Focus: Taxing Real Estate: The Ministry of Finance has proposed amending the method for calculating personal income tax on real estate transfers, shifting from a flat 2% tax on the transfer price to a 20% tax on the profit — the difference between the buying and selling prices. This is seen as a critical step to curb speculation, increase transparency, and promote fairness in the real estate market. However, effective implementation will require robust data infrastructure and the application of technology.
Inside Vietnam
Motorbikes Take A Sharp Turn: The upcoming ban on gasoline- powered motorbikes within Hanoi’s Ring Road 1, combined with HCMC’s push to electrify ride-hailing services next year, is poised to ignite a race toward electric mobility.
A Financial Ecosystem For Gold Trading: While reforms to the mechanisms for gold bar production and importation are essential, they are insufficient on their own. To effectively unlock the vast gold reserves held by the public for economic development, policy should be adopted from a long-term perspective and backed by a coherent and synchronized roadmap for reform.
Adapting To Survive: Urban flooding in the Mekong Delta, especially in Can Tho, is no longer an uncommon sight. Even moderate rains can inundate the streets, paralyze traffic, and disrupt daily life.
Businesses
Catalysts Behind The Upswing: Following a tumultuous journey, the VN-Index officially broke past the 1,500-point mark on July 18, returning to its historic peak seen in 2021–2022. This upward momentum reflects a strong alignment between domestic and international capital flows, underscoring elevated expectations for Vietnam’s macroeconomic trajectory and upcoming market developments.
Coffee Price And Stockpile: The forward coffee price and the domestic coffee market have continued to plunge. A coffee stockpile will certainly significantly affect market prices. This story is becoming a hot topic for the global coffee industry.
Living
La Dolce Vita In Vietnam: After more than 16 years in HCMC, French designer Dror Lam has built a life shaped by creative independence, cultural fusion, and a deep connection to Vietnam’s evolving urban rhythm. From managing a lifestyle store to launching her own jewelry brand, Lam shares how the country’s dynamic energy, artisan talent, and supportive business climate have allowed her to thrive, both professionally and personally.
Morning Weekends In HCMC: On a serene weekend morning in HCMC—fondly known as Saigon—the first gentle light of dawn stretches over the horizon. As the city wakes, its streets and parks come alive with motion and energy. People of all ages and backgrounds—men and women, elders and children—gather together. While cyclists and runners chart their paths, others stroll leisurely, sway in synchronized group dances, or engage in spirited community gatherings.
Travel
Visiting Bich Dam Island Village Near Nha Trang Bay: Bich Dam is a residential community on Hon Tre Island in Nha Trang Ward, Khanh Hoa Province. It is the island’s easternmost settlement, surrounded by sea and mountains, and retains the natural landscape and traditional way of life of a coastal fishing village.
Phan Rang’s Cha Cuon – A Taste Of Coastal Cuisine: Phan Rang, formerly part of Ninh Thuan Province and now merged into Khanh Hoa Province, is known for its rustic coastal dishes, and one of the most popular is cha cuon, a fresh roll that has become a staple at local roadside eateries.
