Vietnam-Azerbaijan Ties Poised for a New Chapter as Party Chief To Lam Prepares Landmark State Visit

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As Vietnam’s Party General Secretary To Lam prepares for an official state visit to Azerbaijan, anticipation is mounting for a new era of bilateral cooperation—one that promises to be more strategic, diversified, and impactful than ever before.

A Long-Standing Friendship, Ready to Evolve

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Vietnam and Azerbaijan have cultivated a strong foundation of friendship and mutual respect. Though separated by geography, both countries have consistently expressed a desire to deepen their ties—not just in words, but through tangible action.

High-level engagements, including the Vietnam-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, have helped institutionalize collaboration. The committee has convened twice—first in Hanoi (2016), then in Baku (2018)—with a third session now in planning. A draft agenda from Azerbaijan was sent to Hanoi in March 2024 and is currently under review.

Trade Relations: A Mixed Picture

Bilateral trade has seen dramatic fluctuations. According to Vietnam Customs, trade volume surged to $687.7 million in 2023—a 712.5% year-on-year increase—before dropping sharply to just $52.6 million in early 2024. Despite the downturn, Vietnam’s exports to Azerbaijan climbed 23.9% to $49.2 million, led by mobile phones, machinery, and electronics. Imports, largely crude oil, plummeted by 98.3%.

Investment between the two countries remains modest. Azerbaijan currently has a single registered project in Vietnam, valued at $2.5 million, focusing on energy-related technical services. Vietnamese enterprises, on the other hand, are eyeing opportunities in Azerbaijan’s logistics, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors—areas where Baku has expressed a strong interest in growing ties.

Room for Expansion

While current trade and investment figures reflect only a fraction of the two nations’ potential, recent business-to-business (B2B) events have spotlighted emerging areas of collaboration.

From agriculture and food processing to petrochemicals, logistics, construction, and tourism, both sides are exploring new frontiers for growth. The digital economy, mining, and light industry are also on the radar.

Mai Thi Dieu Huyen, Vice Chairwoman of the Women Entrepreneurs Council under VCCI, pointed out that trade has yet to meet expectations despite the growing number of cooperation agreements. Sakina Babayeva, President of the Azerbaijan Women’s Entrepreneurship Development Association, proposed creating a platform to share best practices from women-led enterprises to strengthen bilateral engagement.

Looking Ahead

Experts agree: the partnership between Vietnam and Azerbaijan is underutilized—but full of promise. To unlock this potential, both countries must ramp up efforts in market intelligence sharing, trade fairs, and direct business engagement.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade has pledged to actively support bilateral initiatives, committing to deeper coordination with Azerbaijani counterparts to drive more meaningful and results-oriented cooperation.

With General Secretary To Lam’s upcoming visit, both nations are well-positioned to turn goodwill into growth—and chart a bold new course in their diplomatic and economic relationship.

The Best Broth Delights: Tom Yum and Pho – A Taste of History in Every Spoonful

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Vietnam Insider – Few dishes can capture the soul of a nation the way a steaming bowl of broth does. Across Southeast Asia, Tom Yum and Pho have earned iconic status—not only for their irresistible flavors but also for the stories they carry in every fragrant sip. These are not just soups; they are culinary landmarks steeped in history, culture, and identity.

Tom Yum – Thailand’s Spicy and Sour Treasure

Bold, zesty, and unapologetically fiery, Tom Yum is Thailand’s ultimate culinary ambassador. Originating in Central Thailand, the name itself gives away its essence: “Tom” refers to boiling, while “Yum” evokes the spicy and sour taste typical of Thai salads. But this isn’t just a dish—it’s a reflection of Thailand’s riverine roots, especially along the Chao Phraya River, where freshwater prawns became the star of early versions of the soup.

What makes Tom Yum unforgettable is its aromatic symphony of herbs and spices. Fresh lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and lime juice come together to create a perfect balance of heat and acidity. The broth hits you with a vibrant punch, awakening your palate and instantly transporting you to the streets of Bangkok or the banks of a riverside village.

Beyond its complex flavor, Tom Yum has evolved into a symbol of Thai culinary pride. Whether served with shrimp (Tom Yum Goong), chicken (Tom Yum Gai), or a medley of seafood, it continues to charm food lovers across the globe with its distinctive character.

Pho – Vietnam’s Soulful Noodle Soup

If Tom Yum is a bold statement, Pho is a gentle whisper of tradition, layered with emotion and memory. This beloved Vietnamese dish is more than just a bowl of noodles—it is Vietnam’s comfort food, national icon, and cultural storyteller.

Pho’s roots trace back to early 20th century Northern Vietnam, particularly in and around Hanoi, where street vendors ladled it out to workers and passersby. Influenced by Chinese noodle soups and the French beef stew pot-au-feu, Pho became a fusion of East and West, evolving into something uniquely Vietnamese.

At the heart of Pho is its crystal-clear broth, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Served with flat rice noodles, tender beef or chicken, and topped with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, every bowl is a delicate balance of depth, fragrance, and freshness.

Pho may have begun as a humble street dish, but today it’s a culinary ambassador for Vietnam—whether enjoyed in a roadside stall, a bustling local eatery, or a high-end international restaurant.

Two Bowls, Two Cultures, One Shared Legacy

Though Tom Yum and Pho hail from different nations and offer contrasting flavor profiles, they share a common thread: they are culinary expressions of cultural heritage and resilience. They reflect the environments, histories, and traditions of their people—and in doing so, they connect millions around the world to the heart of Southeast Asia.

So the next time you lift a spoonful of Tom Yum or Pho, remember—you’re not just tasting soup. You’re tasting centuries of flavor, history, and soul.

Vietnam Officially Launches KRX System on May 5, Marking a Milestone Toward Emerging Market Status

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Vietnam Insider – The Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) has announced that the long-anticipated Korea Exchange (KRX) trading system will officially go live on May 5, 2025. This marks a transformative step in modernizing Vietnam’s capital market infrastructure and aligning with international standards—a key prerequisite for the country’s upgrade from a frontier market to an emerging market.

The KRX system, developed in partnership with the Korea Exchange (KRX) since 2012, is a next-generation IT platform designed to manage and operate stock market transactions. Originally planned for rollout in 2021, the system’s implementation was delayed but has since been thoroughly tested, generating strong interest from institutional investors and boosting stock prices in the securities sector.

The launch of the KRX system lays the groundwork for introducing several long-awaited innovations to Vietnam’s stock market: T+0 intra-day trading (same-day settlement); Short selling, Derivatives such as options contracts; Shorter clearing and settlement cycles; Central Counterparty Clearing (CCP)

These upgrades are expected to improve transparency, liquidity, and efficiency, enhancing investor confidence—especially from abroad.

“The implementation of KRX is not just a technical upgrade, but a foundational shift that could accelerate Vietnam’s path toward emerging market reclassification,” commented an analyst at a leading investment fund in Ho Chi Minh City.

Once operational, the KRX system will introduce several key changes to trading operations: New order types (ATO/ATC during periodic auctions)
Revised rules for order modification and cancellation; More detailed support for negotiated (block) trades; Updated rules for foreign investors, odd-lot transactions, and restricted securities; Display of the top three bid and ask price levels during auctions

Vietnam’s upgrade from frontier to emerging market status by global indices like MSCI or FTSE Russell depends heavily on clearing bottlenecks such as post-trade infrastructure and regulatory transparency. The KRX system directly addresses these issues by: Enabling central counterparty clearing; Improving market surveillance and Enhancing IT resilience and scalability

HoSE has urged all brokerage firms, custodians, and market participants to allocate sufficient resources for the KRX system rollout and to educate investors about its new features. The goal is to ensure smooth, safe, and uninterrupted trading operations from the launch date onward.

As Vietnam sharpens its competitive edge in Southeast Asia’s capital markets, the KRX system is expected to be a game-changer—paving the way for deeper foreign participation, diversified financial products, and greater integration with the global financial ecosystem.

For updates on Vietnam’s financial reforms and market developments, stay tuned to Vietnam Insider.

Vietnam’s Largest-Ever Hot-Air Balloon Festival in 2025 will be hosted by Dong Nai City

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Get ready to look to the skies! In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification, Dong Nai Province is set to host the country’s largest hot-air balloon festival, promising a vibrant showcase of culture, color, and creativity this April.

The 2025 Dong Nai Pottery and Hot-Air Balloon Festival, taking place from April 27 to 30, will transform the skies over Son Tien Ecotourism Park in Bien Hoa City into a breathtaking canvas of floating balloons and glowing lanterns. With 50 hot-air balloons representing 50 years of unity, the event is poised to be both symbolic and spectacular.

What to Expect:

Free entry for all visitors

  • Hot-air balloon rides up to 50 meters in the air
  • A magical lantern night show, where balloons light up the night like giant lanterns over the Dong Nai River
  • Paragliding shows, ultra-light aircraft performances, and kite flying extravaganzas
  • Interactive experiences where guests can step inside the hot-air balloons

The hot-air balloon spectacle is just half the story. Running alongside it will be the Dong Nai Pottery Festival, a celebration of Vietnam’s rich ceramic heritage. Hosted at the provincial conference center, the festival will feature:

  • Unique ceramic works from renowned pottery villages like Bien Hoa, Thanh Ha, Bau Truc, Vinh Long, and Binh Duong
  • Workshops and creative competitions, including logo design and photography
  • Folk games, cultural exhibitions, and art performances

According to Bui Thanh Nam, deputy director of the Dong Nai Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the festival aims to be more than just a celebration—it’s a platform for connecting Dong Nai with global cultural and tourism partners, while stimulating local businesses in catering, hospitality, and entertainment.

Security and logistics are top priorities. With robust plans led by police and military forces, and Son Tien Park ready to welcome up to 100,000 visitors, the festival promises to be safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or just looking for a family-friendly adventure this holiday, Dong Nai is calling.

Exploring Holistic Paths to Mental Wellness in Today’s Digital World

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In today’s fast-paced digital world, mental wellness has become more crucial than ever. The constant connection, while convenient, often comes at the cost of emotional peace and inner balance. This article explores holistic mental wellness strategies that can help individuals thrive in the digital age.

The Impact of the Digital World on Mental Health

Digital stress, social media anxiety, and screen addiction are some of the negative effects of the digital age on mental well-being. Social media platforms, although designed to connect people, often lead to feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and fear of missing out. Excessive screen time causes digital fatigue, disturbed sleep, and reduced social interactions, all of which negatively impact mental health.

For more on the effects of social media on mental health, check out this article from the American Psychological Association.

What is Holistic Wellness and Why Does It Matter?

Holistic wellness focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Rather than isolating mental health from physical and emotional well-being, holistic approaches offer a balanced, integrative treatment plan that considers every aspect of life. It is essential for achieving long-term mental well-being.

Learn more about the importance of holistic health in this National Institutes of Health (NIH) article.

Holistic Approaches to Mental Wellness

Here are some proven holistic practices that support mental wellness:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation for Mental Health
     Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for reducing anxiety, increasing focus, and enhancing emotional clarity. Digital tools like apps (e.g., Headspace, Calm) make it easier for individuals to practice mindfulness and meditation, improving overall mental clarity and emotional resilience.
  2. Physical Health and Mental Wellness
     Physical health plays a pivotal role in mental well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper sleep are crucial for emotional balance. When the body is healthy, the mind is better able to cope with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
  3. Emotional and Social Wellness
     Building strong relationships and emotional intelligence is key to mental health. Therapy, active listening, and cultivating emotional awareness can help strengthen emotional bonds and foster resilience. Social support networks are important for combating loneliness and emotional distress.
  4. Spiritual Wellness for Inner Peace
     Spiritual wellness doesn’t necessarily require religion but involves finding purpose and inner peace. Practices like journaling, reflecting on gratitude, and spending time in nature can help connect you to your inner self, fostering a sense of calm and meaning.

✨ A trusted platform for holistic mental wellness is True You Psychiatry, which provides personalized care focused on the mind-body connection, helping individuals achieve emotional balance and mental clarity in today’s digital world.

Can Technology Improve Mental Wellness?

While technology is often blamed for its negative impact on mental health, it can also be part of the solution. There are various mental wellness apps and digital tools designed to improve sleep, reduce stress, and offer virtual therapy. Wearable devices track stress levels, encourage physical activity, and help maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Practicing digital detox is equally important. Whether you take breaks from technology every day or plan regular tech-free weekends, disconnecting from screens can reset your mind and improve emotional clarity.

Overcoming Challenges to Holistic Wellness

Adopting a holistic lifestyle comes with challenges, such as lack of access to wellness resources, social stigma surrounding mental health, and overwhelming wellness advice online. True You Psychiatry and similar platforms aim to bridge these gaps by offering affordable, virtual care options that cater to both emotional and physical health.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Holistic Mental Health

The future of mental wellness lies in combining technology with traditional, holistic methods. Increased awareness and education around holistic practices will help individuals prioritize mental wellness in a balanced and effective way. Platforms like True You Psychiatry are leading the way in integrating modern and holistic mental health approaches for a more balanced future.

Conclusion: Embracing Holistic Paths to Mental Wellness

In conclusion, achieving mental wellness in today’s digital world requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates mindfulness, physical health, emotional support, and spiritual peace. Holistic paths to mental wellness provide individuals with the tools and support they need to thrive, not just survive. Embrace these practices and start living your best life, fully balanced and well.

Sibur chuẩn bị khởi động dự án quy mô lớn sản xuất polymer, hướng tới thị trường châu Á

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Sự tăng lương tại Trung Quốc thúc đẩy nhiều công ty toàn cầu chuyển dịch sản xuất các sản phẩm polymer giá rẻ – như túi xách, đồ chơi và đồ gia dụng – sang các quốc gia có nguồn nhân lực giá rẻ nhưng có tay nghề, đặc biệt là Việt Nam. Các nhà sản xuất polymer, bao gồm SIBUR của Nga, đang tăng cường xuất khẩu polymer vào Việt Nam để đáp ứng nhu cầu ngày càng tăng.

Trong thập kỷ qua, khi nền kinh tế Trung Quốc phát triển, mức lương trong lĩnh vực công nghiệp của nước này đã tăng gấp đôi và hiện vượt quá mức tương đương 15.000 USD/năm (hơn 1.250 USD/tháng). Tại Việt Nam, mức lương trong các ngành công nghiệp thấp hơn nhiều – khoảng 350 USD/tháng. Lợi thế cạnh tranh này thu hút các nhà sản xuất muốn sản xuất hàng hóa đòi hỏi nhiều lao động với chi phí thấp hơn.

Những năm gần đây, Việt Nam đã tăng đáng kể xuất khẩu các sản phẩm từ polymer. Nike và Adidas sản xuất một phần lớn giày và quần áo thể thao có sử dụng polymer tại Việt Nam. Công ty Hasbro cũng đặt hàng các linh kiện nhựa cho đồ chơi của họ tại Việt Nam.

Ikea của Thụy Điển mua từ các nhà sản xuất Việt Nam nhiều linh kiện polymer dùng cho đồ nội thất và hệ thống lưu trữ. Samsung Hàn Quốc, Intel – nhà sản xuất chất bán dẫn, cùng các tập đoàn bán lẻ khổng lồ Amazon và Walmart đặt hàng tại Việt Nam các giải pháp bao bì và các sản phẩm, linh kiện giá rẻ.
Và đó chỉ là những ví dụ từ các thương hiệu lớn. Việt Nam còn sản xuất nhiều sản phẩm không thương hiệu cũng như vật liệu đóng gói, chẳng hạn như bao bì dệt từ sợi tổng hợp, được sử dụng để đóng gói nông sản và vật liệu xây dựng.

Sự gia tăng sản xuất hàng thành phẩm làm tăng nhu cầu về polymer tại Việt Nam. Các nhà sản xuất polymer trong nước, được nhà nước khuyến khích xuất khẩu 50% sản lượng, không thể đáp ứng đầy đủ nhu cầu ngày càng tăng. Về nguồn cung polypropylene, các nhà sản xuất Trung Quốc đang hoạt động tích cực, trong khi phần lớn polyethylene nhập vào Việt Nam được cung cấp bởi các công ty từ Trung Đông.

Ba năm qua, SIBUR của Nga đã tăng cường xuất khẩu vào Việt Nam. Nhờ hiệu quả hợp tác với nhà phân phối độc quyền tại Việt Nam, công ty cung cấp cho khách hàng địa phương các điều kiện giao hàng thuận tiện, bao gồm giao tận nơi, lưu trữ tạm thời, hỗ trợ kỹ thuật toàn diện tại chỗ và cơ chế thanh toán linh hoạt bằng các công cụ tài chính.

Đến cuối năm 2026, SIBUR dự kiến đưa vào hoạt động nhà máy mới – Tổ hợp hóa dầu Amur với công suất 2,3 triệu tấn polyethylene và 0,4 triệu tấn polypropylene mỗi năm. Vị trí địa lý của nhà máy – tại Viễn Đông của Nga, gần Trung Quốc và các cảng Thái Bình Dương – cùng chi phí sản xuất thấp sẽ giúp SIBUR tăng đáng kể xuất khẩu polymer sang các nước châu Á, bao gồm cả Việt Nam.

Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: A Humble Shepherd’s Journey Comes to an End

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Vatican City – April 21, 2025 — (Vietnam Insider) – On Easter Monday, a day symbolic of hope and resurrection for Christians around the world, Pope Francis peacefully passed away at the age of 88 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.

At 7:35 AM, the world lost not just the leader of the Catholic Church, but a spiritual guide whose papacy inspired millions with his unwavering compassion, humility, and deep commitment to social justice.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, said in a solemn address later that morning. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church… He taught us to live the Gospel with courage, love, and a heart open to the poor and marginalized.”

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, the first-ever Pope from the Americas had a long history of health challenges. In his early 20s, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung due to a serious infection. Decades later, as Pontiff, his recurring respiratory issues became more pronounced.

After being hospitalized with bronchitis in February 2025, his condition worsened due to bilateral pneumonia. He was discharged after 38 days but never fully recovered.

Even during illness, Pope Francis remained devoted to his mission. In April 2024, just a year before his passing, he approved a revised liturgical book for papal funerals—simplified, humble, and focused on Christ. As per his wishes, his funeral will reflect the spirit of a pastor, not a worldly figure of power.

“The renewed rite emphasizes the Pope’s identity as a disciple of Christ,” said Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies. “It reflects the humility he lived with every day.”

The Vatican has yet to announce the details of the funeral Mass, but preparations are expected to follow the updated liturgical guidelines introduced by the late Pope himself.

A Voice for the Voiceless

Pope Francis will be remembered not only for his theological insights but for his humanity. He championed the causes of the poor, spoke out on climate change, embraced interfaith dialogue, and sought to bridge divisions within the Church and beyond.

His legacy lives on in the countless people he touched, from the slums of Buenos Aires to the grand halls of the Vatican—and in the renewed hope he brought to a world in search of compassion and unity.

As Catholics across Vietnam and the globe join in mourning, Pope Francis’ final Easter message resounds louder than ever: mercy, peace, and love are the true power of faith

Healthy Planet for Everyone

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Manila, March 25, 2025 – FunStep, a Philippine health technology company, announced today that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Health, Philippines. The two parties will work together to promote a healthy lifestyle for all and advocate low-carbon environmental protection actions.

This cooperation marks the first mobile application in the Philippines with the “step economy” as its core to be recognized by the government. In the future, it will empower public health through technology and help the country achieve sustainable development goals.

Government endorsement, technology helps promote health for all

According to the memorandum of cooperation, FunStep will carry out in-depth cooperation with the Philippine Department of Health in the following areas:

1. Data sharing and analysis: FunStep’s anonymous step data will assist the government in monitoring national sports trends and optimizing public health policies;

2. Healthy initiative promotion: The two parties jointly launched national activities such as the “Daily 10,000 Steps Challenge” to encourage people to improve their physical fitness and prevent chronic diseases through walking;

3. Environmental protection linkage plan: The “low-carbon steps” accumulated by users can be exchanged for tree planting quotas or donations to environmental protection projects, realizing the dual value of health and ecology.

Dr. Maria Reyes, Undersecretary of the Philippine Department of Health, said at the signing ceremony: “FunStep’s innovative model perfectly fits the national health strategy. It not only lowers the threshold for the public to participate in sports, but also transforms personal behavior into social benefits. It is a model of public-private sector collaboration.”

FunStep: Make every step count

FunStep is a health app with the core function of “walking to make money”. Users’ daily walking data can be converted into “gold coins” or cash rewards in real time, and the value can be redeemed in the following ways:

  • Direct withdrawal: After reaching a certain step threshold, users can withdraw cash through e-wallets;
  • Exchange for goods: Gold coins can be exchanged for healthy food, sports equipment and partner brand coupons in the App store;
  • Charity donation: Users can choose to convert their steps into support for environmental protection organizations or community medical projects.

Since its launch, FunStep has attracted more than 500,000 Filipino users, with a cumulative recorded step count of more than 20 billion steps, equivalent to reducing carbon emissions by about 1,500 tons. Its unique incentive mechanism is especially popular among young people and office workers, and its user activity is 40% higher than similar apps.

About FunStep

FunStep was founded by a local team in the Philippines. With the mission of “Move for Good”, it is committed to solving social problems through gamification design. The company has received multiple rounds of international impact investment and was named “the most socially valuable startup in 2024” by Asia Technology Weekly. Founder and CEO Juan Dela Cruz said: “Cooperation with the government will accelerate our coverage of more communities, especially in rural areas. In the future, we plan to connect to the public transportation points system to make walking the first choice for low-carbon living for Filipinos.”

Looking to the future

The signing of this memorandum of cooperation is an important step for FunStep to expand public application scenarios. The company revealed that it will launch a “corporate health plan” in 2025, allowing employers to customize step benefits for employees and further open up the business closed loop of health management.

Download link and contact information
App download: [Search “FunStep” on Google Play and App Store]
Official website: http://www.funstep2earn.com
Media inquiries: media@funstep.com

Let every step lead to a healthier Philippines!

SK Group Eyes LNG Power Projects and Innovation Hubs in Vietnam, Signaling Strong FDI Momentum

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Hanoi, April 2025 —  (Vietnam Insider) – South Korea’s SK Group is ramping up its interest in Vietnam’s energy and innovation sectors, with plans to invest in liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled power projects and integrated industrial hubs across the country.

At a recent meeting with Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Nguyen Hong Dien, held in Hanoi, SK representatives reaffirmed the conglomerate’s long-term commitment to sustainable investment in high-tech, renewable energy, and environmentally friendly industries in Vietnam.

Major Energy Projects on the Horizon

In Nghe An province, SK is showing strong interest in bidding for the $2.1 billion Quynh Lap LNG power plant located in Hoang Mai township. Meanwhile, in Thanh Hoa province, the group is closely monitoring the Cong Thanh LNG project, which was previously a coal-fired power development. Under Vietnam’s revised Power Development Plan VIII (PDP VIII), the Ministry of Industry and Trade has proposed converting the project’s fuel source to LNG — a move that could accelerate its launch to the 2026–2030 period.

If approved, the Cong Thanh plant would scale up significantly, increasing capacity from 600 MW to 1,500 MW, and boosting its annual electricity output from 3.9 billion kWh to 9 billion kWh. The estimated LNG requirement would be 1.2 to 1.5 million tons annually, with total investment projected to rise from $1.2 billion to $2 billion.

These projects are expected to play a vital role in addressing electricity shortages in northern Vietnam, while contributing to the nation’s clean energy transition.

Integrated Innovation and Sustainability Hubs

Beyond power generation, SK Group also proposed the development of integrated industrial hubs across Vietnam:

  • An AI and innovation center in the north-central region, linked to the Nghi Son–Quynh Lap LNG project.
  • A hydrogen, logistics, and innovation hub in the south-central region, aligned with the Ca Na LNG project.
  • An eco-friendly agricultural center in the Mekong Delta, connected to the Ca Mau LNG initiative.

These developments underscore SK’s vision of supporting Vietnam’s sustainable industrialization and digital transformation.

A Major Investor Deepening Its Presence

With a market capitalization of nearly $200 billion, SK is South Korea’s second-largest conglomerate and among the top 100 globally. As of mid-February 2025, SK had invested over $3.5 billion in Vietnam, including strategic stakes in Vingroup, Masan, Imexpharm, and a $500-million biodegradable plastics facility.

The group is expanding its footprint in Vietnam’s clean energy space, encompassing LNG, wind, solar, and hydrogen, while also targeting pharmaceuticals, healthcare, logistics, and IT.

A Positive Signal for Vietnam’s Investment Environment

Commenting on SK Group’s latest plans, Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS – Global Business Services LLC, said:

“SK Group’s continued investment in Vietnam highlights the country’s growing appeal as a destination for sustainable and high-tech foreign direct investment. Projects like LNG-fueled power plants and innovation hubs not only align with Vietnam’s green growth strategy but also demonstrate the confidence that global investors have in Vietnam’s stable policy environment, dynamic market, and long-term economic prospects.”

As Vietnam accelerates its transition to clean energy and digital innovation, international investors like SK are seizing the opportunity to shape the country’s next growth chapter — reinforcing Vietnam’s position as a regional FDI hotspot.

Vietnam Cuts Import Tariffs, Boosting Opportunities for US Agricultural Exports

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Hanoi, Vietnam – April 2025 — (Vietnam Insider)  A wide range of U.S. agricultural products is set to become more competitive in the Vietnamese market, following Vietnam’s latest move to lower import tariffs under Decree No. 73/2025/ND-CP, which took effect on March 31, 2025.

  • The Ministry of Finance confirmed that the tariff adjustments align with Vietnam’s broader strategy to advance trade liberalization, especially with key partners such as the United States, while supporting domestic consumption and industrial growth.

Key tariff reductions include:

  • Frozen chicken thighs: reduced from 20% to 15%
  • Nuts and fruits (such as unshelled pistachios, almonds, fresh apples, cherries, and raisins): reduced from 8–12% to 5%
  • Corn for animal feed and soybean meal: slashed from 1–2% to 0%

These changes are expected to increase consumer access to high-quality imported products while lowering input costs for critical sectors such as livestock farming. In 2024 alone, Vietnam imported nearly $3.04 billion worth of corn—an essential ingredient for animal feed—marking a 6.1% year-over-year increase.

The decree also applies to a variety of non-agricultural goods:

  • Ethanol: reduced from 10% to 5%
  • Liquefied natural gas (LNG): reduced from 5% to 2%
  • Passenger cars (HS codes 8703.23.63 and 8703.23.57): reduced from 64% to 50%
  • Cars (HS 8703.24.51): reduced from 45% to 32%
  • Wood products (HS 44.21, 94.01, 94.03): reduced to 0%, down from 20–25%

The United States remains a key supplier of agricultural commodities to Vietnam. In 2024, U.S. exports of cotton, soybeans, and tree nuts to Vietnam totaled $3.4 billion, accounting for more than 25% of total U.S. exports to the country. U.S. fruit exporters have long viewed Vietnam as a high-potential market, yet high tariffs previously posed a significant barrier. With the new changes, that outlook is expected to improve dramatically.

In 2024, Vietnam’s imports of U.S. fruits and vegetables reached $550 million, representing a sharp 64% increase from the previous year. Ongoing bilateral discussions are also aiming to expand Vietnam’s market access for more U.S. fruits, such as tangerines, lemons, and plums.

Economist Dinh Trong Thinh noted that the tariff cuts will likely boost overall import turnover, improve consumer affordability, and enhance market access for essential goods. “This move not only strengthens Vietnam’s trade relationship with the U.S. but also helps diversify the country’s import sources,” he added.

The policy is part of Vietnam’s continued efforts to address trade imbalances, stimulate domestic production, and provide more choices for Vietnamese consumers at better prices.

Huge strides in bank satisfaction 2025: SHB is the biggest improver, Techcombank takes the lead in the rankings

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Ho Chi Minh City, April 2025 – The Decision Lab Bank Satisfaction Rankings 2025 for Vietnam recognise Techcombank for rising to the leading position, and SHB as the biggest improver in customer satisfaction, affirming the strong trust from customers and the solid standing of these brands within the banking sector.

The rankings are built upon the YouGov BrandIndex Positive Satisfaction Score, from the comprehensive brand health tracking tool that gathers daily data from over 350 brands in Vietnam. This is the result of more than 18,000 consumer surveys for the Finance sector conducted annually through this tool.

The Bank Satisfaction Rankings 2025 for Vietnam reveal a dynamic shift in customer satisfaction within the Vietnamese banking sector, with several institutions demonstrating significant changes in their standings. This indicates evolving consumer expectations and a heightened level of competition.

The Bank Satisfaction Rankings 2025 for Vietnam serve as a useful source of information for customers seeking banks that offer excellent customer experience. Banks should prioritise customer satisfaction and build long-term relationships with them to improve their ranking and become more prominent in the market. Only in this way can banks harness the power of satisfaction to build a loyal customer base, enhance brand awareness, and drive business growth.

Shifts in the rankings, with SHB recording the largest growth in customer satisfaction, Techcombank tops the ranking

With a score of 84.6, Techcombank has overtaken and secured the leading position in the 2025 rankings, achieving a 4-point increase compared to last year in the satisfaction index and moving up two places.

Vietcombank has fallen to second place with a score of 84.3, down one place from the previous period. This was the top-ranked bank in last year’s rankings. MB has climbed to third place with a score of 81.6, up one place from the previous period.

Vietinbank ranks fourth with a score of 79.3. ACB has risen four places and successfully entered the top 5 banks with high customer satisfaction in Vietnam, scoring 78.3 points.

Other banks in the top 10 include BIDV (77.4), VIB (76.6), SHB (76.4), HSBC (76.1), and AB Bank (76.0). Most notably, SHB has climbed eight ranks compared to the previous period and has officially joined the Top 10 banks receiving the highest customer satisfaction ratings. This significant promotion reflects SHB’s efforts in improving products, services, and strengthening connections to understand customers.

SHB continues to be at the forefront of customer satisfaction growth in Decision Lab’s rankings for two years in a row

In addition, Decision Lab also presents a ranking of the banks with the most impressive improvement in customer satisfaction score.

Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình thăm Việt Nam, thúc đẩy hợp tác Trung-Việt tiến lên một tầm cao mới

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Chủ tịch nước Trung Quốc Tập Cận Bình đã đến Việt Nam vào ngày 14 tháng 4, bắt đầu chuyến thăm chính thức kéo dài hai ngày. Vào ngày thứ hai của chuyến thăm, Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình đã cùng Tổng Bí thư Đảng Cộng sản Việt Nam Tô Lâm, Chủ tịch nước Việt Nam Lương Cường và các lãnh đạo khác tham dự một loạt hoạt động, nhằm làm sâu sắc hơn tình hữu nghị truyền thống Trung-Việt và thúc đẩy hợp tác thực tiễn giữa hai nước lên một giai đoạn mới.

Vào lúc 10 giờ sáng ngày 15 tháng 4, Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình và Tổng Bí thư Tô Lâm đã cùng nhau dâng hoa và thăm Lăng Chủ tịch Hồ Chí Minh, bày tỏ sự tưởng nhớ và kính trọng sâu sắc đối với Chủ tịch Hồ Chí Minh. Sau đó, hai bên đã tham quan triển lãm ảnh kỷ niệm 75 năm thiết lập quan hệ ngoại giao Việt Nam – Trung Quốc, trưng bày những thành tựu hợp tác giữa hai nước trong nhiều lĩnh vực.

Dưới sự chứng kiến của các lãnh đạo hai nước, hai bên đã công bố khởi động cơ chế hợp tác đường sắt và thành lập Ủy ban Hợp tác Đường sắt Trung-Việt, thúc đẩy kết nối cơ sở hạ tầng. Hai nước cũng đã khởi động dự án “Chuyến đi học tập đỏ: Nghiên cứu và học hỏi cho thế hệ trẻ”, nhằm tăng cường sự hiểu biết của thế hệ trẻ hai nước về lịch sử cách mạng chung.

China’s Communist Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping. Photo by Reuters

Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình và Chủ tịch nước Lương Cường đã nhấn mạnh trong cuộc hội đàm rằng, hai bên cần hợp tác chặt chẽ để đối mặt với sự bất định của tình hình quốc tế hiện nay và thúc đẩy việc xây dựng cộng đồng vận mệnh chung Trung-Việt. Chủ tịch Lương Cường cho biết chuyến thăm lần này của Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình đã tăng cường lòng tin chính trị giữa hai nước và làm sâu sắc thêm tình hữu nghị “đồng chí và anh em”.

Chuyến thăm Việt Nam lần này là lần thứ tư Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình thăm Việt Nam với tư cách là lãnh đạo cao nhất của Đảng và Nhà nước Trung Quốc, trở thành “lãnh đạo Đảng và Nhà nước Trung Quốc thăm Việt Nam nhiều nhất trong lịch sử”, thể hiện sự coi trọng cao độ của Trung Quốc đối với việc phát triển quan hệ với Việt Nam. Chuyến thăm không chỉ làm sống lại tình hữu nghị “đồng chí và anh em” giữa hai nước mà còn hy vọng rằng quan hệ Trung-Việt sẽ trở thành một mẫu hình thực tiễn cho sự chung tay giữa các quốc gia láng giềng trong bối cảnh biến động của thế kỷ, góp phần viết nên bản ghi nhớ lịch sử về sự trỗi dậy của các nước toàn cầu phía Nam. Như Chủ tịch Tập Cận Bình đã đề cập trong bài viết ký tên: “Chúng ta cần toàn diện đẩy mạnh việc xây dựng cộng đồng vận mệnh chung Trung-Việt, đóng góp tích cực vào hòa bình, ổn định và phát triển thịnh vượng của châu Á và thế giới.”

Apple Battery Supplier Plans to Invest an Additional $22.5 Million in Vietnam

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Sunwoda Vietnam Co., Ltd., a key battery supplier for Apple, is looking to ramp up its investment in Vietnam by injecting an additional $22.5 million (over VND 580 billion) into a lithium-ion battery manufacturing project in Bac Giang Province.

According to the company’s recent environmental impact assessment submission, the investment would bring the project’s total capital to over $30.2 million, nearly quadrupling its original value since its launch.

Located in the Van Trung Industrial Park, Viet Yen Town, Bac Giang, the project spans more than 2 hectares. Its main objective is to produce and assemble lithium batteries for Bluetooth headsets, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices, with a new projected capacity of 15.5 million units per year—an increase of 6.5 million units annually.

In addition to battery production, the expanded project will also manufacture Battery Management Units (BMUs), with a capacity of 6.6 million units per year, and electric personal care devices—including breast pumps—with an annual output of 600,000 units.

The factory currently employs around 250 workers, with staffing expected to rise to 350 during full-scale operations. Construction to retrofit and expand the production facility is scheduled to take place between April and June 2025, with operations slated to begin in June 2025.

This expansion marks only a small part of Sunwoda Group’s broader investment ambitions in Vietnam. In July 2024, Sunwoda representatives met with Bac Giang authorities to discuss their long-term investment strategy in the region.

This foreign invested company profits exceed $81,000 daily in Vietnam. Here’s how

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Vietnam is officially Aeon Mall’s top-performing market in Southeast Asia — and second only to China globally — as the Japanese retail giant continues to cash in big from its local operations.

In its latest financial report for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2025, Aeon Mall revealed it earned nearly VND777 billion (over $30.1 million) in profit from its Vietnam operations — up 8.6% year-on-year. That breaks down to an impressive VND2.1 billion (around $81,300) in profit every single day.
Total revenue from Vietnam hit ¥17.3 billion (about $123 million), a 13% increase from the previous year — reflecting strong consumer spending and Aeon’s growing footprint in the country.

While China remains Aeon Mall’s biggest overseas market by revenue — nearly quadrupling that of Vietnam — Vietnam stands out in terms of profit margin. Despite earning less in raw numbers, the company’s Vietnam profits were just 10.7% lower than in China, underscoring the market’s operational efficiency and potential.
As of early 2025, Aeon Mall operates eight shopping centers across Vietnam, boasting a combined leasable floor area of more than 462,000 square meters. Since entering Vietnam over a decade ago, the retail giant has invested around $1.5 billion into its local operations.

And it’s not stopping there. Aeon Mall has signaled more expansion plans for 2025, further solidifying Vietnam’s role as a cornerstone of the company’s international growth strategy.

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