Challenges in Expanding Ho Chi Minh City - Trung Luong - My Thuan Expressway

Key pointsThe expansion project of the expressway connecting Ho Chi Minh City and My Thuan is scheduled to start by the end of 2025, but there are challenges related to land acquisition and procurement of construction materials. This project is expected to contribute to the improvement of regional transportation infrastructure, but delays necessitate urgent measures.
Business impactJapanese companies need to monitor the progress of this project as it may impact logistics and supply chains, prompting a review of alternative routes and material procurement.

Key pointsStarting October 12, 2026, the Hanoi-Lao Cai Railway will operate new SP15/SP16 passenger trains, providing three round trips daily. This increase in service aims to meet rising travel demand and improve access to tourist destinations in Lao Cai Province. The new schedule features mainly nighttime departures from Hanoi, with arrivals in Lao Cai the following morning, facilitating easier travel planning for tour operators.
Business impactThis increase in service may contribute to the expansion of the tourism sector for Japanese companies, presenting new customer acquisition opportunities, particularly for travel-related businesses. Improved transportation is also expected to positively impact logistics and service industries.

Key pointsThe international airport terminal 'Gia Bình', planned for construction in Bac Ninh Province, was introduced at the Passenger Terminal Expo Asia 2026 held in Singapore. The design, by the American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), is known for its work on the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa. The terminal features a 'water garden' theme, reflecting Vietnam's nature and culture. The airport is expected to handle 30 million passengers by 2030, with plans for expansion to 50 million. The project is projected to require an investment of 196.378 trillion VND.
Business impactThis project will contribute to the development of Vietnam's aviation infrastructure, enhancing logistics and transportation efficiency for Japanese companies. Particularly, the improvement of airport functions will be a crucial factor in line with the expansion of international business.

Key pointsThe company that pays the most taxes in Vietnam's agricultural sector is expected to exceed $2 billion in exports by 2025. This company is praised as the 'King of Agricultural Products in Vietnam.' Agricultural exports play a crucial role in the Vietnamese economy, with anticipated growth in the future.
Business impactThe increase in agricultural exports presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, firms considering investments or partnerships in agriculture should closely monitor this trend.

Key pointsHai Phong Customs has positioned drug smuggling prevention as a key mission and is enhancing risk analysis. The risk of drug smuggling is increasing in Hai Phong, a hub of international trade, prompting customs to conduct early warnings through information analysis. Over the past nine months, they have implemented plans related to drug control and strengthened data analysis to identify high-risk routes and targets. This has led to enhanced customs monitoring and measures to prevent drug smuggling.
Business impactJapanese companies need to review their risk management in export and import procedures due to the strengthened drug control measures by customs. Compliance with drug-related regulations will be required, necessitating careful attention from legal departments.

Key pointsVietnam's customs has entered a new phase of strengthening risk management to support corporate compliance. This aims to achieve appropriate management of high-risk targets while promoting trade for businesses. The level of compliance of companies has become a crucial factor in risk assessment, and customs is continuously monitoring the compliance status of businesses. This will streamline customs procedures and contribute to cost reduction for companies.
Business impactJapanese companies must adapt to the new risk management policies of customs. Strengthening compliance will be essential, making it important for legal departments to review adherence to relevant regulations.

Key pointsAt the 7th ASEAN Economic Forum held in Singapore, Amway Vietnam was awarded in two categories: Outstanding Enterprises and Famous Brands. This recognition reflects the company's long-term growth potential, investment in scientific quality improvement, and sustained contributions to the local community. Amway has the 9th largest sales in the Vietnamese market and invests in infrastructure to support over 200,000 salespeople.
Business impactJapanese companies should reference Amway's success story to formulate long-term growth strategies. It is particularly important to recognize that contributions to the local community and scientifically-based product development can enhance brand value.

Key pointsT&T Group has initiated the 495MW wind power project 'Savan 2' in Savannakhet Province, aiming to form a total of 1GW of wind power capacity. This project is a crucial step to support Vietnam's electricity demand, with plans to enhance power supply by 2026. Building on the success of Savan 1, Savan 2 is expected to commence commercial operations by the end of 2028.
Business impactJapanese companies should strengthen energy cooperation with Laos through T&T Group's project and explore opportunities for sustainable energy investments. Investment in the energy sector is particularly important as the stabilization of power supply is increasingly required.

Key pointsStarbucks Vietnam has expanded to 150 stores over 13 years of operation. Notably, it has opened 'Signing Stores' that employ individuals with hearing disabilities, enhancing its contribution to the local community. The company is also involved in projects related to education and water supply, contributing to regional development.
Business impactStarbucks' community contribution activities enhance the company's brand image and garner customer support. Japanese companies should consider strategies to increase brand value through community contributions.

Key pointsFunds seeking long-term growth are flowing into Vietnam, with industrial real estate, hotels, and offices gaining attention. These sectors benefit from different economic drivers, particularly the expected recovery of the tourism industry.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider investments in these growth sectors, especially in preparation for the anticipated increase in demand due to the recovery of the tourism industry.

Key pointsThe Apple product assembly plant in Vietnam has reached a revenue of 224 trillion VND in three years, achieving a 100-fold growth. The company plans to add 9.1 trillion VND in capital and recruit 60,000 workers by 2026.
Business impactThis growth highlights the importance of manufacturing bases in Vietnam for Japanese companies, emphasizing the need to focus on talent acquisition and production capacity expansion.

Key pointsHai Phong Customs is strengthening the management of chemical substance exports and imports in response to the current situation where drug crimes are utilizing commercial activities. Recent investigations have uncovered multiple violations, prompting warnings to companies to avoid risks from the import stage.
Business impactCompanies must strictly adhere to export-import regulations, paying particular attention to the handling of chemical substances. Proper documentation and procedures are required, necessitating heightened vigilance from legal departments.