Enhancing Competitiveness in Vietnam's Shipping Industry

Key pointsOn September 30, 2026, Vietnam's shipping industry will celebrate the 30th anniversary of HD Hyundai Vietnam (HVS), a joint venture between HD Hyundai and SBIC. Since 2008, HVS has shifted to building new ships and currently accounts for about 80% of domestic ship deliveries. HVS has delivered 207 ships, establishing its position in the international shipping market. Furthermore, HVS aims for sustainable growth with a 20-year investment extension.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, HVS's success is a significant indicator of the development of Vietnam's shipping industry. It is beneficial to reference HVS's model when considering shipping-related investments or technological partnerships.

Key pointsOn September 30, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Trade and Investment Promotion Center (ITPC) held a seminar on "Export Potential and Solutions for Market Expansion to Australia" in collaboration with the Australian Consulate and the Vietnam-Australia Business Association (AusCham). The seminar discussed challenges related to the export of Vietnamese grapefruit to Australia and proposed participation in the 2026 Australian International Food and Beverage Exhibition. This is expected to expand opportunities for Vietnamese agricultural products and food in the international market.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, strengthening access to the Australian market is crucial for export strategies in agricultural products and food. There is a need to revise product development and marketing strategies to meet Australian consumer demands.

Key pointsPhuoc An aims to leverage its advantages as a gateway with Long Thanh Airport and port, targeting regional development. Located in Dong Nai Province, Phuoc An covers an area of 170 km² and has a population of approximately 52,000. The region is equipped with significant transportation infrastructure, including Phuoc An Port and the Ben Luc-Long Thanh Expressway, which is expected to enhance its development as a logistics and commercial hub.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider utilizing Phuoc An as a logistics and commercial base in anticipation of its development. With the airport's opening, improving logistics efficiency will be crucial, making early entry a key strategy.

Key pointsThe office markets in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City present different competitive environments. Hanoi is experiencing an increase in new supply, offering diverse options for renters. In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City has stable supply, with tenants showing heightened demand for new high-quality buildings. Hanoi is expected to add 495,000 m² of new office space by 2028, while Ho Chi Minh City has rental rates reaching 88%, particularly for environmentally friendly buildings.
Business impactJapanese companies need to prioritize quality and environmental standards when selecting office spaces. In Ho Chi Minh City, where competition is intensifying, securing an appropriate office environment directly impacts operational efficiency.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, there are 74 preferred companies that account for approximately 30% of the country's total import and export volume. By the first half of 2026, the total import and export volume of this group is expected to reach about $164.5 billion, highlighting their significant role in the national economy.
Business impactJapanese companies are encouraged to strengthen collaboration with preferred companies to expand business opportunities. Particularly, companies engaged in import and export operations should consider the value of membership in this club.

Key pointsOn September 30, 2026, during a meeting in Hanoi, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam announced a new draft regulation concerning the oil business. This draft proposes the reorganization of the distribution system, reduction of intermediaries, and strengthening of companies' pricing authority. Tran Phu Linh, Director of the Ministry, noted that the presence of many intermediaries over the past 10-15 years has led to increased costs and unclear responsibilities. The new regulation aims to enable companies to respond flexibly to market fluctuations.
Business impactThe implementation of this regulation will require Japanese companies to reassess their pricing and distribution strategies, particularly emphasizing the need to consider supply chain restructuring for cost reduction and efficient distribution.

Key pointsThe Trivinh-Dunkat intersection on the Da Nang-Quang Ngai Expressway has been completed and is ready for opening. This intersection is a crucial transportation hub connecting Da Nang and the Quang Ngai economic zone. After eight years of construction, it has finally reached completion.
Business impactThe opening of this intersection is expected to enhance logistics efficiency and reduce transportation costs for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses operating in the Quang Ngai economic zone will benefit from improved transportation convenience, leading to expanded business opportunities.

Key pointsAt Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam, service fees have been set at 90,909 VND (approximately 4.1 USD) for domestic passengers and 25 USD for international passengers, effective from October 1, 2026, excluding VAT. The international fees are comparable to those at Noi Bai Airport and 5 USD higher than those at Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Business impactThis fee structure may impact the aviation and travel industries. Japanese companies planning travel or business trips will need to consider these costs, necessitating a review of budgets based on the new fee system.

Key pointsVietnam's foreign direct investment (FDI) reached $40.63 billion in the first eight months of 2026, a 55.4% increase year-on-year. However, delays in procedures and low productivity are noted to be diminishing competitiveness. According to a JLL report, the FDI share in Vietnam's manufacturing sector reached 18% in 2020-2021 but has now decreased to below 5%. Particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, there is a tendency for prolonged approval processes, affecting project implementation.
Business impactJapanese companies need to recognize the growing demand for expedited procedures in project implementation in Vietnam. Since the speed of obtaining permits directly impacts competitiveness, it is crucial to consider procedural timelines when planning projects.

Key pointsAs part of the 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum, a regional dialogue was held in Lam Dong Province to share expert opinions on assessing the economic situation and improving the investment environment. Lam Dong Province is promoting ESG practices and digital governance by leveraging its UNESCO Global Geopark.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to the changes in the investment environment in Lam Dong Province and consider participating in projects related to ESG, as opportunities to contribute to regional economic development are expanding.

Key pointsHanoi's tax authorities have created a guidebook to help businesses quickly understand new policies and optimize the consumption tax refund process. The guidebook aims to simplify procedures and enhance transparency, assisting companies in saving time and costs. Additionally, there is a plan to promote digitization to expedite the consumption tax refund process.
Business impactJapanese companies can utilize this guidebook to streamline consumption tax refund procedures and improve cash flow. In particular, tax departments need to urgently review procedures based on the new regulations.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has officially launched a digital exhibition platform called Expo Platform to eliminate the constraints of traditional exhibitions. This platform integrates AI and B2B e-commerce infrastructure to support Vietnamese companies in maintaining continuous connections with international buyers. It is expected to promote online exports while ensuring compliance with regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies can leverage the Expo Platform to expand business opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City and strengthen access to international markets. Particularly, there is a need to reassess online sales strategies as digitization progresses.