Focus: A Water Crisis: Perhaps never before has the water issue in the Mekong Delta been as concerning as it has been for nearly a decade now. Over the past eight years, farmers’ worries over extensive inundation during the flood season have virtually become a thing of the past. In the dry season, many coastal areas rush to scoop up the scarce fresh water that remain while landslides and subsidence continue to increase.
Inside Vietnam
Lukewarm To Gold Auctions: With domestic gold prices far higher than world levels, the demand has weakened due to risk aversion. Therefore, there is reason for businesses to worry that they could not sell the metal after they win a gold auction held by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV).
Will Interest Rates Stay Steady? Market watchers have argued that interest rates will continue rising and that the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) may revise up policy rates to curb the depreciation of the local currency. However, there are still many factors that could help contain the uptrend of interest rates.
High-speed Rail – Why And How: According to the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA), logistics costs account for 16.8% of Vietnam’s GDP, well above the world average of 10.7%. This figure is higher than that of Singapore (8.5%), Malaysia (13%), and Thailand (15.5%).
Business
A Sense Of Optimism Amid Uncertainties: Despite their first-quarter rebound, Vietnamese exporters are still grappling with mounting challenges induced by geopolitical tensions, exchange rate volatility and surging logistics costs.
Profits Amid Market Correction: The performance of businesses in the first quarter of this year influences investor sentiment amid the market correction.
Living
Leveraging Regional Opportunities: At Food & Hotel Asia – Food & Beverage 2024 (FHA Food & Beverage 2024) in Singapore, Tin Nguyen, the founder of Hapii Coffee, exudes enthusiasm as he welcomes visitors to his bustling stand. Amidst the hustle and bustle of distributors, corporate buyers, and hoteliers, Nguyen and his team are busy serving tasting cups and arranging displays.
A Time-tested Pagoda: Bo Da Pagoda stands as an ancient and revered spiritual sanctuary in the northern region of Vietnam. Nestled in Tien Son Commune, Viet Yen District, Bac Giang Province, this pagoda was built during the Ly Dynasty in the 11th century, situated on the majestic Phuong Hoang Mountain within the Bo Da mountain range. From the reign of King Le Du Tong (1720-1729) through successive generations, the pagoda has undergone expansions and renovations, boasting a myriad of large and small structures, including Cao Pagoda, Tu An Pagoda, Tam Duc Temple, and Tower Garden.
Travel
The Untamed Beauty Of Hydropower Reservoir: Located in Kon Tum Province, Thuong Kon Tum Hydropower Reservoir beckons with its majestic and pristine natural landscape, coupled with a tranquil atmosphere. This hidden gem is an ideal destination for nature-loving visitors eager to explore new lands.
Banh Khoai – Hue’s Rustic Delicacy: Amidst the rich tapestry of culinary delights in Hue City, banh khoai stands out as a rustic delicacy that has captured the hearts of countless food enthusiasts with its distinctive flavors and texture.
