HCMC – European businesses in Vietnam grew more confident in the third quarter of 2025 as regulatory reforms and green investment policies gained momentum, according to the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham).
The Business Confidence Index (BCI) rose to 66.5, the highest level in three years and above pre-tariff levels, showing renewed optimism despite global economic uncertainties and new U.S. tariff measures.
“Eighty percent of respondents are optimistic about their prospects over the next five years, and 76% would recommend Vietnam as an investment destination.” Said EuroCham Chairman Bruno Jaspaert. He added the findings showed that Vietnam “remains a stable and promising market for European investors even as global supply chains shift.”
EuroCham Chairman Bruno Jaspaert said 80% of respondents were optimistic about their five-year outlook and 76% would recommend Vietnam as an investment destination. He said the findings reflected Vietnam’s resilience and continued appeal for European investors.
The BCI survey highlighted ongoing administrative reforms to streamline visa and work-permit procedures. Nearly half of respondents said the new rules had already improved operations, while 42% said the benefits had yet to be felt.
Despite progress, 65% of companies said administrative inefficiencies remain a major obstacle, particularly in tax and work-permit procedures.
Global trade adjustments have had mixed effects. About 31% of businesses reported a negative impact from shifting supply chains and tariffs, while 9% saw a net benefit. Only 3% are considering moving operations out of Vietnam, indicating continued confidence in the country’s role as a manufacturing and investment base.
Around 42% of respondents said Vietnam could achieve its 2025 GDP growth target of 8.3–8.5%, while 68% expected the economy to improve in the next quarter. Vietnam’s GDP expanded 8.23% year-on-year in the third quarter, official data showed.
Sustainability and green investment are gaining traction among European firms. One in four companies have introduced green initiatives, including energy-efficiency measures and ESG reporting.
The European Union has pledged 2.8 billion euros through the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to help Vietnam decarbonize its power sector. Broader funding under the Global Gateway Initiative, worth 300 billion euros worldwide, includes support for clean energy and infrastructure projects in Vietnam.
However, EuroCham said many businesses lack access to available green financing and called for clearer guidance from authorities.
EuroCham presented the BCI findings during a meeting in Hanoi with EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič, who reaffirmed the EU’s view of Vietnam as a strategic partner in Southeast Asia.
Šefčovič said EuroCham’s feedback helps strengthen bilateral trade and identify new cooperation areas. EU Ambassador Julien Guerrier said transparent rules and business participation are essential for Vietnam’s green and digital transition.
