Hanoi Gift Show 2026 Opens

Key pointsThe Hanoi Gift Show 2026 opened on October 8, 2026, showcasing international handicrafts as part of policies to promote economic growth in Hanoi. The city's economic growth rate reached 10.02% in the third quarter of 2026, with a GDP growth rate of 9.01% over the past nine months. Efforts continue to leverage cultural values as a source of economic growth.
Business impactThis event presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly those interested in the handicraft and gift market, making it a good opportunity to seek local partnerships.

Key pointsThe Department of Finance in Nghe An Province announced that the national budget revenue for 2026 has already significantly exceeded targets within nine months, with 200 companies contributing to 37% of the total, reflecting an improved investment environment. Bac Ninh Province has also successfully attracted investments and received recognition.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this trend and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsProducts exported from Vietnam to the EU are affected by the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which is estimated to involve over $3 trillion in value. Due to CBAM, carbon costs will be incorporated into product prices, putting high-emission products at risk of price increases and decreased competitiveness. Companies are required to invest to meet environmental standards, and it is urgent for the manufacturing sector to implement measures to reduce incurred carbon costs.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider the impact of carbon costs on pricing and strengthen environmental measures. In particular, reviewing manufacturing processes and adopting clean energy will be necessary.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese economy is required to seek faster growth without relying on capital, low-cost labor, or resource extraction. Companies need to advance digitalization and greening to enhance competitiveness. The government aims to establish a high-efficiency and sustainable economic model by 2035. Businesses must drive transformation for new value creation.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen digitalization and environmental considerations to maintain competitiveness in the Vietnamese market. In particular, building sustainable business models is essential.

Key pointsThe relationship between Vietnam and Cambodia is being strengthened through cooperation in economy, trade, and investment, bringing substantial benefits to both nations. Recent trade promotion events showcased products from both countries, expanding opportunities for collaboration. Cambodian scholars have also emphasized the importance of this cooperation.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, easier access to the Cambodian market will increase business opportunities. Companies exploring product exports and investment opportunities should closely monitor this trend.

Key pointsThe Ministry of Industry and Trade has issued Circular 61, requiring the design of shared electric vehicle charging stations for all domestic and foreign automakers. This standard aims to ensure safety, compatibility, and transparency while protecting the power system, citing the EU's USB Type-C standard as an example of required technical specifications.
Business impactThis new standard will impact the electric vehicle-related business, necessitating Japanese companies to advance product development that meets the technical requirements.

Key pointsThe Ministry of Construction of Vietnam has developed regulations concerning maritime and port safety in accordance with international maritime safety standards, issuing documents that outline specific procedures. This standardization of safety certificate issuance for Vietnamese ports and vessels is expected to enhance international competitiveness, particularly with the establishment of classification standards for Haiphong Port, emphasizing its strategic positioning.
Business impactThe development of this legislation means that Japanese companies will be able to operate in Vietnam's maritime transport and port utilization based on clearer standards. The logistics sector, in particular, will need to adapt to the new procedures.

Key pointsThe Vietnam-Cambodia Product Trade Fair (VIDEX CAMBODIA 2026) will be held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from October 14 to 17, 2026. According to the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense, the event aims to promote economic exchanges between the two countries, emphasizing the need to translate political trust into tangible value.
Business impactJapanese companies will find this trade fair a good opportunity to identify local business partners when considering entry into the Cambodian market.

Key pointsVietnam's social housing program is set to expand beyond 153 trillion VND, with lending expected to triple compared to the end of 2025. As demand for funding remains high, addressing supply obstacles and project progress is crucial for the rapid allocation of funds. Efforts are underway in Bac Ninh Province to strengthen the supply of social housing. However, policy gaps remain, and vigilance against misconduct related to social housing is necessary.
Business impactJapanese companies need to pay attention to funding trends and policy changes when considering investment opportunities in the social housing market, particularly in reviewing project progress management and funding strategies.

Key pointsEVNHANOI, the electricity corporation of Hanoi, is promoting the digitalization of its power services, allowing customers to perform many procedures online. All customers are being equipped with electronic meters, enabling remote data collection, reducing manual work, and improving accuracy and transparency of information. Through a digital platform, customers can check their electricity usage in real-time, enhancing service convenience. Additionally, the introduction of AI and drone technology is streamlining the monitoring and management of the power grid, aiming to improve customer experience and build a smart and safe power network.
Business impactJapanese companies can find opportunities for efficiency and cost reduction in electricity usage due to EVNHANOI's digitalization. Furthermore, the adoption of AI and automation technologies will necessitate a review of business processes and the development of new business models.

Key pointsThe Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has announced plans to provide approximately 100 billion yen (about 630 million USD) annually to support Vietnam's growth. This funding is expected to be used for technology transfer, business collaboration, and improving access to finance. Additionally, an upgrade of Vietnam's stock market is anticipated, which is expected to positively impact the economy.
Business impactJapanese companies have the opportunity to enhance their competitiveness in the Vietnamese market by utilizing JICA's loans. There is a need to focus on and actively participate in projects related to technology transfer and infrastructure development.

Key pointsVietnam's industrial production and trade remain strong over the first nine months of 2026, with continued growth in the domestic market. Measures are being implemented to ensure energy security and address challenges faced by businesses, forming a foundation for sustainable growth and capturing opportunities from supply chain shifts.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the growth of the Vietnamese market presents new business opportunities. In particular, attention should be paid to energy policies and market trends in the manufacturing and trade sectors, necessitating a review of strategies.