Da Nang's International Financial Center Ranks Globally

Key pointsDa Nang's International Financial Center (VIFC-DN) has ranked 71st in the global financial center rankings for the first time. This rating is a significant indicator of Da Nang's progress in integrating into the international financial market. VIFC-DN focuses on financial technology and green finance, aiming to attract international capital.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the establishment of Da Nang's International Financial Center signifies expanded fundraising and investment opportunities. It is crucial to actively gather information to not miss new business opportunities, especially in infrastructure and energy sectors.

Key pointsThe US market presents growth opportunities for Vietnamese companies, but fluctuations in shipping rates, tariff barriers, and strict customs requirements create significant financial pressure. In particular, rate volatility threatens company profits, necessitating enhanced risk management for exporters and importers.
Business impactJapanese companies need to implement measures to address fluctuations in logistics costs when exporting to the US market. It is especially important to include freight adjustment clauses in contracts.

Key pointsThe State Bank of Vietnam (NHNN) has decided to raise the limit of the Loan-to-Deposit Ratio (LDR) to 95% through Circular 50/2026/TT-NHNN issued on September 30, 2026, establishing safety standards for commercial banks and foreign bank branches. This new regulation will take effect on December 1, 2026, and is expected to improve the efficiency of banks' fund management.
Business impactJapanese companies may be affected by changes in funding and lending conditions in Vietnam, necessitating a review of financial planning based on the new standards.

Key pointsDespite rising capital costs, Vietnam's economy continues to grow due to manufacturing expansion, recovery in consumption, and increased foreign direct investment (FDI). Notably, the real estate market in Quang Ninh Province is welcoming new growth opportunities through infrastructure enhancement. By 2026, infrastructure is expected to play a crucial role in the southern industrial real estate sector, promoting regional economic development.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, infrastructure development is a key factor in real estate investment and business expansion. It is essential to monitor local trends to not miss new business opportunities in the southern region.

Key pointsHanoi's GRDP increased by 10.02% year-on-year in Q3 2026, marking the first time it has achieved double-digit growth. The service sector is the main driving force, supported by public investment, industrial production, tourism, and foreign direct investment, accelerating economic growth in Hanoi.
Business impactJapanese companies should assess investment opportunities and timing for market entry in response to Hanoi's economic growth, particularly focusing on business opportunities in the service and tourism sectors.

Key pointsDanish jewelry brand Pandora has opened a factory in Ho Chi Minh City with an investment of $150 million. This factory marks Pandora's first production base in Vietnam, capable of producing 60 million pieces of jewelry annually. It is expected to create approximately 7,000 local jobs, highlighting Vietnam's significance in the production expansion strategies of international companies.
Business impactJapanese companies should learn from Pandora's case the importance of Vietnam's workforce and sustainable production. In particular, environmentally friendly production methods will be a crucial factor in future investment decisions.

Key pointsOn October 1, 2026, Vo Ngoc Tuan, Secretary of the Quang Tri Provincial Party Committee, held an online meeting with local authorities and stakeholders regarding the progress of energy-related projects. The meeting emphasized the goal of commencing commercial operations at the Quang Tri I Thermal Power Plant in October 2026 and called for the formulation of detailed plans based on the project's progress.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has achieved a score of 692 points in the 40th Global Financial Centers Index (GFCI 40) released by Z/Yen Partners and the China Development Research Institute, ranking 67th globally. This marks a rise of 17 places from the previous assessment, reflecting an improvement of 27 points. The city is advancing efforts to connect foreign capital with the education sector as part of its development as an international financial center.
Business impactThe rise in this ranking indicates an improvement in Ho Chi Minh City's business environment, suggesting expanded investment opportunities for Japanese companies. Businesses considering expansion in financial services and education sectors should take note.

Key pointsOn September 28, 2026, it was announced that Lê Mai Lan, Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup, will join the Advisory Council of the Global Innovation Index (GII) at WIPO. In this role, she will contribute to the strategic direction of the GII alongside policymakers and international business leaders. The GII is a key indicator that assesses the innovation capabilities of 140 economies and plays an important role in shaping national policies. Lê Mai Lan's participation is seen as a significant move in promoting the development of science, technology, and innovation in Vietnam. VinUniversity is also contributing to the international innovation ecosystem as a member of the GII Academic Network.
Business impactThis development reinforces the importance of innovation in the Vietnamese market for Japanese companies. Particularly, departments involved in research and development and intellectual property management need to closely monitor Lê Mai Lan's activities and adapt to changes in Vietnam's innovation environment.

Key pointsVietnam and Singapore have agreed to develop a certificate representing shares, allowing companies to access Singaporean investors without direct listings. This initiative is expected to provide Vietnamese companies with new fundraising opportunities, with specific implementation details and target companies to be announced later.
Business impactThis agreement will facilitate easier access for Vietnamese companies to the Singapore market, broadening their fundraising options. Companies considering fundraising should pay attention to trends in the Singapore market.

Key pointsIn the first eight months of 2026, Vietnam's economy showed clear macroeconomic results. While foreign direct investment, industrial production, and trade experienced high growth, pressures from the resurgence of inflation are increasing. This uneven growth highlights structural issues within the economy.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess cost management and pricing strategies affected by inflation. It is essential to focus on strategies to stimulate domestic market demand and develop appropriate plans.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, fuel prices remain unstable, prompting calls for an extension of the tax support policy set to end in September. The government proposes extending it until the end of 2026 to alleviate cost pressures and support manufacturing and businesses. The tax authority plans to swiftly implement tax incentives for gasoline, which is expected to reduce the tax burden on transport operators.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reconsider their logistics and production plans in light of fluctuating fuel costs. It is particularly important to assess the impact of the tax support extension on business operations.