SCIC's Role in Corporate Restructuring

Key pointsSCIC in Vietnam has accepted over 1,000 companies over 20 years, focusing on restructuring and management improvements. Notable companies like Vinaconex and Sông Đà have been revitalized, significantly increasing their profits. SCIC promotes sustainable growth by improving financial conditions and revising investment strategies.
Business impactJapanese companies should reference SCIC's initiatives to reassess their own restructuring and investment strategies, particularly emphasizing the need for enhanced financial and risk management.

Key pointsVietnam's Vikki Digital Bank introduced a multifunctional student ID card and a 'Digital Citizen Station' at Victoria Hoa Binh University on September 25, 2026. This card offers a credit limit of up to 40 million VND (approximately 242,400 yen), expanding digital financial services for students. Amid the government's cashless policy and the rise of digital banking, financial inclusion for the youth is accelerating.
Business impactFor Japanese companies, the development of digital financial infrastructure for the youth will broaden options for local employee salary payments and benefits services. Particularly, the proliferation of digital payments will become a crucial factor in future business operations.

Key pointsAmerican products are gaining presence in the Vietnamese market, but consumers are expressing a desire for lower prices. At a recent event, 'Exploring American Agricultural Products,' American food and clothing were showcased, attracting significant consumer interest. While American fruits and meats are highly regarded for their quality, many consumers hesitate to purchase due to higher prices. The American Consul General emphasized the importance of increasing consumer engagement through events.
Business impactJapanese companies need to reconsider their pricing strategies in light of the price competitiveness of American products. Companies importing American goods are particularly encouraged to explore strategies to reduce prices.

Key pointsThe People's Council of Ho Chi Minh City has announced a policy to provide interest subsidies of up to 50% for parking construction and operation projects. This subsidy will apply to the full amount of borrowing contracts and will be available for a maximum period of five years. Public consultations will be held until October 1, 2026, aiming to develop specific policies under the Urban Development Law. Projects eligible for subsidies are expected to contribute to smoother traffic and improved logistics.
Business impactThis policy may reduce the financial burden for Japanese companies investing in parking and logistics-related infrastructure. Given the ongoing issue of parking shortages in urban areas, relevant sectors should closely monitor this trend to seize investment opportunities.

Key pointsVietnam's state-owned enterprise TKV (Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group) is collaborating with American company Caterpillar to enhance service in the Vietnamese market. Both companies have committed to improving product quality and providing comprehensive customer support utilizing the latest technology. TKV has proposed policy revisions to ensure Caterpillar's products remain competitive. Caterpillar executives plan to visit TKV in October 2026 to explore further cooperation opportunities.
Business impactThis collaboration may contribute to TKV's productivity improvement and competitiveness enhancement. Japanese companies should seek new business opportunities leveraging Caterpillar's technology, particularly considering partnerships in the mining and construction sectors.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City has announced a draft policy to subsidize 50% of the interest on loans for parking construction and operation businesses. This policy aims to address the shortage of parking spaces in urban areas and is seen as a significant step in Vietnam's infrastructure development. The high subsidy rate may create new opportunities for private investment. Specific eligibility conditions have not yet been disclosed, but future developments are being closely monitored.
Business impactIf this policy is implemented, it will benefit real estate and construction-related companies and impact the operations of Japanese companies. In particular, the development of parking facilities is expected to enhance commuting and logistics efficiency, leading to improvements in business operations.

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City is formulating funding policies for the development and maintenance of transportation infrastructure. The city is soliciting opinions from various agencies and individuals, with plans to complete 255 km of urban rail by 2030. This policy aims to promote regional logistics and development. Currently, Ho Chi Minh City is also focusing on attracting FDI, with infrastructure development seen as key.
Business impactJapanese companies may find increased opportunities to engage in infrastructure development projects in Ho Chi Minh City, making it worthwhile to consider participation in related projects, especially for those in construction and logistics.

Key pointsIn Vietnam, 63% of consumers use Facebook for purchases, and 58% connect with businesses via Messenger, significantly higher than the global averages of 33% and 30%, respectively. Vietnamese purchasing behavior intensifies during the year-end shopping season and Tet, with 85% of consumers participating in Tet.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen their digital marketing strategies in the Vietnamese market and increase customer engagement through social media. The demand for personalized information suggests that implementing AI-driven marketing techniques would be effective.