Australia Considers Extension of Anti-Dumping Duty on Vietnamese Zinc-Coated Steel

Key pointsAustralia is considering an extension of the anti-dumping duty on zinc-coated steel from Vietnam, India, and Malaysia. This duty has been in effect since August 2017 and was extended for five years in 2022. The current duty is set to expire on August 16, 2027, but BlueScope is requesting an extension. Australian investigations suggest that lifting the duty could impact the market with Vietnamese products.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess their export strategies to the Australian market and prepare for potential changes in tax regulations.

Key pointsThe tax authority reported that 1,590 VAT refund applications are currently being processed, with delays primarily due to taxpayers not preparing the necessary documents. In particular, Vina Kyoei has had an unresolved application since January. The tax authority is notifying applicants of their progress and urging them to prepare the required documents.
Business impactDelays in VAT refunds directly impact corporate cash flow, prompting Japanese companies to strengthen communication with the tax authority and expedite the preparation of necessary documents.

Key pointsTET Corporation has decided to shift from the sewing industry to real estate after increasing its capital by 11 times. The company will cease production at its factory on Lac Trung Street in Hanoi to launch a new luxury residential project called 'Pricety Lac Trung'. Established in 1957, TET Corporation has operated in the sewing industry for many years but will now focus on real estate development.
Business impactThis business transition indicates a shift from manufacturing to real estate in Vietnam, suggesting that Japanese companies need to reassess their strategies in response to market changes.

Key pointsThe State Bank of Vietnam (NHNN) has announced a draft of new monitoring regulations related to anti-money laundering. This draft includes monitoring of bank directors, major shareholders, and VIP clients, requiring oversight based on organizational structure, management models, and risk assessments. Notably, foreign shareholders and clients will be required to provide information, enhancing the monitoring system according to risk levels.
Business impactJapanese companies need to comply with the new regulations for anti-money laundering. In particular, the financial sector should strengthen customer information management and risk assessment.

Key pointsThe Standing Committee of the National Assembly of Vietnam is considering a bill to double fines for violations. Fines for individuals are expected to increase from 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND, and for organizations from 1,000,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND. Additionally, fines for violations detected through technical means are also expected to be expanded, allowing for immediate issuance of fines.
Business impactIf this bill is enacted, Japanese companies will need to strengthen compliance with regulations, particularly in labor management and compliance departments, to address the new penalties.

Key pointsVietnam's deposit interest rates are expected to maintain current levels until year-end, with a slight decline anticipated depending on inflation control and central bank liquidity support. This trend directly impacts the cost of financing in the Vietnamese economy, making it a crucial indicator for investors and businesses, particularly affecting bank stocks and the real estate sector.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, interest rate trends are directly linked to financing and investment plans. It is essential to monitor central bank policy developments to determine the timing for local subsidiaries' working capital financing and capital investments.

Key pointsOn September 23, 2026, the Tax Authority conducted training on presentation skills in preparation for collaboration with the Global Forum evaluation team. The training aimed to enhance tax officials' abilities to communicate specialized content clearly and logically, with a focus on organizing information and presentation methods.
Business impactThis training is a crucial element for Japanese companies engaged in tax-related operations to facilitate smooth communication with tax authorities.

Key pointsVingroup will pay 148.773 trillion VND in taxes by 2025, becoming the largest taxpayer in Vietnam. This figure reflects the company's creation of millions of jobs and its role in transforming services and industries through a new ecosystem.
Business impactVingroup's growth positively impacts the overall Vietnamese economy. Japanese companies may find new business opportunities through collaboration with Vingroup.

Key pointsPlatinum Victory, a Singaporean company, planned to purchase 20,480,000 shares of Vietnam's REE from August 24 to September 22 but ended up acquiring none due to unfavorable market conditions. Platinum Victory currently holds 41.67% of REE's shares.
Business impactThe inability of the Singaporean investor to acquire shares serves as an important indicator of foreign investment trends in the Vietnamese market. Japanese companies should closely monitor market conditions and reconsider their investment strategies.

Key pointsA representative from the Vietnam Bond Market Association (VBMA) stated that if the national credit rating improves, Vietnam's bond market could see an influx of $10 billion to $20 billion in foreign capital. The rating upgrade is crucial for lowering borrowing costs and enhancing the credibility among foreign investors, significantly impacting the overall Vietnamese economy. The anticipated FTSE upgrade is expected to influence the behavior of foreign institutional investors.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, an improved funding environment will broaden options for business expansion. Particularly in the manufacturing supply chain, lower local currency funding costs will enhance competitiveness. Attention to future rating agency trends will be necessary.

Key pointsThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) has raised its forecast for Vietnam's economic growth rate to 7.8% for 2026. The main factors include the recovery of domestic consumption and an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), with the expansion of logistics at Cai Mep-Thi Vai Port in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province cited as a notable example. This is expected to heighten investment interest in Vietnam.
Business impactThis upward revision of the growth rate suggests an improved business environment for Japanese companies based in Vietnam, particularly attracting attention from FDI-related firms and the consumer sector. Companies need to monitor future market trends and reassess their investment strategies.

Key pointsVietnam's President Vo Lam has requested JPMorgan Chase to assist the government and businesses in accessing international funds. During a meeting in New York on September 23, he emphasized the need for financing to promote key projects in infrastructure, energy, and digital transformation. JPMorgan has committed to supporting Vietnam, recognizing the country's economic stability and long-term growth potential.
Business impactJapanese companies should consider collaborating with JPMorgan to leverage international fundraising opportunities, particularly in expanding financing options for infrastructure investments and digitalization projects.