Second Hanoi Economic Forum Held

Key pointsOn August 27, 2026, the Hanoi Small and Medium Enterprises Association (HANOISME) held the second Hanoi Economic Forum themed 'Collaboration of SMEs - Promoting M&A, Investment, Cooperation, Enhancing Domestic Production, and Participation in Global Value Chains.' The Hanoi economy is making significant progress with breakthroughs in science and technology, particularly emphasizing the implementation of Resolution 68-NQ/TW to unleash key economic drivers. The transformation of agricultural products is also contributing to economic growth.
Business impactJapanese companies have the potential to contribute to regional economic growth by strengthening collaboration with SMEs in Hanoi and exploring M&A and investment opportunities. In particular, there is a demand for product development tailored to local needs in the agricultural sector.

Key pointsOn August 26, 2026, the Hanoi Investment Promotion and Enterprise Support Center held a dialogue on 'New Points and Clarifications Regarding the Implementation of Social Insurance Law, Health Insurance Law, and Electronic Labor Contracts.' Experts and businesses exchanged views on new regulations and implementation challenges faced by companies, particularly focusing on issues related to contract management and data protection as the adoption of electronic labor contracts progresses. Participants are expected to deepen their understanding of new laws regarding social and health insurance and strengthen corporate risk management.
Business impactThis dialogue presents a crucial opportunity for companies to correctly understand and implement new laws. Specifically, human resources departments need to review regulations on social and health insurance and prepare for the introduction of electronic contracts. This will enable companies to ensure compliance with laws and protect workers' rights.

Key pointsMai Phu Tinh has been elected as the Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Business Federation for the term from 2026 to 2031. He serves as the Chairman and CEO of U&I Investment Corporation, and his leadership is expected to contribute to the development of the federation.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its potential impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsThe Vietnam Airports Corporation (ACV) announced a plan to invest approximately 10 trillion VND (about 500 million USD) to renovate and expand Terminal T1 of Da Nang International Airport. This project aims to handle 14 million passengers annually, addressing both domestic and international demand. Additionally, the expansion of the parking area will enhance aircraft accommodation capacity.
Business impactThis project may provide new business opportunities for Japanese companies, contributing to the tourism industry and economic growth in the Da Nang region. Tourism-related businesses should pay particular attention.

Key pointsOn August 27, 2026, Can Tho City's Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion Center signed a cooperation memorandum with the Vietnam-Korea Investors Association. This will enhance collaboration in investment, trade, tourism, and science and technology between companies from both countries. Can Tho City aims to deepen its relationship with South Korea and expand business opportunities.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, strengthening ties with South Korea presents new market development opportunities, particularly in agriculture and food processing sectors. This is a crucial measure for diversifying markets.

Key pointsAn Giang Province is enhancing close cooperation between administrative and judicial agencies to resolve historical obstacles and recover thousands of hectares of land for infrastructure projects. From October 2023 to June 2026, over 7,600 land-related lawsuits will be processed, and 1,490 hectares of land will be released.
Business impactLand issues directly affect investment activities of Japanese companies, making legal understanding regarding land acquisition and project progression essential. It is important to monitor developments in An Giang Province.

Key pointsHome Credit Vietnam's after-tax profit is expected to reach 1.34 trillion VND in the first half of 2026, a 15% increase year-on-year. However, total debt has reached 33.872 trillion VND, a 33% increase compared to the same period last year, primarily due to an increase in the balance of issued securities.
Business impactThe increase in debt raises credit risk for Japanese companies engaging in transactions with Home Credit. Companies seeking loans need to reassess the financial health of the firm.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government has decided to extend the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien Metro to Long Thanh Airport. This project will connect the administrative center of Dong Nai Province with Long Thanh Airport, covering approximately 44.5 km and designed for a maximum speed of 120 km/h. The government has instructed compliance with regulations and ensuring transparency during the project's implementation.
Business impactThis metro extension will contribute to the improvement of transportation infrastructure, providing Japanese companies with opportunities for logistics efficiency and enhanced access. Companies involved in transportation and logistics, in particular, need to prepare for the anticipated increase in demand.

Key pointsOn August 27, 2026, the Vietnam Airport Corporation (ACV) announced in collaboration with Da Nang City the commencement of the renovation and expansion project for the T1 passenger terminal at Da Nang International Airport, along with the expansion of aircraft parking areas. This project aims to increase the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers annually to meet the demands of tourism and trade. The total investment is 9.936 trillion VND (approximately 430 million USD), with the expanded facilities expected to be completed by January 2029. Additionally, Da Nang City has launched a newly digitized flight information service.
Business impactThis project will facilitate the expansion of air transport in Da Nang and serve as a crucial element in supporting the growth of the tourism industry. Japanese companies can anticipate new business opportunities in the tourism and logistics sectors.

Key pointsOn August 27, 2026, CRIF Vietnam and the Enterprise Information Center of the Ministry of Finance of Vietnam signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support the digital and green transition of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This collaboration will facilitate easier access to ESG certification in line with international standards, promoting participation in the global value chain. The integration of assessment tools provided by APED and CRIF's platform is expected to streamline data management for companies and reduce the burden during fundraising.
Business impactThis initiative is expected to strengthen support for Japanese companies in meeting ESG standards and improve access to green finance. In particular, finance departments will need to consider new fundraising methods and prepare for obtaining ESG certification.