Dong Nai Province Considers Adjusting Truck Ban Hours

Key pointsIn Dong Nai Province, authorities are considering adjustments to the truck ban hours on Dong Khoi Street in response to requests from multiple companies and associations, including the Dong Nai Import-Export Association and the Logistics Association. They are exploring ways to revise the restricted hours to mitigate the impact on logistics for businesses. A meeting is scheduled for September 7 to discuss specific proposals. Companies have expressed demands for a reduction in the restricted area and the reinstatement of previous ban hours.
Business impactIf these adjustments are implemented, they may affect logistics costs and delivery times for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses located in industrial zones within Dong Nai Province will need to pay close attention to changes in the ban hours.

Key pointsThe tax authority for e-commerce has issued guidelines for platform administrators on how individual entrepreneurs can temporarily pay personal income tax. This aims to simplify tax declarations and support individual entrepreneurs in continuing their businesses with confidence.
Business impactJapanese companies engaging in sales activities through e-commerce must comply with these new guidelines. It is particularly important to stay updated on the latest information regarding tax processing and declaration procedures.

Key pointsHeineken announced plans to invest an additional $500 million in Vietnam over the next 5 to 10 years to build Asia's largest brewery. CEO Jacques van der Linden from Amsterdam described Vietnam as 'one of the most attractive markets in the world,' with total investments since 1991 reaching approximately $1 billion. The new investment aims to strengthen competitiveness in the high beer consumption market of Vietnam.
Business impactThis investment plan may provide new business opportunities for Japanese companies amid increasing competition in the Vietnamese market. It is particularly important to monitor Heineken's trends in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.

Key pointsOut of the planned funding of 143.133 trillion VND for 2026, approximately 57.9 trillion VND (40%) has been implemented in 8 months. Lotte and GS Industry are nearing their targets, but the projects by Sun Group, Vingroup, and Masterise still have significant funding remaining.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor the progress of these large-scale projects to identify investment opportunities. It is particularly important to consider how the flow of funds and project progress impact the overall economy.

Key pointsStarting September 2026, Vietnam's railway industry will implement a policy to reduce fares by up to 40%. Notably, sleeper train fares will see significant discounts, and round-trip tickets and early purchase benefits will also be offered. This aims to meet travel demand and improve transportation efficiency. Additionally, ticket sales will begin at Saigon Station in preparation for Tet (Lunar New Year) in 2027.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsVietnam's tax authorities have announced a method for verifying whether companies are in an 'inactive at registered address' status. Citizens can input their tax number and check on the tax office's website. This status applies when a tax investigation determines that a company is not operating at its registered address. Over 95,000 companies completed tax number closure procedures in the eight months of 2026.
Business impactJapanese companies that neglect to verify their tax status may face unexpected tax issues. Special attention is needed for procedures following changes to registered addresses or cessation of activities.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government has announced Decree 342/2026/NĐ-CP, which establishes new regulations for the commercial activities of foreign investors and foreign-capitalized economic organizations. This decree outlines specific conditions for foreign investors to engage in buying and selling goods in Vietnam, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable business models and stronger connections with international supply chains.
Business impactWhile this new regulation lowers barriers for foreign companies entering the Vietnamese market, it also requires compliance with environmental standards, necessitating Japanese companies to enhance their environmental measures and prepare to obtain the necessary permits.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese tax authority warns that tax obligations do not cease even if a business is actually suspended. Taxpayers must follow proper procedures when temporarily halting or closing their business. It is particularly important to ensure that tax number information is accurate and to check for any unpaid taxes or penalties. There may still be obligations for tax declarations and invoice issuance during the suspension period, so caution is required.
Business impactJapanese companies risk incurring unpaid taxes if they neglect tax procedures during business suspension in Vietnam. It is crucial for the finance department to thoroughly verify tax number management and declaration obligations and to carry out the appropriate procedures.

Key pointsSaigon Station has started selling tickets for the 2027 Tet Nguyen Dan, with approximately 300,000 tickets available. Sales began on August 30, and ticket sales are also ongoing after the summer peak.
Business impactTransportation arrangements during Tet are crucial, and Japanese companies need to plan employee travel well in advance.

Key pointsAgriS has nearly severed economic transactions with Toàn Hải Vân, the major shareholder of TTC Phu Quoc, and is withdrawing its funds. TTC Phu Quoc is planning new fundraising efforts, but AgriS will not participate and is focusing on recovering funds from past transactions. This indicates a shift in AgriS's investment strategy, drawing attention to future developments.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor AgriS's movements and reassess the risks associated with their investments. Companies engaged with AgriS may need to be cautious as this could impact future fundraising and project progress.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government is advancing the revision of the securities law, with the Deputy Prime Minister directing the need for consistency in the legal framework and continuity in enforcement. Ensuring stable market operations is deemed the top priority, with careful attention paid to the alignment with existing laws and the design of transitional measures. This is expected to enhance the transparency of Vietnam's investment environment.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the stability of the securities market's legal system is a crucial factor in investment decisions. Particularly, when local subsidiaries in the supply chain consider going public, the transparency of the legal system directly impacts their fundraising strategies, necessitating careful consideration.

Key pointsBac Ninh Province is enhancing connections in supply chain, logistics, import-export, and e-commerce by leveraging its geographical advantages and industrial capabilities. This aims to boost local companies' competitiveness and facilitate entry into global value chains. Additionally, it is expanding cooperation through trade promotion activities.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the strengthening of the supply chain in Bac Ninh Province may lead to reduced logistics costs and the creation of new business opportunities. Particularly, the manufacturing and trade sectors need to closely monitor regional trends.