Focus: Unlocking HCMC’s Sports Economy: HCMC has a robust sports infrastructure, fueled by growing social demand and an expanding network of facilities. Yet the sector remains underutilized, even as it begins to emerge as a dynamic driver within the city’s urban economy.
Inside Vietnam
Helping SMEs Tap FTAs: Although Vietnam has signed 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) with global partners, the proportion of domestic firms able to utilize tariff preferences from these agreements has not met expectations, especially for next-generation FTAs. One of the groups most at risk of being left behind in the process of international economic integration is domestic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Due to their inherent characteristics, SMEs face clear disadvantages compared to large firms in capturing opportunities from FTAs.
High Leverage Overshadows Internal Strength: For decades, gross domestic product (GDP) growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows have served as key benchmarks for economic governance in Vietnam. However, if we peel back these surface indicators and examine income balances and economic spillover effects more closely, a concerning picture emerges: growth is increasingly being sustained by rising debt and a gradual decline in domestic value added.
Sustainability As Competitive Edge: Social factors once seen as matters largely internal to businesses are now having a clearer influence on decisions made by customers, investors and business partners. In the broad and complexly managed construction sector, turning sustainability foundations into a competitive advantage is not simple, but it is entirely achievable. Small and medium sized construction firms can also move forward step by step, starting with correctly identifying their key risks.
Business
Prospects For Textile-Garment, Seafood Exports: The shift toward higher value-added products has enabled the textile-garment and seafood industries to strengthen profit margins in recent years. However, rising labor costs are increasingly eroding the competitiveness of both sectors.
Organic Products Highlighted At FHA: Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA) took place from April 21 to 24 across 10 halls at the cavernous Singapore Expo in Changi, drawing some 80,000 attendees and more than 2,750 exhibitors from 115 countries and territories.
Living
Awakening Values Beneath Heritage Forests: From early butterfly seasons in Cuc Phuong in the North to sea turtle conservation journeys off Con Dao Island in the South, ecotourism in Vietnam’s national parks is undergoing a profound transformation. It has become a search for a connection between humans and nature through responsible travel models.
The Habits That Support Healthy Blood Pressure: Healthy evening habits can support blood pressure control by stabilizing the body’s circadian rhythm and improving sleep quality, two factors closely linked to heart health.
Travel
Mui Vi Rong: A Hidden Coastal Wonder: Tucked away in a quiet fishing village in Phu My Dong Commune, Gia Lai Province, Mui Vi Rong is an emerging destination that captivates visitors with its raw, untouched beauty.
Squid Pancakes: A Coastal Delicacy In Gia Lai: Banh xeo muc, or squid pancakes, is a humble dish long associated with fishermen in Quy Nhon Dong, a coastal ward of Gia Lai Province. In recent years, however, it has gained popularity among visitors and is now considered a local specialty.
