Vietnam Airlines Begins Sale of 3.7 Million Seats for Tet Period

Key pointsVietnam Airlines Group announced the sale of 3.7 million airline tickets starting August 25, 2026, for the Tet (Lunar New Year) period. This represents an 11% increase compared to the peak during Tet in 2026. Additionally, 60,000 seats will be added to promote tourism with New Zealand. Vietnam Airlines also plans to operate special flights to celebrate National Day on September 2.
Business impactThe increase in demand for airline tickets during the Tet period may impact business travel and logistics planning for Japanese companies. Early planning will be necessary, especially for schedule adjustments around Tet.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government has announced Decree 325/2026/NĐ-CP, establishing a special operational and financial management mechanism for the mining company Tập đoàn Công nghiệp Than - Khoáng sản Việt Nam (TKV). This new regulation enhances TKV's authority over resource management, production coordination, sales, and investment cost handling, allowing the company to utilize resources more efficiently and improve competitiveness.
Business impactThis new regulation will also impact Japanese companies, particularly those engaged in mining and resource-related businesses, as they will need to adopt more flexible approaches in their collaborations and transactions with TKV.

Key pointsVietnam's catfish exports are struggling in the US market due to anti-dumping duties, while continuing to grow in the Chinese market. In the first seven months of 2026, catfish exports reached $1.3 billion, a 10% increase compared to the same period last year. July exports alone were $230 million, marking a 4% increase year-on-year. Conversely, exports to the US totaled $189 million, an 8% decrease from the previous year. Amid intensified competition in the US market, exports to China reached $357 million, showing a 31% increase year-on-year. This indicates that catfish exports are still maintaining growth.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, it is necessary to reassess catfish export strategies in light of intensified competition in the US market. In particular, adjustments to pricing and contract terms are required due to the impact of US anti-dumping duties. Additionally, it is important to consider new sales strategies to leverage growth in the Chinese market.

Key pointsVietnam Export-Import Bank (Eximbank, HOSE: EIB) has announced that it will hold an extraordinary shareholders' meeting in Hanoi on October 14, 2026. The agenda will include personnel matters and other important issues. Shareholders must register to participate by September 14, and nominations for board candidates must be submitted by September 11.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor personnel developments at Eximbank's shareholders' meeting. It is essential to consider how changes in executives may impact business strategies and to prepare appropriate responses.

Key pointsThe Vietnam International Financial Center (VIFC) has introduced a system that allows investors and companies to register online. This system aims to streamline procedures and reduce costs, designed to complete all processes in a digital environment.
Business impactThis new system simplifies procedures for Japanese companies, enabling faster business development. Companies engaged in financial operations should leverage this system to enhance operational efficiency.

Key pointsVietnam aims to develop new growth drivers from advanced technology industries based on Resolution 19-NQ/TW. Priority is given to the development of semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), new materials, quantum technology, green industries, and the energy sector. This is expected to enhance Vietnam's international competitiveness and promote economic growth.
Business impactJapanese companies should seize investment opportunities in these emerging technology fields, particularly focusing on AI and semiconductor-related projects.

Key pointsVietnam's VietinBank is set to sign a transfer agreement for the VietinBank Tower in August 2026. This project has been in development for 16 years, but details about the buyer, the transaction value, and the bank's profits have not yet been disclosed. The progress of the project is being closely monitored.
Business impactThis transaction could influence the flow of funds and investment trends in Vietnam's real estate market. Japanese companies may need to reassess their future real estate investment strategies.

Key pointsThe Da Nang People's Committee has officially announced the 'Da Nang Green Stay' standards to enhance service quality and promote sustainable tourism. This initiative aims to strengthen environmental considerations in the tourism industry and provide tourists with a safe and comfortable accommodation experience. Da Nang is leading summer tourism trends while aiming for the development of its tourism sector.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to the changes in Da Nang's tourism industry and consider offering environmentally friendly services. In particular, businesses providing accommodation and tourism services are expected to enhance their competitiveness by complying with the green standards.

Key pointsThe North Central region of Vietnam is leveraging its geographical advantages and deep-water port system to create new growth opportunities. It aims for double-digit growth by 2026, with provinces developing specific growth strategies. In Ha Tinh Province, the construction of wind power plants is underway, which is a key project to promote economic growth and strengthen the regional economic foundation.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the growth strategies in the North Central region present new investment opportunities. Engaging in infrastructure development and energy-related projects is expected to facilitate business expansion. Attention to changes in the labor market is also necessary as the region grows.

Key pointsVietinBank plans to finalize the transfer contract for VietinBank Tower by the end of August, with ongoing negotiations with major domestic real estate development companies. The name of the acquiring company, transaction amount, and expected profits have not yet been disclosed. VietinBank Tower is located in the Nam Tu Liem District of Hanoi, within a 301-hectare urban development area.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this situation closely and assess the potential impacts on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsOn August 15, Hanoi's Investment Promotion Center held a dialogue on new customs regulations, attracting 150 participants to discuss the new administrative penalties effective from May 2026. The city is updating its 'Public Investment Project Management Manual' to enhance support for adapting to the new tax system.
Business impactJapanese companies need to urgently gather information to adapt to the new customs regulations and review their business processes. It is crucial for relevant departments to consider measures based on the new regulations, especially to streamline customs procedures.

Key pointsAt the 2026 Conviction event, seven Vietnamese blockchain companies were selected among the top 200 in the world. Experts indicate that Vietnam is developing regulations for a cryptocurrency market valued at $220 billion, establishing a foundation to leverage domestic technological resources.
Business impactJapanese companies should capitalize on the growth of Vietnam's blockchain market by exploring technological partnerships and investment opportunities. Particularly, as regulations advance, adapting business models will be essential.