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.
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.
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.
Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) is pouring into Vietnam at an impressive pace, with over $1.47 billion in registered capital in just the first quarter of 2025—a 68.5% surge compared to the same period last year. Among the wave of projects, two major high-tech manufacturing facilities have just broken ground in Bac Ninh, signaling a strategic shift in Chinese capital towards more advanced industries.
At the end of March, Bac Ninh welcomed the Victory Giant Technology Vietnam Plant, a $520 million project by Victory Giant Technology Co., Ltd. from Guangdong, China. The factory will focus on research, development, and production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) for cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence, big data, green energy vehicles, aerospace, medical equipment, and next-generation communications.
The second project is a $120 million high-precision components manufacturing plant by Green Precision Manufacturing Vietnam Co., Ltd. This Chinese high-tech firm specializes in structural components for consumer electronics including speakers, smartphones, tablets, and e-payment devices.
According to the Foreign Investment Agency (Ministry of Planning and Investment), China ranked as Vietnam’s second-largest source of newly registered FDI in Q1 2025, with $1.23 billion across 19 of 21 economic sectors and projects spread over 55 of Vietnam’s 63 provinces and cities. By the end of 2024, China had a total of 5,111 valid projects in Vietnam, with accumulated registered capital exceeding $30.83 billion.
Importantly, experts note a remarkable improvement in the quality of Chinese investments. At the 2025 Canton Fair Promotion Seminar, VCCI Vice President Vo Tan Thanh remarked that Chinese FDI has evolved from traditional sectors like textiles and footwear to now targeting high-tech manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, electronics, and electric vehicles.
“Many Chinese enterprises with global ambitions are launching large-scale projects in Vietnam, contributing significantly to the country’s industrialization and modernization, while also creating thousands of jobs and facilitating technology transfer,” Mr. Thanh emphasized.
Looking ahead, major Chinese state-owned enterprises such as CRCC (China Railway Construction Corporation) and PowerChina are proposing involvement in large-scale transportation infrastructure projects in Vietnam, including the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway, the Hanoi – Lang Son line, and the Hai Phong – Quang Ninh – Mong Cai corridor. These firms have also expressed interest in participating in the North-South high-speed railway and urban railways in Ho Chi Minh City.
In a September 2024 report, HSBC noted that among its Chinese clients eyeing Southeast Asia, Vietnam ranked just behind Singapore as a preferred expansion market. “Vietnam is an increasingly attractive destination for Chinese investors, thanks to its strong economic ties and complementary market strengths,” the bank stated.
Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS, a firm supporting foreign investors in Vietnam, commented: “This new wave of Chinese FDI reflects a major turning point. We’re seeing a transition from labor-intensive projects to high-tech, value-added industries. It’s not just about capital—it’s about collaboration, innovation, and long-term growth. Vietnam is clearly positioning itself as a strategic partner in the global supply chain reshaping.”
Stay tuned to Vietnam Insider for more updates on Vietnam’s fast-changing investment landscape.
2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and China.
Across all levels of Vietnamese society—from high-level strategic consensus to grassroots cultural ties, and from deep economic integration to regional development collaboration—the necessity of bilateral cooperation and the tradition of friendship have become increasingly evident. The autonomy and mutual benefit of Vietnam-China relations are now key forces in resisting external interference and maintaining regional stability. Earlier this year, a short video went viral on Vietnamese social media: a vendor in Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province, fluently promoting durian cakes to Chinese tourists in Mandarin, with bilingual Vietnamese-Chinese signs in the background and cross-border trucks bustling by. This lively snippet is a microcosm of Vietnam’s current attitude toward China—neither the grand narratives of official propaganda nor the Western stereotype of “forced dependence,” but a rational, interest-based choice made by the people.
Analyst Perspective: Cooperation as an “Irreversible Survival Logic”
“Rather than saying Vietnam chose China, it’s more accurate to say the global supply chain chose the Vietnam-China combination,” wrote a Hanoi University economics professor in his column. Citing data, he noted that in 2024, 78% of the electronic components Vietnam exported to China had to be shipped back for final assembly, an “intertwined” industrial model that makes so-called “decoupling” technically implausible. Vietnamese society is now perceiving the depth of bilateral cooperation in more tangible ways. A 2025 survey by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences revealed that 68% of respondents viewed “cooperation with China as an irreplaceable choice for Vietnam’s development,” a 12-percentage-point increase from five years ago.
Tiki founder Tran Thanh Hai shared: “Our payment system is built on Ant Group’s technology, our logistics algorithms are optimized by Alibaba Cloud, and even our user profiles integrate consumer data from TikTok.” While such technological penetration has sparked debate, developers at Ho Chi Minh City’s tech parks admit: “Rather than starting from scratch, it’s better to leapfrog ahead. Chinese firms adapt to local needs far more flexibly than Western companies.” A 2025 white paper by Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment showed that Chinese investment in high-tech sectors surged from 12% in 2015 to 35%, focusing on semiconductor packaging, new energy batteries, and smart agriculture. At the Vietnam-China Joint Tech Park in Long An Province, for instance, 40% of patents are co-held by engineers from both countries. A Vietnamese technician involved in solar film R&D noted: “The Chinese team provides foundational research data, while we optimize applications for tropical climates. This division of labor doubles efficiency.”
Beware the Pitfalls of Populism: Historical Lessons and Present Risks
Last month, Vietnam witnessed a boycott triggered by alleged “sensitive imagery”—tear stains on dolls. The uproar began on March 5 when streamer VirusS (Đặng Tiến Hoàng) claimed to have discovered the controversial details in a new doll design and called for a halt to imports and sales. Fueled by nationalist sentiment, the backlash escalated into retaliatory actions against businesses, disrupting social order and exposing the dangers of populist fervor. The tear stains, imbued with VirusS’s imaginative speculation, spiraled into an uncontrollable controversy as self-proclaimed patriots amplified the narrative. Such overreaction, rooted in a persecution complex, reflects insecurity and irrationality. Historically, Vietnam has paid dearly for unchecked nationalist emotions. As President Ho Chi Minh once emphasized, “National independence must align with the progress of humanity”—a principle that remains relevant today. Now, Vietnam is achieving breakthroughs in digital economy and green energy, showcasing the innovative prowess of its youth. These accomplishments, not the denigration of others, should be the source of national pride.
Addressing international media labeling Vietnam as a “China decoupling alternative,” Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyễn Chí Dũng stated at the 2025 World Economic Forum: “While others discuss a ‘China+1’ strategy, Vietnam thinks in terms of ‘China×1’—how to turn bilateral complementarity into a multiplier effect. What we attract isn’t just factories, but the capacity to upgrade entire industrial ecosystems.” Amid a complex global landscape, Vietnamese youth must navigate challenges with clarity.
Vietnam’s compliance efficiency with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is 30% higher than with the CPTPP, precisely because the former aligns better with Vietnam-China supply chains. This rationality resonates with the business community. Vũ Đức Giang, Chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association, highlighted that Vietnam has rapidly emerged as a leading global textile producer. For example, Chinese apparel accessory giant SAB (Weixing) invested in a $100-million factory in Bỉm Sơn Industrial Park, Thanh Hóa Province, renowned for its green standards, automation, and reduced emissions—hailed as one of the world’s most modern plants. Controversies involving multinational corporations (like the Uniqlo incident) remind us that business decisions are multifaceted, and emotional boycotts only harm local market credibility. Vietnamese netizens must learn to distinguish “patriotism” from “populism” and avoid being misled by biased information. The government and society must strengthen media oversight, promote critical thinking, and guide the public toward dialogue over aggression.
Beyond Binary Narratives: Western Misreadings and Eastern Realities
Though outlets like The Economist dub Vietnam the “Switzerland of Asia,” analysts counter: “This analogy overlooks Vietnam’s agency—we are not neutrals but co-architects of the rules.” While Western scholars frame Vietnam-China relations as a “zero-sum game,” the reality—from border markets brimming with cross-border trade to satellite launch collaborations—proves that partnering with China isn’t a multiple-choice question but an imperative for survival and growth. This, perhaps, is Eastern wisdom’s unique contribution to global governance.
Opening Ceremony attended by His Excellency, Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mai Văn Chính
LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam is the LEGO Group’s most environmentally sustainable factory to date.
State-of-the-art facility is the company’s sixth factory worldwide and second in Asia and will support long-term growth in the region.
Company committed to enhancing learning through play opportunities for children in Vietnam.
Billund, Denmark, April 9, 2025: The LEGO Group today celebrated the grand opening of LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam in Binh Duong province, southern Vietnam. LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam is the company’s sixth factory worldwide and second in Asia. Built to support long-term growth in the region and bring more LEGO® play experiences to children around the world, it is also the LEGO Group’s most environmentally sustainable factory to date.
Niels B. Christiansen, CEO of the LEGO Group, said: “Today marks an exciting milestone for us as we proudly open our sixth factory in the world. This state-of-the-art site reflects our commitment to sustainable growth and innovation, bringing more LEGO play experiences to children and our fans in the Asia-Pacific region through increased manufacturing capacity.”
The Opening Ceremony was attended by His Excellency, Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam Mai Van
Chinh, His Excellency, Former President Nguyen Minh Triet, LEGO Group Chief Executive Officer
Niels B. Christiansen, LEGO Group Chief Operations Officer Carsten Rasmussen, national and
provincial officials, business and community partners, and colleagues from Vietnam and around
the world.
The LEGO Group’s most environmentally sustainable factory
LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam will run on 100% renewable energy by early 2026. In addition to the factory’s own 12,400 rooftop solar panels, the company today announced a landmark agreement with Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) for an energy centre on adjacent land. The energy centre will house the first battery storage solution of its scale in Vietnam and will be operational by the end of 2025. Remaining renewable energy needs will be met through power purchase agreements.
Carsten Rasmussen, COO of the LEGO Group said: “I am extremely proud of our environmental sustainability progress in Vietnam, strengthening our positive impact locally while supporting our global ambitions. The use of battery storage solutions and power purchase agreements to increase renewable energy is not just a first for the LEGO Group but among the first for any company in Vietnam. I am thankful for the collaboration we have had with our partners in establishing frameworks and policies that can serve other companies looking to increase their own use of renewable energy.”
The factory is also home to the LEGO Group’s first LEED Platinum certified buildings. Both its administrative building and play pavilion – a play space for children – are certified LEED Platinum, while the moulding, packing and warehousing buildings are certified LEED Gold.
LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam is also the first LEGO factory to exclusively produce paper-based pre-pack bags.
Investing in the workforce and employee experience
The LEGO Group is committed to recruiting and building a high-skilled talent pool in the region. In summer 2024, the company launched an internal training program that combines hands-on training at other LEGO® factories with local on-the-job instruction. The training continues today with on-site support from over 100 global trainers.
LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam also serves as a flagship for the LEGO Group’s Future Factory Workplace concept, creating an inspiring and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and proud. The concept includes green and healthy work environments, play spaces, local community engagement in factories, and facilities such as prayer and lactation rooms, wellbeing rooms, indoor and outdoor break rooms, wheelchair accessibility and more.
Bringing LEGO play to more children in Vietnam
Guided by its mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow, the LEGO Group has partnered with local government, community organizations, NGOs and charities to ensure children in Vietnam benefit from greater learning through play opportunities.
These partnerships and collaborations include:
National Centre for Special Education, which has implemented the LEGO Braille Bricks programme and distributed more than 2,500 toolkits to education institutions in Vietnam
LIFE Centre, which has introduced the Build the Change programme to 16 elementary schools and community spaces in Binh Duong province, benefitting over 15,000 children. Build the Change encourages children to express ideas for a better future through building.
Save the Children International in Vietnam, in collaboration with the Department of Education and Training in Quang Binh Province and the National Youth Union, has benefited over 9,000 children through the Girls Unstoppable project by adopting Girl Decide curriculum and a learning through play approach.
In total, the LEGO Group’s community efforts in Vietnam will benefit more than 60,000 children by the end of 2025.
Distribution centre in Dong Nai province on track to open later this year
The LEGO Group will also open a regional distribution centre in Dong Nai province, Vietnam as part of its strategy to increase flexibility and agility in its supply chain network, which will officially open later this year. The centre has started ramping up operations, with first inbound and outbound shipments underway. It will be the company’s second distribution centre in Asia and will be operated by Kuehne+Nagel.
In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as a key player in the global textile and garment supply chain, transitioning from a low-cost manufacturing hub to one of the world’s leading exporters of clothing and textiles. Its strategic location, competitive labor costs, and steadily improving production capabilities have made Vietnam a trusted sourcing destination for many international brands.
Today, the textile and garment industry plays an important role in Vietnam’s economy, contributing nearly 44 billion USD to the export revenues and providing employment for millions. However, the sector is undergoing major changes, driven by global trends such as the growing adoption of the “China Plus One” strategy and the rising demand for sustainable and responsible production.
These developments present both opportunities and challenges that Vietnam must navigate to maintain its long-term competitiveness.
Opportunities for Vietnam’s Textile and Garment Industry
Vietnam is well-positioned to capitalize on the global supply chain shift, driven by the growing demand for sustainable and responsible production. Many manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly practices and securing certifications such as GOTS, OEKO-TEX, ISO 9001, and WRAP, opening access to premium markets and strengthening partnerships with international buyers.
Vietnam also offers diversified garment production, catering to both mass-market retailers and niche brands with services ranging from basic apparel to customized and small-batch orders. Its strategic location enables collaboration with neighboring countries, enhancing regional supply chain resilience and cost-efficiency. Additionally, Vietnam benefits from key free trade agreements like the CPTPP and EVFTA, providing tariff advantages and improved market access.
In the video below, we will explore in detail the opportunities within Vietnam’s garment and textile industry and explain why companies should consider investing here.
Vietnam’s Integration into Global Value Chains
Vietnam’s strong position in the textile and garment industry is the result of its successful integration into international supply chains. The country has built a comprehensive system of textile mills, garment factories, and workshops, producing both finished garments and intermediate products used across Southeast Asia.
This capability has allowed Vietnam to become a key supplier not only for ready-made garments but also for textile components.
Moreover, leading international brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo have established major production bases in Vietnam, further proving the country’s ability to meet international standards, adapt to market trends, and deliver quality products.
A major factor shaping the future of Vietnam’s garment and textile industry is the growing adoption of the “China Plus One” strategy. Companies worldwide are reducing their reliance on China due to rising labor costs, trade tensions between the U.S. and China, and the need for greater supply chain flexibility. Vietnam stands out as a preferred alternative thanks to its geographical proximity to China, political stability, and manufacturing expertise.
While Vietnam still depends on China for raw materials such as fabrics and yarns, it plays a crucial role in the final stages of garment assembly and export. This cooperation allows brands to combine China’s upstream raw material supply with Vietnam’s downstream production capabilities, creating an efficient regional production network.
Challenges Facing Vietnam’s Textile and Garment Industry
Despite these advantages, Vietnam faces several challenges that could affect its long-term competitiveness. One of the most pressing issues is the country’s dependence on imported raw materials, particularly from China. This reliance makes Vietnam’s supply chain vulnerable to disruptions and limits its control over production costs and timelines.
Meeting international sustainability and social responsibility standards is another demanding task, particularly for small and medium-sized manufacturers. While larger factories are successfully adopting sustainable practices, many smaller companies lack the financial capacity to upgrade their production methods. This constraint could limit their ability to meet the stricter requirements imposed by international buyers.
Infrastructure limitations further complicate the situation. Despite improvements in transportation networks, ports, and customs procedures, bottlenecks and inefficiencies still persist. These challenges increase logistics costs and reduce the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports, particularly as neighboring countries continue to enhance their infrastructure.
Final Thought
Vietnam has established itself as a vital hub in the global textile and garment industry. Its competitive manufacturing base, strategic location, participation in trade agreements, and role in regional production networks have made it a favored destination for international brands, especially amid the rise of the China Plus One strategy.
However, to sustain and enhance its position, Vietnam must address key challenges such as raw material dependence, rising labor costs, infrastructure gaps, and the uneven ability of manufacturers to comply with sustainability standards. By investing in supply chain improvements, sustainable production, and capacity building, Vietnam can secure its role as a key player in the global garment and textile sector for years to come.
Ho Chi Minh City to Light Up the Sky with Fireworks at Over 30 Locations for Reunification Day Celebrations
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification, Ho Chi Minh City is set to host one of its largest fireworks displays in years — with over 30 locations across the city scheduled to light up the sky on the evening of April 30.
In addition to the main event, the city will also feature two special high-altitude fireworks shows at the Saigon Riverside Park in Thu Duc City on the nights of April 19 and April 26, building excitement in the lead-up to the national holiday.
A Spectacular Night on April 30
According to Colonel Trần Văn Trung, Chief Political Officer of the Ho Chi Minh City Command, the grand fireworks show will take place from 9:00 PM to 9:15 PM on April 30, featuring:
2 high-altitude launch sites:
The entrance to the Saigon River Tunnel (Thu Duc City)
Ben Duoc Memorial Temple (Cu Chi District)
28 low-altitude launch sites spread across the city, including:
Giồng Junction (Hoc Mon District)
Ben Noc Memorial (Thu Duc City)
Rung Sac Martyrs Memorial (Can Gio District)
An Phu Dong Resistance Base (District 12)
Lang Le Cultural Park (Binh Chanh District)
Binh Tri Dong Residential Area (Binh Tan District)
Reunification Palace (District 1)
Thanh Da Peninsula (Binh Thanh District)
Ba Son Bridge (District 1)
Tan Thuan Bridge (District 4)
Tay Bac Industrial Park (Cu Chi District)
Go Vap Cultural Park
Nha Be District People’s Committee
District 7 Administrative Center
Dam Sen Cultural Park (District 11)
Binh Dien Market (District 8)
Tan Son Nhat Resettlement Area (District 12)
An Binh Area (Tan Phu District)
Binh Phu Park (District 6)
Several fireworks shows will also be staged on barges, notably at Van Phuc City Urban Area (Thu Duc) and Bach Dang Wharf (District 1), adding a stunning waterside perspective to the celebrations.
Pre-Holiday Fireworks on April 19 and 26
For those who can’t wait until the 30th, two preview high-altitude displays will take place from 9:30 PM to 9:40 PM on April 19 and 26, also at Saigon Riverside Park in Thu Duc City.
Fireworks in Saigon
A Grand Ceremony for a Historic Milestone
As part of the commemorative events, Ho Chi Minh City will host a large-scale parade and celebration ceremony on April 30. The program will include:
A 30-minute musical and artistic performance
Military brass bands and rifle drill displays
A ceremonial 21-gun salute during the national anthem
Speeches from Vietnamese leaders, veterans, and representatives of the younger generation
A rendition of the patriotic song “Đất nước trọn niềm vui” (The Country’s Joyful Unity)
A massive parade and procession, culminating in a symbolic release of balloons and doves
Why It Matters
This year’s celebration carries deep national significance. As Vietnam marks five decades since reunification, Ho Chi Minh City — the nation’s economic and cultural heartbeat — is pulling out all the stops to honor history, celebrate peace, and inspire unity.
So, whether you’re a local or a traveler in Vietnam this April, make sure to look to the skies — you won’t want to miss this dazzling display of national pride.
Ngày 10/4/2025, CTCP Vicostone (mã chứng khoán VCS), một đơn vị thành viên của Tập đoàn Phenikaa, đã tổ chức thành công Đại hội đồng Cổ đông năm 2025 với sự tham gia của các cổ đông đại diện cho 144.088.078 cổ phiếu, tương đương 90,06% tổng số cổ phần có quyền biểu quyết. Toàn bộ tờ trình, báo cáo hoạt động năm 2024, kế hoạch triển khai năm 2025… đều được thông qua với đa số phiếu tán thành.
Trước bối cảnh kinh tế thế giới tiếp tục bất ổn do căng thẳng địa chính trị và biến động chính sách thương mại, Vicostone xác định năm 2025 là giai đoạn củng cố nội lực và điều hành thận trọng, với định hướng tăng trưởng bền vững dựa trên các trụ cột: tài chính lành mạnh, quản trị rủi ro chủ động, phát triển thị trường chiến lược và thúc đẩy các sáng kiến ESG.
Kết quả năm 2024: Ổn định trong thách thức
Năm 2024 đánh dấu một năm đầy biến động, với hàng loạt sự kiện quan trọng có sức ảnh hưởng trên phạm vi toàn cầu, nổi bật như: xung đột kéo dài giữa Nga – Ukraine, căng thẳng tại Trung Đông, bầu cử tổng thống Hoa Kỳ… Kinh tế thế giới chứng kiến sự phân hóa trong triển vọng tăng trưởng giữa các khu vực. Hoạt động kinh tế tuy không rơi vào suy thoái nhưng ở mức thấp hơn tiềm năng, lạm phát dù đã hạ nhiệt nhưng vẫn cao hơn mục tiêu ở nhiều quốc gia. Thị trường xây dựng toàn cầu năm 2024 tiếp tục bị ảnh hưởng bởi tác động dài hạn của lạm phát và lãi suất, nhu cầu xây dựng, sửa chữa nhà giảm do chi phí sản xuất, xây dựng tăng cao bởi tác động của địa chính trị.
Trong năm 2024, Vicostone đạt doanh thu thuần 4.322 tỉ đồng, lợi nhuận trước thuế 953 tỉ đồng, tương ứng 93,91% và 92,21% kế hoạch năm – kết quả khả quan trong bối cảnh thị trường vật liệu xây dựng toàn cầu chịu nhiều áp lực. Tiềm lực tài chính duy trì ở mức tốt với tỉ suất lợi nhuận trước thuế/doanh thu thuần là 22,06%; Hệ số khả năng thanh toán hiện hành và Hệ số khả năng thanh toán nợ ngắn hạn ở mức cao lần lượt là 4,76 lần và 4,13 lần . Đặc biệt, hệ số quay vòng hàng tồn kho năm 2024 là 1,41 lần tăng so với năm 2023, thể hiện nhiều nỗ lực trong công tác kiểm soát nội bộ, quản lí chi phí, tối ưu tồn kho, vừa đảm bảo sản xuất liên tục, vừa đảm bảo công tác bán hàng không bị gián đoạn.
Kế hoạch 2025: Thận trọng – Chủ động – Bền vững
Năm 2025, kinh tế thế giới được dự báo duy trì đà tăng trưởng khi tình hình lạm phát, lãi suất có những tín hiệu tích cực. Tuy nhiên cú sốc mới đây từ chính sách thuế quan của Mỹ được các chuyên gia nhận định có nguy cơ làm gia tăng căng thẳng thương mại toàn cầu, tác động mạnh tới hoạt động kinh doanh xuất nhập khẩu của doanh nghiệp Việt Nam. Trên cơ sở nhận định sự bất ổn của thị trường, đánh giá toàn diện rủi ro, Vicostone xây dựng các kịch bản ứng phó, đặt mục tiêu tăng trưởng thận trọng, tăng cường hoạt động kiểm soát để chủ động, kịp thời xác định kịch bản ứng phó được lựa chọn áp dụng.
Đại hội thông qua kế hoạch năm 2025 với:
• Doanh thu thuần dự kiến: 4.719 tỉ đồng (tăng 9,2%)
• Lợi nhuận trước thuế dự kiến: 975 tỉ đồng (tăng 2,3%)
Chiến lược dài hạn: Nền tảng vững vàng – Hướng tới phát triển bền vững
Biến động khó đoán định của kinh tế, chính trị toàn cầu có thể thay đổi hoàn toàn thị trường, tác động sâu, rộng tới hoạt động sản xuất kinh doanh, nằm ngoài tầm kiểm soát của doanh nghiệp. Trước các thách thức đó, Vicostone tập trung tiếp tục xây dựng và củng cố nội tại, tối ưu nguồn lực, sẵn sàng các kịch bản thích ứng linh hoạt để chủ động trong mọi hoàn cảnh.
1. Tăng cường hiệu quả công tác quản trị rủi ro: Tiếp tục triển khai kế hoạch ứng phó rủi ro toàn diện với mục tiêu: hạn chế rủi ro tổng thể, giảm thiểu tác động của các yếu tố bất lợi, chủ động biến thách thức thành cơ hội, linh hoạt và chủ động, tích hợp sâu rộng vào tất cả các hoạt động của doanh nghiệp từ quản lí chuỗi cung ứng, sản xuất, tiếp thị, bán hàng đến tài chính, đầu tư, đảm bảo thúc đẩy phát triển bền vững trong dài hạn.
2. Tăng cường kiểm soát nội bộ, tối ưu chi phí và hiệu quả hoạt động: Nâng cao chất lượng nhân sự nhằm tăng năng suất lao động; tối ưu hóa quy trình sản xuất, quản lí nguyên liệu, tồn kho, cắt giảm các chi phí dư thừa gây lãng phí trong hệ thống; đầu tư cho R&D, phát triển, cải tiến công nghệ, quy trình nhằm tối ưu thời gian xử lí nghiệp vụ, đảm bảo hiệu quả đầu ra và tiết kiệm chi phí đầu vào trong quá trình sản xuất, quản lí, vận hành.
3. Phát triển thị trường: Tiếp tục nâng cao vị thế cạnh tranh ở các thị trường trọng điểm bằng việc nâng cao chất lượng sản phẩm, đón đầu xu hướng về thiết kế mẫu mã, đáp ứng đầy đủ các quy định của pháp luật và các tiêu chuẩn quốc tế; chủ động cung cấp các giải pháp, thông tin cần thiết về sản phẩm, hướng dẫn/đào tạo chuyên biệt về gia công, chế tác, lắp đặt, sử dụng sản phẩm một cách an toàn, hiệu quả tới đối tác/khách hàng; đầu tư nguồn lực để tiếp cận và phát triển các các kênh bán hàng đa dạng, linh hoạt cho thị trường mới tiềm năng như khu vực Trung Đông, Nam Mỹ và một số quốc gia châu Á – Thái Bình Dương.
4. Phát huy thế mạnh về R&D: R&D và sự sáng tạo không giới hạn là chìa khóa thành công, tạo lợi thế cạnh tranh và sự khác biệt, dẫn dắt thị trường của Vicostone. Trong năm 2025, Công ty tiếp tục đẩy mạnh công tác R&D song song ứng dụng khoa học, công nghệ cho hệ thống dây chuyền, thiết bị nhằm đảm bảo chất lượng sản phẩm đầu ra đáp ứng yêu cầu, quy định khắt khe nhất của từng thị trường trọng yếu cũng như thị trường tiềm năng; tiếp tục đầu tư nghiên cứu, sản xuất nguyên vật liệu mới thay thế cho nguyên vật liệu truyền thống nhằm tạo những sản phẩm thân thiện môi trường, chất lượng tốt và tiếp tục dẫn dắt thị trường về thiết kế độc đáo và thẩm mĩ tinh tế.
5. Ổn định chuỗi cung ứng: Phát huy lợi thế nội địa hóa và làm chủ hơn 95% nguồn nguyên liệu đầu vào, tăng khả năng tự chủ về nguồn nguyên vật liệu; tích cực tìm kiếm thêm các nhà cung ứng mới trên thị trường nhằm giải phóng áp lực phụ thuộc vào một vài nhà cung ứng cố định, chủ động lựa chọn nguồn nguyên vật liệu đầu vào chất lượng tốt hơn, ổn định lâu dài hơn với chi phí tối ưu, phù hợp với kế hoạch trong ngắn hạn cũng như chiến lược kinh doanh trung và dài hạn của Công ty.
6. Phát huy văn hóa Vicostone, tập trung phát triển con người: Vicostone tăng cường đào tạo và phát triển nhân viên; tạo môi trường làm việc tích cực thông qua tăng cường giao tiếp, phối hợp trong công việc, gia tăng sự gắn kết và không ngừng học hỏi; kiện toàn hệ thống đánh giá giúp đánh giá hiệu quả làm việc, từ đó nhận diện các vấn đề cần xử lí để cải thiện và nâng cao năng suất lao động; phát huy văn hóa đổi mới sáng tạo, bản lĩnh, kiên định, sáng suốt, tập trung sức mạnh tập thể để cùng vượt qua những biến động vĩ mô.
Kiên định với các mục tiêu phát triển bền vững, hướng tới ổn định tăng trưởng trong dài hạn, Vicostone phát triển toàn diện 3 trụ cột Môi trường – Xã Hội – Quản trị theo định hướng “sản xuất xanh, kinh doanh trách nhiệm” . Đây là định hướng chiến lược được Vicostone theo đuổi từ ngày đầu thành lập và ưu tiên triển khai từ năm 2024. Công ty đã thành lập Ban Dự án và Phòng ESG chuyên trách, xây dựng mục tiêu và lộ trình tới năm 2050 đạt phát thải ròng bằng 0, đồng hành cùng cam kết quốc gia về NetZero được Thủ tướng Chính phủ đưa ra tại COP 26. Nhờ thế mạnh về R&D, Công ty không ngừng nghiên cứu phát triển các dòng sản phẩm xanh, tăng tỉ trọng sản phẩm nguyên vật liệu tái chế, tiên phong trong xu hướng tiêu dùng bền vững của khách hàng. Tính đến năm 2024, gần 33% mẫu sản phẩm đá VICOSTONE® có chứa thành phần tái chế, đóng góp một phần không nhỏ vào doanh thu của Công ty. Việc thực hiện thành công chiến lược nội địa hóa và làm chủ hơn 95% nguồn nguyên vật liệu đầu vào sản xuất đá thạch anh, trong đó có chủ trương tiếp nhận Dự án Nhà máy Hóa chất Phenikaa được Đại hội thông qua, đã góp phần đáng kể giảm thiểu “dấu chân carbon” trên toàn bộ chuỗi cung ứng, tạo lập chuỗi giá trị xanh và nâng cao vị thế của Công ty trên toàn cầu.
In a stunning reversal, Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index just recorded its biggest single-day gain in history, with all VN30 stocks hitting their daily upper limit — effectively showing no sellers on the board. More than 1,100 stocks posted gains, and over 700 hit their ceiling price. It’s a complete turnaround from just one day earlier, when the index plunged for a fourth straight session to a 15-month low.
Until yesterday, the market was weighed down by margin calls and forced liquidations, with panic selling hitting even blue-chip stocks. Investor sentiment was in free fall, haunted by urgent questions like:
“Should I cut losses or hold?”
“Is it worth averaging down?”
“Where can I find cash to top up margin accounts?”
And then, overnight, everything changed.
The market rebounded as if the crash had never happened. Buy orders at ceiling prices flooded in, but barely any matched. Liquidity all but vanished after the ATO (At the Open) session. So what triggered such a dramatic shift?
The Psychology Behind the Volatility
There’s no single explanation for the wild swings in Vietnam’s stock market — but one undeniable factor is investor psychology. With individual investors accounting for around 90% of daily trading volume, emotions and sentiment play a massive role in market movements.
Much of this sentiment is driven by news cycles, often unverified or speculative. Retail investors frequently react to headlines — sometimes rumors — searching for meaning behind every move. Anything can be interpreted as a reason for a stock or the market to go up or down.
And then there’s the powerful force of FOMO — the fear of missing out. It leads to erratic behavior: selling off in panic one day, buying back in desperation the next. Many investors lack the discipline and risk management skills to navigate such volatility.
Even seasoned professionals weren’t spared in this latest market drop. The swiftness and depth of the correction caught many off guard, reinforcing the harsh reality that short-term trading is high-stakes and unforgiving. As some industry veterans put it, 95% of retail investors end up losing money.
Real Estate Stocks Surge, Stock Market Recovers (Image: Mạnh Quân)
Market Forecasting: A Fool’s Game?
Attempting to predict short-term movements in the stock market is notoriously difficult. Dominic Scriven, Chairman of Dragon Capital — Vietnam’s largest fund manager — once said, “Even after 30 years in the market, I still can’t tell whether it’ll go up or down tomorrow.”
While short-term trading adds liquidity to the market, experts advise retail investors to build balanced portfolios that combine short-term opportunities with long-term investments. A reasonable margin ratio is also essential to avoid pressure during corrections and preserve the potential for future gains.
What’s Driving the Rebound?
One factor behind the recent recovery could be the temporary suspension of reciprocal tariffs by Donald Trump, offering a dose of relief to the market. But this is far from the end of the story — trade negotiations are ongoing, and the final outcome remains uncertain.
While the strong rebound has helped ease investor anxiety, caution is still warranted. The global economic outlook remains volatile, and external shocks could continue to affect Vietnam’s market.
The Long-Term Outlook Remains Bright
Despite short-term turbulence, Vietnam’s stock market maintains solid long-term fundamentals. With a stable macroeconomic environment, strong corporate earnings growth, attractive valuations, and growing momentum toward an upgrade to emerging market status, the long-term story is intact.
For investors willing to stay grounded, Vietnam’s market continues to offer exciting opportunities — just not without the usual thrills and spills.
In 2025, the global supply chain landscape is undergoing a decisive transformation. What was once an unchallenged reliance on China for manufacturing and export has shifted towards diversification, with Vietnam and India emerging as attractive alternatives.
This shift is not merely a temporary reaction to geopolitical tensions but reflects deeper structural changes, including rising labor costs in China, supply chain disruptions, trade policies such as Trump-era tariffs, and evolving customer demands for flexibility and risk mitigation. However, as companies move or diversify their sourcing footprints, they must navigate a complex web of logistics, infrastructure, and customs challenges.
Comparative Logistics & Customs Analysis (China vs. Vietnam vs. India)
According to data collected by FVSource, a sourcing and market entry company, the table below provides an overview of logistics and customs analysis for China, Vietnam, and India.
Criteria
China
Vietnam
India
Infrastructure
Advanced (ports, roads, logistics parks)
Developing (improving but congested)
Uneven (strong ports, weak inland)
Customs Procedures
Streamlined, efficient
Improving
Slower, bureaucratic, region-dependent
Labor Cost (2025)
Rising
Competitive
Competitive
Supply Chain Ecosystem
Highly integrated, full vertical chain
Dependent on imported inputs
Partial vertical integration
Trade Agreement Coverage
23 FTAs with more than 30 partners on five continents
Broad (EVFTA, CPTPP, RCEP)
Has several bilateral FTAs with ASEAN countries, has not joined the RCEP
Dependence on China for Inputs
Medium to high
Medium
Geopolitical Risk (2025)
High (due to US tariffs, geopolitical)
Medium to High (due to US tariffs)
Medium
To help businesses better navigate the current shifts, the following video provides practical insights into the logistics and sourcing challenges between China, the U.S., Canada and Vietnam, covering key trends and considerations for companies looking to optimize their supply chains in 2025.
China’s Evolving Role: From Factory of the World to Strategic Supplier
For decades, China has served as the world’s manufacturing hub, benefiting from world-class infrastructure, established supply chain ecosystems, and highly competitive production costs. Even in 2025, China maintains a dominant position, particularly in advanced manufacturing, electronics, and automotive supply chains. Its logistics capacity — including major ports like Shanghai and Shenzhen, efficient freight forwarding systems, and robust customs clearance procedures — remains unmatched in Asia.
However, escalating US-China trade tensions, notably the re-imposition of Trump-era tariffs affecting key industries like electronics, textiles, and machinery, have made Chinese-made goods less cost-competitive in key Western markets. The combination of political uncertainty, increasing labor costs, and calls for supply chain resilience post-pandemic has prompted many businesses to adopt a “China Plus One” strategy, actively seeking to balance their production portfolios between China and neighboring countries such as Vietnam and India.
Vietnam: Agile and Export-Oriented, Yet Facing Growing Pains
Vietnam has emerged as one of the most preferred sourcing destinations for companies diversifying away from China. Its attractiveness lies in its cost competitiveness, favorable trade agreements (such as the EVFTA and CPTPP), proximity to China, and rapidly developing industrial zones catering to sectors like garments, footwear, furniture, and electronics.
Vietnam’s logistics sector has made significant strides in recent years, fueled by increased foreign direct investment and partnerships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers. In 2025, companies sourcing from Vietnam will benefit from relatively efficient export procedures, especially for sea freight to the US, EU, and Japan. However, challenges persist. The country faces infrastructure bottlenecks, particularly around major ports like Cat Lai and Hai Phong, leading to congestion and delays. Moreover, customs clearance in Vietnam, while improving, is often perceived as less streamlined compared to China, with inconsistent application of regulations depending on the region.
Another key limitation is Vietnam’s limited raw material base, which often forces factories to import inputs from China, thus partially maintaining Vietnam’s dependence on its northern neighbor. This dependency increases lead times and exposure to cross-border logistics risks.
India: Manufacturing Potential and Logistical Complexity
India, with its large labor force and growing industrial base, is another attractive alternative. Sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automotive components are particularly benefiting from the global supply chain shift. Additionally, India’s government has been actively promoting domestic manufacturing through the “Make in India” initiative and offering incentives to foreign investors.
However, sourcing from India in 2025 still presents several logistical hurdles. Although India boasts a large number of ports and significant capacity for both domestic and international shipping, its infrastructure remains inconsistent. Inland transportation, especially from production hubs to ports, can be plagued by poor road conditions, regulatory hurdles, and lengthy customs clearance processes. Compared to Vietnam and China, Indian customs procedures are often slower, and regional variations in rules and interpretations complicate logistics planning.
Nonetheless, India’s large domestic market and growing demand for consumer goods make it attractive not only as a sourcing destination but also as a potential consumer market for foreign companies.
The Role of Third-Party Logistics (3PL) and Technology
An important trend observed in the 2025 supply chain environment is the increasing reliance on third-party logistics (3PL) providers, especially in Vietnam and India. Businesses are leveraging 3PLs not only for freight forwarding but also for warehouse management, customs brokerage, and last-mile delivery. With the rise of cross-border e-commerce and platforms like Amazon FBA, the demand for 3PL services has accelerated.
In the US, companies that source from Vietnam or India often depend on 3PL operators with facilities in California, Texas, or the East Coast to streamline customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution. The integration of automation and warehouse management systems (WMS) has become essential to manage increasing shipping volumes and to optimize fulfillment costs.
Final Thought: No One-Size-Fits-All
The shift of global supply chains is not a simple relocation from China to Vietnam or India. Instead, companies are adopting multi-country strategies depending on their industry, sourcing needs, and risk appetite. Vietnam offers agility and competitive costs but faces infrastructure bottlenecks. India offers scale and labor advantages but struggles with logistics inefficiencies. China, while under pressure, still provides unparalleled supply chain integration and logistics efficiency.
In 2025, the ability to navigate these trade-offs — leveraging the right combination of local expertise, third-party logistics partners, and infrastructure — is becoming the key differentiator for successful global sourcing strategies. Companies must balance cost, reliability, and speed while also staying agile in response to changing trade policies and market dynamics.
Washington, D.C. – April 9, 2025 | In a key move to deepen economic ties, the United States and Vietnam have agreed to begin negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement, including discussions on tariffs. Both sides have instructed their technical teams to begin exchanges immediately.
The agreement came during a high-level meeting between Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Hồ Đức Phớc and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, as part of Mr. Phớc’s visit to the U.S. as a special envoy of General Secretary Tô Lâm to discuss bilateral economic and trade relations.
Deputy Prime Minister Phớc reiterated Vietnam’s strong desire to strengthen and deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the United States. He expressed appreciation for U.S. support of a strong, independent, self-reliant, and prosperous Vietnam, while affirming the country’s consistent foreign policy of independence, multilateralism, and economic self-reliance.
Vietnam expressed its readiness to work closely with U.S. counterparts to implement the outcomes of the recent April 4th dialogue between General Secretary Tô Lâm and President Donald Trump, aiming to ensure stable and sustainable economic cooperation for the benefit of both nations’ businesses and people.
Deputy PM Phớc emphasized that Vietnam has proactively introduced multiple measures to help reduce the trade imbalance with the U.S. He also raised concerns over the U.S. decision to impose high tariffs on Vietnamese exports, stating that such actions undermine the spirit of mutual benefit and are inconsistent with the two countries’ strategic partnership.
While welcoming the U.S. decision to delay tariff implementation for 90 days, Mr. Phớc called for early negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement that would serve as a long-term framework to promote balanced and sustainable economic growth.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer praised Vietnam’s proactive and constructive approach and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to strengthening economic ties. He acknowledged the challenges facing the U.S. economy that have led to the current tariff policy under the Trump administration, citing the significant trade deficit with Vietnam as a key concern.
However, he confirmed that the U.S. values its partnership with Vietnam and is committed to working closely to address trade imbalances and deepen collaboration across all sectors.
Both sides agreed to:
Launch technical-level discussions on a reciprocal trade agreement, including tariff issues;
Facilitate a more favorable business environment;
Review and reduce non-tariff barriers;
Support U.S. businesses looking to invest and operate in Vietnam;
In a surprise move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day delay on tariffs for several countries, sparking a massive rally on Wall Street.
In a post on Truth Social on April 9, Trump said:
“Given that over 75 countries have reached out to negotiate and have not retaliated against the U.S., I am announcing a 90-day pause on tariffs. During this period, reciprocal tariffs will be reduced to 10%.”
He added that the decision takes effect immediately.
However, Trump also dropped a bombshell in the same post: the U.S. will raise tariffs on Chinese imports to a staggering 125%, in response to Beijing’s retaliatory move of imposing 84% tariffs on American goods.
The market reacted swiftly and positively.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 2,544 points, or 6.8%, marking its biggest one-day gain since 2020.
The S&P 500 jumped 7.8%, while the Nasdaq Composite skyrocketed by nearly 10%.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced the launch of direct flights between Manila and Đà Nẵng, Vietnam’s dynamic central coastal city, starting July 1, 2025.
Often dubbed the “Miami of Vietnam,” Đà Nẵng is known for its modern cityscape, vibrant food scene, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled between the azure waters of the East Sea and the lush Annamite Mountains, the city serves as both a bustling urban center and a gateway to some of Vietnam’s most treasured cultural and historical sites.
“PAL is committed to offering greater connectivity and promoting tourism and commerce between our capital city and the central Vietnamese heartland,” said PAL President and COO Stanley Ng.
According to the airline, Đà Nẵng is “a lively coastal city situated close to renowned landmarks like the Marble Mountains and the Golden Bridge,” the latter famous for its massive stone hands that appear to lift the bridge into the sky.
The city also offers convenient access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, the spiritual ruins of My Son Sanctuary, and the imperial grandeur of Hue.
In addition to its cultural richness, Đà Nẵng is home to popular attractions like My Khe Beach, Son Tra Peninsula, Dragon Bridge, and the charming Tran Phu Street, making it a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
The Manila–Đà Nẵng route will be served by Airbus A321 aircraft, each accommodating 199 passengers. Flights will operate three times a week — Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
With this new route, PAL is tapping into the growing demand for travel between the Philippines and Vietnam, offering travelers more options to explore the cultural richness and natural beauty of Southeast Asia.
Năm 2024, Prudential Việt Nam duy trì nền tảng tài chính ổn định, tập trung vào chất lượng kênh phân phối, đầu tư nâng tầm trải nghiệm khách hàng và phát triển nguồn nhân lực.
Công ty TNHH Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ Prudential Việt Nam (“Prudential Việt Nam”) công bố báo cáo tài chính thường niên 2024. Kết thúc năm tài chính 2024, Prudential Việt Nam ghi nhận những kết quả nổi bật như sau:
Tổng tài sản đạt 189.051 tỷ đồng, tăng 7%.
Tổng tài sản đầu tư đạt 168.258 tỷ đồng, tăng 10,3%. Trong đó, tổng giá trị đóng góp vào
nền kinh tế thông qua kênh đầu tư vào trái phiếu Chính phủ đạt 73.122 tỷ đồng.
Năm 2024 tiếp tục là một năm đầu tư hiệu quả với doanh thu từ hoạt động đầu tư đạt
11.927 tỷ đồng, tăng 12%. Trong đó, doanh thu đến từ danh mục tài sản đầu tư của quỹ
liên kết đơn vị đạt 3.468 tỷ đồng. Toàn bộ doanh thu này là một phần quyền lợi của các
khách hàng tham gia sản phẩm bảo hiểm liên kết đơn vị.
Tổng doanh thu từ hoạt động kinh doanh bảo hiểm đạt 23.251 tỷ đồng. Trong đó, doanh
thu quy năm của hợp đồng khai thác mới đạt 3.043 tỷ đồng.
Lợi nhuận trước thuế đạt 3.339 tỷ đồng.
Tổng chi bồi thường và trả tiền bảo hiểm đạt 14.304 tỷ đồng, tăng 8,6%.
Ông Conor Martin O’Neill – Phó Tổng Giám đốc Tài chính Prudential Việt Nam cho biết: “Năm 2024, Prudential Việt Nam đã đạt được những bước tiến vững chắc trong việc củng cố năng lực vận hành và nâng cao trải nghiệm khách hàng, giữa bối cảnh thị trường có nhiều thay đổi. Dù những biến động kinh tế có ảnh hưởng đến thói quen và quyết định lập kế hoạch tài chính của khách hàng, nhưng nhu cầu được bảo vệ và tích lũy tài chính dài hạn vẫn rất mạnh mẽ tại Việt Nam.
“Prudential Việt Nam đang tập trung vào việc thúc đẩy chất lượng bán, bên cạnh đảm bảo rằng các sản phẩm của chúng tôi không chỉ đáp ứng nhu cầu của khách hàng mà còn phù hợp với các quy định mới của Luật kinh doanh bảo hiểm. Chúng tôi đang chuẩn bị ra mắt thị trường các giải pháp bảo hiểm nhân thọ mới và cam kết lấy khách hàng làm trọng tâm luôn là nền tảng vững chắc cho chúng tôi khi phát triển những giải pháp này.”
“Ngoài ra, trong năm 2024, chương trình giáo dục tài chính tiêu biểu Cha-Ching của chúng tôi đã tiếp cận hơn 32.000 học sinh Việt Nam, nâng tổng số học sinh trong các trường học tham gia Cha-Ching từ trước tới nay lên hơn 111.000 em. Đây là một đóng góp thiết thực vào việc xây dựng một thế hệ tương lai có hiểu biết tài chính vững vàng hơn.”
“Với biên thanh khoản cao ở mức 193%, Prudential Việt Nam có vị thế vững chắc để thực hiện các cam kết chi trả quyền lợi bảo hiểm, đảm bảo an toàn tài chính cho khách hàng. Thông qua đổi mới liên tục và định hướng tăng trưởng bền vững, chúng tôi cam kết đồng hành cùng khách hàng của mình trong hành trình lập kế hoạch bảo vệ cho những thành quả tài chính mà họ và gia đình đã dày công tạo dựng.”
Năm 2024, với nhiều quy định của Luật Kinh doanh Bảo hiểm chính thức được triển khai, Prudential Việt Nam tiếp tục lấy khách hàng làm kim chỉ nam trong hoạt động kinh doanh.
Nhờ ứng dụng công nghệ, trong năm qua, 87% các hồ sơ yêu cầu giải quyết quyền lợi bảo hiểm ở Prudential được nộp trực tuyến (e-claim) qua trang Zalo chính thức và cổng thông tin khách hàng PRUOnline.
Prudential Việt Nam tiếp tục cam kết đầu tư vào các đổi mới dựa trên nền tảng công nghệ, bao gồm việc ứng dụng trí tuệ nhân tạo (AI) để tối ưu hóa hoạt động và nâng cao hiệu quả dịch vụ, cụ thể:
Quy trình ‘Kiểm tra độc lập’ được ra đời, nhằm xác thực thông tin cá nhân và nhu cầu của khách hàng khi tham gia bảo hiểm.
“Công cụ tính phí bảo hiểm” chính thức được ra mắt nhằm giúp khách hàng tiềm năng lựa chọn các giải pháp bảo vệ phù hợp với khả năng tài chính của họ.
Quy trình “Ghi âm giọng nói” trong quá trình tư vấn cho 100% khách hàng mới, được tích hợp công nghệ trí tuệ nhân tạo (AI tạo sinh) để đảm bảo giải pháp bảo vệ phù hợp với nhu cầu thực tế của khách hàng.
Năm 2024, Prudential Việt Nam tiếp tục triển khai nhiều sáng kiến nâng cao năng lực của đội ngũ nhân sự thông qua việc nuôi dưỡng văn hóa hiệu suất cao. Các chương trình học tập và phát triển năng lực trọng tâm đạt 5.160 giờ đào tạo cho hơn 1.500 nhân viên. Sáng kiến “Ngày phát triển” được triển khai với 7.980 giờ tự học. Số lượng giờ tự học trực tuyến trên nền tảng Udemy đạt 4.567 giờ.
Về kết quả kinh doanh của Tập đoàn, Prudential đã đạt được những bước tiến trong việc thực hiện chiến lược cải thiện khả năng vận hành và thúc đẩy tăng trưởng trong năm 2024. Tập đoàn Prudential ghi nhận lợi nhuận từ hoạt động khai thác mới tăng 11% và tạo ra 2.642 triệu USD thặng dư phân bổ từ hoạt động kinh doanh như kỳ vọng đã đề ra. Trong năm 2025 và hướng tới năm 2026, Prudential đặt mục tiêu tiếp tục phát triển năng lực, khẳng định vị thế vững mạnh để tăng trưởng vượt bậc. Nhìn xa hơn, dựa trên trọng tâm phát triển kinh doanh mới chất lượng, đồng thời quản lý hiệu quả danh mục hợp đồng hiện hành và cải thiện các biến số hoạt động, Prudential vững tin hoàn thành các mục tiêu tài chính và chiến lược vào năm 2027 cũng như tạo ra giá trị bền vững cho các cổ đông và các bên liên quan tại các thị trường châu Á và châu Phi.
