New Law Promotes Development of Special Cities

Key pointsOn August 24, 2026, the Vietnamese National Assembly passed a new law to promote the development of special cities, including Ho Chi Minh City, and economic zones. This law outlines mechanisms and policies to support their growth, emphasizing the establishment of a legal framework based on sustainable social infrastructure.
Business impactJapanese companies need to pay attention to these legal changes and reassess their strategies to seize new business opportunities in special cities and economic zones, particularly in urban development and infrastructure projects.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese National Assembly has approved an increase of 86 trillion VND in investment for the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Haiphong railway project, which includes approximately 363 km of railway from Lao Cai Province to Haiphong City, with plans to develop an implementation plan by 2025 and aim for basic completion by 2030.
Business impactThis investment boost signifies progress in railway infrastructure for Japanese companies, leading to expected reductions in logistics costs and improvements in transportation efficiency. Manufacturing and import-export businesses should pay close attention to upcoming infrastructure developments.

Key pointsVietnam Airlines has announced a collaboration with Lâm Đồng Province and Đồng Nai City to provide Phú Hội dragon fruit, melons, and roasted cashews in August and September 2026, aiming to deliver local specialties to international flight passengers. Additionally, Vietnam Airlines plans to sell approximately 3.7 million tickets during the Tet holiday period.
Business impactThis initiative presents new business opportunities for Japanese companies by utilizing local agricultural products. Particularly, food-related businesses can expand their sales channels through partnerships with the airline.

Key pointsThe Vietnamese National Assembly has approved a budget of 288 trillion VND (approximately 14.4 billion USD) for the construction of Hanoi Ring Road No. 5. This project will span 349 km, passing through seven provinces and cities, with construction set to begin in 2027 and completion aimed for 2035. The ring road is expected to promote regional economic development through improved transportation infrastructure.
Business impactThis project may lead to reduced logistics costs and the creation of new business opportunities for Japanese companies. In particular, there will likely be an increase in order opportunities within the construction and related industries.

Key pointsAt a workshop on real estate business law reform held in Hanoi, experts discussed enhancing the transparency and stability of legal regulations in preparation for 2026. There is a particular demand for legal reforms to ensure a sustainable market. The Ministry of Construction plans to advance amendments to real estate and housing laws, which is expected to foster growth in the M&A market.
Business impactAs legal reforms progress, Japanese companies will benefit from a clearer legal framework for real estate-related investments and transactions, leading to improved risk management.

Key pointsAstraZeneca Vietnam has initiated the process to revoke the business license of its former facility as of August 24, 2026. This move aims to expand and upgrade its warehouse system based on a long-term growth strategy. The new warehouse will feature greater capacity and a refrigerated supply chain with strict temperature control, preparing for the introduction of advanced therapies. AstraZeneca has confirmed its commitment to continue medical supply in Vietnam.
Business impactThis action may impact AstraZeneca's supply chain and logistics operations, with expectations that the new warehouse will enhance the efficiency of pharmaceutical supply. Japanese companies should pay attention to changes in the healthcare sector and consider reviewing supply contracts.

Key pointsQuang Tri Province is concentrating resources to accelerate the progress of key projects. The completion of each project will contribute to the expansion of development space and enhance competitiveness, creating room for achieving the double-digit growth target for 2026. In particular, alleviation of traffic congestion in the western area is anticipated. Trends in the southern real estate market are also being closely monitored.
Business impactThis move may contribute to infrastructure investment and logistics efficiency for Japanese companies. In particular, businesses in the construction and real estate sectors need to closely monitor project developments and identify business opportunities.