ALIAT – News

AgriS teams up with ITOCHU to advance alternative sweeteners

Tran Duc Thang, Acting Minister of Agriculture and Environment (second to the left), and Koizumi Shinjiro, Japanese Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (third to the left), testified the MoU signing between AgriS and ITOCHU

The signing took place at the 6th Japan–Vietnam Public–Private Forum on September 4.

The agreement aims to enhance the supply of sustainable raw sugar while jointly developing and commercializing alternative sweeteners and functional ingredients, contributing to improved health for Vietnamese consumers.

Under the agreement, ITOCHU will strengthen its supply of raw sugar to AgriS and collaborate in researching and expanding the alternative sweetener market. By combining ITOCHU’s global sourcing network and expertise in alternative products with AgriS’ strong understanding of local consumers, the partnership will create new value that meets the growing demand for healthier nutritional choices in Vietnam.

Speaking at the event, Thai Van Chuyen, CEO of AgriS, emphasized, “AgriS highly values the Vietnam–Japan Agricultural Cooperation Vision 2025-2030, which focuses on high technology, food security, and new-generation official development assistance. This aligns with AgriS’ commitment to building a green, clean, and smart agriculture sector. Through this collaboration with ITOCHU, we expect to further expand partnerships with Japanese counterparts in cross-border agricultural logistics projects, promote two-way agricultural trade, and deliver high-quality, health-beneficial products to global consumers.”

Thai Van Chuyen, CEO of AgriS

Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, ITOCHU is one of the world’s oldest general trading companies with over 160 years of history and a presence in 61 countries. The group operates across multiple sectors, from trade and import-export to domestic and international investments, and is pursuing the strategy “The Brand-new Deal – Value Lies Downstream” to expand businesses that directly engage with consumers.

AgriS is Vietnam’s leading high-tech agricultural group, steadily transforming into a comprehensive agriculture solutions provider by integrating three technology pillars: agricultural technology, food technology, and fintech, all operated under internationally recognised environmental, social, and governance standards. In the context of rising consumer interest in health and the growing trend towards alternative sweeteners, this partnership underscores AgriS’ commitment to working with reputable global partners to deliver optimal nutritional solutions to the community.

AgriS builds leadership team for next strategic phase

AgriS is strengthening its executive leadership as it enters a pivotal new phase in its drive to lead Vietnam’s high-tech agricultural transformation.

AgriS promotes high-tech agriculture cooperation between Vietnam and Australia

TTC AgriSand its subsidiary Global Mind Australia (GMA), in collaboration with Tay Ninh People’s Committee, held a high-tech agricultural conference in Queensland, Australia on August 12.

AgriS aims to accelerate digitalization and datafication of agriculture sector

AgriS presented its solutions for agricultural modernization and digitalization to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the inauguration of the National Data Center on August 18.

CIT eligibility may help pull in investment

News

New tax frameworks are expected to help enterprises get more funding and expand domestic production, photo Le Toan

According to the draft decree on guiding the implementation of the Law on Corporate Income Tax (CIT), which has been submitted for approval, the Ministry of Finance proposes expanding incentives, extending periods of tax exemption and reduction, and applying lower tax rates for prioritised projects.

These aim to support businesses and promote investment in key sectors and priority areas.

Under the draft, enterprises with income eligible for incentives under this law will be exempt from CIT for four years and benefit from a 50 per cent tax reduction for the following nine years.

This exemption and reduction policy also applies to income generated from enterprises operating in vocational education and high-level skills training, provided they are located in incentivised areas.

If such enterprises operate outside these incentivised areas, the four-year tax exemption still applies, but the 50 per cent tax reduction is limited to a maximum of five subsequent years.

For certain other categories, the tax incentives are defined as a two-year exemption and a 50 per cent decrease for the following four years. In the case of new ventures in especially encouraged sectors, the government is authorised to extend the exemption and reduction period up to 1.5 times the standard duration mentioned above, provided that the total incentive period does not surpass the lifespan of the project.

The draft specifies that the tax exemption and reduction period is calculated from the first year the enterprise generates taxable income from the undertaking. If the enterprise does not have taxable income within the first three years of generating revenue, the exemption and reduction period will start from the fourth year.

The draft also includes detailed provisions regarding tax incentives for business expansion. If an enterprise expands its operations, whether by increasing scale, enhancing capacity, upgrading technology, reducing pollution, or improving the environment, any additional income generated from the expansion will receive the same tax incentives as the existing scheme for the remainder of the applicable period.

The draft decree also proposes a preferential tax rate of 10 per cent for 15 years for income from certain new projects in incentivised sectors or in areas with difficult or extremely difficult socioeconomic conditions. Eligible areas include high-tech zones, high-tech agricultural zones, dedicated digital technology parks, and economic zones subject to tax incentives.

Additionally, a 10 per cent tax rate without a time limit will apply to specific cases, such as enterprises operating in incentivised sectors within incentivised locations; publishers, cooperatives, and cooperative unions operating under current regulations; and media agencies carrying out activities aligned with priority sectors.

A tax rate of 15 per cent is proposed for income generated from specific business activities not located in incentivised areas.

For new initiatives in certain priority sectors, implemented in economic zones or areas with difficult socioeconomic conditions (but not in areas qualifying for special incentives), a preferential tax rate of 17 per cent will be applied for a period of 10 years. For certain specific activities, the 17 per cent tax rate may be applied indefinitely.

These consist of new investments with capital of $240,000 or more, those producing globally competitive products, achieving annual revenue of $800 million within five years of revenue generation, consistently employing 6,000 workers or more, or investing in essential economic and technical infrastructure.

The draft decree, once enacted, is expected to create momentum for the country to pull in more funding and expand domestic production.

Figures from the National Statistics Office showed that in the first seven months of 2025, the number of businesses registering to halt performance hit 88,600, up 13.6 per cent on-year.

Moreover, 41,500 enterprises halted operations to await dissolution procedures, up 16.7 per cent on-year; and 14,300 businesses completed such procedures, up 20.5 per cent on-year. On average each month, 20,600 enterprises left the market.

CIT law amendments boast exceptional sci-tech incentives

Vietnam is drafting major changes to its corporate income tax legislation, offering unprecedented incentives in sci-tech and digital transformation.

Smaller businesses the focal point of CIT law amendments

Hundreds of thousands of smaller enterprises in Vietnam are set to benefit from a reduction in corporate income tax from next year, meaning more opportunities to improve their competitiveness.

CIT specifics address smaller firms

Hundreds of thousands of micro- and small-sized enterprises in Vietnam will be entitled to a decrease in corporate income tax from this October, meaning more opportunities to ameliorate their competitiveness.

THACO unveils latest innovations at national showcase

News

Running from August 28 to September 5, the exhibition highlights Vietnam’s achievements across multiple sectors. At its 200-square-metre booth, THACO is presenting products ranging from autonomous robots and ship-to-shore cranes to auto parts and components for export. The company has also unveiled an urban train carriage model, manufactured at the THACO Chu Lai Industrial Park, for the first time.

The carriage measures 10 metres in length, 2.95 metres in width, and 3.9 metres in height, with a weight of 10 tonnes excluding bogies. Designed with 26 seats and 124 standing places, it can carry up to 150 passengers.

The train body frame is made from high-strength steel and aluminium alloy. It is manufactured on a modern production line under a closed-loop process that covers fabrication, welding, surface treatment, and finishing paint, meeting international standards EN 12663-1, EN 14067-1, and EN 14067-4 for durability, safety, and aesthetics. This strategic step paves the way for THACO to enter the railway sector, the country’s spearhead infrastructure sector.

THACO also introduced the AI navigation assistant robot TIAR-01 at the event, featuring a modern design, omnidirectional movement, and an automatic SLAM navigation system. TIAR-01 boasts smart features, such as guiding and supporting visitors, looking up information, updating news quickly, interacting for entertainment, and monitoring environmental conditions.

In parallel to this, the autonomous mobile robot AMR for transporting luggage is also equipped with SLAM navigation technology. It features flexible movement, obstacle avoidance, and real-time route calculation. Powered by a lithium battery, it operates for 6–8 hours. The robot is equipped with a 2D LIDAR sensor, bumper, 3D camera, and an emergency stop button to ensure maximum safety.

In the field of heavy machinery, THACO displayed the ship-to-shore (STS) crane model – equipment for loading and unloading container ships at international seaports. The STS cranes are 900 tonnes in weight, with a lifting capacity of 50 tonnes, a 40-metre reach, a lifting speed of 50m/minute, a hoisting speed empty of 120m/minute, and trolley speed of 150m/minute, ensuring high loading and unloading productivity.

THACO also introduced a model of the Chu Lai seaport, part of THILOGI’s integrated logistics hub combining road, seaport, and maritime transport. Positioned as a key gateway for the central region, the port facilitates trade flows linking southern Laos, northern Cambodia, and Vietnam’s Central Highlands with major markets including China, South Korea, Japan, and India.

Among the standout exhibits was a model of the KIA K3 passenger car, built with parts and components manufactured by THACO Industries, including the body frame, interior and exterior elements, power systems, electrical equipment, and refrigeration units. Mechanical components for export, produced on advanced lines imported from Germany, Japan, Switzerland, and South Korea, are already being supplied to markets such as the United States, Australia, Japan, and Finland – strengthening the reputation of Vietnamese engineering internationally.

The TACO booth has been regarded as one of the exhibition’s highlights, showcasing the company’s latest products while demonstrating its strategy of sustainable development, increased localisation, and investment in advanced technology.

The exhibition further offered a platform for THACO to present nearly 30 years of accumulated technical and technological achievements. The products on display are designed for practical use, reflecting the group’s commitment to real work and real value.

THACO lays out plans for $1 billion industrial park

Truong Hai Auto Corporation (THACO) is planning to begin the construction of a mechanical industrial park in the southern province of Binh Duong worth over $1 billion in September.

THACO Group to invest over $1 billion in Binh Duong industrial park

THACO Group will build a 786-hectare industrial park in Binh Duong at a cost of over $1 billion, with construction scheduled to start in September.

Italy deepens Vietnam ties as SACE backs Gelex and THACO’s growth plans

SACE, the Italian insurance and finance group fully owned by the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, together with HSBC and LBBW, has finalised two medium-long term loans totalling $139 million, guaranteed by SACE, for Gelex Group and THACO AGRI, two of Vietnam’s leading industrial players.

Lenders lift interest rates to reflect credit-deposit imbalance

News

Since early August, Vietnam’s monetary market has shown fresh signals regarding interest rate trends. According to the latest report from Bao Viet Securities, deposit rates have inched up at several key maturities after remaining relatively low in previous months.

Specifically, the average six-month deposit rate rose by 0.01 percentage points to 4.48 per cent, while the 12-month rate increased from 5.04 to 5.07 per cent.

This trend highlights a divergence in the banking sector. While state-owned commercial banks have largely maintained deposit rates at major maturities, many private banks have adjusted rates upward to attract deposits.

For instance, at its July 31 rate adjustment, Eximbank raised deposit rates by 0.1 percentage points for terms of 12 months and above, leaving shorter-term deposits largely unchanged. TPBank also increased rates by 0.1 percentage points across all tenors below 12 months, reflecting an effort to remain competitive in attracting deposits.

Market data as of August 8 show deposit rates for short-term tenors of one to three months ranging from 1.6 to 4.1 per cent per year, medium-term deposits of six to nine months at 2.9-5.25 per cent, and 12-month deposits at 3.7-5.6 per cent.

Saigonbank offered the highest 12-month savings rate at 5.6 per cent, followed closely by BVBank at 5.55 per cent, while NCB, Nam A Bank, BAC A BANK, and Vietbank each applied 5.5 per cent.

According to Bao Viet Securities, these adjustments came shortly after the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) convened a meeting with commercial banks in early August, reaffirming its commitment to a flexible monetary policy and sustained liquidity support. The SBV urged banks to implement measures to reduce deposit rates to stabilise the money market and create space for lower lending rates.

“With inflation under control and exchange rate pressures moderate, the SBV is likely to maintain operating rates, deposit rates, and lending rates at relatively low levels. This is considered one of the key tools to stimulate credit demand and support economic growth,” the report noted.

MB Securities’ (MBS) latest report also echoed this view, highlighting that after a modest dip in June, deposit rates began edging up again in July. TPBank, VPBank, and Eximbank raised their deposit rates by 0.1-0.2 percentage points per year across maturities ranging from one to 36 months.

“The upward adjustment reflects an ongoing imbalance between credit growth and deposit mobilisation,” the report said. “By July 29, system-wide credit had expanded 9.8 per cent compared with the end of 2024 and 19.8 per cent on-year, according to the SBV.”

Therefore, MBS estimated that credit growth currently outpaces deposit growth by 1.3–1.5 times, creating pressure on private lenders to raise deposit rates to maintain funding stability.

MBS expects deposit rates to remain under pressure for the rest of 2025, particularly after the SBV granted banks additional credit room to meet the economy’s capital needs. At the same time, the central bank continues to urge institutions to implement synchronised measures aimed at lowering deposit rates, thereby creating scope for reduced lending rates.

Market analysts largely share this assessment. Dinh Duc Quang, managing director of the Currency Trading Division at UOB Vietnam, said that credit growth, which had already approached 10 per cent in the first half of the year, could expand by 18-20 per cent for the whole of 2025 under the current interest rate environment.

However, he noted that commercial banks’ capacity to further reduce VND deposit and lending rates in the remaining months is limited, as August deposit rates were only 0.2-0.4 percentage points lower than the same period in 2024, depending on tenor.

“These levels remain broadly in line with international USD rates and recent USD/VND exchange rate developments,” Quang told VIR. He added that external conditions, such as modest tariff impacts and successful stock market upgrades attracting foreign capital, could potentially push VND rates down by 0.5-0.75 percentage points.

Nguyen Hoang Linh, head of Research at Vietcombank Fund Management, said that the scope for further interest rate cuts is narrow. “Given the divergence between credit growth and money supply growth, the room for commercial banks to continue reducing rates is limited, and any further cuts will largely depend on external factors,” he said.

Linh underlined the pivotal role of the SBV in balancing monetary objectives, noting that interest rates remain one of the most important tools in the central bank’s multi-objective policy. He added that sustaining low rates and stability also requires coordinated government efforts, including accelerated public investment, improvements to the investment climate, boosting exports, and market diversification.

Vietnam announces five major sci-tech initiatives

News

The event attracted the participation of ministries, central departments and agencies, and leaders of localities; embassies and international organisations in Vietnam, along with leading scientists and experts, and domestic and international tech corporations.

Making then opening speech, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung said that over the past 80 years, science and technology have contributed to national development and integration. From achievements in agriculture, healthcare, and industry, to applications in daily life, science and technology have become a pillar closely associated with Vietnam’s development process.

Vietnam announces five major sci-tech initiatives

Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung. Photo: MoST

“Today, the new world context is posing great challenges and opportunities for Vietnam. We are entering the era of AI, big data, green energy, and a digital economy, an era in which knowledge, innovation, and technology become the most important production resources. In the previous century, natural resources and cheap labour were competitive, but now knowledge, technology, and innovation are the keys to determining the national position,” the minister said.

The event had four sessions. The first focused on discussing the future of sci-tech, with an emphasis on fundamental and strategic technologies.

The second delved into solutions to promote innovation and build a national innovative startup ecosystem.

The launch of initiatives. Photo: MoST

The third discussed digital transformation, especially digital infrastructure and digital society, focusing on the future of national digital infrastructure, the application of digital transformation in state administration, healthcare, education, finance, and agriculture, and connecting digital transformation with innovation to drive double-digit GDP growth.

Session four focused on in-depth discussions about four topics: developing human resources for the future of sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation; perfecting mechanisms, policies, and laws on sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation; strengthening international cooperation; and promoting the leading role of technology enterprises.

At the forum, five major initiatives, creating a breakthrough foundation for the development of sci-tech in the digital age, were announced.

They included the science and technology exchange, the national initiative portal, a national strategic technology portfolio, Techfest 2025, and an annual report about the future of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to be released from 2026

Dialogue highlights role of innovation in advancing Vietnam’s private economy

Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Tam has met with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to deepen cooperation on policy development aimed at fostering Vietnam’s private sector.

Dassault Systèmes and Viettel ink MoU to boost Vietnam’s high-tech sector

Dassault Systèmes and Viettel signed an MoU to strengthen strategic cooperation in AI, machine learning (ML), digital design, and simulation on August 20.

Hanoi forum to focus on future of sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) will host a forum about the future of sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation in Hanoi on August 29, expecting attract to attract, domestic and international businesses, embassies, leading experts, and international organizations.

Daiwa Securities to increase stake in SSI amid private placement

News

SSI, one of Vietnam’s leading securities firms, is conducting a private placement of 104 million shares to 18 professional investors, aiming to raise VND3.25 trillion ($130 million). Daiwa Securities has registered to buy nearly 16 million shares at VND31,300 ($1.25) each, a transaction worth over VND497 billion (around $19.9 million).

Daiwa Securities Group Inc. is already SSI’s largest shareholder, holding over 301 million shares, equivalent to over 15.25 per cent stake in the company. If the transaction is successful, Daiwa’s shareholding will increase to over 317 million shares. The transaction is scheduled to take place from August 29 to September 26.

Daiwa Securities Group is one of Japan’s ‘Big Four’ securities conglomerates, alongside Nomura, SMBC Nikko, and Mizuho. Established in 1902, the group operates in various sectors, including brokerage, investment, and asset management.

In 2011, Daiwa became a strategic shareholder of SSI by acquiring a 20 per cent stake. Last November, Daiwa exercised its right to purchase an additional 23.2 million SSI shares in a rights issue for existing shareholders.

SSI’s Board of Directors approved a plan on August 12 to offer more than 104 million shares in a private placement to 18 professional investors, including 14 institutions and four individuals.

At VND31,300 ($1.25) per share, the company aims to raise VND3.25 trillion ($130 million), with half allocated to investing in certificates of deposit and half for margin lending.

SSI recorded operating revenue of VND2.99 trillion ($119.6 million) in the second quarter of 2025, up nearly 30 per cent on-year. After-tax profit reached VND968 billion ($38.7 million), the highest in nearly four years.

For the first six months, SSI achieved revenue of VND5.15 trillion ($206 million) and profit of VND1.8 trillion ($72 million), up 20 per cent and 11 per cent respectively compared to the same period last year, surpassing 54 per cent of its annual target.

As of June 30, SSI’s total assets reached nearly VND92 trillion ($3.6 billion), an increase of VND19 trillion ($760 million) from the beginning of the year. Equity stood at approximately VND27.7 trillion ($1.17 billion), while margin lending hit a record of VND32.8 trillion ($1.3 billion), providing significant momentum for SSI to continue its strong performance in the upcoming quarters.

Sumitomo Corporation and SBI Holdings acquire stakes in FPT’s AI Japan facility

Sumitomo Corporation and SBI Holdings will each invest 20 per cent in FPT Smart Cloud Japan, a subsidiary of FPT Corporation.

SCGP acquires additional 30 per cent stake in Duy Tan Plastics

SCG Packaging Public Co., Ltd. (SCGP) announced on June 10 that it has strengthened its consumer packaging business through an investment in Duy Tan Plastics Manufacturing Corporation (Duy Tan JSC).

E-commerce credibility at stake as Vietnam moves to curb counterfeit goods

Vietnam is set to tighten oversight of livestream sales and digital advertising amid rising concern over counterfeit goods on e-commerce platforms, in a bid to protect consumer trust and ensure fair competition.

Altri to acquire AeoniQ stake, scaling climate-positive textile yarn

The deal accelerates global efforts to commercialise sustainable, carbon-negative fashion materials.

Exhibition celebrates 80 years of Vietnam’s financial sector

News

Exhibition “80 years of Vietnam's financial sector – creation and development”

Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang, and Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong (middle). Photo: Dung Minh

On the opening day of the exhibition, Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang and Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong, along with leaders of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), visited the exhibition.

The MoF’s exhibition space spans 680 square metres, located in zone H8 at the National Exhibition Centre in Hanoi’s Dong Anh, summarising the formation and major achievements of the finance sector over 80 years of building and developing alongside the nation.

MoF leaders view the financial sector’s history. Photo: Duc Minh

Featuring thousands of documents, photographs, and valuable artifacts, the MoF’s exhibition booth introduces the images and activities of the ministry throughout different periods, using dynamic and engaging displays that creatively blend tradition and modernity. The exhibition affirms the role, growth, and significant contributions of the finance sector to the nation’s struggles for independence, reunification, renovation, and international integration.

The Statistics Office booth. Photo: Duc Minh

The ministry’s exhibition space combines traditional and modern elements. A ceremonial area features the 80-year-old financial sector logo prominently displayed at the entrance, along with images of Party and state leaders with the financial sector. The exhibition focuses on creation and development, and the MoF’s booth also includes a special display area titled “The Financial Sector Steadily Entering a New Era”.

High technologies and digital transformation. Photo: Dung Minh

In addition, in zone H2, there are 16 booths representing 16 major groups and corporations under the MoF’s management, including: Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group; Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group; Vietnam National Industry and Energy Group; Vietnam Electricity Group; Vietnam National Chemical Group; Vietnam National Coffee Corporation; Vietnam National Shipping Lines; State Capital Investment Corporation; Northern Food Corporation; Southern Food Corporation; Vietnam National Petroleum Group; Bao Viet Holdings; Airports Corporation of Vietnam; Vietnam Railways Corporation; Vietnam Airlines; Vietnam Expressway Corporation.

Deputy Minister Phuong with MoF staff. Photo: Duc Minh

With the overarching theme of “Economic Locomotives”, these booths highlight the strategic and essential roles of these groups and corporations in leading key economic sectors, ensuring macroeconomic stability, promoting sustainable growth, and contributing to national construction and defence.

Short-term traders highlight risk from securities tax change

A proposal to introduce a 20 per cent tax rate on net profits from securities trading is drawing significant attention from the investment community.

Vietnam and South Korea strengthen exchanges on stock market supervision

A delegation from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) led by Deputy Minister Nguyen Duc Chi had a working session with the on August 25 in Seoul.

Strategic technology networks launched

In a defining step towards establishing a high-tech-driven economy, Vietnam has launched three new high-level technology networks, including quantum technology, cybersecurity, and aerospace and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Vietnam and UN plan to enhance development cooperation

Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong and United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Pauline Tamesis co-chaired a meeting of the Joint Steering Committee (JSC) on cooperation between Vietnam and the UN on August 27.

Suoi Tien celebrates 30 years with National Day festival

News

Celebrating its 30th anniversary and Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, Suoi Tien Tourist Area will host a unique festival week packed with entertainment, cultural and artistic activities, culinary experiences, attractive promotions, and new attractions. On September 2, the park will offer up to 50 per cent off entrance tickets for the first 3,000 visitors, with prices at VND40,000 ($1.60) for children and VND80,000 ($3.20) for adults, running from 7am to 4pm.

Suoi Tien celebrates 30 years with National Day festival

Suoi Tien Theme Park offers nighttime entertainment for visitors from August 29 to September 2

The highlight is a live art performance on the water stage, from August 29 to September 2, featuring numerous renowned artists and nearly 100 professional actors. The show traces Suoi Tien’s evolution from wild terrain to a celebrated tourist destination, vividly celebrating southern culture through spectacular performances that blend contemporary music with advanced lighting effects.

Each performance immerses the audience in a glittering atmosphere where legacy and modernity collide, creating an indelible impression.

The performance begins at 6 pm from August 29, with special performances on the nights of September 1 and 2

This is more than just a visual feast; it is also a heartfelt thanks to the millions of visitors who have followed Suoi Tien over the last 30 years. Along the main path, guests will be entertained by spectacular fire dancers, DJs, and LED dance performances, creating a festive atmosphere filled with shimmering lights.

Furthermore, unique experiences such as exploring Unicorn Palace’s 18 levels of hell, fishing for crocodiles at night, an appealing children’s play area, and a food street with various delicacies promise to provide moments of pleasure and total relaxation for all members of the family.

The exhibition space ‘Suoi Tien 30 years – Land of Living Legends’ is designed as an emotional journey, evoking Vietnamese values, lighting up memories and continuing to write a new epic chapter for the future.

Here, visitors will experience role-playing and checking in with legendary characters through modern technology, as if lost in a real-life fairy tale world, where the past and present blend, so that each person can transform into a living part of the 30-year Suoi Tien story.

‘30 Years of Magic – Suoi Tien Fairy Tale’ parade

At the ‘Time Travel to the Past’ mini-exhibition, visitors can revisit cherished memories with photographs of themselves and their families at Suoi Tien during the 1990s and 2000s,

The parade performance ‘30 Years of Journey – Suoi Tien Fairy Tales’ brings beloved characters to life through vibrant colours, music, and dazzling lights. Spectacular acts such as Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, fire dancer, and clown magic tricks promise to leave lasting impressions on audiences.

Suoi Tien invites families and friends to enjoy its 30th-anniversary festival, explore the vibrant attractions, and create lasting memories in a lively, festive atmosphere.

Suoi Tien Theme Park – Address: 120 Hanoi Highway, Tang Nhon Phu ward, Ho Chi Minh City

Hotline: 1900636787

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuoiTienThemePark/

Website: https://suoitien.com/

HCM City metro ready next year

Construction of HCM City’s first metro line from Ben Thanh market in District 1 to Suoi Tien Tourist Park in district 9 is expected to be completed by the end of 2020, leaders of the city People’s Committee said after visiting the construction site on Thursday.

Ben Thanh underground trade center to be built in Ho Chi Minh City

The joint venture of Toshin Development Co., Ltd., JOIN, Nikken Sekkei, and Osaka Chikagai was put forward by Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee to become the developer of Ben Thanh underground trade centre.

Suoi Tien Farm: the heart of green tourism for Lunar New Year

Immerse yourself in nature, explore the farm, and take part in environmental protection activities – a Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday at Suoi Tien Farm promises not only excitement but also the opportunity to spread the message of sustainable living. Welcome the new year in your own unique way, filled with joy and meaning.

Experts highlight legal reforms as key to private-sector growth

News

The seminar in Ho Chi Minh City on August 25 explored how strong institutions and a fair legal framework can unlock private-sector growth and support Vietnam’s broader economic development. The session formed part of the legal-themed discussions in the Local Dialogues of this year’s Vietnam Private Sector Forum (VPSF), running from July until September.

Experts highlight legal reforms as key to private-sector growth

The seminar, titled ‘Enabling Institutions – Unleashing the Flow of Development’ was held on August 25

In her opening remarks, Pham Thi Bich Hue, vice president of the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association and head of the VPSF Organising Committee, highlighted the “quartet of pillar resolutions” – 66-NQ/TW, 68-NQ/TW, 57-NQ/TW, and 59-NQ/TW – noting that they have helped shape the nation’s ambitious development goals.

“To turn our development goal aspirations into reality, we first need an institutional system that is transparent, fair, and predictable,” Hue said. “That’s why today’s thematic session is such an important part of the VPSF journey.”

According to Hue, nine local dialogues and a startup-focused session have already taken place, and today’s second thematic session is helping lay the groundwork for the ministerial-level discussions and the high-level plenary set for September 15–16.

“I am confident that every voice in this room will contribute to strong, evidence-based, and practical policy recommendations–ones that can remove obstacles and chart a sustainable path for private-sector growth,” said Hue.

Tran Dinh Chien from AVB Lawyers and a member of the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association, observed that in the current economic context, Vietnamese businesses and entrepreneurs are facing many challenges.

“Among the biggest bottlenecks are overlapping legal frameworks, lengthy litigation processes averaging 400 days, and dispute resolution costs that can consume nearly 30 per cent of the claim’s value,” Chien said.

Additionally, Chien added that the criminalisation of certain economic relations under Article 175 of the Penal Code has left many firms vulnerable and hesitant to pursue innovation.

To address these issues, Chien recommended that the government expand the use of simplified legal procedures, pilot the ‘loser pays’ principle (where the losing party bears litigation costs), and limit the criminalisation of economic relations to protect enterprises from unnecessary risks.

For business associations, he suggested establishing specialised legal committees, implementing regular legal training, building legal databases, and developing internal arbitration and mediation mechanisms to help businesses resolve disputes quickly and effectively.

Sharing the same perspective, Dr. Nguyen Thi Anh Hong, lecturer at the Faculty of Criminal Law, Ho Chi Minh City University of Law, emphasised that criminal law is not just a tool to combat crime, it is also a vital component in establishing legal order.

“Its purpose is to ensure safety for business activities and protect the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises,” said Hong. “A transparent and fair legal system will serve as a springboard for sustainable private-sector development. However, the ongoing criminalisation of civil and economic violations has created a climate of apprehension among businesses.”

“Many economic disputes that could have been resolved through civil measures or arbitration have been escalated into criminal cases, paralysing business operations,” Dr. Hong said.

“This not only results in significant losses for businesses, but also erodes confidence in the investment environment,” she added.

To address these challenges, Dr. Hong suggested shifting criminal policy towards reducing the criminalisation of economic matters and clearly distinguishing civil, administrative, and criminal responsibilities.

“Violations that can be resolved through civil or economic measures should not be subject to criminal proceedings. At the same time, genuinely harmful acts such as fraud, money laundering, or environmental destruction must be strictly prosecuted to protect fairness and maintain trust for legitimate businesses,” she explained.

From her perspective as vice president of the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association, Luu Thi Thanh Mau, CEO of Phuc Khang Corporation, asserted that the role of the private sector has been clearly demonstrated, contributing up to 40 per cent of national GDP and driving both broad-based and in-depth economic growth.

Therefore, the introduction of new policies should redefine the perception of the private sector’s role while also recognising private enterprises not merely as entities to be managed, but as essential partners in building a modern, transparent, and effective economic institution.

According to Mau, private businesses are directly exposed to market dynamics, meaning every policy or legal change has immediate effects.

“Feedback, whether positive or negative, serves as a vital basis for legislators and regulators to make timely, flexible, and context-appropriate adjustments. In particular, the community of small and medium-sized enterprises, which accounts for the majority of the economy, bears the brunt of these impacts and requires greater support,” Mau said.

“I believe that with the government’s companionship and the business community’s determination for renewal, we can certainly build a transparent, fair, and highly competitive economy that contributes positively to Vietnam’s international integration,” Mau added.

PM outlines 15 groups of tasks, solutions to boost private economic sector

After three months of implementing Resolution 68, Vietnam’s private economic sector has seen many positive changes, with the establishment of over 24,000 new businesses in June and more than 16,000 in July. This brought the total number of newly established enterprises in the first seven months of 2025 to nearly 108,000.

Maritime logistics firms thrive on global trade dynamics

News

Vietnam’s outlook for imports, exports, and cargo throughput via seaports is considered favourable in the forthcoming months, as the country faces a 20 per cent reciprocal tariff rate from the United States, significantly lower than China’s 55 per cent and India’s 25 per cent, and on par with Bangladesh.

Maritime logistics firms thrive on global trade dynamics

At the same time, Vietnamese exporters are effectively leveraging preferential tariffs through the country’s extensive network of free trade agreements, allowing for more flexible and efficient operations.

As the global economy improves, trade demand is expected to rise sharply, thereby stimulating import-export activities and the entire logistics supply chain.

In the long term, Shinhan Securities predicts that high US tariffs on imports, especially from China, will shift trade flows, making intra-Asia and Asia-Europe routes more active, as Vietnamese firms diversify their export markets to reduce dependence on the US.

Hanoi-based Hai Minh JSC has established new agency offices in Hong Kong and India, and plans to launch new services on the Ho Chi Minh City – Shanghai – Port Klang route. It also intends to set up an agency for an Asian shipping line in Haiphong.

Meanwhile, Hai An Transport and Stevedoring JSC is planning to further expand its fleet over the next five years, aiming for longer routes such as the Mediterranean, Europe, and the US West Coast.

The development of larger-sized vessels is in line with Hai An’s long-term strategy to enter trade lanes that account for nearly 40 per cent of global container traffic.

Hai An currently operates 17 container vessels with a total capacity of 28,200 TEUs, primarily serving domestic and intra-Asia routes.

The company’s board of directors recently approved a plan to build two new container vessels in China, each with a capacity of 2,300 TEUs, with a total investment of up to $92 million.

According to Hai An’s leadership, over the past five years since the company began leasing out vessels, this business segment has become increasingly significant, currently contributing about 60 per cent of total revenue, while self-operated services account for the remaining 40 per cent.

Shinhan Securities expects Hai An’s business performance in the second half of the year to remain favourable, driven by strong freight rates for new vessels and the launch of additional intra-Asia routes amid rising global trade demand.

For Gemadept Corporation (GMD), MB Securities forecasts that the company will increase its cargo volume on intra-Asia routes and expand into new markets to offset the decline in US-bound shipments.

In addition, higher service fees are expected to contribute positively to Gemadept’s second-half business results. MB Securities’ forecasts suggest Gemadept’s net profit will grow by 16.5 per cent in 2025 and 14.4 per cent in 2026.

Vietnam Container Shipping JSC (Vinconship: ticker VSC) stated that it is not heavily reliant on the US market, as it focuses on domestic and intra-Asia routes.

Goods exported to the US only account for about 3.9 per cent of the company’s total handling volume. Furthermore, the company has prepared contingency plans to mitigate any potential tariff impacts.

Becoming a major shareholder in both Vinaship JSC and Hai An has helped Viconship improve profitability through indirect revenue streams from the two firms.

Both Vinaship and Hai An are expected to witness profit growth in 2025, benefiting from the trend of front-loading shipments, early orders placed ahead of potential tariff changes, thereby boosting Viconship’s financial results.

In mid-August, Viconship and Hai An announced they will establish Hai An Green Shipping Lines Co., Ltd., with an expected investment of around $180 million to build a pair of 7,000 TEU container vessels.

Overall, logistics enterprises remain among the sectors with strong long-term prospects. Vu Thanh Hai, chairman of Hai An JSC, noted that Vietnam is targeting at least 8 per cent economic growth this year and double-digit growth between 2026 and 2030.

“As the economy improves, trade demand will rise significantly, further stimulating import-export activities and the entire logistics supply chain,” he said.

On the stock market, VSC shares recorded five consecutive ceiling gains from August 12 to 18. Other maritime transport stocks also saw positive momentum, such VSC rising more than 26 per cent in value, and GMD increasing by 3.6 per cent.

In the first seven months of 2025, Vietnam’s total import-export value reached $514.7 billion, up 16.3 per cent on-year. Imports totalled $252.26 billion, up 17.9 per cent; while exports reached $262.4 billion, up 14.8 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Alongside export growth, seaport operations have remained vibrant.

According to the Haiphong Maritime Administration, as of the end of July, total cargo throughput via Haiphong’s ports had reached 65.5 million tonnes, showing a 7 per cent jump on-year.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Maritime Administration, in the first half of 2025, container throughput at Cai Mep – Thi Vai (including domestic cargo) reached 5.96 million TEUs, up 17 per cent compared to the same period last year.

The fourth quarter, the peak season for retail and import-export activities, is expected to maintain the bustling pace at seaports, providing a boost to maritime transport and logistics companies.

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