Focus: Navigating Today’s Disruptive Economy: Vietnam is eyeing to attract major investments for its next growth cycle but shifting global capital flows are creating both opportunities and risks for the country and its businesses.
Inside Vietnam
A Rocky Second Half: On May 5, 2025, the National Assembly started its ninth sitting, with a packed agenda that included a supplementary review of the 2024 socio-economic development plan and an assessment of 2025’s progress to date. The NA Economic and Financial Committee’s report spanned 10 A4 pages, with three dedicated to key achievements and five analyzing the economic challenges anticipated in the latter half of the year.
After Resolution Comes Action: Following the excitement surrounding what many consider the most pivotal document ever issued for the private sector, the business community is now waiting for swift, effective implementation of the directions, tasks, and solutions outlined in the Politburo’s Resolution 68-NQ/TW.
Caught Between Mass and Niche: Vietnam’s tourism industry faces a challenge in choosing between catering to guests who prefer luxury services or accommodating mass tourism with more budget-conscious visitors.
Business
Betting On A Breakthrough: It is tough to predict stock market movements this May as multiple scenarios depend on the outcome of trade negotiations between the U.S. and Vietnam. Many investors are optimistic that a trade agreement between the two nations will be signed soon.
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
Bridging Cultures, Connecting Railways: For over a decade, David Martin Ruiz has called Vietnam home, immersing himself in the country’s dynamic and ever- evolving landscape. But it was not just the bustling streets or the neon-lit skyline of HCMC that captured his heart—it was a deeper connection, one that began when he met his Vietnamese wife. That meeting, he says, became a gateway to the country’s rich traditions and cultural depth.
Sacred Colors At Vesak 2025: The United Nations Day of Vesak 2025 was solemnly held in HCMC from May 6 to 8, attracting thousands of religious dignitaries and international delegates from 85 countries and territories, along with a large number of monks, nuns, Buddhists, and residents from across the country.
Travel
Discovering Tu Lan Cave System: Alongside the renowned Son Doong, the Tu Lan cave system has become a favorite destination for adventure travelers to Quang Binh Province, drawing thrill-seekers from around the world with its rugged terrain and underground rivers.
Tasting Steamed Rice Rolls In Dong Van Old Quarter: Steamed rice rolls from Dong Van Old Quarter have earned their place as one of Ha Giang’s most iconic dishes. The dish’s charm lies in its simplicity.
