Chairman of Vietnam Tourism Investment Company Arrested

Key pointsA tourism city covering over 550 hectares is planned in the Rach Ham and Ganh Dau areas of Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone, aiming to develop eco-tourism by utilizing natural landscapes and coastal spaces. The Rach Ham area will be developed as a tourism city accommodating approximately 12,000 people, with 251 hectares designated for tourism and 77.5 hectares for residential purposes. The Ganh Dau area will cover 230.28 hectares and is expected to accommodate 6,500 people. Development in both areas is planned until 2030, emphasizing nature conservation and the use of public spaces.
Business impactThis tourism city plan presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, firms involved in real estate development and tourism-related services should monitor market trends and consider early entry into this emerging market.

Key pointsOn September 29, 2026, Chu Tuan Dung, the chairman of Vietnam Tourism Investment Company, was arrested for embezzlement. He allegedly misused the company's bank accounts to illegally withdraw funds related to ship sales. Investigators determined that his actions constituted misconduct against other shareholders of the company.
Business impactThis incident underscores the importance of corporate governance and internal controls, prompting Japanese companies to strengthen their risk management systems.

Key pointsThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasts Vietnam's economic growth rate at 7.8% for 2026 and 7.6% for 2027. ADB experts emphasize the need for productivity improvements, innovation, and strengthening domestic companies to maintain sustainable growth. This suggests that the Vietnamese economy is expected to continue broad growth.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the economic growth outlook indicates new investment opportunities. Particularly, the manufacturing and service sectors are likely to benefit from this growth, making it important to consider strategic investments.

Key pointsThe Vietnam Chemical Group (Vinachem) is implementing numerous programs to strengthen cybersecurity as part of its digital transformation efforts. Specifically, it plans to invest 500 billion VND in talent development, aiming for 39.5 trillion VND in sales by 2026 and a target of 1 billion USD in exports. This initiative aims to improve overall production and management within the group.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, Vinachem's digital transformation may enhance supply chain security and ensure the reliability of business partners. In particular, the strengthening of cybersecurity measures is a key point for IT departments to reduce the risk of information leaks.

Key pointsVietbank, a Vietnamese commercial bank, has appointed Chester Gorski as its new CEO. Gorski brings over 30 years of experience in finance, technology, operations, and strategic consulting in both the U.S. and Vietnam, and is expected to lead the bank's digital transformation efforts. His appointment is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the bank's management and realizing new strategies.
Business impactThis personnel change indicates that Vietbank is intensifying its efforts to advance digitalization and enhance customer experience. Japanese companies need to explore new opportunities for improving digital strategies and customer service.

Key pointsOn September 29, 2026, Vietnam's Customs Department certified seven companies under the Priority Enterprise Program, bringing the total number of priority enterprises in Vietnam to 74, which account for about one-third of total import and export value. The newly certified companies include Hana Micron Vina, Luxshare ICT (Vietnam), and Samju Vina, while four companies had their program application extended. The program aims to promote corporate compliance and streamline customs procedures, with plans to enhance data connectivity and transparency in the future.
Business impactBeing certified under the Priority Enterprise Program is expected to expedite customs procedures and reduce costs. Japanese companies should leverage this program to improve the efficiency of their import and export operations, particularly by maximizing the benefits of the program while maintaining compliance.