More than just attracting capital, HCMC is now aiming for a higher goal: to become a ‘high-tech link’ in the global supply chain. However, for this ambition to come true, the city needs a strong push across many areas—from institutional reform and infrastructure development to human resources—to go beyond its current role in processing and assembly and move into the innovation space, where the value of knowledge and technology is key. Surging FDI capital amidst global headwinds In the first ten months of 2025, HCMC drew US$7.23 billion in FDI, marking a nearly 29% increase compared to the same period last year. This total includes over US$1.4 billion in newly registered capital, close to US$2.5 billion in additional capital, and about US$3.33 billion through capital contributions or share purchases. Notably, the increase in capital from existing projects surpassed new investment capital by over US$1 billion, demonstrating foreign investors’ strong confidence in the city’s development prospects and investment environment. This is because when businesses are satisfied and trust the environment, they naturally promote a positive image of the city to other enterprises, thereby attracting even more new investors. Compared to other major cities in the region, HCMC is emerging as a […]