Resolution No. 21 on Land Price Transparency and Speculation Control

Key pointsVietnam's Resolution No. 21 aims to make the land price evaluation mechanism public and transparent based on data and scientific methods. This resolution seeks to strengthen the connection between land data and related databases to suppress price manipulation and false price formation. It also indicates a policy to minimize land subdivision and sales in urban areas, which is expected to significantly impact land transactions and development methods.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the improvement of land price transparency is a crucial factor in investment planning and real estate development. In particular, clearer land evaluation standards may facilitate cost forecasting and risk management, potentially enhancing operational efficiency.

Key pointsOn the first day of the September 2 holiday in 2026, commercial facilities and supermarkets in Ho Chi Minh City were bustling with families, and discounted products were prominent. Emart, in particular, had a plentiful supply of fruits with discounts ranging from 10% to 20%. Many households focused their shopping on groceries, showing a tendency to prioritize discounted items. A significant number of families spent the holiday at home, shopping in preparation for meals.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor consumer trends in Ho Chi Minh City and adjust their inventory management and promotional strategies to align with the increased demand for groceries and daily necessities. Attracting consumer interest through discounts and special campaigns will be crucial.

Key pointsVietnam is seeking sustainable growth in the face of climate change, resource depletion, energy transition, aging population, and rapid technological changes. At a recent international symposium titled 'Economic Development and Sustainable Transition,' many opinions were expressed that economic growth should not exceed natural limits. There is a particular emphasis on growth based on labor productivity and innovation. Transitioning to a sustainable growth model is urgent for Vietnam, which aims to become a high-income country by 2045.
Business impactJapanese companies need to pay attention to the changes in Vietnam's growth model and develop environmentally conscious business strategies. Adapting to new policies regarding resource management and sustainable development is particularly necessary.

Key pointsDa Nang City has initiated several significant industrial park projects in the south, with a total investment exceeding one trillion dong. On August 29, three projects in the South Tan Binh Industrial Park officially broke ground, with a total investment of 11 trillion dong. This includes 18 hectares of rental factories, 29.5 hectares of infrastructure development, and a wastewater treatment facility with a capacity of 4,200 cubic meters per day. The aim is to promote high-tech investments starting in 2027. Additionally, the Tam An 1 Industrial Park has also commenced with over 15 trillion dong in investment across 167 hectares. These projects are part of Da Nang City's strategy to restructure its economic space, enhancing local job creation and the integration of production and logistics.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the development of industrial parks in Da Nang City presents new investment opportunities, particularly in high-tech industries. Attention should be paid to future infrastructure improvements and administrative process enhancements, necessitating timely investment decisions.

Key pointsThe Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) has announced a preferential loan program called 'First Home' for individuals, amounting to 30 trillion VND. This program is designed to meet actual housing needs, particularly targeting young people. It offers three interest rate options: 9.5% for 12 months, 10% for 18 months, and 10.5% for 24 months, which are 2% lower than standard mortgage rates. A repayment period of up to 30 years is available, easing the repayment burden for customers. Conditions are set for obtaining loans to purchase housing.
Business impactThis preferential loan program could be utilized by Japanese companies to support their employees in purchasing homes. Providing housing purchase assistance as part of employee benefits, especially for younger employees, may enhance the attractiveness of companies.

Key pointsThere is ongoing discussion about whether penalties arise when a company mistakenly pays taxes to the wrong tax office. A case involving Saigon Logistics, which incorrectly paid corporate tax to a different tax office, is highlighted, with the tax office explaining that no penalties will occur after correcting the overpayment. Companies must submit proof of payment to the correct tax office.
Business impactThis case underscores the importance of careful tax payment procedures. Japanese companies should ensure thorough verification of tax payment processes and establish appropriate management systems to avoid overpayments.

Key pointsTo celebrate the National Day on September 2, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City held a groundbreaking ceremony for 11 projects aimed at integrated development in areas such as transportation infrastructure, urban development, social housing, environment, and education.
Business impactThese projects present new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly in the construction and infrastructure sectors, which should consider future bidding and collaboration possibilities.

Key pointsFollowing concerns about inflation expressed by U.S. Federal Reserve officials, U.S. stocks declined, and oil prices fell by 5% over the week. This impact is expected to ripple through to Vietnam's economy, with foreign investor trends being closely monitored. Concerns are raised regarding the influence on Vietnam's stock market within a context of approximately 775 billion yen. The effects of U.S. monetary policy on emerging markets cannot be overlooked.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, trends in U.S. inflation and fluctuations in oil prices may affect transportation costs and the overall cost structure of supply chains. Companies with a high proportion of dollar-denominated transactions need to pay attention to exchange rates and interest rate trends.

Key pointsThe 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum will be held in Cao Bang, focusing on the elimination of institutional barriers faced by businesses. Participants are seeking specific measures to transform Cao Bang's development potential into actual business opportunities. Improving the investment environment is essential for promoting regional economic growth.
Business impactThere may be increased investment opportunities for Japanese companies in Cao Bang. If institutional barriers are removed, the entry hurdles will be lowered, facilitating smoother business operations.

Key pointsVietnam aims for the cultural industry to account for 7% of GDP by 2030, with the digital cultural industry exceeding 80% by 2045. In this process, intellectual property rights are recognized as part of the institutional infrastructure, necessitating the identification, protection, transaction, and influx of creative assets. The importance of protecting intellectual property rights in the digital environment is also emphasized.
Business impactJapanese companies should recognize that the strengthening of intellectual property rights protection in the Vietnamese market is creating a more secure environment for investment and business development. Companies involved in the cultural industry, in particular, need to focus on managing intellectual property rights.

Key pointsOn August 28, 2026, the Hanoi People's Court sentenced Pham Luong Hoa, Chairman of Cadisun, to 5 years in prison for serious consequences resulting from violations of accounting regulations. This ruling reaffirms the importance of corporate transparency and compliance with laws.
Business impactJapanese companies need to recognize the importance of legal compliance in Vietnam and strengthen their internal audit and compliance systems. It is particularly essential to adhere strictly to regulations concerning accounting and taxation.

Key pointsFollowing comments from the Federal Reserve Chairman, gold prices fell by approximately $150 per ounce, while U.S. Treasury yields and the dollar exchange rate rose simultaneously. This may impact the Vietnamese economy, particularly affecting the dong exchange rate and capital flows. The SPDR Gold Trust, a gold ETF, experienced significant selling, with weekly sales surpassing purchases. Fluctuations in gold prices are expected to indirectly affect Vietnam's currency and stock markets as an emerging market.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the situation of a stronger dollar and weaker dong will increase the cost of importing raw materials, while also enhancing the price competitiveness of exports to Japan. It is necessary to review supply chains and diversify sourcing while considering exchange rate risks.