Sun Phu Quoc Airlines to Launch International Flights

Key pointsVietnam's first airline named after an island, Sun Phu Quoc Airlines, will commence commercial operations in November 2025. The airline plans to establish a network connecting major cities domestically and internationally to develop Phu Quoc as an international tourist destination, with plans to expand international routes by 2026. It aims to have 100 aircraft by 2030 and 200 by 2035, including an order for 40 Boeing 787-9s targeting direct flights to Europe and Australia.
Business impactThe emergence of this new airline presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies in tourism and logistics. In particular, businesses based in Phu Quoc can expect to expand their customer base due to improved international access.

Key pointsBamboo Airways announced a reduction in its fleet from eight aircraft at the beginning of the year to just one. The only aircraft currently in operation is a 13.5-year-old Airbus A321-200. The airline previously owned 44 aircraft, but legal issues faced by the founder and failed restructuring efforts have led to this decline. Recent data shows that in June, the airline operated 725 flights, with 241 of them delayed, indicating a decrease in operational reliability. Bamboo Airways has sent apology letters to customers, indicating potential delays in refund processing.
Business impactThis situation may impact Japanese companies dealing with Bamboo Airways, as the decline in operational reliability and delays in customer service could affect their operations. Particularly in logistics and travel-related businesses, there may be a need to consider alternative options.

Key pointsNutiFood Group announced plans to purchase additional shares in QNS, a leader in Vietnam's soy milk market. NutiFood intends to acquire 650,000 shares, while NutiFood Binh Phuoc plans to buy 350,000 shares, raising NutiFood's ownership to approximately 3.82% and NutiFood Binh Phuoc's to about 4.58%. This move enhances NutiFood Group's influence over QNS.
Business impactNutiFood's stock purchase is a strategic move driven by the growth of the soy milk market, prompting Japanese companies to closely monitor market trends. Particularly, businesses in the food industry should take valuable lessons from NutiFood's actions.

Key pointsVietnam's digital economy is expected to account for 14.02% of GDP by 2025, generating approximately $72.1 billion in value, making it a significant growth engine. There is a demand for value creation through data utilization and active participation of women, along with the need for institutional and resource support. These elements are essential for promoting the growth of the digital economy.
Business impactJapanese companies should focus on data utilization and promoting women's employment in line with the growth of the digital economy. In particular, the IT and HR departments should consider new strategies.

Key pointsOn July 9, 2026, an EPC contract was signed between the Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group (BSR) and the consortium of Chengda - BPE for the expansion project of the Dung Quat Refinery. This will facilitate the rapid progress of preparatory work for the project. The expansion of the refinery is expected to contribute to the stabilization of domestic energy supply.
Business impactThis project presents a significant opportunity for energy-related businesses, and Japanese companies should not miss related supply chain and investment opportunities.

Key pointsThe Hanoi Market Surveillance Authority has uncovered multiple facilities dealing in counterfeit LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). During inspections on August 6, 1,142.4 kg of fake LPG was discovered, along with 1,645 counterfeit prevention labels and 257 pieces of false information. These facilities were found to be systematically involved in the entire process from gas filling to distribution and sales. The distribution of fake LPG poses a direct danger to consumer safety, and legal actions are expected.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen product quality management and supply chain transparency, considering the increase in counterfeit goods. Particularly, businesses involved in LPG-related activities should reassess the reliability of their partners to mitigate legal risks.

Key pointsA new urban development project called 'Vinhomes Saigon Park' is being established in the northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to accommodate around 60,000 students within a 150-hectare university campus. This project adopts an urban model centered on education, research, and innovation, covering a total area of 1,080 hectares, with plans for a 200-hectare golf course and 100 parks.
Business impactThis project presents new opportunities in the education-related business and real estate development sectors. Japanese companies may find it worthwhile to consider partnerships with educational institutions and the provision of new services.

Key pointsAsia-Pacific Sustainable Development Corporation purchased 10 million shares of KBC between July 29, 2026, and August 21, 2026.
Business impactThis move may impact KBC's stock price and market confidence, necessitating a review of investment strategies.

Key pointsOn August 21, 2026, a forum on the Global Value Chain of Vietnam and ASEAN was held in Ho Chi Minh City, discussing new opportunities in international logistics and the development of sustainable agriculture. The forum emphasized the importance of addressing challenges in ASEAN's economic growth and trade, particularly the need for data and regulatory harmonization. ASEAN's trade accounts for only 22% of the total, which is low compared to the EU's 67%.
Business impactJapanese companies need to develop strategies that consider data and regulatory consistency to enhance their competitiveness in the ASEAN market. There is a particular demand for transparency and sustainability in supply chains.

Key pointsAs Vietnam's banking system approaches late 2026, it faces strategic challenges with credit growth significantly outpacing funding, leading to a high loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR). This situation intensifies competition for deposit acquisition. Banks need to balance the inflow and outflow of funds.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, there may be an increase in funding costs, necessitating close attention to interest rate trends, particularly in the financial sector. A review of funding management strategies will be required.

Key pointsHai Phong City achieved a GRDP growth rate of 11.81% and a total import-export value of 91.72 billion USD, making it one of the top five regions in the country for outstanding results in the implementation of FTAs by 2025. This led to recognition from the Prime Minister.
Business impactJapanese companies should consider investing and conducting business in Hai Phong City, as there are increased opportunities to leverage FTAs.

Key pointsVietnam imported approximately $800 million worth of rice over seven months in 2026, primarily to balance food processing and supply, indicating that domestic rice production is not meeting demand. Despite being one of the world's leading rice exporters, Vietnam finds itself in a situation where imports are necessary.
Business impactThis increase in imports may impact the food industry and distributors. In particular, Japanese companies dealing with rice will need to reassess their supply chains and strengthen cost management.