Vietstar Airlines Receives 20th Aircraft, Boosting Vietnam's Tourism Investment

Key pointsOn September 21, Vietstar Airlines welcomed its 20th Airbus A321LR aircraft at Noi Bai International Airport, bringing its fleet size to 20. This move reflects the growing demand for tourism in Vietnam and symbolizes the growth of the tourism sector. Phu Quoc Island is advancing as an international resort destination, and enhanced air access will support regional economic growth.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the expansion of tourism infrastructure on Phu Quoc Island presents new entry opportunities in hotel operations, food services, and duty-free businesses. The increase in tourism demand is expected to positively impact the supply chain, necessitating related sectors to monitor future developments.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City Mayor Nguyen Van Duc has instructed to expedite the implementation of urban development laws. The development of underground spaces has been a challenge for over 20 years and includes the establishment of underground parking. The city plans to develop multifunctional underground spaces in conjunction with the subway.
Business impactThis initiative provides Japanese companies with opportunities in urban development and infrastructure investment, particularly in the construction and real estate sectors.

Key pointsWith the Chinese real estate market stagnating for an extended period, state funds are reassessing their capital allocations from China and showing interest in investing in Vietnam's economy. As capital continues to concentrate in the US market, Vietnam is emerging as an alternative within Southeast Asia. This positioning of Vietnam for investment is becoming a significant factor.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, reassessing reliance on China may facilitate the restructuring of supply chains. Companies with manufacturing bases in Vietnam should view this capital shift as a business opportunity and reconsider their strategies.

Key pointsThe Audit Office of Can Tho City has recommended that the local lottery company cease overseas training programs. In 2024, the lottery company in Soc Trang Province planned to spend 1,204,000,000 VND on training in Europe, but the Audit Office determined that this expenditure would not contribute to the business. The Can Tho lottery company also conducted training in Japan and Dubai, which was deemed inappropriate. This has led to the view that future overseas training should comply with legal regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess the cost-effectiveness of training and inspections when dealing with public projects and related enterprises in Vietnam. It is particularly important to clarify how overseas training contributes to actual business operations.

Key pointsVietnam's economic relationship with the United States is expanding from traditional trade to areas such as high technology, digital economy, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence. In the first seven months of 2026, exports from the U.S. to Vietnam reached approximately $10.8 billion, while imports from Vietnam to the U.S. totaled about $149.6 billion, indicating continued growth in trade between the two countries. Due to changes in U.S. trade policy, Vietnamese companies need to adapt quickly and enhance their value-added offerings, especially as demand for Vietnamese products in the U.S. market is increasing.
Business impactJapanese companies need to enhance their competitiveness in the Vietnamese market to strengthen trade relations with the U.S. This includes reinforcing collaboration with U.S. companies to facilitate technology transfer and improve production capacity.