Tax Number Cleanup to Address Issues with Fake Companies

Key pointsIn Vietnam, there has been an increase in cases of personal information being misused to register companies and business representatives. In response, the tax authorities have launched a 'Tax Number Cleanup' campaign aimed at protecting victims and clarifying the responsibilities of illegally established entities. The newly introduced eTax Mobile app now allows individuals to check if their names are registered with any companies and report issues.
Business impactThis initiative clarifies corporate legal responsibilities and strengthens tax compliance, prompting Japanese companies to regularly verify their registration information and ensure proper management.

Key pointsIn the week leading up to the upgrade of Vietnam's securities market by FTSE Russell, foreign investors purchased over 30 million shares, marking the highest level since April. This is seen as a sign of improved liquidity in the securities market, particularly with bank stocks gaining popularity, and the VN-Index rising by 23 points.
Business impactJapanese companies need to identify investment opportunities in light of the improved liquidity in the securities market. It is particularly important to monitor trends in bank stocks and consider portfolio adjustments.

Key pointsSome foreign companies are showing signs of returning to China after about a year of relocating production to Vietnam. This trend is attributed to the difficulty of replicating China's long-established parts procurement networks and skilled labor. Structural challenges have emerged in Vietnam's manufacturing attraction strategy, necessitating a reevaluation of future investment strategies.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, a comprehensive assessment considering the maturity of parts procurement networks and logistics infrastructure is essential. Companies with manufacturing bases in Vietnam should consider reviewing their supply chains.

Key pointsOn September 14, 2026, the Vietnam-Austria Investment Cooperation Forum was held in Vienna, attended by financial institutions and companies from both countries. The forum aims to promote high-quality investment in Vietnam and enhance economic cooperation between the two nations.
Business impactJapanese companies can gain opportunities to enhance their competitiveness in the Vietnamese market through collaboration with Austrian firms. It is particularly important to seek strategic partnerships to promote the inflow of technology and capital.

Key pointsOn September 15, 2026, Deputy Minister Vo Van Hung of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development confirmed the progress of Binh Duong Province's measures against IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing. The province has achieved 15 out of 16 goals, with 98.35% of fishing vessels holding the appropriate permits. Monitoring systems have also been strengthened, with no violations reported.
Business impactJapanese companies need to enhance their efforts to secure sustainable fishing resources in light of the strengthened fisheries management in Binh Duong Province. In particular, increasing supply chain transparency is essential.

Key pointsOn September 15, 2026, the Vietnamese Embassy in Seoul, in collaboration with the Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK) and Viglacera Corporation, held an investment promotion event focusing on manufacturing, energy, electronics, and semiconductors. Approximately 100 investors from South Korean SMEs participated, expressing their intention to create long-term value with Vietnam. Ambassador Vu Ho encouraged South Korean companies to view Vietnam as a strategic production base.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen collaboration with South Korean firms and focus on technology transfer and human resource development to enhance their competitiveness in the Vietnamese market. It is particularly important to explore new business opportunities through joint projects in the manufacturing and electronics sectors.

Japanese business summary. Read the original source for the source language.

Key pointsホーチミン市は、メトロ6号線（タンソンニャット-フー・フー）に関する補償、支援、再定住のために、26兆ドンを支出する計画を発表しました。このプロジェクトは、タンソンニャット空港とロングタン空港を結ぶ重要なインフラであり、2026年に着工し、2030年までに完成する予定です。
Business impactこのプロジェクトは、交通インフラの整備に寄与し、日系企業にとっても物流や移動の効率化が期待されます。特に、建設業や関連サービスに関わる企業は注目すべきです。

Key pointsIn Ho Chi Minh City, a plan has been announced to adjust traffic flow due to the construction of Metro Line 2 (Ben Thanh - Tham Luong) stations. Specifically, for approximately 1,219 days during the construction period, part of Cach Mang Thang Tam Street will become one-way, and alternative routes have been proposed. Traffic regulations will be strictly enforced, especially around Tao Dan Station, Binh Hien Station, and Bac Queo Station, requiring drivers to exercise caution. After the construction is completed, traffic conditions are expected to return to normal.
Business impactThese traffic regulations will impact logistics and commuting within Ho Chi Minh City, prompting Japanese companies to reconsider employee commuting routes and delivery schedules. Flexible responses will be necessary, particularly considering potential traffic congestion during the construction period.

Key pointsDak Lak Province is increasing opportunities for direct exchanges with Japanese companies with the support of the Japanese Embassy. This aims to showcase the province's potential and advantages while gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese companies' needs. Additionally, there are 331 production areas for export agricultural products in Dak Lak Province.
Business impactCollaboration with Dak Lak Province presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly in agriculture and tourism sectors.

Key pointsAt CIO Summit 2026, discussions were held on the theme 'Human-led, AI-centered: From Testing to P&L' regarding how to leverage AI in corporate operations. Over 500 technology leaders gathered in Ho Chi Minh City to explore concrete strategies for the practical application of AI.
Business impactThe adoption of AI can enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness, prompting Japanese companies to align with this trend. Particularly, IT departments need to urgently consider how to utilize AI technologies.

Key pointsOn September 9, 2026, AVES was established in Hanoi with the aim of launching electric motorcycles and bicycles, followed by Tesla Motors Vietnam establishing a corporation in Ho Chi Minh City on September 11. Tesla has taken its first step into the Vietnamese market, although specific sales plans have not been announced. Meanwhile, AVES, founded by the former CEO of Green SM, is expected to increase competition in the electric motorcycle market. VinFast has already sold 137,697 electric vehicles domestically, intensifying competition.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor VinFast's developments as competition in the electric vehicle market intensifies. In particular, Tesla's entry could change market dynamics, necessitating a reassessment of strategies.

Key pointsInternational gold prices have fallen below $4,300 per ounce, reaching their lowest level in about a month. The likelihood of the U.S. Federal Reserve raising interest rates is increasing, which is diminishing the relative appeal of gold. This trend may affect the exchange rate environment and asset allocation for investors in Vietnam. Particularly in Vietnam, where there is a strong correlation between gold prices and exchange rates, investors need to be cautious.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, fluctuations in gold prices have limited direct impact, but the Federal Reserve's monetary policy could influence the USD/JPY and VND exchange rates, potentially affecting supply chain costs. This situation underscores the increasing importance of managing foreign exchange risk.