VIFC-HCMC's Legal Framework to Boost Economic Growth

Key pointsThe Vietnam International Financial Center (VIFC), established in Ho Chi Minh City, aims to meet a funding demand of $1.5 to $16 billion over the next decade. By implementing a flexible legal framework based on international standards and a 0% tax rate until 2030, it seeks to rank within the top 75 on the global financial map by 2035, which is expected to attract foreign investment.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to the establishment of VIFC, as it will increase funding and investment opportunities, particularly in the financial services and investment sectors.

Key pointsThe Vietnam Investment Development Bank (BIDV) will implement a preferential loan program for businesses, offering up to 50 trillion dong from August 2026 to December 2028. This program targets especially small and medium-sized enterprises and companies in growth sectors, with interest rates set at least 1% lower than the market average. BIDV is enhancing financial support in line with government guidance to promote economic growth.
Business impactJapanese companies can reduce financing costs and gain opportunities for business expansion by utilizing this loan program. The preferential terms are particularly attractive for companies engaged in technological innovation and environmentally friendly projects.

Key pointsVietnam's comprehensive defense industry company, Song Tu, has commenced the construction of a new multi-purpose anti-submarine escort ship. This vessel is designed and built domestically, equipped with modern weapon systems. This project marks a significant event in the development of Vietnam's defense industry and is being carried out under the strict guidance of the Ministry of Defense.
Business impactJapanese companies engaged in defense-related businesses should closely monitor the growth of Vietnam's defense industry and explore collaboration opportunities, particularly in technology provision and joint development.

Key pointsThe State Bank of Vietnam (NHNN) has instructed commercial banks to reduce lending rates for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by at least 1% effective August 7, 2026. This measure aims to promote economic growth and support financing for SMEs.
Business impactJapanese companies can take advantage of the reduced financing costs to reassess their investment plans. In particular, companies dealing with SMEs are expected to enhance their competitiveness by utilizing this interest rate reduction.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a special mechanism for maritime city development projects. This mechanism will initially apply to Da Nang City and aims to attract strategic investors for projects exceeding 100 trillion dong in capital. Investors will be allowed to transfer up to 50% of the project.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has reclaimed land for a $1.5 billion project that was initiated in 2016 but had seen no progress for 11 years, effectively rendering it a 'pipe dream'.
Business impactThis land recovery may impact the future investment environment, particularly prompting Japanese companies to closely monitor the project's progress and reassess their investment decisions.

Key pointsAEON has decided to withdraw from the Thai market by transferring all shares to Central Food Retail due to long-term losses. AEON Thailand operated around 30 MaxValu stores but will now concentrate 60% of its capital on the Vietnamese market. AEON positions Vietnam as a key growth market in its mid-term plan from 2026 to 2030.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, AEON's exit highlights the growth potential of the Vietnamese market and serves as an important indicator when considering future investment opportunities. Particularly, as competition intensifies in the retail sector, a shift towards the Vietnamese market is necessary.

Key pointsVietnam's Ministry of Construction has instructed the urgent development of electric charging infrastructure at highway rest areas nationwide. This directive is based on the government's energy conservation enhancement directive issued on March 19, 2026. Currently, charging systems are partially operational at 4 out of 21 rest areas, with 8 under construction, while the remaining 9 have not been installed. The development of charging infrastructure is crucial for promoting the adoption of electric vehicles.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this trend and assess its impact on relevant transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsVingroup is expected to contribute 150 trillion VND to the national budget by 2025, which amounts to approximately 4.07 trillion VND per day. This figure ranks among the highest contributions from state-owned enterprises. Vingroup is focusing not only on tax payments but also on building a foundation for sustainable growth.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor the trends of large enterprises like Vingroup, as they may influence tax strategies and investment plans.

Key pointsOn August 6, 2026, police in Quang Ninh Province arrested Vũ Văn Đạt, the owner of Luxury Watch, on charges of 'intellectual property infringement' and 'tax evasion.' His store was found to have 30 counterfeit brand watches, revealing that he had been selling counterfeit goods for several years.
Business impactThis incident highlights the importance of compliance with intellectual property rights for businesses, indicating that Japanese companies must also ensure strict adherence to regulations to mitigate similar risks.

Japanese business summary. Read the original source for the source language.

Key pointsグリーン消費は、持続可能な発展と環境保護において重要な役割を果たしています。消費者が環境に優しい製品を優先することで、企業は生産の革新を促進し、グリーン経済に向かう動機を得ることができます。ホーチミン市では、2026年に「グリーン消費」キャンペーンが開始され、消費者と企業が協力してこの習慣を広めることが求められています。
Business impact日系企業は、環境に配慮した製品開発を進め、消費者のニーズに応えることで市場競争力を高める必要があります。

Japanese business summary. Read the original source for the source language.

Key points2026年の7ヶ月間で、中国はベトナムの農産物輸出において21.9%のシェアを占め、前年同期比で24.4%の増加を記録しました。この競争が激化する中で、各業界は製品の品質向上、トレーサビリティの強化、効率的なサプライチェーンの構築が求められています。特に、持続可能な開発やイノベーションの機会を活かすことが重要です。
Business impact日系企業は、品質管理やサプライチェーンの最適化に注力し、中国市場での競争力を維持する必要があります。