49 Trillion Dong Mixed-Use Urban Development Plan in Bac Ninh Province

Key pointsA mixed-use urban development project is planned in the North Natrang area of Bac Ninh Province, covering approximately 255 hectares, with a total investment expected to exceed 49 trillion dong. The project aims to create a multifunctional city that includes commercial housing, social housing, service facilities, tourist resorts, schools, and hospitals. The plan anticipates a population of over 11,000 and is expected to contribute to the region's economic development. Investor selection for the project will take place in the fourth quarter of 2026, with completion expected in the fourth quarter of 2034.
Business impactThis project offers investment opportunities in real estate development and tourism for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses involved in tourism-related activities and construction should closely monitor future developments.

Key pointsOn September 11, 2026, in Paris, France, Vietnam's Minister of Finance, Ho Van Tuan, met with OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann to discuss cooperation in public finance, taxation, investment, green finance, and institutional reforms. Vietnam proposed a new cooperation framework with the OECD, seeking to add public asset management to the agenda. The OECD expressed its intention to support Vietnam's economic growth.
Business impactStrengthening cooperation with the OECD provides Japanese companies with opportunities to gain information for building financial management and investment strategies aligned with international standards. In particular, the tax sector will need to consider policies based on OECD recommendations.

Key pointsOn September 12, 2026, in Thai Nguyen, the Audit Office signed a cooperation agreement with local governments of Thai Nguyen Province, Tuyen Quang Province, Bac Ninh Province, and Cao Bang Province. This agreement aims to enhance the efficiency of audit operations and strengthen the management and oversight of public finance. The Audit Office aims to improve financial transparency through information exchange with local governments. Furthermore, the implementation rate of audit results is expected to increase from 55% in 2022 to 95% by 2025.
Business impactThis agreement may increase opportunities for Japanese companies to build relationships with local governments and enter public projects. In particular, the legal department will need to monitor future trends to adapt to new standards related to financial management and auditing.

Key pointsThe Da Nang Health Department has requested a report on bidding information related to a Vietnamese medical investment company, which has won numerous high-value bids at Da Nang's cancer hospital over the past few years. An investigation into the company is currently underway, with suspicions of corruption and accounting violations.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reaffirm the importance of ensuring transparency in the bidding process and compliance with regulations. Particularly, as the risk of corruption increases, establishing an appropriate compliance system is essential.

Key pointsPhạm Nhật Quân Anh and Phạm Nhật Minh Hoàng have been appointed as the global CEOs of VinFast and GSM, respectively, marking a shift towards young leadership within these companies. This transition highlights the importance of leadership change in an era that demands corporate growth and the development of the next generation of leaders, particularly in response to advancements in AI and technology, which require swift decision-making from young leaders.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, nurturing the next generation of leaders is a crucial strategy. As technological innovation accelerates, it is essential to establish a framework that enables young leaders to respond quickly to market changes, thereby maintaining competitiveness and building a foundation for sustainable growth.

Key pointsPham Nhat Quang Anh has been appointed CEO of VinFast, also taking on the role of CEO of VinFast Vietnam. He aims to focus on product development and improving service quality as the company seeks to expand into international markets. VinFast currently operates in 16 countries and produces electric vehicles. At GSM, Pham Nhat Minh Hoang has been appointed CEO to support the company's international growth.
Business impactThis personnel change is a significant move for Japanese companies to enhance their competitiveness in the Vietnamese market. Particularly, with VinFast's international expansion, there may be a need to reassess related supply chains and sales strategies.

Key pointsThere are calls to improve the mechanisms for selecting and managing general contractors in large-scale infrastructure projects. Companies are proposing reforms to the general contractor system and a review of risk allocation, aiming to enhance the capabilities of domestic firms. This is expected to enable Vietnamese companies to take on large-scale projects.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor changes in Vietnam's general contractor system and strengthen partnerships, which could contribute to project success. Leveraging expertise in risk management and cost management will be particularly important.

Key pointsHanwha Life Vietnam achieved an after-tax profit of 442 billion VND in the first half of 2026, marking a 68% increase compared to the same period last year. Operating revenue was 15.2 trillion VND, a 7% decrease year-on-year, but the profit margin improved from 9% to 9.5%.
Business impactThis growth is a positive sign for the insurance industry as a whole, providing Japanese companies with an opportunity to enhance competitiveness by reviewing their insurance products and services.

Key pointsCross-border e-commerce is becoming a crucial means for companies to access international markets, providing new opportunities for small businesses and startups. As cross-border e-commerce grows, demands for logistics and market management are increasing. Notably, the cross-border e-commerce market is expected to reach $551 billion by 2025.
Business impactThe growth of cross-border e-commerce presents new market development opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, there is a need to reassess marketing strategies utilizing online platforms.

Key pointsGlobal gold prices rebounded in trading on September 11, supported by buying after significant selling the previous day. Meanwhile, the probability of a Fed rate hike has reached approximately 90%, raising caution. This situation raises concerns about its impact on Vietnam's economy and investments, potentially affecting the dong exchange rate and capital flows. SPDR Gold Trust has seen net selling, indicating ongoing position adjustments.
Business impactThe Fed's monetary policy trends directly affect Japanese companies' funding plans and currency hedge costs. Manufacturing firms, in particular, need to carefully assess funding strategies in a rising interest rate environment, and investors should monitor interest rate expectations and currency trends.

Key pointsDuring a business dialogue in Ho Chi Minh City, companies raised issues regarding the rejection of quality inspection documents in customs procedures. Specifically, four identical applications were submitted, resulting in two approvals and two rejections, creating an opaque situation. Companies pointed out that the unclear reasons for rejection hinder their ability to know what to correct upon resubmission, leading to increased costs. ITPC expressed its intention to report the issue to relevant authorities for resolution.
Business impactSuch procedural opacity may lead to wasted costs and time for Japanese companies. It is crucial for businesses to voice their concerns for improvements in customs procedures and to urge relevant authorities to clarify necessary information.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City requires 23,000 to 28,000 new employees annually in the tourism sector, but current educational institutions can only train 5,000 to 6,000 specialized students. This labor shortage could significantly impact the growth of the tourism industry.
Business impactThe labor shortage in tourism directly affects the operations of Japanese companies. Particularly in the hotel industry, securing high-quality talent is essential, and companies need to strengthen collaboration with educational institutions.