Vietnam Joins FTSE Emerging Markets Index

Key pointsVietnam has officially joined the FTSE Global Emerging Index Series, marking an upgrade of its securities market to emerging market status. This upgrade is a significant step in attracting international capital, necessitating improvements in transparency and market health.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsMalaysia's AirAsia is facing financial pressure, with its stock price dropping by 21%. The Malaysian government is discussing the possibility of other airlines taking over AirAsia's domestic market. This situation serves as a warning regarding the financial resilience of airlines in other countries, including Vietnam, particularly due to the surge in fuel prices, which may force airlines to adjust flight frequencies and reduce routes.
Business impactVietnamese airlines need to take AirAsia's case as a lesson to reassess their risk management systems. They should urgently consider defense measures against fuel price fluctuations and strategies to maintain competitiveness.

Key pointsThe Chinese Vice Premier expressed intentions to strengthen railway connections with Vietnam and advance the establishment of stable supply and production chains. Both countries confirmed their focus on promoting agricultural exports and deepening economic cooperation, particularly in railway infrastructure development.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsIn FLC's large-scale urban development project, local authorities are seeking solutions to financial, land, and infrastructure issues. On September 15, FLC reported delays in fulfilling financial obligations and completing procedures. Local governments are urging FLC to meet conditions for issuing land use rights certificates to over 1,000 investors.
Business impactThe progress of this project indicates potential risks for real estate investments by Japanese companies. In particular, firms associated with FLC are advised to closely monitor developments and take necessary measures.

Key pointsThe water source of Dau Tien Lake plays a crucial role in agricultural production. Residents utilize this water for the cultivation of fruits and aquaculture, significantly increasing their income. In particular, stable water supply enhances productivity in fruit farming, leading to higher earnings for farmers.
Business impactWater resource management is essential for agriculture-related businesses. Japanese companies are expected to explore sustainable water usage methods and contribute to local agricultural production, fulfilling their social responsibilities.

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

Key points国営投資資本管理会社（SCIC）は、Seaprodexの全株式を売却することを決定しました。Seaprodexは、ホーチミン市の貴重な土地を所有しており、株式の売却は9月29日に行われる予定です。
Business impact日本企業は本件の動向を注視し、関連する取引・契約・現地実務への影響を確認しておくとよいでしょう。

Key pointsGulf Development, led by Thai billionaire Sarath Ratanavadi, has announced the resumption of plans for large-scale gas power projects in Vietnam. Gulf currently holds five power projects and has proposed a 6,000MW LNG power plant. With Vietnam's rapidly growing economy, the demand for electricity is increasing, prompting Gulf to seek further investment opportunities.
Business impactJapanese companies may find opportunities for investment and partnerships in Vietnam's energy market, which could be revitalized by Gulf's entry.

Key pointsThe People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City has decided to recover 145 hectares of land in Binh Dinh. This land is based on five land use rights certificates issued to a general trading company in Binh Dinh Province in 2013. The recovery is in accordance with a ruling from the Hanoi High People's Court, and the land will be transferred under the city's management. The involved companies are required to hand over the land.
Business impactThis land recovery indicates legal risks for Japanese companies. In particular, there may be a need to review contracts related to land use rights and asset management. Companies must strengthen compliance with land-related regulations and take measures to avoid future disputes.

Key pointsThe 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum held in Son La focused on identifying barriers related to land, infrastructure, financing, markets, digital transformation, and green transition, aiming to explore solutions to promote corporate growth. Various challenges faced by private enterprises were discussed, with particular emphasis on land use and financing issues.
Business impactJapanese companies need to understand these barriers and develop appropriate strategies to enhance their competitiveness.

Key pointsU.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessen is exerting pressure for the appreciation of the Japanese yen, which may affect the Vietnamese economy and Asian currencies. There are concerns that a stronger yen could impact the exchange rate of the Vietnamese dong and the competitiveness of export companies.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, a stronger yen may affect the cost of direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam, necessitating careful consideration in cost calculations and remittance plans, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Cautious decision-making considering foreign exchange risk is required.

Key pointsOn September 9, 2026, Deputy Mayor Ho Van Ha of Dong Nai Province issued a document regarding safety issues that arose during the construction of the Bien Hoa-Vung Tau Expressway, requesting relevant agencies to investigate and address the matters. He specifically instructed a review of procedures to ensure traffic safety during construction.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsStarting from September 7, 2026, Hanoi is soliciting opinions from citizens and experts regarding adjustments to the Red River Urban Area Plan. This plan focuses on the section from the Red River floodplain to the Me So Bridge and will be adjusted at a scale of 1/5,000. The consultation will last for 20 days, with online meetings also scheduled. Citizens can submit their opinions electronically, and efforts are being made to help residents understand the plan across 16 districts.
Business impactThis plan may provide real estate development and investment opportunities for Japanese companies. It is particularly important for companies involved in urban planning projects to understand local needs and develop appropriate strategies.