Son La Province Considers Growth Strategies for Q4 2026

Key pointsInflation in Vietnam for 2026 is expected to remain high due to risks in the international energy market, with international organizations predicting an average inflation rate of approximately 4.2% to 5.5%. Notably, price increases are anticipated to be significant in the fourth quarter.
Business impactThis inflation forecast may directly impact cost management and pricing strategies for Japanese companies. With expected rises in raw material and labor costs, finance departments will need to consider revising budgets.

Key pointsThe expansion project of the expressway connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Long Thanh is accelerating its progress with a target completion date of December 2026. This project is crucial for meeting the connectivity requirements for the operation of Long Thanh Airport. Dong Nai Province is advancing efforts to secure land for the expressway.
Business impactJapanese companies can expect reduced logistics costs and new business opportunities due to the progress in infrastructure development. The transportation sector will be particularly impacted by this project.

Key pointsOn October 9, 2026, the People's Committee of Son La Province discussed solutions to implement growth scenarios for the fourth quarter. This meeting was conducted online, connecting 75 social and district units within the province. Son La Province is rapidly releasing public investment funds and promoting green transformation for sustainable agriculture.
Business impactJapanese companies can find entry opportunities in the regional market by focusing on Son La Province's growth strategy and monitoring trends in public investment.

Key pointsThe Cai Khe market in Can Tho City is transitioning to a digital platform, with 99 business lots and over 400 products registered, recording more than 1,000 accesses. This initiative aims to connect local merchants and consumers, promoting the digitalization of traditional commercial activities. A regular press conference for Q3 2026 was also held.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, advancements in digitalization represent new sales channel opportunities. It is particularly worthwhile to consider leveraging digital platforms to enhance access to local markets.

Key pointsOn October 9, 2026, the Trade and Investment Promotion Center (ITPC) in Ho Chi Minh City held a dialogue meeting between industrial park companies and the government. Companies raised issues regarding taxation, land use, and the simplification of investment procedures, particularly calling for easier electronic company registration and investment certificate processes.
Business impactJapanese companies need to understand local regulations and procedures to effectively address these challenges.

Key pointsIn the Phuoc Hai area of Ho Chi Minh City, 220 fishermen learned about regulations for protecting offshore oil and gas facilities and preventing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Fishermen are required to understand specific procedures for ensuring safety at sea and preventing illegal fishing.
Business impactJapanese companies engaged in fisheries-related businesses must comply with IUU measures and safety standards, with a particular focus on risk management during offshore activities.

Key pointsIn the first half of 2026, foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam not only expanded in scale but also showed changes in how investors approach industrial real estate. In Hanoi, inspections for fire safety violations in factories and warehouses were conducted, with five companies participating in inventory reduction projects. The supply of industrial real estate in the northern region is increasing across three segments.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess their selection of industrial real estate and investment strategies, as the influx of FDI may intensify competition in the manufacturing sector.

Key pointsThe Land Registration Office of Ho Chi Minh City has partnered with Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank (MBBank) to implement electronic notarization and online applications for secured registrations. This system allows customers to complete procedures from home and receive results the next day. During a trial period of about two months, MBBank successfully processed nearly 400 online applications across 30 land registration offices. There are plans to expand this service to other banks in the future. The electronic notarization aims to enhance customer convenience, reduce processing time, and optimize costs.
Business impactThis new electronic notarization system is significant for Japanese companies, especially those involved in real estate transactions, as it enables faster procedures and cost reductions, thereby improving operational efficiency. It is worth monitoring future developments and considering a review of related business processes.

Key pointsKBSV has revised its VN-Index forecast for the end of 2026 down to 1800 points, while identifying opportunities in the oil, banking, steel, and infrastructure construction sectors. It is important to focus on specific sectors in response to market fluctuations.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reassess their investment strategies and strengthen investments in particularly highlighted sectors. Sensitivity to market trends and timely investment decisions are required.

Key pointsA large-scale investment project is needed for the development of Vietnam's railway industry, requiring approximately $1 billion in funding annually over the next decade. The national budget will be the main source of funding, but local, private, and international financing will also be necessary. Support for domestic companies to adopt technology and enhance competitiveness is emphasized, along with proposals for improving contract conditions to facilitate international technology transfer.
Business impactJapanese companies should identify opportunities for technology provision and human resource development in Vietnam's railway projects. Cooperation is particularly anticipated in the fields of information technology and signal control, making the selection of technology with a long-term operational perspective crucial. It is essential to monitor future market trends and establish appropriate partnerships.