Quang Ninh Province Aims for Urban Growth

Key pointsStarting September 1, 2026, Quang Ninh Province aims to establish its status as a city and create new growth drivers. This decision is based on a resolution from the National Assembly, emphasizing the need to build a foundation for sustainable development. Quang Ninh City plans to participate in the 2026 'Moving Forward with Vietnam' program and spread regional models.
Business impactThe advancement of urbanization presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies, particularly in infrastructure investment and the expansion of the service sector.

Key pointsVietjet has begun early sales of 3.1 million tickets for all domestic and international routes for Tet (Lunar New Year) 2027. The sales period runs from January 22 to February 20, 2027, aimed at meeting the demand for homecoming and tourism. Additionally, Vietjet has launched a direct flight between Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City, providing access to Sri Lanka.
Business impactThe sale of tickets during the Tet period will impact business travel and personnel movement for Japanese companies, necessitating adjustments to planned travel schedules. Furthermore, the new route opening signifies expanded business opportunities.

Key pointsNguyen Thi Nga of BRG Group has been elected as the new president of the Vietnam Private Business Association (VPBA). She has expressed her intention to promote programs that support fundraising and market development for businesses, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises and women entrepreneurs. VPBA plays a crucial role in gathering business voices and making policy recommendations, and further development is expected under Nga's leadership.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the new structure of VPBA will serve as an important network to expand business opportunities in the Vietnamese market. Strengthening collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises could create new partnership and market development opportunities.

Key pointsOn August 25, 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Tax Department held discussions with businesses regarding VAT refunds, revealing that many companies face difficulties in the refund process. In particular, the criteria for VAT refunds on goods exported through external warehouses are unclear, and companies are being asked to provide specific evidence. The tax department explained that it may change the classification of refund applications based on its risk management system, which could delay the refund process for businesses.
Business impactJapanese companies need to recognize that the VAT refund process is becoming more complex and must manage risks, especially when using external warehouses. Strengthening communication with the tax department and preparing necessary documentation is crucial, particularly in reviewing relationships with high-risk partners.

Key pointsThe Central Executive Committee of the Vietnam Private Business Association (VPBA) has elected labor hero Nguyen Thi Nga as its president. She is the chairwoman of BRG Group and has a track record of contributing to the development of VPBA. Nga has expressed her intention to focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and women entrepreneurs, aiming to enhance corporate financing and market access.
Business impactJapanese companies should not miss business opportunities in the Vietnamese market under the new leadership of VPBA. Collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises and building new partnerships will be particularly important.

Key pointsSamsung smartphones produced in Vietnam account for one in two sold globally, achieving $39 billion in exports over a seven-month period in 2026. This highlights the significance of Vietnam's manufacturing sector, particularly the strong influence of Samsung. The company continues to strengthen its manufacturing base in Vietnam, greatly impacting the local economy.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the growth of Vietnam's manufacturing sector presents opportunities for parts supply and manufacturing outsourcing. In particular, electronics-related firms are encouraged to enhance collaboration with local manufacturing bases.