Standardization of Waste Collection for EPR Operations

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has a population of approximately 14 million and is struggling with the management of vast amounts of municipal waste. The processes of waste classification, collection, transportation, and recycling are disconnected, necessitating efficient operations. A standardized collection system will ensure a stable supply of recyclable materials and promote the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
Business impactJapanese companies need to focus on improving waste management based on EPR, aiming to enhance the efficiency of collecting and processing recyclable materials. Collaboration with waste management operators is particularly important.

Key pointsAn 18.5 km sea bridge is under construction to provide access to Hon Khoai Island, with an investment of 25.7 trillion VND. Designed with four lanes, it will become the longest sea bridge in Vietnam upon completion. The construction is taking place in a complex terrain and is affected by weather, limiting progress.
Business impactJapanese companies should not miss business opportunities related to this infrastructure project, particularly considering entry into the construction and logistics sectors.

Key pointsThe Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ho Chi Minh City submitted a report on the compensation, support, and resettlement project for the extension of Metro Line 2 to Thu Duc City. The project is budgeted at approximately 34.4 trillion VND and is expected to be implemented by 2027.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsA government audit of the Vietnam Paper Corporation revealed numerous violations related to land management and usage. Notably, a southern raw material paper company was found to be using 1,266.58 hectares of land without registration, and inadequate land management was reported. Additionally, other related companies were confirmed to have improper land usage management, resulting in over 3,000 hectares of land being inadequately managed. The government is demanding accountability from those involved.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, deficiencies in land management in Vietnam may pose legal risks. It is essential to comply with proper procedures when utilizing land. As regulations regarding land use may become stricter in the future, legal departments need to stay updated on the latest information and consider appropriate responses.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City is considering a proposal to charge projects that directly benefit from urban railway infrastructure. The proposal includes increased land value due to scale and revenue based on connections with public transportation. Public feedback will be collected from September 7 to 21, and five revenue sources are expected to be established.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsInvestment cooperation between Vietnam and Russia is progressing, with Russia holding 242 projects in Vietnam, totaling approximately $996 million in investment. Vietnam has 19 projects in Russia, with a total investment of about $1.64 billion. Cooperation in the energy sector is particularly strengthened, with successful projects like Vietsovpetro. Furthermore, TH Group plans to expand agricultural projects in Russia, aiming to launch products in the market by 2027. This is expected to advance the relationship between the two countries to a new level.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the investment cooperation between Vietnam and Russia presents new business opportunities. As collaboration in the energy and agriculture sectors progresses, Japanese firms should consider participating in these projects or providing technology.

Key pointsThe construction department of Ho Chi Minh City has sent documents to Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, and Lam Dong provinces seeking opinions on plans for circular roads and highways. This plan includes the addition of Circular Road No. 4 and No. 5, with two proposed routes for Circular Road No. 5, which is 487km long. This is expected to enhance urban development and inter-regional connectivity.
Business impactThe expansion of this circular road is likely to contribute to the efficiency of logistics and transportation, potentially reducing transportation costs and improving operational efficiency for Japanese companies. Particularly, the construction and logistics industries should closely monitor this trend.

Key pointsOn September 3, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced new regulations regarding land division. These regulations specify the conditions for land division and the minimum area requirements, effective from August 28, 2026.
Business impactJapanese companies need to review their land use plans and consider new land acquisition possibilities based on the division regulations. This regulation will be a crucial factor, especially in urban development.

Key pointsOn September 3, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced a 90-day special campaign aimed at improving the national land database. This campaign requires ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and cleanliness of the data.
Business impactThis initiative may streamline land-related procedures for Japanese companies, making rapid data access crucial, especially for real estate businesses.

Key pointsOn September 2, a glowing object was discovered near Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong, raising suspicions of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). As a result, three flights were affected. Airport authorities are monitoring the situation and taking appropriate measures to ensure safety.
Business impactThis incident underscores the importance of safety management in the aviation industry, prompting Japanese aviation-related companies to review UAV regulations and safety measures.

Key pointsThe Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee announced Decision No. 67 on March 11, 2026, which establishes conditions for land division and integration, as well as minimum area requirements. Notably, the verification of common access routes necessary for land division is emphasized to be delegated to local authorities. Experts are calling for simplification of procedures and increased transparency, suggesting that local authorities centralize the processes to help residents avoid unnecessary steps.
Business impactThis new regulation may streamline land acquisition and development procedures for Japanese companies. In particular, the real estate sector will need to review its processes based on the new regulations and respond swiftly.

Key pointsTraffic volume on the 15 routes of the North-South Expressway has recorded an increase of about 60% compared to normal times, with all toll booths operating 24 hours. Particularly, as traffic surges ahead of the National Day on September 2, the ETC system is functioning steadily, ensuring smooth passage. Traffic reached 262,600 vehicles on August 28 and 321,776 vehicles on August 29, marking a 57.4% increase compared to the same day last year. Traffic management authorities are collaborating with technicians and police to ensure safety and smooth flow.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider the implementation and use of the ETC system to enhance logistics and mobility efficiency. Additionally, it is important to review transportation plans in preparation for the increased traffic associated with the National Day.