HCMC Achieves Highest Tax Number Cleanup Rate in Vietnam

Key pointsAs of September 8, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has achieved a tax number cleanup rate of 19.6% in a campaign by Vietnamese tax authorities, holding the highest absolute number at 26.1%. The highest cleanup rate was recorded in Lai Chau Province at 74.8%, followed by Gia Lai Province at 66.6% and Hanoi at 62.5%. Tax authorities emphasize the importance of supporting taxpayers in completing their procedures correctly.
Business impactJapanese companies need to enhance information provision and procedural support for taxpayers, as transparency and prompt responses in tax procedures are required. Particularly in operating in HCMC, it is crucial to strengthen collaboration with local tax authorities to ensure smooth tax-related processes.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, among approximately 1,600 listed companies, only 10 are foreign direct investment (FDI) firms, accounting for just 0.15% of the total market capitalization. This represents a very small impact of FDI companies on GDP and employment. FDI firms wishing to go public must fulfill contracts made with local governments at the time of investment approval, which poses a barrier to listing. Additionally, the complexity of legal procedures also affects this process. As FTSE Russell upgrades Vietnam's stock market to an emerging market, there is a call for promoting the listing of FDI companies.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to changes in policies that promote the listing of FDI firms. Particularly, as conditions and procedures for listing become clearer, there may be increased opportunities for fundraising, necessitating a review of investment strategies. Strengthening collaboration with companies aiming for public listing is especially important.

Key pointsVingroup, one of the highest-paying companies in Vietnam, has announced plans to allocate 30.5 trillion VND for personnel costs by 2025. This aims to enhance the company's competitiveness in securing talented personnel, with average salaries expected to reach 40 million VND per month. Vietcombank is also investing 1 trillion VND monthly in talent retention. These moves indicate a rise in salaries within Vietnam's labor market.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, securing talent in Vietnam may become increasingly challenging. In particular, a review of salary levels and enhancement of benefits will be necessary amid intensifying competition for skilled personnel.

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

Key pointsフォーブスの最新のリアルタイム億万長者ランキングによると、ベトナムには現在7人の億万長者が存在し、総資産は約550億ドルです。特に、マサングループの会長であるグエン・ダン・クアン氏が、株価の下落によりランキングから外れました。現在、最も資産が多いのは、ビングループの会長であるファム・ニャット・ヴオン氏で、資産は379億ドルです。
Business impact億万長者の動向は、ベトナムの経済や投資環境に影響を与える可能性があります。日系企業は、富裕層の動向を注視し、マーケティング戦略を見直す必要があります。

Key pointsVARS IRE, a research institution for the Vietnamese real estate market, points out that issues related to real estate credit are not merely about 'tightening' or 'loosening' but rather focus on where the flow of funds is directed, the purpose of their use, and the level of risk involved. There is a particular need for prioritizing funding for legally compliant projects, while speculative capital inflows should be managed appropriately. Given the declining market liquidity, careful selection of suitable projects is essential.
Business impactJapanese companies need to pay attention to the flow of funds and risk management in Vietnam's real estate market and reassess their investment strategies as legal frameworks develop. It is particularly important to consider the legal status of projects and the reliability of the market when securing funding.

Key pointsIncreased attacks in the Gulf region have led to a surge in oil prices, heightening expectations for a rate hike by the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed). This situation raises concerns about inflationary pressures and a worsening trade balance for Vietnam. As an energy-importing country, Vietnam could face serious repercussions from high oil prices. It is anticipated that the flow of investment money will also be affected, requiring companies to respond cautiously.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, rising oil prices directly impact energy costs and logistics expenses. Companies prioritizing supply chain stability need to hedge against fuel price fluctuations and diversify their procurement sources. Additionally, changes in exchange rate risks and interest rate differentials will also affect investment decisions, necessitating careful attention.

Key pointsOn September 13, Vietnam's overnight interest rate was maintained at 1.5%, while the one-week rate rose to 3%. Market participants are closely monitoring interest rate fluctuations.
Business impactInterest rate trends will impact the financing costs for Japanese companies, necessitating caution from finance departments.

Key pointsOn September 11, 2025, the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE) added plastic manufacturing company Parley (PLP) to its list of suspended margin trading stocks, bringing the total to 73. This move reflects the vulnerabilities in the Vietnamese economy and serves as an important indicator for investors. The suspension of margin trading applies to companies with issues related to financial status or information disclosure, and the 73 stocks represent a certain percentage of HOSE-listed companies.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reference the list of suspended margin trading stocks to assess the financial health of their business partners. This information is particularly crucial for credit management and investment decisions, serving as an important signal. Close attention to future market trends is required.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, the green transition is opening new growth spaces, and companies are facing increased pressure to invest in technology and management. Particularly, the development of green finance is progressing, and there is a need to build an ecosystem for companies to access this funding.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor trends in green finance and advance the establishment of sustainable business models. Specifically, investment in environmentally friendly projects is required.

Key pointsVietnam's durian industry is facing intensified competition in the international market, particularly from producing countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. By 2026, the domestic durian cultivation area is expected to reach approximately 200,000 hectares, with an anticipated production volume of 2.08 million tons. As of July, the export value was about $1.77 billion, a 47.1% increase compared to the same period last year, accounting for 36.98% of total fruit exports. Notably, the approval of imports of fresh durian from Vietnam by India has opened up new market possibilities.
Business impactJapanese companies need to diversify their durian export markets. Given the high dependence on the Chinese market, it is crucial to reassess export strategies to other countries. Additionally, there is a demand to strengthen quality control and standardize production processes to enhance international competitiveness.

Key pointsOn September 12, 2026, the 'Global Saemaul Economic Cooperation Conference' was held in Ho Chi Minh City, discussing the commercialization of agriculture and the cultivation of high-value agricultural products. The South Korean ambassador proposed building an AI ecosystem in Asia and is seeking specific measures to enhance rural value.
Business impactJapanese companies need to seize opportunities for technological cooperation and investment in the agricultural sector. Particularly, with the evolution of agricultural technology, new business models may emerge.

Key pointsAeon Vietnam announced the opening of its 10th Aeon Mall in Hai Duong Province on October 3, 2026. The facility will cover approximately 35,700 square meters, with a rental area of about 26,000 square meters, and is expected to create around 1,000 jobs. Aeon aims to provide a diverse range of products and services for local residents, focusing on family-oriented shopping experiences.
Business impactThe opening of this new commercial facility will not only contribute to the revitalization of the local economy but also offer new business opportunities for Japanese companies. Businesses in the retail sector, in particular, will need to reassess their strategies to adapt to the changing competitive landscape.