Japanese Retail Giant Expands Shopping Malls in Vietnam

Key pointsJapanese retail giant Aeon Mall is accelerating its growth in Vietnam, aiming to expand from urban to rural areas. Daisuke Isobe, the representative of Aeon Mall Vietnam, expressed intentions to open new shopping malls in regions such as Thanh Hoa and Ha Long, which is expected to create approximately 7,000 jobs. Aeon aims to triple its presence in the Vietnamese market by 2030 and plans to open four new malls within this year.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, Aeon's expansion into rural areas presents new business opportunities associated with regional economic growth. It is particularly important for companies in the distribution and retail sectors to understand local market needs and approach strategically.

Key pointsCompanies like Samsung, Huawei, and Tencent symbolize national economic strength, and their growth elevates entire industries. These countries formulate long-term policies, create stable business environments, and support companies in entering international markets rather than waiting for spontaneous growth. Vietnam needs to build an ecosystem to nurture its national enterprises and enhance competitiveness, particularly focusing on strategic areas like AI and clean energy.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor Vietnam's enterprise development policies and strengthen collaboration with firms aiming for technological innovation and international market entry. This will enhance competitiveness and expand opportunities for sustainable growth.

Key pointsVingroup's high-speed rail project between Hanoi and Quang Ninh is scheduled to open by the end of 2028, with plans announced for the procurement of construction materials and power supply. Construction materials such as concrete and steel will be sourced from Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh, with an average transportation distance of 20 km. Additionally, over 85% of construction machinery is required to be new, and stability in power supply is emphasized.
Business impactThis project may promote efficiency in material procurement and supply chains within the construction industry. Japanese companies should consider opportunities for supplying related materials and providing technology.

Key pointsThe Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in TP.HCM has indicated that 87.76 hectares of land need to be released for the TP.HCM - Trung Lương - Mỹ Thuận highway expansion project, highlighting that 5.1 hectares near the Chợ Đệm intersection remain unreleased. Currently, 73 land parcels have been identified, but contact has not been established with 18 owners, which may impact construction progress.
Business impactDelays in land release could hinder construction progress and affect deadlines, prompting Japanese companies to closely monitor the project's status and consider necessary countermeasures.

Key pointsPhu My Hung Development Company reports a 40% increase in profits for the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. Debt levels are decreasing, and the company's financial situation is strong, which is expected to further strengthen its financial foundation.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess real estate investment opportunities in the region in light of Phu My Hung's growth.

Key pointsAmong ten notable young investors in Vietnam's stock market, five aged 23 to 25 hold a total of over 25 trillion VND in stocks. Notably, Ho Huy Anh, daughter of the chairman of Techcombank, possesses assets worth 11.5 trillion VND, making her the wealthiest among the group. Other young investors have also built substantial wealth through shares in their parents' companies. These individuals are establishing themselves as the next generation of business leaders.
Business impactThe rise of young investors in Vietnam may influence future market changes and consumer trends for Japanese companies. It is essential to observe how these next-generation leaders manage their businesses and reconsider business strategies accordingly.

Key pointsAccording to the State Bank of Vietnam, 12 commercial banks have decided to participate in a loan program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a total of approximately 408 trillion VND. This program aims to support SMEs, which are a driving force for economic growth. Specifically, four state-owned banks will provide 220 trillion VND, while the remaining eight banks will supply 188 trillion VND. This will increase funding opportunities for SMEs to expand production and investment.
Business impactThis loan program will promote the growth of SMEs and provide new business partnership and market expansion opportunities for Japanese companies.

Key pointsBNP Paribas announced that it has no plans to purchase shares in Techcombank, thus removing itself from the list of potential strategic investors for the bank. This announcement came just one day after reports indicated that BNP Paribas and KB Kookmin Bank were negotiating to acquire at least 15% of Techcombank's shares. Currently, Techcombank has a foreign ownership ratio of approximately 20.5%, with a limit of up to 30%. Techcombank is one of the few major private banks actively seeking foreign strategic investors.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsVietnam imports approximately $2 billion worth of meat annually, with India being the largest supplier. In the first half of 2026, Vietnam is expected to import 494,000 tons of meat, a 36% increase compared to the same period last year. The demand for Indian buffalo meat is rising, leading to recent incidents of mislabeling. The food industry is concerned about Indian buffalo meat being sold as a 'specialty product'.
Business impactJapanese companies need to focus on strengthening quality control and regulations in Vietnam's food industry. Particularly, in light of the mislabeling issues, ensuring transparency in the supply chain is essential.

Key pointsOn August 25, 2026, BIDV Securities Corporation (BSC) signed a contract with Amova Asset Management, a member of the Mitsui Sumitomo Trust Group, to establish a jointly funded asset management company. Amova manages assets worth 271.5 trillion yen and has a network spanning over 10 countries. This partnership aims to penetrate the Vietnamese market alongside BIDV.
Business impactJapanese companies can expect increased efficiency in fund management due to a wider range of asset management options. In particular, the investment sector should closely monitor the developments of this new asset management company and consider appropriate investment strategies.

Key pointsHoang Anh Gia Lai Company held a roadshow for investors, offering participants special foods made from 'banana-eating pigs' raised by Bau Duc. This highlighted the company's unique brand image.
Business impactJapanese companies should incorporate unique elements in product differentiation and brand strategy. Such initiatives can attract customer interest and enhance competitive advantage.

Japanese business summary. Read the original source for the source language.

Key points2023年7月までに、ベトナムのカシューナッツ企業は、原材料としてのカシューナッツを海外から輸入するために30億ドル以上を支出しました。一方で、約373,800トンのカシューナッツを輸出し、収入は約26.3億ドルに達しました。この結果、輸出入のバランスが崩れ、業界は「輸入超過」の状態に陥っています。これは業界にとって深刻な問題となる可能性があります。
Business impact輸入超過は、カシューナッツ業界の利益率に影響を与える可能性があり、特に原材料の価格変動に敏感な日系企業は、コスト管理を見直す必要があります。