Chinese Retailer Trials First Model in Vietnam, Closes 606 Stores

Key pointsThe Ben Luc - Long Thanh Highway is 57.8km long and is located approximately 16km from Long Thanh Airport. Construction is about 99.3% complete, with full opening scheduled by September 30, 2026. The project includes financing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Once completed, it will serve as a crucial transport route connecting the western region to Long Thanh Airport without passing through downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, an expansion project for the TP.HCM - Long Thanh Highway is underway.
Business impactThe opening of this highway is expected to improve logistics efficiency for Japanese companies and enhance access to Long Thanh Airport, leading to reduced transportation costs. This infrastructure development is particularly significant for the manufacturing and import-export sectors.

Key pointsChinese retail chain Ohmee has opened its first store in Vietnam at Petrolimex but has ended contracts with 606 stores due to an investigation by Chinese authorities regarding food safety issues. Ohmee is advancing its international expansion in the Vietnamese market, currently operating 35 stores. The newly opened store is located within a gas station, allowing customers to purchase convenient items while refueling.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor the trends of emerging firms like Ohmee. It is crucial to deepen understanding of relevant regulations, particularly regarding risk management in franchise models and compliance with food safety standards.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City is considering a new resolution to allow companies in industrial parks and high-tech zones to engage in direct power trading. This system will enable direct contracts between renewable energy power plants and large power consumers, promoting the use of sustainable energy. Currently, regulations limit this to large customers, excluding small and medium-sized enterprises. The new proposal aims to broaden the scope of power consumers and include power supply from LNG power plants, which is expected to diversify the energy supply in Ho Chi Minh City.
Business impactThis new system could contribute to energy cost reductions and the establishment of sustainable business models for Japanese companies. Increasing options for power supply is a significant advantage, especially as there is a growing demand for the use of clean energy to meet environmental standards.

Key pointsThree ongoing BT projects in Khanh Hoa Province are facing delays due to legal procedures and land issues related to fund recovery. The recovery of funds using land from the former Nha Trang Airport is a significant challenge affecting project progress. The government is introducing new policies to resolve these issues and is engaging in dialogue with stakeholders.
Business impactJapanese companies involved in projects in Khanh Hoa Province need to stay updated on the latest information regarding land use and fund recovery procedures and consider appropriate responses. It is particularly important to monitor the progress of legal procedures and understand factors that may impact project advancement.

Key pointsIn the first half of 2026, profits of six consumer finance companies in Vietnam increased by 37%, but FE CREDIT is struggling due to credit risk provisions and competition with VietCredit. As market competition intensifies, FE CREDIT needs to explore new strategies.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor FE CREDIT's trends and consider revising risk management and strategies in the consumer finance market.

Key pointsFour new regulations and five tax circulars will be announced on June 30, 2026, and will take effect from July 1. Small businesses are struggling to keep up with frequent tax changes and are required to respond appropriately. The rapid changes in tax standards make it difficult for businesses to understand and comply with new regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies need to establish a flexible system to respond to sudden tax changes. It is particularly important to provide advice based on the latest tax regulations when dealing with small businesses.

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.