Can Tho City Promotes Digitalization of Traditional Markets

Key pointsThe Cai Khe market in Can Tho City is transitioning to a digital platform, with 99 business lots and over 400 products registered, recording more than 1,000 accesses. This initiative aims to connect local merchants and consumers, promoting the digitalization of traditional commercial activities. A regular press conference for Q3 2026 was also held.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, advancements in digitalization represent new sales channel opportunities. It is particularly worthwhile to consider leveraging digital platforms to enhance access to local markets.

Key pointsOn October 9, 2026, the Trade and Investment Promotion Center (ITPC) in Ho Chi Minh City held a dialogue meeting between industrial park companies and the government. Companies raised issues regarding taxation, land use, and the simplification of investment procedures, particularly calling for easier electronic company registration and investment certificate processes.
Business impactJapanese companies need to understand local regulations and procedures to effectively address these challenges.

Key pointsIn the first half of 2026, foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam not only expanded in scale but also showed changes in how investors approach industrial real estate. In Hanoi, inspections for fire safety violations in factories and warehouses were conducted, with five companies participating in inventory reduction projects. The supply of industrial real estate in the northern region is increasing across three segments.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess their selection of industrial real estate and investment strategies, as the influx of FDI may intensify competition in the manufacturing sector.

Key pointsAccording to a report by SSI Research, foreign direct investment (FDI) registered in Vietnam increased by 76.4% over nine months in 2026, yet net profits for industrial park companies decreased by 40%. This paradox indicates a gap between economic growth and corporate profitability.
Business impactJapanese companies need to recognize that the influx of foreign investment does not necessarily lead to profits and should reconsider their investment strategies. Particularly in industrial parks, new approaches are required to ensure profitability.

Key pointsVietnam has approximately 329,200 food and beverage service establishments, with a slight decrease of only 0.1% compared to the end of 2025. This indicates a gradual easing of closures following a strong culling. Local coffee and tea brands are enhancing their value and strengthening connections with regional consumers. Additionally, the local educational environment is improving with the opening of new international standard elementary schools.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen differentiation strategies and provide products and services that meet local consumer needs amid intensifying competition.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, there is a need to review management methods to enhance the efficiency of project management. The government should focus on standards, contracts, and audit tools, using quality, progress, cost, safety, and investment effectiveness as measurement criteria. Particularly for large-scale projects, it is crucial to centralize responsibility, with general contractors overseeing the entire project and being accountable for the results. This is expected to improve project transparency and efficiency.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, changes in project management methods will necessitate a review of contract terms and risk management approaches, especially in contracts with general contractors, where clarification of responsibilities and risk-sharing mechanisms will be required.

Key pointsT&T Group announced the development of the 495MW wind power project Savan 2 in Laos after operating the 300MW Savan 1. The total investment is approximately $768 million, with commercial operations expected to begin by the end of 2028. This project is anticipated to strengthen Vietnam's power supply and contribute to national energy security.
Business impactThis project highlights the importance of renewable energy in Vietnam's energy market and presents new investment opportunities for Japanese companies to ensure energy supply stability.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, the competition for attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is evolving due to digital transformation and green transition. The quality of the investment ecosystem is becoming a key competitive factor, alongside traditional tax incentives and low costs. A resolution from the Politburo on June 8, 2026, calls for strengthened collaboration between FDI enterprises and domestic companies, emphasizing technology transfer and cooperation with local firms. The actual FDI amount has reached a five-year high, showing a 76.4% increase.
Business impactJapanese companies need to enhance technology transfer and collaboration with local firms to adapt to the new policies that prioritize the quality of FDI. It is particularly important to consider the government's new conditions when formulating investment plans.

Key pointsThe Mayor of Can Tho, Thuan Khanh Chuyen, indicated a commitment to pursue accountability for any violations identified by the audit agency regarding the lottery company. The city plans to request reports from various agencies based on the audit results and conduct necessary investigations. Specifically, it has been reported that lottery companies in Can Tho, Soc Trang, and Hau Giang have incurred significant expenses for customer entertainment from 2024 to 2025, raising questions about the business relevance of these expenditures.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the auditing system and corporate transparency in Vietnam are crucial, and trends in the lottery industry may impact related businesses. Companies need to strengthen risk management based on audit findings.

Key pointsVietnam's high-end cuisine is shifting towards emphasizing local ingredients and conveying regional stories through experiences. Award-winning dishes from international culinary competitions are being restructured with modern techniques while retaining traditional elements. According to surveys, 95% of restaurants recognize a growing demand for local cuisine, and the trend of sourcing ingredients locally is advancing.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this trend and assess its impact on relevant transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsBehind the high voltage power lines spread across Vietnam is EVNNPT (the state-owned power transmission company), which manages assets exceeding 100 trillion VND and generates approximately 1 billion USD in annual revenue. By the end of 2025, EVNNPT will manage 33,300 km of power lines and 217 substations, with 13,720 poles installed for 500kV lines. This positions the company as the largest power transmission system operator in Southeast Asia.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the growth of EVNNPT indicates the stability of power infrastructure, serving as an important indicator when considering future investment opportunities. In particular, the stability of power supply is essential for the manufacturing and service sectors, which may necessitate a review of power costs.

Key pointsOn October 8, 2026, the 22nd Vietnam Traditional Craft Fair, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, opened in Hanoi. The event promotes agricultural tourism and showcases traditional crafts, providing participants with opportunities to present local specialties. Concurrently, agricultural tourism events are also held, aiming to invigorate the local economy.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, collaboration with local specialties and traditional crafts can create marketing strategies and new business opportunities. Particularly, companies involved in tourism and regional development should participate in such events to expand their networks.