Ho Chi Minh City Promotes Public Investment Execution; Overnight Rate at 2.5%

Key pointsHo Chi Minh City is advancing measures to accelerate the execution of public investment. The overnight rate is maintained at 2.5%, which is expected to improve the investment environment.
Business impactJapanese companies need to monitor the progress of public investment and ensure they do not miss related business opportunities.

Key pointsAt the Enterprise AI Summit held in Ho Chi Minh City on September 23, 2026, experts from Base.vn presented a case of AI technology that can instantly alert when employees work an average of 10 hours a day for 10 consecutive days. This technology plays a crucial role in enhancing business operational efficiency.
Business impactThe implementation of AI promotes the efficiency of labor management, prompting companies to reassess their workforce practices.

Key pointsPVTrans (PVT) received the highest rating in the mid-cap company category at the 16th IR Awards held on September 24, 2026. This award reaffirms the company's management system and commitment to sustainable growth.
Business impactJapanese companies are required to build trust with investors through enhanced IR activities. In particular, transparent information disclosure contributes to increasing corporate value, necessitating a review of IR strategies.

Key pointsVietnam's fruit exports remain at a high level, with durian being a major driver. In September, the export value reached approximately $1.1 billion, a decrease of 18.9% compared to the previous month, but it has exceeded $1 billion for three consecutive months since 2026. Cumulatively, the total has reached about $7.3 billion, marking an 18.5% increase year-on-year. The demand for durian ahead of China's Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day is supporting this growth.
Business impactJapanese companies are required to enhance quality control and traceability in fruit exports. Particularly, due to stricter regulations for the Chinese market, exporters need to ensure thorough quality management and prompt responses.

Key pointsThe ongoing strength of the dollar, coupled with rising oil prices, is influencing the Federal Reserve's monetary policy and affecting the Vietnamese economy. The strong dollar has a direct impact on Vietnam's exchange rate and investment environment, particularly for export-import companies and those with foreign currency-denominated debt.
Business impactJapanese companies need to strengthen their foreign exchange risk management in preparation for increased costs and reduced revenues due to the strong dollar. Export companies, in particular, should reassess their strategies to maintain price competitiveness.

Key pointsCompanies are reporting delays in the processing of value-added tax refunds. The tax authorities need to urgently resolve pending applications, including those submitted by companies in January 2023. They have announced plans to implement automatic refunds starting December 2026, aiming to shorten processing times and support companies' cash flow.
Business impactThe introduction of automatic refunds could improve cash flow for Japanese companies. In particular, companies that have submitted refund applications should closely monitor the situation and strengthen collaboration with tax authorities as necessary.