Service Fees Established for Long Thanh International Airport

Key pointsAt Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam, service fees have been set at 90,909 VND (approximately 4.1 USD) for domestic passengers and 25 USD for international passengers, effective from October 1, 2026, excluding VAT. The international fees are comparable to those at Noi Bai Airport and 5 USD higher than those at Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Business impactThis fee structure may impact the aviation and travel industries. Japanese companies planning travel or business trips will need to consider these costs, necessitating a review of budgets based on the new fee system.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has announced new regulations regarding land division and consolidation, clarifying the rights of individuals and families to divide land, allowing for more flexible responses to land use needs. However, some issues have emerged three weeks after implementation.
Business impactThis new regulation may contribute to the promotion of land transactions in the real estate industry. Japanese companies need to consider this regulation in their land use planning and real estate development.

Key pointsIn Ho Chi Minh City, flooding and land subsidence issues are worsening, with experts citing increased subsidence rates and rising sea levels as causes. Between 2015 and 2025, some urban areas have experienced subsidence of 2-5 cm per year, with certain regions reaching 7-8 cm. This has heightened the risk of flooding, particularly in planned development areas where flood mitigation measures are proving effective. Experts emphasize the importance of data-driven risk management.
Business impactJapanese companies need to consider the flooding risks in Ho Chi Minh City, as they may impact business operations and logistics. It is essential to review infrastructure planning and risk management strategies, enhance data collection and analysis, and implement appropriate measures.

Key pointsVietnam's foreign direct investment (FDI) reached $40.63 billion in the first eight months of 2026, a 55.4% increase year-on-year. However, delays in procedures and low productivity are noted to be diminishing competitiveness. According to a JLL report, the FDI share in Vietnam's manufacturing sector reached 18% in 2020-2021 but has now decreased to below 5%. Particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, there is a tendency for prolonged approval processes, affecting project implementation.
Business impactJapanese companies need to recognize the growing demand for expedited procedures in project implementation in Vietnam. Since the speed of obtaining permits directly impacts competitiveness, it is crucial to consider procedural timelines when planning projects.

Key pointsPetroVietnam has signed a partnership agreement with Murphy Exploration and Production Company (MEPCO) to develop approximately 57.4 million barrels of oil and 68 million MMBtu of gas by 2039, with an estimated commercial value of around $4.1 billion. The two companies will establish a joint working group to identify and evaluate potential projects, focusing particularly on the development of the Hai Su Van oil field.
Business impactThis partnership presents an opportunity for Japanese companies to strengthen their access to Vietnam's energy market. Companies considering energy-related investments or partnerships should pay close attention to future developments.

Key pointsAs part of the 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum, a regional dialogue was held in Lam Dong Province to share expert opinions on assessing the economic situation and improving the investment environment. Lam Dong Province is promoting ESG practices and digital governance by leveraging its UNESCO Global Geopark.
Business impactJapanese companies should pay attention to the changes in the investment environment in Lam Dong Province and consider participating in projects related to ESG, as opportunities to contribute to regional economic development are expanding.

Key pointsHanoi's tax authorities have created a guidebook to help businesses quickly understand new policies and optimize the consumption tax refund process. The guidebook aims to simplify procedures and enhance transparency, assisting companies in saving time and costs. Additionally, there is a plan to promote digitization to expedite the consumption tax refund process.
Business impactJapanese companies can utilize this guidebook to streamline consumption tax refund procedures and improve cash flow. In particular, tax departments need to urgently review procedures based on the new regulations.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has officially launched a digital exhibition platform called Expo Platform to eliminate the constraints of traditional exhibitions. This platform integrates AI and B2B e-commerce infrastructure to support Vietnamese companies in maintaining continuous connections with international buyers. It is expected to promote online exports while ensuring compliance with regulations.
Business impactJapanese companies can leverage the Expo Platform to expand business opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City and strengthen access to international markets. Particularly, there is a need to reassess online sales strategies as digitization progresses.