Da Nang Port Innovates and Creates to Continue 125-Year History

Key pointsDa Nang Port has grown alongside Vietnam's maritime development since its establishment in 1901, establishing its position as a comprehensive national port. By 2026, it aims to enhance its role as an international logistics hub through digitalization and automation, striving to become a model for sustainable ports. The introduction of e-Port and AutoGate has significantly improved operational efficiency.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the evolution of Da Nang Port may contribute to reduced logistics costs and increased efficiency. Companies engaged in import and export operations should pay attention to the port's digitalization and consider utilizing its services.

Key pointsIn Ho Chi Minh City, the processing of C/O (Certificate of Origin) applications is extremely high, with the daily volume equivalent to what other provinces handle in a year. Approximately 17,000 applications have been submitted, with 12,000 already processed and 5,000 currently under review. Notably, HCMC also accepts applications from other provinces, accounting for about 50% of the total, indicating strong trust from businesses. The volume of C/O procedures is expected to increase further, necessitating proper document preparation by companies.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, there is a need to expedite the C/O application process. It is particularly important to prepare documents thoroughly to reduce review time and enhance the efficiency of export operations.

Key pointsAccording to the State Bank of Vietnam, 12 commercial banks have decided to participate in a loan program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a total of approximately 408 trillion VND. This program aims to support SMEs, which are a driving force for economic growth. Specifically, four state-owned banks will provide 220 trillion VND, while the remaining eight banks will supply 188 trillion VND. This will increase funding opportunities for SMEs to expand production and investment.
Business impactThis loan program will promote the growth of SMEs and provide new business partnership and market expansion opportunities for Japanese companies.

Key pointsSamsung announced that its mobile phone manufacturing subsidiaries in Bac Ninh Province and Thai Nguyen Province reached a cumulative export value of $500 billion by the end of June 2023. This milestone reflects Samsung's 17 years of operations in Vietnam and significantly contributes to the country's economic growth. The Vietnamese government hopes to enhance cooperation with Samsung, particularly in high-tech fields such as semiconductors and AI. Samsung plans to continue expanding its investments in Vietnam, focusing on technology transfer and talent development.
Business impactSamsung's success reaffirms the importance of the Vietnamese market for Japanese companies. There is a need to reassess strategies based in Vietnam, especially in manufacturing and technology development. Future investment plans and talent development policies will be closely watched.

Key pointsThe Thu Thiem-Long Thanh railway in Ho Chi Minh City is planned to be approximately 46.5 km long with 18 stations. The railway will operate at a maximum speed of 120 km/h and has the capacity to transport about 47,000 passengers per hour. The project is expected to adopt automated driving technology and serve as a crucial transport route connecting downtown Ho Chi Minh City and Long Thanh International Airport, with completion aimed for 2026 and a total investment of approximately 134 trillion VND.
Business impactThe opening of this railway will significantly improve transportation infrastructure in Ho Chi Minh City, positively impacting logistics and employee commuting for Japanese companies. Improved access to the airport may also expand business opportunities.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese government has announced Resolution 255/NQ-CP regarding the emergency construction of the Metro Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien extension project. This project aims to connect the administrative center of Dong Nai Province with Long Thanh International Airport, enhancing public transportation convenience. Dong Nai Province is responsible for overseeing the project's implementation and ensuring appropriate compensation and transparency in accordance with regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies should monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.

Key pointsOn August 27, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Business Association (HUBA) held its first congress. Young entrepreneurs are working to build a new development model to enhance the competitiveness of Vietnamese companies and aim for sustainable growth. Specific strategies to strengthen corporate competitiveness and promote growth were discussed at the congress, leading to expectations for economic development in Ho Chi Minh City.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to the initiatives for sustainable development in Ho Chi Minh City and find opportunities to enhance competitiveness by understanding the local business environment.

Key pointsBNP Paribas announced that it has no plans to purchase shares in Techcombank, thus removing itself from the list of potential strategic investors for the bank. This announcement came just one day after reports indicated that BNP Paribas and KB Kookmin Bank were negotiating to acquire at least 15% of Techcombank's shares. Currently, Techcombank has a foreign ownership ratio of approximately 20.5%, with a limit of up to 30%. Techcombank is one of the few major private banks actively seeking foreign strategic investors.
Business impactJapanese companies should closely monitor this development and assess its impact on related transactions, contracts, and local operations.