Progress of Projects by Sun Group, Vingroup, and Masterise

Key pointsOut of the planned funding of 143.133 trillion VND for 2026, approximately 57.9 trillion VND (40%) has been implemented in 8 months. Lotte and GS Industry are nearing their targets, but the projects by Sun Group, Vingroup, and Masterise still have significant funding remaining.
Business impactJapanese companies need to closely monitor the progress of these large-scale projects to identify investment opportunities. It is particularly important to consider how the flow of funds and project progress impact the overall economy.

Key pointsStarting September 2026, Vietnam's railway industry will implement a policy to reduce fares by up to 40%. Notably, sleeper train fares will see significant discounts, and round-trip tickets and early purchase benefits will also be offered. This aims to meet travel demand and improve transportation efficiency. Additionally, ticket sales will begin at Saigon Station in preparation for Tet (Lunar New Year) in 2027.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsDan Thanh Tam proposes an AI data center project with an expected investment of $3.5 trillion, scheduled to commence in Q4 2026. The project aims to establish a data center with 200MW of IT capacity on a 20-hectare site, targeting international clients. Tam describes the AI data center as an 'AI factory' aimed at enhancing the quality of the Vietnamese economy.
Business impactThis project could strengthen IT infrastructure and promote international investment, providing new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly in the IT sector.

Key pointsVietnam's tax authorities have announced a method for verifying whether companies are in an 'inactive at registered address' status. Citizens can input their tax number and check on the tax office's website. This status applies when a tax investigation determines that a company is not operating at its registered address. Over 95,000 companies completed tax number closure procedures in the eight months of 2026.
Business impactJapanese companies that neglect to verify their tax status may face unexpected tax issues. Special attention is needed for procedures following changes to registered addresses or cessation of activities.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government has announced Decree 342/2026/NĐ-CP, which establishes new regulations for the commercial activities of foreign investors and foreign-capitalized economic organizations. This decree outlines specific conditions for foreign investors to engage in buying and selling goods in Vietnam, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable business models and stronger connections with international supply chains.
Business impactWhile this new regulation lowers barriers for foreign companies entering the Vietnamese market, it also requires compliance with environmental standards, necessitating Japanese companies to enhance their environmental measures and prepare to obtain the necessary permits.

Key pointsThe Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in TP.HCM has indicated that 87.76 hectares of land need to be released for the TP.HCM - Trung Lương - Mỹ Thuận highway expansion project, highlighting that 5.1 hectares near the Chợ Đệm intersection remain unreleased. Currently, 73 land parcels have been identified, but contact has not been established with 18 owners, which may impact construction progress.
Business impactDelays in land release could hinder construction progress and affect deadlines, prompting Japanese companies to closely monitor the project's status and consider necessary countermeasures.