Focus: Why Trade Is Essential For Growth: To achieve the economic growth target of 8% or higher in 2025, it is crucial to boost consumption and investment, which constitute more than 85% of GDP. While net trade directly contributes just over 5% to GDP, its role is essential in connecting different economic components and generating strong spillover effects.
Inside Vietnam
Overhauling Tax Procedures: A Key Priority: Tax procedures are on top of the three groups of administrative procedures that should be reformed, 495 out of 891 businesses responded in a survey.
Net Interest Margins Shrink: As banks lower lending rates to support economic growth, they will have a tough time managing capital mobilization costs to stabilize their net interest margins (NIMs).
Bracing For New U.S. Trade Policy: President Donald Trump’s plans to announce reciprocal tariffs on April 2 could impact Vietnam’s exports to the U.S. this year, with potential losses estimated at around US$4 billion, or 0.7-1.3% of the country’s GDP. While some analysts suggest that Vietnam may not be a primary target, several businesses have expressed their readiness to adapt to the new reality.
Business
What Lies Behind The Fears? Vietnam’s stock market performed remarkably well in March, breaking through the 1,300-point resistance zone that had posed a challenge for nearly three years. This breakthrough is likely the most encouraging signal for bolstering investor confidence in the near future. The 1,300-point level could potentially serve as a crucial support for the VN-Index during any forthcoming corrections.
Bad Debt Implications: Group-5 debts at banks continued rising in 2024. What percentage do they represent in the total outstanding loans in the banking system?
Living
A Feast For The Senses: Even though the Lunar New Year holiday has passed, its festive spirit lingers in Ben Thanh Market.
Promoting Green Tourism: Saigon Tiep Thi, an online publication of the Saigon Times Group, has unveiled its prestigious list of Vietnam’s Top 7 Impressions 2024, featuring 35 outstanding destinations from across the country. The selections were announced during two events held in the central provinces of Khanh Hoa and Quang Nam in late March.
Travel
Unveiling The Hidden Beauty Of Chin Chu Chai Cave: Chin Chu Chai Cave in Lai Chau Province remains an uncharted natural wonder, recently discovered and yet to be recognized as a tourist destination. Early assessments suggest that the cave could set new records, surpassing previously known caves in the region.
Bò Giá Tréo: A Unique Delicacy In Soc Trang: A visit to Soc Trang would not be complete without sampling the distinctive bò giá tréo. From its preparation to its bold flavors, this traditional dish leaves a lasting impression on those who try it.
