49 Trillion Dong Mixed-Use Urban Development Plan in Bac Ninh Province

Key pointsA mixed-use urban development project is planned in the North Natrang area of Bac Ninh Province, covering approximately 255 hectares, with a total investment expected to exceed 49 trillion dong. The project aims to create a multifunctional city that includes commercial housing, social housing, service facilities, tourist resorts, schools, and hospitals. The plan anticipates a population of over 11,000 and is expected to contribute to the region's economic development. Investor selection for the project will take place in the fourth quarter of 2026, with completion expected in the fourth quarter of 2034.
Business impactThis project offers investment opportunities in real estate development and tourism for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses involved in tourism-related activities and construction should closely monitor future developments.

Key pointsThere are calls to improve the mechanisms for selecting and managing general contractors in large-scale infrastructure projects. Companies are proposing reforms to the general contractor system and a review of risk allocation, aiming to enhance the capabilities of domestic firms. This is expected to enable Vietnamese companies to take on large-scale projects.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor changes in Vietnam's general contractor system and strengthen partnerships, which could contribute to project success. Leveraging expertise in risk management and cost management will be particularly important.

Key pointsCross-border e-commerce is becoming a crucial means for companies to access international markets, providing new opportunities for small businesses and startups. As cross-border e-commerce grows, demands for logistics and market management are increasing. Notably, the cross-border e-commerce market is expected to reach $551 billion by 2025.
Business impactThe growth of cross-border e-commerce presents new market development opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, there is a need to reassess marketing strategies utilizing online platforms.

Key pointsGlobal gold prices rebounded in trading on September 11, supported by buying after significant selling the previous day. Meanwhile, the probability of a Fed rate hike has reached approximately 90%, raising caution. This situation raises concerns about its impact on Vietnam's economy and investments, potentially affecting the dong exchange rate and capital flows. SPDR Gold Trust has seen net selling, indicating ongoing position adjustments.
Business impactThe Fed's monetary policy trends directly affect Japanese companies' funding plans and currency hedge costs. Manufacturing firms, in particular, need to carefully assess funding strategies in a rising interest rate environment, and investors should monitor interest rate expectations and currency trends.

Key pointsDuring a business dialogue in Ho Chi Minh City, companies raised issues regarding the rejection of quality inspection documents in customs procedures. Specifically, four identical applications were submitted, resulting in two approvals and two rejections, creating an opaque situation. Companies pointed out that the unclear reasons for rejection hinder their ability to know what to correct upon resubmission, leading to increased costs. ITPC expressed its intention to report the issue to relevant authorities for resolution.
Business impactSuch procedural opacity may lead to wasted costs and time for Japanese companies. It is crucial for businesses to voice their concerns for improvements in customs procedures and to urge relevant authorities to clarify necessary information.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City requires 23,000 to 28,000 new employees annually in the tourism sector, but current educational institutions can only train 5,000 to 6,000 specialized students. This labor shortage could significantly impact the growth of the tourism industry.
Business impactThe labor shortage in tourism directly affects the operations of Japanese companies. Particularly in the hotel industry, securing high-quality talent is essential, and companies need to strengthen collaboration with educational institutions.

Key pointsThe Da Nang High-Tech Zone Management Authority has announced a draft outlining the conditions for professionals, scientists, managers, and highly skilled workers to work in the free trade zone. Professionals must have at least a university degree and two years of relevant work experience. Scientists are required to hold a PhD and have educational or research experience in OECD countries. Individuals who have received certain international awards are also eligible. Those who meet these conditions can obtain tax incentives and long-term visas.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider these new conditions in their recruitment strategies to secure talent in Da Nang's free trade zone. Particularly, securing skilled professionals is directly linked to competitiveness, necessitating prompt action.

Key pointsMore than 1,000 Japanese companies are active in Ho Chi Minh City and the southern region, contributing to economic development. Cooperation is particularly advancing in areas such as agriculture, food processing, logistics infrastructure, and smart city development.
Business impactJapanese companies can leverage the local investment environment to pursue further business expansion. It is essential not to miss investment opportunities in regions like Can Tho City.

Key pointsVietnam's Minister of Finance, Nguyen Van Thuan, has requested France to provide preferential funding for infrastructure projects. Economic cooperation between the two countries is progressing, with trade exceeding $5 billion in the first eight months of 2026. France has 749 projects in Vietnam, with a total investment of approximately $4 billion.
Business impactFunding from France is a crucial element for Vietnam's infrastructure development, and Japanese companies can leverage this opportunity to enter new projects.

Key pointsAEON MALL has announced plans to open two new shopping malls in Vietnam in October and November 2026, bringing the total number of malls operated by the company in Vietnam to ten. The new malls will cover over 200,000 square meters and will include five pickleball courts.
Business impactThe expansion of AEON MALL presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, as competition intensifies in the retail sector, strategic approaches to meet consumer needs will be essential.

Key pointsYoung entrepreneurs in Son La Province aim to deepen the agricultural value chain by utilizing regional resources such as agriculture, tourism, energy, and border trade. Dialogues have been held to strengthen collaboration with local businesses and promote economic growth.
Business impactThis initiative may contribute to revitalizing the local economy and provide new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly in the agriculture and tourism sectors.

Key pointsIn Vietnam's tile industry, VTHM has initiated an anti-dumping investigation against tile products from India, aiming to establish a fair competitive environment. VTHM is collaborating with other companies in the industry to provide data for the investigation. Recent findings confirmed dumping practices for Indian products, leading to the imposition of tariffs ranging from 5.55% to 45.30%. This is expected to protect the competitiveness of domestic producers.
Business impactThis development is significant for Japanese companies, particularly those dealing in tiles and building materials, as it may impact future price competition and supply chains, necessitating close attention to industry trends.