Focus: A Long Road Ahead: Vietnam’s real estate sector is increasing its supply of green- certified projects as part of efforts to achieve the country’s net-zero target by 2050. However, experts emphasize the need for stronger policies and incentives to attract investors by showcasing the long-term economic benefits and resilience of sustainable real estate.
Inside Vietnam
A Fresh Take On Lawmaking: The pace of legislation is accelerating, policy-making is becoming more streamlined, and the window for public posting and consultation is narrowing. These significant shifts in the drafting process call for businesses to engage more actively and meaningfully in lawmaking—not just to adapt, but to help shape a more transparent, stable, and business-friendly regulatory environment over the long term.
Forex Pressure Mounts: The tariff shock and excess liquidity are exerting pressure on the exchange rate between the Vietnam dong and the U.S. dollar in the short term. However, a stable macroeconomic backdrop gives Vietnam enough tools to regulate and mitigate systemic risks.
Vietnam’s Private Sector: Unleashing An Economic Force: Vietnam stands at a pivotal moment in its economic journey. On May 4, 2025, Party General Secretary To Lam signed Resolution No. 68, a transformative directive from the Politburo that places the private sector at the heart of the nation’s socialist-oriented market economy.
Business
Banks Rake It In As Lending Soars: As of April 28, nearly half of the banks in the system had released their first-quarter financial statements. While most lenders once again posted strong profit growth, some reported a year-on-year decline, as rising bad debt levels continued to drive up credit risk provisioning costs.
Artificial Land Fever: Time For A Reality Check: It must be acknowledged that there is a genuine demand for housing among officials and public employees relocating from merged provinces to new administrative centers. However, under current policy guidelines, these individuals will be given priority for allocation of official residences or state-subsidized rental housing.
Living
Inner Peace, Outer Strength: In 2006, Ani Petrova arrived in Vietnam with her family, leaving behind a design career and a life in Europe for the unknown. At first, it was an adventure—a chance to immerse herself in a new culture. But life had other plans. Years of stress and exhaustion took a toll on her body and mind. Then she discovered Qigong, an ancient healing practice that brought her relief and a deeper connection with herself. Speaking to The Saigon Times, Petrova shares her journey into this art of health with a key belief: “I believe nothing comes to us by coincidence.”
Traditional Culture On Display: Chao Show is a one-of-a-kind artistic experience that takes audiences on a captivating journey through Vietnamese cultural identity. Through the harmonious fusion of music, visuals, and cuisine, this immersive program offers a profound multisensory exploration of tradition and heritage.
Travel
Exploring Van Long Slope In Gia Lai: Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, Van Long Slope—also known by locals as “Doc Lung Bo” or Cow Back Slope—is emerging as a unique destination for travelers seeking natural wonders off the beaten path.
Shrimp And Gourd Hotpot: A Simple Delight With Natural Sweetness: Prepared with a delicately made broth from fresh shrimp, crab, and gourd, shrimp and gourd hotpot presents a naturally light and pleasant sweetness.
