Five Major Transportation Projects to Start by Year-End

Key pointsAt a meeting on September 4, the Ministry of Construction announced plans to commence five major transportation projects by the end of the year. This is expected to enhance urban infrastructure and improve access to Long Thanh Airport. These projects are anticipated to increase transportation efficiency and promote economic growth.
Business impactJapanese companies need to seize business opportunities related to these transportation infrastructure projects. Particularly in the construction and logistics sectors, new contracts and partnership opportunities are likely to arise.

Key pointsThe Dong Thap Enterprises Club in Ho Chi Minh City held a meeting with leaders from the Binh Zan district of Dong Thap Province to exchange information on local investment promotion activities and social welfare programs. Binh Zan district is expected to have many investment opportunities for future economic development, particularly in urban development, logistics, and tourism projects.
Business impactJapanese companies should consider investing in Dong Thap Province, given its growth potential, with a particular focus on infrastructure development and logistics-related business opportunities.

Key pointsOn September 2, 2026, Cần Thơ City held a groundbreaking ceremony for significant housing and transportation infrastructure projects to celebrate the 81st anniversary of National Day. This demonstrates a commitment to urban infrastructure development, with two infrastructure and education projects starting at approximately 720 billion VND. Additionally, a wind power project exceeding 23 trillion VND has also been initiated in Cần Thơ City. These projects are expected to contribute to urban development and alleviate traffic congestion.
Business impactThese projects may present new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, construction and infrastructure-related firms should consider bidding and collaboration opportunities.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City opened a new 1.4km road on September 2, 2026, connecting Luong Ngoc Quyen Street in the Anh Nhuong area to the Vam Thuat River. The city administration aims to complete this project by 2027, with 900 households providing land for construction.
Business impactThis infrastructure development is expected to improve the transportation network in Ho Chi Minh City and enhance logistics efficiency. Japanese companies should consider utilizing this new road to optimize their logistics and transportation operations.

Key pointsOn August 28, 2026, Tay Ninh Province held a workshop regarding plans to promote integration into the global value chain. This plan will be implemented from 2026 to 2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2045. Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung stated that international cooperation will facilitate Vietnam's participation in the AI value chain.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor Tay Ninh Province's initiatives and consider investment opportunities, particularly in projects related to AI and digital technologies. Strategic partnerships are needed to enhance global competitiveness.

Key pointsVietnam's Vietcombank has announced a preferential interest rate program for homebuyers, offering 20 trillion VND in loans at an annual rate of 1%. This program applies to already approved real estate projects, making financing more accessible for many prospective homebuyers.
Business impactThis preferential rate program will help reduce housing costs for employees of Japanese companies. HR departments may find it valuable to utilize this information and consider housing assistance programs for employees.

Key pointsOn August 24, 2026, the Vietnamese National Assembly passed the Urban Development Law, creating new opportunities for Ho Chi Minh City and other developing cities. It has been one year since Tran Luu Quang took office as the Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City, and urban development has progressed under his leadership. Notably, efforts to convert public land into parks and public spaces have been praised, with expectations of improving the lives of approximately 14 million citizens. Additionally, a policy to limit high-rise building construction in the city center has been proposed to alleviate traffic congestion and environmental issues.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor these developments and assess their potential impacts on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsIn Northern Vietnam, heavy rain from Typhoon No. 4 has caused flooding and landslides affecting many roads. The Ministry of Transport and local authorities are responding around the clock, prioritizing the restoration of major transportation routes to ensure traffic safety. Notably, National Route 1 and National Route 18 have experienced flooding, with water levels reaching up to 80 cm in some areas. The Ministry is working to expedite recovery efforts and normalize traffic flow.
Business impactThis situation may impact logistics and transportation for Japanese companies. Businesses operating in the northern region should consider the traffic disruptions and review delivery schedules or secure alternative routes.

Key pointsDespite lacking advantages in market size and population, Singapore remains one of the major foreign investors in Vietnam. Recently, Singaporean companies are expanding their investments from traditional real estate and industrial parks to new areas such as science and technology, digital transformation, and the establishment of international financial centers. Notably, Sembcorp has announced plans to establish an AI-enabled data center in Ho Chi Minh City's high-tech zone, enhancing the economic complementarity between Singapore and Vietnam.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor Singapore's investment trends and seek collaboration opportunities, particularly in emerging technologies and financial services. Given the increasing interest in digitalization and AI-related projects, it is crucial to consider partnerships in these fields.

Key pointsIn July 2026, Vietnam's car imports increased by approximately 48% year-on-year, totaling 27,686 units. Notably, imports from Indonesia surged to 12,137 units, reflecting a 96.7% growth compared to the same month last year. Imports from Thailand reached 9,094 units, marking a 36.57% increase year-on-year. Imports from China totaled 5,091 units but showed a decrease compared to the previous month. This establishes Indonesia as a key supplier.
Business impactIn the automotive industry, the rising popularity of Indonesian MPVs and SUVs necessitates Japanese companies to reassess their sales strategies in light of this trend. Additionally, attention must be paid to changes in import taxes and regulations.

Key pointsThe Vietnam Real Estate Market Research Institute (VARS IRE) emphasizes that issues in real estate financing go beyond mere tightening or easing; the allocation of funds is crucial. It is necessary to review lending policies based on project progress and risk. Specifically, classifying projects and allocating funds according to risk is required. This approach allows prioritization of funding for viable projects and helps mitigate risks.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor this trend and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local practices.

Key pointsOn August 14, 2026, in Hanoi, Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh met with EU Ambassador Julien Guerrier to confirm plans to enhance cooperation for the development of green infrastructure and sustainable transportation. The EU is interested in supporting specific projects in Vietnam's transportation sector, particularly focusing on high-speed rail and urban transport.
Business impactJapanese companies can discover new business opportunities through collaboration with the EU, especially in environmentally friendly technologies and infrastructure development.