Dong Nai Province Considers Adjusting Truck Ban Hours

Key pointsMajor projects in Ho Chi Minh City have a funding plan of 143 trillion VND for 2026, with 58 trillion VND implemented in 8 months. Sun Group achieved 11.9 trillion VND, Vingroup-related projects reached approximately 18 trillion VND, and Masterise reached 4.9 trillion VND. Overall progress remains at 40%.
Business impactThis progress indicates the need for Japanese companies to reassess their project implementation plans, emphasizing the importance of not missing out on infrastructure investment opportunities.

Key pointsIn Dong Nai Province, authorities are considering adjustments to the truck ban hours on Dong Khoi Street in response to requests from multiple companies and associations, including the Dong Nai Import-Export Association and the Logistics Association. They are exploring ways to revise the restricted hours to mitigate the impact on logistics for businesses. A meeting is scheduled for September 7 to discuss specific proposals. Companies have expressed demands for a reduction in the restricted area and the reinstatement of previous ban hours.
Business impactIf these adjustments are implemented, they may affect logistics costs and delivery times for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses located in industrial zones within Dong Nai Province will need to pay close attention to changes in the ban hours.

Key pointsFounders of Vietnamese technology companies are concerned about developing new business models amid lagging laws. Notably, Sky Mavis, successful with the game 'Axie Infinity', is legally registered in Singapore. The reasons for Vietnamese-born companies establishing headquarters abroad include legal uncertainty and easier access to funding. The rapid evolution of new technologies and business models is hindered by regulations that cannot keep pace.
Business impactJapanese companies should consider legal risks when expanding new businesses in Vietnam and contemplate establishing overseas entities as necessary. Additionally, it is crucial to monitor government deregulation trends and prepare to respond flexibly.

Key pointsThe tax authority for e-commerce has issued guidelines for platform administrators on how individual entrepreneurs can temporarily pay personal income tax. This aims to simplify tax declarations and support individual entrepreneurs in continuing their businesses with confidence.
Business impactJapanese companies engaging in sales activities through e-commerce must comply with these new guidelines. It is particularly important to stay updated on the latest information regarding tax processing and declaration procedures.

Key pointsHeineken announced plans to invest an additional $500 million in Vietnam over the next 5 to 10 years to build Asia's largest brewery. CEO Jacques van der Linden from Amsterdam described Vietnam as 'one of the most attractive markets in the world,' with total investments since 1991 reaching approximately $1 billion. The new investment aims to strengthen competitiveness in the high beer consumption market of Vietnam.
Business impactThis investment plan may provide new business opportunities for Japanese companies amid increasing competition in the Vietnamese market. It is particularly important to monitor Heineken's trends in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.

Key pointsVingroup's high-speed rail project between Hanoi and Quang Ninh is scheduled to open by the end of 2028, with plans announced for the procurement of construction materials and power supply. Construction materials such as concrete and steel will be sourced from Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh, with an average transportation distance of 20 km. Additionally, over 85% of construction machinery is required to be new, and stability in power supply is emphasized.
Business impactThis project may promote efficiency in material procurement and supply chains within the construction industry. Japanese companies should consider opportunities for supplying related materials and providing technology.

Key pointsThe Netherlands, while a small market within the EU, serves as a crucial hub for the distribution of Vietnamese shrimp across Europe due to its strong logistics system utilizing Rotterdam Port. The Dutch seafood industry comprises approximately 206 companies with sales of 800 million euros. By 2025, the Netherlands is expected to import around 125,000 tons of shrimp, with 27,000 tons sourced from Vietnam.
Business impactVietnamese seafood companies can expect to expand into Northern and Western European markets by strengthening access to the Dutch market. There is a growing demand for processed shrimp products and convenient items, necessitating product diversification.

Key pointsOut of the planned funding of 143.133 trillion VND for 2026, approximately 57.9 trillion VND (40%) has been implemented in 8 months. Lotte and GS Industry are nearing their targets, but the projects by Sun Group, Vingroup, and Masterise still have significant funding remaining.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor the progress of these large-scale projects to identify investment opportunities. It is particularly important to consider how the flow of funds and project progress impact the overall economy.

Key pointsStarting September 2026, Vietnam's railway industry will implement a policy to reduce fares by up to 40%. Notably, sleeper train fares will see significant discounts, and round-trip tickets and early purchase benefits will also be offered. This aims to meet travel demand and improve transportation efficiency. Additionally, ticket sales will begin at Saigon Station in preparation for Tet (Lunar New Year) in 2027.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.