New Growth Opportunities in Vietnam's Maritime Industry

Key pointsVietnam is encountering new growth opportunities in its maritime industry. In particular, there is potential for industries such as machinery manufacturing, ports, logistics, and technical services behind wind power turbine development. The 'Nghị quyết 20-NQ/TW' announced on July 28, 2026, emphasizes the development as a maritime nation and calls for sustainable management of marine resources. This is expected to create a new axis of economic growth, specifically requiring efficient and sustainable development in the oil and gas industry, along with advancements in wind and solar power infrastructure.
Business impactThis movement presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, firms involved in energy-related investments and technology provision may contribute to the development of Vietnam's maritime industry. It is important to monitor future policy trends and establish appropriate strategies.

Key pointsConcerns arose over the fat used as a topping in school lunches provided at Quan Bi Primary School in Hanoi, leading to the suspension of the supply contract. The supplier, CTCP Dau Fat Duc Tuyen Long, is backed by multiple related companies that were established to provide lunch services to local schools but failed to meet regulations, resulting in the contract termination. The region is now urgently seeking new suppliers.
Business impactThis issue indicates the need for Japanese companies to reassess food supply contracts in Vietnam. Quality control and adherence to contract terms are critical, and future contracts will require careful evaluation of supplier reliability.

Key pointsIn 2026, Vietnam's Priority Enterprise Program will celebrate its 15th anniversary, with advancements in customs management. This program simplifies procedures for companies with high compliance rates and concentrates management resources on high-risk areas.
Business impactThis program may enhance the efficiency of import and export procedures for Japanese companies, particularly through recognition as priority enterprises, leading to potential cost reductions and time savings.

Key pointsHòa Phát has signed a contract to construct a new 65,000 DWT bulk carrier. This vessel will be designed and built by Vietnamese engineers, aiming to enhance transportation capacity. Hòa Phát is making further investments to optimize logistics costs, and the new ship is expected to be competitive in international transport.
Business impactThe construction of this new vessel will strengthen Hòa Phát's logistics capabilities and improve the efficiency of raw material transportation, making it an important development for Japanese companies. In particular, procurement and logistics departments should pay close attention to this information.

Key pointsThe Ministry of Finance of Vietnam has announced new trading regulations for corporate bonds (TPDN) that will take effect on October 1, 2026. These regulations provide detailed guidelines for the issuance and trading of corporate bonds in the domestic market, including issuance in the international market. This is expected to broaden funding options for companies.
Business impactJapanese companies need to understand these new regulations and reassess their funding strategies. It is particularly important for companies considering bond issuance in the international market to adapt to the regulatory changes.

Key pointsThe Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE) has issued a warning about the creation of false documents aimed at deceiving investors. These falsehoods use HOSE's name and logo to promote fraudulent investments. HOSE has stated that it is not involved with these documents and urges investors to remain vigilant.
Business impactThis warning highlights the importance of risk management for Japanese companies when making investments. Companies involved in the securities market, in particular, need to strengthen measures against false information and build trust with investors.

Key pointsIn Da Nang City, the tax office is conducting a campaign to organize company tax numbers, confirming that 12,040 companies have ceased operations. Notably, 27,964 companies are not operating at their registered addresses, with only 371 cases processed so far, representing just 1.3% of the total. The tax office emphasizes risk classification and verification to accurately understand the status of companies.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the tax office's strict management system underscores the importance of tax compliance. There is a need to strengthen responses to updating registration information and conducting reality checks.

Key pointsOn September 28, 2026, 17 plots of land related to the Luong Dinh Cu Street expansion project were handed over early in Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City. The project aims to improve traffic flow and promote regional economic development.
Business impactThe progress of this project is crucial information for local businesses and investors, necessitating consideration of how improvements in transportation infrastructure will impact the business environment.

Key pointsIn the era of the digital economy, it was emphasized that advantages for development rely not only on capital, land, and resources but also on the ability to create, absorb, and master knowledge and new technologies. By 2025, the digital economy is expected to account for 14.02% of GDP, with labor productivity also improving, although R&D investment remains at 0.41% of GDP.
Business impactJapanese companies need to focus on human resource development and technological innovation in Vietnam, particularly in securing talent in the IT and digital sectors. Companies should strengthen collaboration with universities and research institutions to advance the commercialization of knowledge.

Key pointsREE Energy and a related company of Xuân Cầu Holdings have proposed a 200MW wind power project in Can Tho. This project aims to expand both companies' presence in the renewable energy sector. The Can Tho City Department of Finance is accepting investment proposals and is expected to consider proposals from other investors as well.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, Vietnam's renewable energy market presents growth opportunities. Companies considering entry into wind power projects should understand local regulations and market trends.

Key pointsBat Trang Village has formed an ecosystem from traditional crafts, creating jobs in production, commerce, services, and tourism, thereby increasing residents' income. This secure local livelihood helps protect traditional crafts and serves as a resource for new rural development. Hanoi aims to improve the quality of vocational training in rural areas by 2030.
Business impactJapanese companies have the opportunity to strengthen collaboration with local traditional crafts and build sustainable business models, particularly focusing on tourism and the utilization of local resources.

Key pointsHanoi has announced new regulations encouraging leaders of state-owned enterprises to voluntarily resign if they do not meet job requirements or have lost trust. This regulation applies to management and auditors, clarifying procedures for appointments, resignations, and dismissals. It particularly emphasizes voluntary resignation in cases of lost trust, aiming to enhance transparency and efficiency in corporate operations.
Business impactThis regulation presents an opportunity for Japanese companies to strengthen a culture that values the reliability and accountability of management. Specifically, there is a need to review the criteria for selecting management to improve corporate governance and leadership quality.