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.

President Xi Jinping pays state visit to Vietnam

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At noon local time on April 14, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President Xi Jinping, arrived in Hanoi on a special plane to pay a state visit to Vietnam at the invitation of To Lam, general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), and Luong Cuong, president of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. In a written speech at the airport, Xi sent his sincere greetings to the Vietnamese people and said he looked forward to taking this visit as an opportunity to break a new blueprint for building a community of destiny between China and Vietnam with the Vietnamese side.

On the afternoon of the 14th, President Xi Jinping held talks with General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPC) To Lam at the CPC Central Committee’s residence, proposing to enhance strategic strength, jointly oppose unilateral hegemony, safeguard the global free trade system and the stability of the industrial chain supply chain and put forward a six-point initiative on deepening the construction of the China-Vietnam community of destiny, including enhancing a higher level of strategic mutual trust, constructing a stronger security barrier, expanding a higher quality of mutually beneficial cooperation, tying up a wider range of public opinions, and strengthening the relationship between China and Vietnam. After the talks, the general secretaries of the two parties witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation texts signed by China and Vietnam, covering areas such as connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, trade in agricultural products, culture and sports, people’s livelihoods, human resource development, and media. The two sides issued the Joint Declaration of the People’s Republic of China and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Continuously Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Accelerating the Construction of the China-Vietnam Community of Destiny of Strategic Significance.

That evening, President Xi Jinping met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh,and the Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man. At the meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, President Xi affirmed Vietnam’s progress in political and social stability, achievements in renovation and upgrading of its international status, stressing that the two sides should strengthen strategic collaboration, deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation, serve their respective modernization processes, and make the fruits of building a community of destiny between China and Vietnam better benefit the people of the two countries. During his meeting with President Tran Thanh Man, President Xi Jinping pointed out that both China and Vietnam are at a critical period of development and revitalization, and should strengthen their road and system confidence, enhance unity and cooperation, and continue to deepen the construction of the strategically important China-Vietnam community of destiny.The two sides agreed to take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward the “red gene” , enhance the friendship between the two countries’ people, especially the young generation, and push forward China-Vietnam relations to a stable and far-reaching future.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPC) Central Committee To Lam said that General Secretary Xi Jinping’s visit has given strong impetus to the development of China-Vietnam relations, and that Vietnam is ready to work with the Chinese side to implement global development initiatives, global security initiatives, and jointly defend international justice. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said Vietnam-China cooperation will bring more benefits to the two peoples and help regional peace and stability. National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man emphasized that Vietnam-China friendship and cooperation is the common aspiration of the two peoples, and the Vietnamese side is willing to strengthen exchanges between legislatures to guarantee the results of cooperation.

China Orders Airlines to Halt Boeing Deliveries Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

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As trade tensions with the United States continue to escalate, Beijing has issued a directive requiring Chinese airlines to suspend all new deliveries of Boeing aircraft.

According to Bloomberg, citing sources reported by Reuters on April 15, the Chinese government has ordered domestic airlines to stop purchasing aircraft equipment and components from U.S. companies. This move is seen as a direct response to Washington’s recent decision to impose a sweeping 145% tariff on Chinese goods. In retaliation, China announced its own 125% tariff on U.S. imports over the weekend.

The new tariffs could significantly inflate the cost of manufacturing aviation parts and aircraft in the U.S., making Boeing deliveries increasingly unviable for Chinese carriers. The Chinese government is reportedly exploring financial support measures for airlines leasing Boeing aircraft, which now face a surge in operational costs.

Industry data from Aviation Flights Group shows that around 10 Boeing 737 aircraft are scheduled for delivery to Chinese airlines, including China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Xiamen Airlines. Some of these aircraft may still be imported if delivery and payment procedures were completed before the implementation of the retaliatory tariffs.

Source: Unsplash

Last week, Bloomberg also reported that Juneyao Airlines, based in Shanghai, had postponed the delivery of a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, despite plans to receive the aircraft within three weeks.

Over the past few years, China has intensified efforts to reduce reliance on Western aerospace giants Boeing and Airbus by investing heavily in its own aircraft manufacturer, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). The company has been actively promoting its aircraft abroad, particularly in Southeast Asia and Saudi Arabia, while also advancing the development of wide-body aircraft.

COMAC’s narrow-body jet, the C919—designed to rival the Airbus A321 and Boeing 737—saw 12 units delivered last year to three domestic airlines. The company aims to ramp up annual production capacity to 150 aircraft by 2028.

Continuing traditional friendship, upgrading pragmatic cooperation, and building a new “shining moment” in China Vietnam relations through the construction of a community with a shared future

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On April 14, 2025, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam by special plane to begin his first overseas visit of the year. This visit marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Vietnam, as well as a key milestone in the joint promotion of the construction of a “community of shared future with strategic significance” between the two countries. It signifies a new era of building on the past and opening up the future in the relationship between China and Vietnam.

The fate bond in the long river of history: from “comrades plus brothers” to strategic mutual trust

China and Vietnam are connected by mountains and rivers, and the “deep friendship between Vietnam and China, comrades and brothers” that has been condensed over thousands of years of exchanges has become the genetic code of the relationship between the two countries. On January 18, 1950, New China established diplomatic relations with Vietnam, breaking the Western blockade and ushering in a new era of “sharing the same breath and destiny”. In the flames of revolution, the two countries fought side by side, with China providing a large amount of material aid to Vietnam and Vietnamese Communists actively participating in the Chinese revolution. President Ho Chi Minh carried out revolutionary activities in China for 12 years, establishing the Vietnamese Youth Revolutionary Comrades Association in Guangzhou, the Vietnamese Communist Party in Hong Kong, and guiding the Vietnamese revolution in Yunnan, Guangxi, and other places for a long time. The Nanxi Mountain Hospital in Guilin, Guangxi was established under the personal care of Premier Zhou Enlai and has rescued over 5000 injured Vietnamese soldiers; Yucai School has trained over 10000 students for Vietnam. The famous Vietnamese general Hongshui joined the Guangzhou Uprising and participated in the Long March of the Chinese Red Army, becoming the only foreign general among the founding generals of New China.

In the new era, the top leaders of China and Vietnam maintain close strategic communication. General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Su Lim, chose China for his first overseas visit after taking office, demonstrating the deep inheritance of strategic mutual trust between the two countries.

The ‘dual engines’ of win-win cooperation: economy, trade, technology, and culture shoot at once

The bilateral trade volume between China and Vietnam has increased from over 2.4 billion US dollars in 2000 to 205.2 billion US dollars in 2024, a 6400 fold surge in 30 years. China has maintained its position as Vietnam’s largest trading partner for 20 consecutive years, and Vietnam has consistently become China’s largest trading partner in ASEAN. According to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam, the export value of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables to China reached 2.75 billion US dollars in the first nine months of this year, a year-on-year increase of 160%, accounting for 65% of Vietnam’s total fruit and vegetable exports during the same period. Vietnamese coffee, fresh coconut and other high-quality products are deeply loved by the Chinese people. Vietnam’s durian exports to China account for more than 90% of its total durian exports, bringing tangible benefits to Vietnamese farmers.

China’s high-speed rail and 5G technology are helping Vietnam’s modernization process, and Vietnamese agricultural products such as coffee and durian are taking advantage of the Chinese market to go global. The Hanoi Light Rail Line 2, constructed by Chinese companies, has carried nearly 20 million passengers and provided convenience for the travel of Hanoi citizens. The Shuoshan Garbage Power Plant invested by Chinese companies processes 60% of the daily household waste in the capital city of Hanoi.

Both sides establish a Sino Vietnamese Joint Committee for Science and Technology Cooperation, focusing on fields such as artificial intelligence and digital economy. The first 5G network in Vietnam was built by a Chinese enterprise, and China’s Beidou system helped Vietnam with precision agriculture and disaster warning. China and Vietnam have achieved multiple innovative achievements in technological cooperation, such as the establishment of joint laboratories and technology transfer. The “Thousand Talents Program” sends international students to each other, and Vietnamese youth, after studying in Chinese universities, become the “bridge generation” to promote cooperation between Vietnam and China.

Since the launch of the 2025 Vietnam China Cultural Exchange Year, the two countries have held over a hundred cultural exchange activities. On January 13th, the “Wenshan · Neighborly” 2025 China Vietnam Cultural Exchange and Border People’s Celebration series was launched in Malipo County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. Border people from China and Vietnam gathered together to reminisce about friendship, discuss cooperation, and seek common development. China has become the largest source country for Vietnamese students studying abroad, and universities from both countries have jointly established Confucius Institutes and Vietnamese Language Centers, promoting language exchange and fostering “heart to heart connectivity”.

Strategic leadership in a new chapter: deepening cooperation in politics, security, and global governance in three dimensions

Solidify the annual communication and mutual visits mechanism between the General Secretaries of China and Vietnam, and establish a “trinity” dialogue framework for diplomacy, national defense, and security. China’s “the Belt and Road” initiative and Vietnam’s “Two Corridors and One Circle” plan are deeply linked, and the China Vietnam cross-border economic cooperation zone has become a new model for regional cooperation. In December 2024, China and Vietnam signed an intergovernmental agreement on cross-border standard gauge railway cooperation projects, determining to jointly build three standard gauge railways, namely Laojie Hanoi Haiphong, Langshan Hanoi, and Mangjie Ha Long Haiphong railways.

Implement the Basic Principles Agreement on Guiding the Resolution of Maritime Issues between China and Vietnam, establish a maritime hotline, and complete the delimitation of the waters outside the mouth of the Beibu Gulf. China and Vietnam have carried out multiple joint operations, such as the joint action of the Baise Border Management Detachment in Guangxi, China and the Gaoping Provincial Border Defense Command in Vietnam to rectify prominent border river problems in sections, deepening law enforcement exchanges and cooperation between the two sides. Coordinate positions within frameworks such as the United Nations and ASEAN, jointly oppose unilateralism, and safeguard the rights and interests of developing countries.

Strengthening the transfer of clean energy technologies, China helps Vietnam build wind and photovoltaic projects, and assists Vietnam in achieving its carbon neutrality goals. China’s experience in poverty alleviation inspires rural reform in Vietnam, and Vietnam’s practice of “reform and opening up” provides China with a reference for reform, forming a “two-way mutual learning” model. China and Vietnam jointly promote the greater effectiveness of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and push for the early signing and implementation of the China ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0.
Era Mission: Strategic Overlay and Future Vision of the Double “Critical Decade”

From now until 2030, it is a critical period for China to achieve its second centenary goal, and also a sprint stage for Vietnam to achieve its goal of “enriching the people and strengthening the country”. The development processes of the two countries are highly aligned: China promotes high-quality development and cultivates new quality productive forces; Vietnam deepens reform and opening up, striving to become a high-income country by 2045. Faced with challenges such as global governance deficit and technological competition, China and Vietnam have demonstrated strategic determination, jointly supporting the deepening of RCEP, promoting the China ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 negotiations, and opposing trade protectionism. Establishing joint laboratories in areas such as chips and new energy not only ensures supply chain security, but also expands the scope of cooperation.

Standing at the historic milestone of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the relationship between China and Vietnam is ushering in a new “shining moment”. From jointly resisting colonial aggressors to working together to cope with financial crises and global changes, the two countries have always practiced the spirit of “good neighbors, good friends, good comrades, and good partners”. Facing the future, the construction of a China Vietnam community of common destiny will not only benefit the two peoples, but also contribute to a new paradigm of “harmony, cooperation and symbiosis” for Asia and even the world. Just like the legend of the Turtle Pagoda on Huanjian Lake in Hanoi – only by working together can we overcome storms and reach the other shore of light. The strategic value of China Vietnam relations lies in the boat of a shared future, carrying the common dream of the two peoples, and heading for a new era of human progress.

China’s Top Leader Xi Jinping Arrives in Vietnam Today for Landmark State Visit

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China’s President Xi Jinping arrives in Hanoi today for a highly anticipated state visit at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam and President Luong Cuong.

This marks Xi’s first overseas trip in 2025, and notably, his fourth visit to Vietnam as China’s top leader—a powerful symbol of the importance Beijing places on its relationship with Hanoi. It’s also his second visit to Vietnam during his current term, underscoring the growing depth of bilateral ties.

Xi is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Cai Qi, Wang Yi, Wang Xiaohong, Liu Jianchao, Dong Jun, and other senior officials representing China’s top security, defense, and foreign affairs agencies.

According to Vietnam’s Ambassador to China, Pham Thanh Binh, the visit comes at a critical moment for both countries and is expected to open a new chapter in the two nations’ long-standing friendship and cooperation.

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

The two sides are celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the Vietnam–China Year of Humanistic Exchange, with numerous joint activities planned throughout the year. In this context, Xi’s visit is seen as an opportunity for top leaders from both sides to conduct in-depth strategic discussions and align on key priorities moving forward.

During the visit, Xi is expected to hold high-level meetings with all four of Vietnam’s top leaders: General Secretary To Lam, President Luong Cuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

The agenda will focus on reviewing past achievements, implementing high-level agreements, and identifying new directions to deepen cooperation across politics, economics, security, and cultural exchange—aiming to elevate the bilateral relationship to a more stable, substantive, and future-oriented phase.

Stay with Vietnam Insider for the latest updates on this historic visit.

GBS Honored as Financial Services Law Firm of the Year in Vietnam – 2025

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Hanoi, Vietnam – April 15, 2025 — GBS | Global Business Services LLC is proud to announce that it has been named Financial Services Law Firm of the Year in Vietnam – 2025 by the Global Law Experts Annual Awards, a prestigious recognition of excellence in legal services for the financial and investment sectors.

This award affirms GBS’s position as a trusted legal and business consultancy for foreign investors entering and expanding in the Vietnamese market. With nearly two decades of experience, GBS has built a reputation for providing practical, client-centric legal solutions that help global businesses navigate Vietnam’s dynamic regulatory environment with confidence.

Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS, expressed deep pride in the firm’s achievement: “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from Global Law Experts. This award reflects the dedication, professionalism, and expertise of our entire team. I would like to sincerely thank our clients for placing their trust in GBS as a partner in their most important projects. We remain committed to delivering value, ensuring compliance, and empowering our clients’ success in Vietnam.”

The Global Law Experts awards are based on extensive research, client feedback, and peer recommendations, recognizing firms that demonstrate consistent excellence, innovation, and leadership in their respective fields.

With a multidisciplinary team of seasoned consultants, GBS provides end-to-end services ranging from legal advisory, market entry, company formation, M&A, and regulatory compliance — making it the go-to partner for international investors looking to capitalize on Vietnam’s economic opportunities.

About GBS

GBS | Global Business Services LLC is a full-service legal and business consulting firm based in Vietnam. Established in 2002, GBS specializes in helping foreign investors and multinational corporations succeed in Vietnam through strategic legal guidance and tailored business solutions.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Email: ask@gbs.com.vn
Website: www.gbs.com.vn

From Battlefields to Bucket Lists: Vietnam’s War Sites Draw Veterans and Curious Travelers, 50 Years On

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Once scarred by war, Vietnam’s former battlefields are now vibrant tourist destinations — powerful places of remembrance for veterans and captivating sites for travelers eager to understand the past. Names like Hamburger Hill, Khe Sanh, Hue, and the Ia Drang Valley are no longer just etched in textbooks or war movies. Today, they’re on travel itineraries, drawing people from around the world.

For many Vietnamese and Americans alike, these sites are more than historical landmarks — they’re emotional touchpoints, places where friends and family once fought, and where many made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It was a war zone when I was here before,” said U.S. Army veteran Paul Hazelton, standing with his wife at the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City — once Saigon. Nearing 80, Hazelton was back for the first time since the war, revisiting Hue, the former Phu Bai Combat Base, and Da Nang.
“Back then, everything was about survival. Now, it’s all bustling cities, progress, and peace,” he said. “It’s amazing to see how far Vietnam has come — and I’m glad our two countries are now friends and trading partners.”

A Journey Through History and Healing

The Vietnam War lasted nearly two decades, from 1955 to 1975, claiming over 58,000 American lives and leaving deep wounds across Vietnam. But even before U.S. involvement, the Vietnamese had already endured a brutal fight to drive out French colonial rule — culminating in the historic Dien Bien Phu victory in 1954.

In the aftermath, the country was divided into Communist North Vietnam and U.S.-backed South Vietnam, setting the stage for one of the 20th century’s most devastating conflicts.

2025 marks two significant anniversaries: 50 years since the fall of Saigon and 30 years of restored diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the U.S. In that time, the two nations have become partners in trade, education, tourism, and reconciliation.

And that reconciliation is visible — and personal — at many of Vietnam’s war-related attractions.

War Sites Turned Must-See Attractions

Vietnam is experiencing a tourism boom. In 2024, the country welcomed 17.5 million foreign visitors, nearly matching its all-time high before COVID-19. History lovers and curious travelers alike are finding new reasons to explore Vietnam — and war sites are high on the list.

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City draws over half a million visitors annually, two-thirds of them international. Its exhibits spotlight the war’s human toll, from the My Lai massacre to the long-term devastation of Agent Orange. A planned U.S.-led exhibit highlighting post-war humanitarian efforts is currently on hold due to past foreign aid cuts.

Nearby, iconic wartime landmarks still stand — the Independence Palace, where North Vietnamese tanks crashed through the gates in 1975, and the Rex Hotel, once the site of daily U.S. press briefings now dubbed the “Five O’Clock Follies.”

Outside the city, the Cu Chi tunnels offer a hands-on, subterranean experience of guerrilla warfare. Visitors can crawl through narrow passageways used by the Viet Cong and even try out AK-47s or M-16s at a firing range.

“Now I understand how the Vietnamese managed to fight back,” said Italian tourist Theo Buono. “It’s impressive — and humbling.”
For Luu Van Duc, a 78-year-old former artilleryman with the North Vietnamese Army, returning to Cu Chi with fellow veterans was deeply emotional.

“This was my dying wish — to walk these paths again with my comrades,” he shared. “The relics must be preserved so the next generations know the strength and sacrifice behind our freedom.”

Beyond the City: Tracing the Footsteps of War

In Quang Tri province, where the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) once split the nation, more than 3 million people visited in 2024. On the northern side, the Vinh Moc Tunnels offer a look into civilian life underground, where entire families hid from U.S. bombs.

Nearby lies Khe Sanh, site of a legendary 1968 battle. Visitors can explore original bunkers, helicopters, and tanks left behind. A short drive takes you to Hue, where the Imperial City still bears the scars of the intense Tet Offensive.

West of Hue, Hamburger Hill — infamous for its steep cost in lives — draws intrepid travelers willing to trek off the beaten path. To the southwest near the Cambodian border is the Ia Drang Valley, where the first major clash between U.S. and North Vietnamese troops erupted in 1965.

And in Hanoi, the Hoa Lo Prison, grimly nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs, now serves as a museum. Originally built by the French, it later housed captured American pilots, including U.S. Senator John McCain.

“It’s eerie, but powerful,” said Olivia Wilson, a 28-year-old from New York. “It gave me a new perspective on the war — from the Vietnamese side.”
From conflict to connection, Vietnam’s war-torn landscapes have transformed into places of reflection, education, and healing — bridging generations, nations, and stories.

Whether you’re a veteran revisiting the past or a traveler seeking truth beyond the guidebooks, Vietnam’s historical sites offer unforgettable lessons in loss, resilience, and reconciliation.

Original post by David Rising and Hau Dinh/ Associated Press

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