Focus: Vietnam Needs Quality FDI: At a press conference on January 6, 2024, the General Statistics Office (GSO) announced that total realized investments across the economy in 2024 at current prices reached an estimated VND3,692.1 trillion, a 7.5% increase versus 2023. Among this, realized foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam last year amounted to a record high of an estimated US$25.35 billion, up 9.4% from the previous year.
Inside Vietnam
More Trade Barriers: In 2025, due to significant shifts in the global economic and political landscapes, trade defense measures are expected to continue rising, with increasing complexity and larger-scale cases. As a key player in the global supply chain, Vietnam’s export goods are unlikely to escape the “storm” of trade defense measures, particularly from the U.S. market.
High But Sustainable, Persistent Growth Counts: Despite favorable internal and external factors, Vietnam’s economy is unlikely to achieve 8% growth in 2025 effortlessly. Reaching this target will require significant effort from all sectors of the economy, said Dr. Le Duy Binh, managing director of Economica Vietnam, in a discussion with The Saigon Times.
The Journey To Digital Economy: Recently, the digital economy has grown strongly in Southeast Asia, especially in Vietnam, three times faster than the GDP growth rates of regional countries. The digital economy has fueled economic growth in Southeast Asia amidst global economic uncertainties.
Business
What To Expect After Tet: Vietnam’s stock market appears poised for a short-term recovery, with technical indicators suggesting a potential breakthrough after the Tet holiday, provided no unexpected shocks or negative developments emerge. This has raised expectations of a positive cash flow return once trading resumes.
Where Does The Money Go? Vietnam’s GDP expanded by an impressive 7.09% last year, one of the highest growth rates in recent years. Despite this economic growth, the stock market remained subdued.
Living
A Timeless Charm Of Old Objects Market: In Binh Thanh District of Ho Chi Minh City, uncover a hidden treasure where memories come to life, time pauses, and the past resonates in every corner.
Soaring Into Spring: Every year on the fourth day of Tet, the people of Gia Vien Village in Phong Dien Township, Hue City, gather at the village playground to celebrate the traditional Du Tien (Fairy Swing) Festival—a cherished event that brings excitement and joy to the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Travel
Chen Kieu Pagoda: A 200-Year-Old Porcelain Gem In Soc Trang: Nestled in Soc Trang Province, Chen Kieu Pagoda, also known as Sa Lon Pagoda, is a sacred site for the Khmer community. With a history spanning over 200 years, it stands as a testament to the enduring cultural and religious traditions of the Khmer people in Vietnam.
Candied Kumquat: A Tangy Delicacy In Hue City: Candied kumquat is a beloved delicacy in Hue, known for its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
