Viettel Explains Significance of 5G Investment in Haiti

Key pointsViettel's subsidiary Natcom emphasizes that its 5G investment in Haiti is not just about technology implementation but is a crucial step towards the country's economic development. Natcom aims to become a market leader over 15 years, enhancing efficiency in education, healthcare, and business through 5G. The technology is expected to strengthen digital infrastructure and create new economic opportunities.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor the advancements in digital infrastructure in the Haitian market to identify business opportunities. Particularly, firms related to telecommunications and digital services should prepare to adapt to the changes brought by 5G implementation.

Key pointsVietnamese small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are reported to achieve a return on investment (ROI) of up to 353% through the use of Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI integration. According to a survey by Deloitte SEA and Meta, over 75% of SMBs are using digital tools that integrate AI, with 80% experiencing cost reductions. AI has become a crucial element in improving operational efficiency, accelerating customer interactions, and strengthening brand strategies. Notably, Copilot is designed for SMBs and ensures data security, enabling companies to enhance their competitiveness.
Business impactJapanese companies should consider the introduction of AI tools in collaboration with their IT departments to seize opportunities for operational efficiency and cost reduction. Additionally, cooperation with reliable partners is essential from a data security perspective.

Key pointsRecently, the real estate market in Hanoi has seen a decrease in transactions compared to 2025. Investors are being cautious due to high interest rates, while actual demand is maintaining market liquidity. Notably, properties in the city center are attracting attention, and the expansion areas of Ho Chi Minh City are also active.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor trends in Hanoi's real estate market and reassess their investment strategies. It is particularly important to respond to market changes based on actual demand.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has proposed to expand the scope of Direct Power Purchase Agreements (DPPA) to include power consumers in industrial zones, economic zones, and high-tech areas. Currently, DPPAs are primarily conducted between large power consumers and renewable energy producers, but the proposal will also include LNG power plants. This will enable companies to directly purchase renewable energy and facilitate the acquisition of renewable energy certificates for export activities.
Business impactThis proposal could contribute to reducing electricity costs and promoting the use of renewable energy for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses located in industrial zones are expected to enhance their competitiveness through direct power trading.

Key pointsThe introduction of electronic labor contracts is progressing, and companies are realizing their benefits. In Hanoi, discussions regarding labor contracts and insurance are taking place, and guidelines for implementing electronic contracts are being provided. VNPT aims to offer a comprehensive solution for electronic labor contracts, targeting implementation by July 1, 2026. This is expected to streamline the labor contract process.
Business impactJapanese companies can enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs by considering the adoption of electronic labor contracts. In particular, the human resources department needs to prepare for this change.

Key pointsThe tax authority for e-commerce has issued guidelines for administrators of e-commerce platforms on how individual entrepreneurs can temporarily pay personal income tax. This allows businesses to utilize a simplified tax method, streamlining tax procedures.
Business impactJapanese companies are required to strengthen tax compliance in e-commerce and establish appropriate tax payment procedures based on the new guidelines.

Key pointsIn the third quarter of 2026, Vietnam's economy shows strong signs of growth, particularly with the digital economy potentially becoming a new driving force. Many key industries are recording high growth rates compared to the same period last year, laying the groundwork for achieving double-digit growth targets.
Business impactJapanese companies should view the growth of the digital economy as a business opportunity and consider investments related to IT and digital services.

Key pointsVietnamese government bonds are insulated from selling pressure in overseas markets because domestic investors hold nearly all of them. The foreign investor ownership rate is less than 1%, with domestic insurance companies and banks holding the majority. This contributes to the stability of Vietnam's bond market.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reconsider their fundraising and investment strategies in light of the stability of Vietnam's bond market. It is particularly important to monitor domestic market trends and consider timely investments.

Key pointsChinese retail chain Ohmee has opened its first store in Vietnam at Petrolimex but has ended contracts with 606 stores due to an investigation by Chinese authorities regarding food safety issues. Ohmee is advancing its international expansion in the Vietnamese market, currently operating 35 stores. The newly opened store is located within a gas station, allowing customers to purchase convenient items while refueling.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor the trends of emerging firms like Ohmee. It is crucial to deepen understanding of relevant regulations, particularly regarding risk management in franchise models and compliance with food safety standards.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City is considering a new resolution to allow companies in industrial parks and high-tech zones to engage in direct power trading. This system will enable direct contracts between renewable energy power plants and large power consumers, promoting the use of sustainable energy. Currently, regulations limit this to large customers, excluding small and medium-sized enterprises. The new proposal aims to broaden the scope of power consumers and include power supply from LNG power plants, which is expected to diversify the energy supply in Ho Chi Minh City.
Business impactThis new system could contribute to energy cost reductions and the establishment of sustainable business models for Japanese companies. Increasing options for power supply is a significant advantage, especially as there is a growing demand for the use of clean energy to meet environmental standards.

Key pointsIn the first half of 2026, profits of six consumer finance companies in Vietnam increased by 37%, but FE CREDIT is struggling due to credit risk provisions and competition with VietCredit. As market competition intensifies, FE CREDIT needs to explore new strategies.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor FE CREDIT's trends and consider revising risk management and strategies in the consumer finance market.

Key pointsFour new regulations and five tax circulars will be announced on June 30, 2026, and will take effect from July 1. Small businesses are struggling to keep up with frequent tax changes and are required to respond appropriately. The rapid changes in tax standards make it difficult for businesses to understand and comply with new regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies need to establish a flexible system to respond to sudden tax changes. It is particularly important to provide advice based on the latest tax regulations when dealing with small businesses.