, still in shock.
Many items on the car fell out after the accident – Photo: HA
As reported by Tuoi Tre Online , at around 2:10 a.m. on July 25, at Km571+800 on National Highway 1 in Dong Trinh residential area (Song Tri ward, Ha Tinh), a sleeper bus of Tan Kim Chi, with a license plate of Da Nang city, driven by driver Le Ngoc Thanh (36 years old, residing in Dong Quang ward, Thanh Hoa) on the Hanoi – Da Nang route, lost control at the above location, crashed into roadside milestones and overturned.
There were 28 people on the bus, including 1 driver, 1 assistant driver, 26 passengers, including 1 child under 7 years old.
The initial cause of the accident, according to the driver, was a front tire burst, causing the car to overturn.
The incident caused serious consequences, resulting in 10 deaths, of which 7 people died on the spot, 3 people died after emergency treatment, and 14 people were injured (being treated at Ky Anh Town General Hospital).
Vietnam has made a notable leap in the global passport rankings, rising seven places in the latest Henley Passport Index for Q3 2025.
Now ranked 84th globally, Vietnam’s passport has seen one of its strongest improvements since the index began tracking travel freedom two decades ago. This upward momentum highlights both the country’s growing international presence and the evolving dynamics of global mobility.
According to the Q3 update released on July 22 by Henley & Partners, Vietnamese passport holders can now access 51 destinations either visa-free or with simplified entry procedures such as e-visas, visa-on-arrival, or electronic travel authorizations (ETAs). This access is measured against a total of 227 destinations worldwide. The current ranking of 84 represents a significant climb from 91 in Q1 2025 and 87 at the end of 2024.
Destinations accessible to Vietnamese citizens without a traditional visa include ASEAN countries as well as Barbados, Bolivia, Chile, Maldives, Kenya, Panama, and Kazakhstan, among others. The growing list of accessible nations underscores Vietnam’s incremental success in negotiating bilateral travel agreements and fostering international cooperation.
Singapore continues to dominate the index, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 destinations—more than any other country. However, citizenship in the city-state remains difficult to obtain, requiring a minimum two-year residency, fulfillment of economic contribution requirements, and—for men—mandatory military service.
South Korea and Japan hold joint second place, with 190 accessible destinations. Meanwhile, major European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, and Spain sit in third with 189. The United Arab Emirates has seen one of the most dramatic ascents, jumping from 42nd to 8th place in a decade. China, too, has made notable gains—rising from 94th in 2015 to 60th in 2025—though it still lacks visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
In contrast, the United States has dropped to 10th place, sharing its position with Iceland and Lithuania—its lowest ranking in the Henley Index’s 20-year history. Analysts attribute this decline to a lack of strategic diplomatic initiatives aimed at expanding visa reciprocity with other countries.
The United States’ slipping rank reflects a broader shift in global soft power. In 2014, the U.S. held the top spot in passport strength; today, it allows visa-free entry to 182 destinations. Due to the Henley Index’s scoring system, which groups countries with equal access into the same rank, 33 nations now surpass the U.S. in global mobility.
Adding to this, a controversial new U.S. domestic regulation has introduced a mandatory “visa bond fee” of at least $250 for non-immigrant visa applicants. The U.S. Travel Association warns that this could further discourage international visitors, potentially harming tourism and global exchange.
Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasized that global mobility is not automatic—it must be earned through active diplomacy and strategic international engagement. Countries that proactively negotiate visa exemptions and uphold reciprocal agreements are more likely to see gains in passport strength. Conversely, nations that fail to engage in such efforts risk being left behind.
Vietnam’s seven-rank jump is a clear signal of its improving global reputation and more assertive diplomatic posture. As Vietnam continues to strengthen its international partnerships, particularly within Asia and emerging markets, its passport could gain even more global leverage in the coming years.
The Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), remains one of the most authoritative benchmarks of travel freedom worldwide. It is updated biannually in the first and third quarters, with periodic interim updates to reflect real-time policy changes.
For Vietnam, the latest ranking is not merely a number—it represents growing global engagement, enhanced international trust, and new opportunities for its citizens in an increasingly connected world.
A Jeju Air pilot is suspected of mistakenly shutting down the less damaged engine following a bird strike during a landing attempt at Muan Airport, South Korea, in late December last year — a critical error that may have led to the country’s deadliest aviation disaster, resulting in 179 fatalities.
Investigation Reveals Critical Misjudgment
According to a Reuters report on July 21 citing sources close to the investigation, a multinational probe led by South Korean authorities has uncovered “clear evidence” indicating that the pilot turned off the aircraft’s left engine — which was less damaged — instead of the right engine, which had sustained more severe impact from the bird strike.
Data recovered from the cockpit voice recorder, onboard computer systems, and engine control switches found in the wreckage supports this conclusion. A source familiar with the matter stated, “The investigation team has robust data and evidence, and this conclusion will not change,” speaking on condition of anonymity due to the confidential status of the preliminary report.
Further analysis by South Korean government officials of the two engines recovered from the crash site confirmed that neither engine showed signs of malfunction prior to the bird strike that preceded the crash.
Deadliest Aviation Tragedy in South Korea’s History
The fatal crash occurred on December 29, 2024, at Muan International Airport, involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800. The aircraft was carrying 179 passengers and crew members — all of whom perished, except for two surviving flight attendants. It is now considered the deadliest aviation accident to ever occur on South Korean soil.
At a press briefing with victims’ families last weekend, investigators reported that the right engine had sustained more damage due to the bird strike compared to the left engine. They also revealed indirect evidence suggesting the pilot shut down the less damaged left engine during the emergency response.
These findings were reported by major Korean news outlets, including MBN and Yonhap News Agency. However, the Korean Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board (ARAIB), which is leading the inquiry, has declined to comment. Aircraft manufacturer Boeing also refused to respond, while CFM International — the joint venture between GE (U.S.) and Safran (France) that manufactured the engines — has yet to issue a statement.
Jeju Air has stated it is fully cooperating with ARAIB and is awaiting the official release of the investigation results.
Growing Tensions and Delayed Report Release
According to international aviation regulations, a final accident report is typically published within one year of the incident. A preliminary report issued in January noted the presence of bird remains in both engines but did not detail the extent of damage to each.
On July 19, ARAIB abruptly canceled a planned media briefing to provide an updated report following objections from victims’ families. Legal representatives argued that the draft report appeared to place disproportionate blame on the pilot without fully investigating other contributing factors.
Runway Collision and Explosion Worsened Casualties
The Jeju Air aircraft reportedly landed belly-first on the runway before skidding off and striking a concrete barrier housing navigation equipment. The collision triggered a fire and partial explosion, compounding the tragedy.
Both the victims’ families and Jeju Air’s pilots’ union have demanded that investigators also examine the role of the barrier in the unusually high death toll. The union accused ARAIB of “misleading the public” by downplaying damage to the left engine, despite evidence of bird remains in both engines. It also criticized the agency for failing to address the potential accountability of airport authorities or aviation regulators.
Representatives for the victims’ families expressed concern that some language in the draft report may be misinterpreted as conclusive, reiterating that all aspects of the crash must be thoroughly examined before any official report is released.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has proposed a 20% annual capital gains tax on individual residents who earn income from securities trading, marking a potential shift in how capital market profits are taxed in the country.
Key Changes Proposed in the Draft Personal Income Tax Law
Under the draft of a revised Personal Income Tax Law, the Ministry of Finance is seeking to reform how taxes are calculated on the transfer of securities and capital. Specifically, it proposes that resident individuals who sell securities would be subject to a 20% tax on their annual taxable income from capital gains. This taxable income would be calculated as the selling price minus the purchase price and any related, reasonable costs incurred during the taxable year.
In cases where the purchase price and associated costs cannot be determined, a flat tax of 0.1% on the gross sale value would apply on a per-transaction basis.
For capital transfers (non-securities), the ministry also proposes a 20% tax on each transaction’s capital gain. If the original cost and expenses are unverifiable, a flat 2% tax on the transaction value would apply.
Current Tax Structure and the Need for Reform
Under the existing Personal Income Tax Law No. 04/2007, effective since 2009, Vietnam has allowed two methods of taxing securities transactions. The primary method requires individuals to pay a provisional tax of 0.1% on each transaction’s sale price during the year. At year-end, they may reconcile their annual income and claim a refund or make additional payments based on actual gains, subtracting provisional tax already paid.
If the cost basis and related expenses are unverifiable, the flat 0.1% tax on each sale applies without the need for end-of-year reconciliation.
However, since 2013, Law No. 71/2014 introduced a unified system that levies a 0.1% tax on the transfer value of each transaction, regardless of whether the trade results in a gain or loss. This blanket approach has drawn criticism from investors and tax experts, many of whom argue it unfairly taxes loss-making transactions. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly called for a more equitable system that taxes only realized profits.
Global Tax Practices Inform Proposed Reforms
According to the Ministry of Finance, the proposed revisions are informed by international practices and lessons learned from Vietnam’s tax administration over the years. The ministry notes that most countries tax capital gains from securities and equity transfers, though the methods vary widely.
Some jurisdictions tax a percentage of the transfer value, while others apply tax only to net gains. Some countries also distinguish between listed and unlisted securities when applying tax rates.
For example, Indonesia applies a 0.1% withholding tax on revenue from listed share transactions. The Philippines imposes a 0.6% tax on the total value of securities transactions. Japan levies a fixed 20.3% capital gains tax on certain securities such as stocks, bonds, and warrants. China applies a 20% tax on income from unlisted securities, while Thailand treats capital gains as part of general taxable income and applies the personal income tax rate accordingly.
The proposed changes signal a shift in Vietnam’s approach to taxing capital market activity, potentially making the system more aligned with international norms. If adopted, the move could have significant implications for both retail investors and institutional market participants.
The Ministry of Finance is expected to continue collecting feedback before finalizing the revised tax law for submission to the National Assembly.
Phu Tho, Vietnam – In a tense overnight standoff, Major General Nguyen Minh Tuan, Director of the Phu Tho Provincial Police Department, personally led a hostage rescue operation, employing psychological tactics to persuade an armed man to release his victim unharmed.
Authorities confirmed on July 21 that 33-year-old Mai Duc Giang is currently in criminal detention while under investigation for unlawful detention and other related offenses. The incident, which unfolded on the night of July 20, stemmed from a personal dispute involving Giang and the victim.
According to the Phu Tho Police, Giang chased a taxi operated by driver Cuong and carrying passenger Thu Trang—both residents of Tram Than commune. The pursuit ended near the Ngoc Thap Bridge on the Ho Chi Minh Highway in Hien Quan commune, where Giang forcibly approached the vehicle. He then smashed the taxi window with a metal rod before attacking the driver with a knife, causing injuries.
Giang subsequently entered the vehicle, held the knife to Trang’s throat, cut her hair, and physically assaulted her, causing her to panic. By 11:00 p.m., he remained barricaded inside the taxi, holding her hostage at knifepoint.
Upon receiving an emergency alert from the Criminal Police Division, Major General Tuan and the Deputy Police Chief arrived at the scene to take command. Despite police presence, the suspect continued to scream, issue threats, and brandish weapons while refusing to surrender.
Recognizing the escalating danger, Major General Tuan approached the suspect directly and began a psychological intervention. Police also brought Giang’s parents and child to the scene in an effort to appeal to his emotions and encourage a peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, a tactical unit stood ready to intervene if the suspect became violent.
After more than three hours of high-stakes negotiation, at approximately 2:30 a.m. on July 21, authorities safely subdued Giang and rescued the hostage without any fatalities or serious injuries.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to clarify all aspects of the case.
As global supply chains continue to diversify beyond China, EMS manufacturing in Vietnam is emerging as a strategic alternative for international electronics brands seeking scalability, cost-efficiency, and resilience. From turnkey PCB assembly to box-build integration, Vietnam is rapidly climbing the value chain in high-tech manufacturing — backed by strong foreign direct investment (FDI), competitive labor costs, and a growing ecosystem of local component suppliers.
Vietnam’s Emerging Role in EMS Manufacturing
Over the past decade, Vietnam has quietly but steadily transformed its industrial base. Initially known for textile, garment, and basic assembly operations, the country is now attracting attention for its sophisticated Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) sector. This shift reflects Vietnam’s growing capability to support not only labor-intensive production, but also technically complex products and value-added services.
Major manufacturing zones such as Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Ninh, and Da Nang now host modern EMS factories that serve a wide range of global clients. These facilities are capable of supporting full product life cycles — from design for manufacturability (DFM) and prototype development, to high-volume PCB assembly and final product integration.
The Vietnamese government has played an active role by developing high-tech industrial parks and offering incentives for semiconductor-related investment. Recent policy roadmaps aim to boost R&D capacity, develop skilled engineering talent, and integrate local firms into global value chains.
For a real-world look inside one of Vietnam’s most advanced electronics factories, watch our exclusive factory tour video below. You’ll explore how turnkey PCB assembly lines operate — from high-speed SMT machines to full box-build systems — and hear insights from the factory director on Vietnam’s evolving role in EMS manufacturing.
Turnkey PCB Assembly Services Gain Traction in Vietnam
A standout feature of Vietnam’s EMS landscape is the increasing adoption of turnkey PCB assembly services. Under this model, EMS providers take full responsibility for the production process — sourcing all components, manufacturing the printed circuit boards (PCBs), and completing the final assembly and functional testing.
This model provides OEMs and startups alike with several key advantages:
Streamlined procurement and logistics, reducing the complexity of managing multiple suppliers
Faster time to market, especially for New Product Introduction (NPI) and iterative prototyping
Greater quality control, thanks to centralized production and traceable component sourcing
Cost savings through economies of scale and local vendor partnerships
Factories offering turnkey PCBA services in Vietnam are increasingly automated, with SMT lines capable of placing 0201-size components, AOI (Automated Optical Inspection), X-ray inspection, and in-circuit testing (ICT). In many facilities, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) are used to track process parameters in real time, enhancing transparency and compliance for international customers.
FDI Growth and Supply Chain Diversification Fuel Vietnam’s EMS Sector
Vietnam’s emergence in the EMS sector coincides with a broader strategic shift in global manufacturing. Rising costs in China, geopolitical uncertainty, and a renewed focus on supply chain resilience have prompted multinational companies to adopt a “China Plus One” strategy — and Vietnam is at the top of the list.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam’s electronics manufacturing sector has surged, with industry giants such as Foxconn, Pegatron, Jabil, and Amkor establishing or expanding operations. These investments not only bring advanced production capacity, but also contribute to skill development and technology transfer across the Vietnamese supply chain.
Mid-sized OEMs and contract manufacturers from Europe and North America are also setting up sourcing offices or collaborating with local EMS partners for flexible, scalable production. Turnkey PCBA in Vietnam allows them to avoid upfront capital expenditures while maintaining control over quality and IP protection.
Importantly, local sourcing capabilities have grown significantly. Many EMS companies can now procure up to 60–70% of standard components locally or from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Malaysia. This contributes to shorter lead times and reduced exposure to global supply shocks.
Key Sectors Benefiting from EMS and PCBA Manufacturing in Vietnam
Vietnam’s EMS factories serve a broad range of industries, with demand growing most rapidly in the following sectors:
Telecommunications and IoT: Vietnam supports the assembly of routers, smart meters, gateway devices, and 5G infrastructure equipment.
Medical Devices: With strict regulatory requirements, Vietnam’s EMS providers are increasingly capable of producing low-volume, high-complexity boards with full traceability and testing.
Automotive Electronics: As EV production expands across Asia, PCB assemblies for battery management systems, infotainment units, and ECUs are in high demand.
Consumer Electronics: Vietnam’s stable infrastructure, low-cost labor, and improving logistics make it ideal for manufacturing smart wearables, headphones, and connected home devices.
Vietnamese EMS firms are also moving upstream — offering design support, software integration, and supply chain management services that traditionally fell outside their scope.
Future Outlook for EMS and Electronics Manufacturing in Vietnam
With the global EMS market expected to surpass USD 800 billion by 2030, Vietnam is positioned to capture a meaningful share. The country’s advantage lies not only in cost but in its flexibility, political stability, growing talent pool, and improving local supplier network.
Challenges remain — including infrastructure gaps in inland regions, limited availability of certain high-end ICs, and the need for deeper R&D investment. However, with public-private partnerships and increased collaboration between global OEMs and Vietnamese firms, the country is well on its way to becoming a regional high-tech manufacturing hub.
As sustainability and ESG compliance become essential across the electronics industry, many EMS factories in Vietnam are also pursuing ISO 14001, RoHS, and REACH certifications. Some have even adopted green manufacturing initiatives such as solar-powered production lines and zero-waste targets.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s position in the global EMS and turnkey PCB assembly value chain is no longer a secondary option — it is a strategic driver of competitive advantage. From prototype development to high-volume production, international OEMs are discovering that Vietnam offers a rare combination of quality, cost-efficiency, speed, and long-term scalability.
As the country continues to integrate into the global semiconductor and electronics ecosystem, those who invest early in Vietnam’s EMS landscape stand to gain not only from operational savings, but also from strategic resilience in a fast-changing manufacturing world.
As global supply chains continue to diversify, OEM manufacturing in Vietnam has emerged as a powerful solution for companies seeking custom, cost-effective, and export-ready production. Once known mainly for textiles and low-value assembly, Vietnam is now establishing itself as a rising hub for Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) across sectors like electrical systems, industrial machinery, green technology, and consumer electronics.
Vietnam’s Manufacturing Landscape: Unlocking the OEM Opportunity
In the first half of 2025, the manufacturing and processing sector grew by 10 percent, reflecting the country’s transition from basic assembly work to higher-volume production with improved technical capabilities. During the same period, exports rose by 14.4 percent, with processed industrial goods accounting for more than 88 percent of total export value. This indicates Vietnam’s increasing ability to deliver value-added and customized products for international markets.
Vietnam and the United States may recently have reached a trade agreement that sets the average export tariff on Vietnamese goods entering the US at 20 percent, a rate lower than that of many other countries in the region. This development strengthens Vietnam’s position in OEM manufacturing, particularly as the US remains its largest export destination.
In this video, we visit an OEM factory in Binh Duong that specializes in producing electrical panels and sheet metal parts for export. Watch to discover the production capabilities of OEM factories in Vietnam and understand why the country is becoming a competitive hub for custom manufacturing.
What Makes Vietnam Attractive for OEM Manufacturing?
Competitive Labor Costs
According to the 2025 report by World Population Review, Vietnam’s minimum wage is approximately 0.76 dollars per hour, while in China it stands at 1.27 dollars per hour — a difference of about 40 percent. This wage gap offers a significant cost advantage for manufacturers, especially in labor-intensive sectors like textiles, electronics, and OEM production.
MovetoAsia sourcing agency team visiting one Vietnam garments factory
Recent surveys also show that Vietnamese factory workers earn an average of 250 to 400 dollars per month, making Vietnam one of the most cost-effective options in the region for both manufacturing and back-office outsourcing. This affordability, combined with an increasingly skilled workforce, continues to attract international buyers seeking efficient and scalable production.
Modern factories in Vietnam offer more than just low-cost labor — they deliver end-to-end value chain capabilities. From product design, prototyping, and engineering support to sheet metal fabrication, enclosure production, wiring, final assembly, and functional testing, many Vietnamese manufacturers can manage the entire OEM process in-house. This integrated approach reduces lead times, minimizes risks in coordination, and ensures consistent product quality — making Vietnam a highly attractive destination for brands seeking scalable and efficient OEM solutions.
Flexible Order Quantities
Vietnamese OEM manufacturers are known for their flexibility in both order quantities and customization. Whether you’re placing a small pilot order, a mid-sized batch, or scaling up to mass production, many factories can adjust accordingly. This adaptability makes Vietnam an ideal choice for startups testing new products, niche brands offering multiple product variations, and established companies seeking responsive and reliable manufacturing partners.
Key OEM Manufacturing Sectors in Vietnam
Vietnam’s OEM manufacturing strength is supported by several globally integrated industries. In textiles and garments, the country remains a leading exporter, producing for major international brands such as Nike, Adidas, and H&M.
The furniture sector continues to perform strongly, supplying well-known brands like IKEA and Ashley Furniture. Vietnamese manufacturers in this space offer competitive capabilities in both large-scale production and customized design work, making them ideal OEM partners.
Electronics is also an increasingly important OEM sector, with factories in provinces like Bac Ninh and Bac Giang producing components and sub-assemblies for major global supply chains. These manufacturing clusters support international clients through services such as PCB production, wiring systems, and control modules.
Vietnam’s manufacturing ecosystem includes a wide range of factories. While larger factories often follow structured quality systems, smaller ones may lack standardized QC processes or trained staff. This makes quality control a key concern, especially when working with lower tier suppliers.
In several sectors, particularly textiles, Vietnamese manufacturers rely heavily on raw materials imported from countries like China. This dependence can lead to supply chain disruptions, longer lead times, and price volatility, especially during global trade tensions or logistical bottlenecks.
Infrastructure is another key limitation. Vietnam’s transport and logistics systems, while improving, still fall behind China’s in terms of efficiency and capacity. Factories located outside major industrial hubs may face issues such as limited warehouse space, slower cargo movement, and higher transportation costs, all of which can affect production timelines and delivery schedules.
Vietnam’s OEM Future
Vietnam is no longer just a low-cost alternative. It is steadily becoming a full-service OEM manufacturing hub across key sectors like textiles, furniture, electronics, and industrial components. With competitive labor costs, flexible production capabilities, and increasing export performance, the country offers strong appeal for global brands seeking scalable and customized manufacturing solutions.
Looking ahead, Vietnam is poised to move further up the value chain. As infrastructure improves and investments in technology and workforce training accelerate, the country has the potential to support more advanced and high-value OEM projects. For companies planning their next manufacturing strategy, Vietnam is not only relevant today but increasingly strategic for the future.
Ever wondered what it’s really like to be a prop firm trader? Maybe you’ve scrolled through those “pass the challenge” screenshots or joined a Discord to ask aboutFunding Rock funding solutions, only to realize nobody’s sharing what a normal Tuesday actually feels like. If you’re considering the leap—or you’re just curious about the behind-the-scenes reality—here’s a brutally honest look at the daily routine, the ups and downs, and what you can expect if you decide to trade with a prop firm.
The Morning: Checking the Rules (and Your Nerves)
For most prop firm traders, the day starts earlier than you’d expect. Forget rolling out of bed at noon—by 7 or 8 a.m., you’re usually at your desk, coffee in hand, scanning your firm’s dashboard for overnight emails or any sudden rule changes. (Yes, that happens more often than you’d think, especially if you’re using prop firms known for active rule adjustments.)
First step? Check your funded account’s metrics. Are you within your daily drawdown limit? Did you accidentally let a trade slip past a major news event? You’d be surprised how many traders have lost their funding because they missed a “no trading during NFP” warning in the morning update.
Pre-Market Rituals: Analysis Over Hype
Forget the hype videos. A real day-in-the-life means running your own technical analysis, reviewing news calendars, and prepping your watchlist. Prop firm traders need to be on top of market volatility—not just chasing signals. The best in the game keep meticulous journals, jotting down possible setups, target zones, and (most importantly) risk management plans.
Here’s the twist: you’re always trading with someone else’s money. That means every position, lot size, and stop-loss gets double-checked. It’s not just about hunting profits; it’s about staying funded.
The Trading Session: Focus, Discipline, and (Sometimes) Boredom
Once the session opens, it’s all about patience. Most prop firms (whether you’re with FTMO, Funding Rock, or another) are strict about rules: don’t overleverage, don’t overtrade, and don’t get cute with banned strategies. Some days, the best trade is no trade at all.
Realistically, a lot of time is spent waiting for your setup. No matter what those Instagram reels show, real prop traders aren’t glued to the screen pulling the trigger every five minutes. You might only place one or two high-quality trades in a day—if any.
And yes, the psychological side is real. Every decision has a weight to it. More than a few traders will admit their heart rate jumps when they size up on a big opportunity. Some cope with quick walks, some meditate, some just clutch that second coffee for dear life.
Midday Check-In: Reviewing and Resetting
After a morning of trading (or sitting on your hands), it’s time to check results—and emotions. The best prop firm traders pause to review what went well, what got missed, and whether any trades got a little too emotional. If you’re under a daily loss limit, this is when you decide: step back, or risk losing your funded status by forcing a comeback.
This break is also prime time for hopping into a prop firm community chat or Discord. These groups are goldmines for tips, commiseration, and accountability. Don’t underestimate the value of a quick vent with traders who get it.
Afternoon: More Analysis, Sometimes More Waiting
Depending on your strategy and your prop firm’s rules, the afternoon could mean watching another market open, or simply stepping away. Many funded traders set a hard stop-time (no “revenge trading” after lunch!), while others look for secondary setups.
The biggest lesson? Boredom is part of the gig. Prop firm trading isn’t constant action. The best traders know how to manage downtime—whether it’s tweaking journals, reviewing old trades, or just getting some fresh air.
End of Day: Journaling, Reflection, and Resetting
A real day-in-the-life ends not with wild celebrations, but with journaling. You log every trade, review every decision, and set a plan for tomorrow. Some prop firms actually require this step as part of ongoing evaluations. You’ll also double-check your metrics—did you stay inside the risk rules, avoid prohibited trades, and follow your plan?
This reflection is where growth happens. Most prop traders will tell you: the difference between surviving and thriving is all about discipline, routine, and the willingness to learn from every single day—win or lose.
Final Thoughts: Is Prop Trading the Right Lifestyle for You?
If you’re still reading, you probably sense it already—being a prop firm trader isn’t just about big payouts and wild success stories. It’s about structure, self-control, and a willingness to learn every single day. It can be repetitive, stressful, and (at times) boring, but it can also be one of the most challenging and rewarding ways to level up as a trader.
So if you’re eyeing Funding Rock funding solutions or any of the top forex prop firms, ask yourself: do you thrive on discipline? Are you cool with waiting for the right setup, and okay with strict rules? If so, prop trading might just be your next big move.
