Vietnam News Today (Jan. 23): Vietnam Boasts Potential to Position Itself as Regional and Global Tech Hub

	Vietnam News Today (Jan. 21): Vietnam, Czech Republic Establish Strategic Partnership
	Vietnam News Today (Jan. 22): Vietnam, Switzerland Issue Statement on Advancing Partnership

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (L) meets with Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Mathias Cormann in Davos, Switzerland on January 22 (local time) (Photo: VNA)

PM meets with OECD Secretary-General in Davos

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Secretary-General of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Mathias Cormann in Davos, Switzerland on January 22 (local time) as part of his participation in the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) here.

Expressing gratitude for the OECD’s support during Vietnam’s co-chairmanship of the Southeast Asia Regional Program, fight against COVID-19, and policy consultations, PM Chinh praised the strong partnership between Vietnam and the OECD.

He noted that the two Southeast Asia Ministerial Conferences held in Hanoi contributed to bring the OECD and the region closer together.

Outlining Vietnam's strategic development goals, the Vietnamese Government leader said that, building on 40 years of Doi Moi” (Renewal), 2025 will mark the start of a new era for Vietnam to rise up for a prosperous and developed nation by 2045.

To enhance cooperation between Vietnam and the OECD, the PM urged the Secretary-General to direct the organization's specialized committees to share expertise, provide policy advice, and assist Vietnam in boosting its competitiveness towards aligning with the OECD’s global governance standards.

He also called on the organization to support Vietnam in preparing and publishing key economic reports, which will serve as essential references for long-term policy formulation.

PM Chinh suggested that the OECD consider Vietnam’s early accession to the organization and facilitate the inclusion of Vietnamese professionals within its Secretariat, cited VNA.

He affirmed Vietnam will meet all necessary procedures, standards, and conditions for membership, as part of its efforts to deepen global economic integration and make greater contributions to international peace, cooperation, and development.

For his part, Cormann recognised Vietnam as a dynamic and fast-growing economy, playing an increasingly significant role in Southeast Asia - a major driver of global economic growth. The OECD, he said, is keen to strengthen its collaboration with Vietnam and stands ready to provide support through policy advice and assistance, including in Vietnam’s pursuit of OECD membership.

He agreed to facilitate Vietnam’s participation in the OECD Declaration on International Investment and Multinational Enterprises. He also committed to enhancing connections between the OECD’s specialized committees and Vietnam’s ministries and agencies, to further the effectiveness of their cooperation.

PM Chinh invited Cormann to the 4th P4G (Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030) Summit, scheduled for April, and the 16th UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16)’s ministerial meeting in October, both to be held in Vietnam.

He also confirmed that Vietnam will send a representative to the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting in June, demonstrating its strong commitment to and desire for closer collaboration with the organization.

Import-export activities burgeoning in early days of 2025

Since the first days of the new year 2025, Vietnamese businesses have quickly entered into a busy phase of production and exporting, as key industries such as textiles, footwear, electronics, and farm produce processing are ramping up to meet international market demands.

A hustle of production activities

The first weeks of the year witnessed a flurry of production activates by local enterprises as they strived to fulfill signed orders on time.

According to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), factories have been speeding up production activities to meet the delivery schedule as some Vietnamese businesses have received orders until the middle of the year.

The textile and garment industry has set a target of bagging between US$48 – 49 billion from export earnings this year, an increase of US$5 billion compared to last year.

Firms have also devised plans to proactively cope with market scenarios, especially with regard to changes in regulations of product quality and labelling, to maintain production and avoid rising costs.

With regard to farm produce processing, several local firms have drawn up schemes to invest in expanding production capacity in an effort to meet market demand and increase sales.

Meanwhile, the timber and forestry industry aims to achieve an export turnover of over US$18 billion this year by holding trade promotion activities and accelerating green production, according to VOV.

Photo: VOV

Ngo Sy Hoai, general secretary of the Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association (Viforest), emphasised that prospects ahead for timber and wooden exports this year are dependent on multiple factors, including global economic recovery, consumer demand in major markets, trade policies, and enterprises’ competitiveness.

Fully tapping into FTAs to boost exports

Vietnam aims to achieve a growth target of 12% for exports this year, meaning that export turnover must rise by over US$4 billion each month.

To fulfill that goal, the Government has requested ramping up trade promotion, diversifying supply chains and import-export markets, improving product quality, and getting involved in the regional and global supply chains.

Enterprises are therefore encouraged to effectively exploit 17 signed FTAs to boost exports to key markets and fully tap into emerging markets, such as the Middle East, Halal (Muslim countries), Latin America, and Africa, as well as speeding up negotiations to sign new FTAs.

Luong Hoang Thai, director of the Multilateral Trade Policy Department, stressed that Vietnam is considered one of the countries that benefit the most from global integration.

In particular, amid a shift in global supply chains, Vietnamese firms have promptly grasped the trends of green and digital transformation to improve exports.

Moreover, the new generation FTAs ​​like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), the Vietnam - EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), have all proved effective in expanding export markets whilst simultaneously reducing tariff barriers faced by businesses.

Industry insiders pointed out that FTAs ​​have not only helped to promote exports, but have also created opportunities for Vietnam to increase imports of modern technology and equipment from partner countries to further enhance their production activities.

Tet 2025 sees Noi Bai Airport braced for passenger traffic boom

Noi Bai International Airport is bracing for an anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the Lunar New Year (Tet) 2025, with daily figures projected to reach up to 100,000 travelers on peak days.

The airport expects a steady rise in passenger numbers throughout the holiday season, reflecting an overall growth of approximately 5 to 7% compared to regular periods.

Seven new international airlines have opened routes to Hanoi since 2024, contributing to a significant boost in international air travel.

Existing airlines have also increased their flight frequencies, resulting in record-breaking days where international passenger numbers exceeded 40,000.

The combined domestic and international traffic at Noi Bai demonstrates robust growth, as the airport continues to manage increasing demand.

During the peak travel period, which includes the week before and after Tet, Noi Bai is expected to handle around 90,000 passengers and 550 flights each day, VNA reported.

Passengers queue for check-in procedures at Terminal T1, Noi Bai International Airport. (Photo: VNA)

The busiest days are forecasted to be January 24 (the 25th day of the lunar month) and February 2 (the fifth day of Tet), with estimates of approximately 100,000 passengers and 590 flights.

To ensure safety and efficiency, heightened level-one aviation security measures will be in place from January 26 to February 2, as directed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

In preparation for the busy travel period, the airport’s Deputy Director Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan has issued several recommendations for passengers.

Travelers are advised to verify their flight information through airline channels, the airport’s website, or the iNIA app.

To avoid delays, passengers should arrive at the airport at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights.

After completing check-in procedures, passengers are urged to proceed promptly to the security screening area. It is essential to have all required identification documents, luggage and personal items prepared in accordance with regulations, and to follow guidance from airport staff.

To alleviate congestion during peak days, passengers are encouraged to limit the number of accompanying family members at the terminal and to use public transport wherever possible.

For those driving to the airport, ensuring sufficient funds in ETC cards for seamless payments at the non-stop toll station is highly recommended.

Vietnam boasts potential to position itself as regional and global tech hub

Vietnam has advantages to become a tech hub in ASEAN and globally, heard a seminar held in Davos, Switzerland, on January 21 on the sidelines of the 55th Annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The gathering attracted the participation of Vietnamese officials, representatives from major Vietnamese corporations, alongside representatives from global giants such as Google, City Group, Bitcoin Suisse, SEB Bank, Schneider Electric, Qualcomm, Visa, Ericsson, Hyundai Motor, among others.

In his keynote address, Truong Gia Binh, chairman of Vietnam’s leading tech giant FPT, highlighted Vietnam’s shift from regulatory management to governance facilitation, with a focus on outcomes over processes. He emphasized that Vietnam is striving for double-digit growth in the near future, driven by science-technology, and innovation, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, semiconductors, and big data.

The country’s tech industry generates annual revenue of US$2 billion, supported by a workforce of about 1 million technology professionals and prominent domestic tech firms such as Viettel, VNPT, and FPT.

He expressed Vietnam’s desire to cooperate with global partners to soar in the smart era.

The participants delved into Vietnam’s potential in high-tech investment, FDI attraction, and its competitive advantages. They also made recommendations to further enhance the country’s appeal as an investment destination.

Executives from global firms like Google, Schneider Electric, and A.P. Moller Capital lauded Vietnam’s strategic position and its potential to become a regional and global tech hub. They noted opportunities not only in science and technology but also in infrastructure, logistics, and health care.

The executives encouraged Vietnam to continue improving its institutional framework, developing hard and soft infrastructure, and offering incentives, especially in tax, fees, land policies, and foreign ownership regulations.

Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung responded to these suggestions by outlining reforms to make Vietnam a safer, more efficient, and competitive investment destination. He highlighted a post-audit mechanism that allows foreign investors to launch projects immediately upon registration, eliminating the 2-3 year waiting period previously required for investment approvals and environmental, fire safety, and other assessments. He also added that Vietnam is reviewing foreign investment caps in key areas like airports and seaports to attract additional funding for future infrastructure development.

On international financial centers, the Minister revealed that Vietnam’s National Assembly has approved plans to establish centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. He invited international partners to contribute policy advice and share experiences to ensure the success of these projects, cited VOV.

On behalf of the Vietnamese Prime Minister, Nguyen Van Nen, Party secretary of Ho Chi Minh City, shares Vietnam's development orientations and calls on foreign businesses to invest in the country.

On behalf of the Vietnamese Prime Minister, Nguyen Van Nen, Party secretary of Ho Chi Minh City, expressed gratitude to the participants and investors who have chosen Vietnam as their destination. He emphasized that high-tech development is not only the key to enhancing productivity, quality, and competitiveness but also to elevating Vietnam into a modern industrialized nation and building a knowledge economy.

Acknowledging the international community’s positive evaluation of Vietnam, Nen highlighted the presence of global tech leaders such as Samsung, Intel, Nvidia, Google, and Meta, as well as the rapid growth of domestic tech firms like Viettel, VNPT, FPT, and CMC within the country’s innovation ecosystem.

He underlined Vietnam’s stable political environment, sustainable economic growth, skilled workforce, upgraded infrastructure, and vibrant industry ecosystem as key factors that make the country an attractive destination for high-tech investment.

In the new era, he said, Vietnam aims for sustainable development with science and technology at its core, driven by innovation and digital transformation. The government prioritizes selective investments in high-tech projects, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, research and development, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and integrated infrastructure.

The senior official assured investors of Vietnam’s unwavering support, including special incentives for high-tech investment, streamlined investment procedures, and the development of high-quality human resources. He called on businesses to support Vietnam in exploring new opportunities, expanding investment cooperation, and implementing innovative solutions for mutual benefit.

“We commit to listening to and understanding, sharing visions and actions, cooperating for mutual success, and celebrating shared achievements with pride and joy,” he concluded.

Hanoi ranks among the world’s top 50 cities in 2025

Time Out’s 2025 ranking of the world’s best cities features Hanoi as Vietnam’s sole representative, celebrating its history, cuisine, and community spirit.

Time Out, a renowned travel magazine based in the UK, announced the list on January 15, highlighting affordability, harmony with nature, and community spirit as key criteria.

Grace Beard, Time Out’s travel editor, described Hanoi as a city with “relatively mild weather, four distinct seasons, and a rich cultural heritage.” The capital is lauded for its significant contributions to Vietnamese art, literature, and philosophy, as well as its iconic cuisine.

A culinary and cultural haven

Hanoi’s Old Quarter remains a treasure trove of sensory delights. Visitors can savor the aroma of charcoal-grilled pork from bun cha stalls on Hang Quat Street or the rich, simmering broth of pho from the famous sidewalk vendors on Hang Trong Street.

Around Hoan Kiem Lake, travelers can explore historic landmarks such as the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Tucked away in narrow alleys and ancient homes, small cafés offer a unique charm to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Photo: Van Anh

Hanoi’s reputation as a global culinary destination was solidified in 2023 when three of its restaurants were awarded prestigious Michelin stars, further cementing its place as a hub for fine dining and gastronomic excellence.

An affordable and festive destination

According to Time Out, Hanoi is the fourth most affordable city on the list, with 89% of survey participants praising the reasonable costs of activities like enjoying a cup of coffee or going to the cinema.

The magazine also notes that Vietnam’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of national reunification in 2025 will make Hanoi an even more attractive destination, with numerous festivals and events planned throughout the year.

Hanoi’s inclusion in the list of the world’s best cities underscores its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its affordability, rich heritage, and vibrant culinary scene, the capital continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

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