Vietnam has moved beyond being solely an option for budget-focused investments; it is now establishing itself as a key player in advanced technology, eco-friendly initiatives, and digital industries, according to specialists who spoke at the Global Business Forum 2025 held in Ho Chi Minh City.
The event was hosted by RMIT Vietnam, backed by the Southern Investment Promotion, Information and Support Center (SIPISC), which operates under Vietnam’s Foreign Investment Agency within the Ministry of Finance. Representatives from governmental bodies, academic institutions, as well as local and global companies came together to explore how Vietnam is influencing the trajectory of foreign direct investment (FDI) via targeted reforms and cooperative efforts.
With the theme “Attracting Foreign Direct Investment into Vietnam during an emerging period: multistakeholder discussions for progress,” the conference highlighted Vietnam’s shift from being a low-cost investment location to becoming a center for innovation, environmental responsibility, and digital advancement.
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Representatives from the government, universities, and both local and global companies came together to discuss how Vietnam is influencing the direction of foreign direct investment during the latest Global Business Forum. Image provided by RMIT |
Dean of the Business School, Professor Robert McClelland, began the event by emphasizing Vietnam’s remarkable foreign direct investment achievements.
During just the first six months of 2025, Vietnam drew more than $21.51 billion in foreign direct investment, marking an increase of 32.6% from the corresponding timeframe in 2024. This expansion, driven by sectors such as manufacturing, property development, renewable energy, and technological exploration, highlights Vietnam’s emergence as a key player in innovation and eco-friendly progress within the region.
Tran Thi Hai Yen, head of SIPISC, highlighted the government’s dedication to establishing an open and competitive investment climate. Even amid worldwide economic instability, actual foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024 amounted to $25.35 billion, marking a 9.4% increase compared to the previous year and reaching its highest level in six years. This stood in stark contrast to the global pattern, as FDI declined by 11% to $1.5 trillion, per UNCTAD data. She noted that these figures emphasized Vietnam’s strength and increasing attractiveness for overseas investors.
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Tran Thi Hai Yen, head of the Southern Investment Promotion, Information and Support Center affiliated with Vietnam’s Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance (SIPISC). Image provided by RMIT. |
Alexander Ziehe, head of the German Business Association (GBA), highlighted Vietnam’s significance for German businesses. As per the AHK World Business Outlook Spring 2025 report, 80% of German firms operating in Vietnam expressed positive views about their working environment, with 38% intending to expand over the next two years. Ziehe recognized obstacles like bureaucratic hurdles and lack of skilled labor but emphasized the GBA’s dedication to maintaining a lasting collaboration.
At a panel session, Sam Conroy, head of the Australian Chamber of Commerce (Auscham), pointed out Australia’s increasing focus on infrastructure and logistics investments. “New regulatory changes have lowered risks for Australian investors, enhancing Vietnam’s appeal,” he mentioned.
J.P. Shriram, head of the Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam (Incham), highlighted potential areas for Indian investments that remain unexplored. He promoted collaboration between the two nations, mentioning that both represent attractive consumer markets and places for investment. Additionally, he stressed the importance of Vietnam’s initiatives aimed at establishing global financial hubs in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, which serve as major attractions for Indian investors.
On the domestic front, Huynh Thanh Van, Chairperson of the Southern National Startup Support Advisory Council and head of S Furniture, discussed how foreign direct investment collaborations enable local businesses to climb the value ladder while encouraging young startups to embrace innovation. “Corporate social responsibility must be a fundamental principle, rather than merely a duty,” he emphasized, calling on Vietnamese companies to meet international benchmarks to draw in high-quality investments.
Senior Lecturer Abel Alonso from RMIT University Vietnam emphasized that, in addition to incentives and facilities, investors’ trust relies on openness, simplicity in conducting business, and variety within different sectors.
He stated, ‘Vietnam’s bilingual workforce and growing service industry may serve as significant advantages for the upcoming surge in foreign direct investment.’
Dr. Dang Thao Quyen, Acting Assistant Head for Management, Education, and Instruction, as well as Senior Program Director for the International Business initiative at RMIT’s Faculty of Business, highlighted the significance of cooperation among various stakeholders.
Vietnam’s successes in attracting foreign direct investment won’t stem from one party alone,” she stated. “They will emerge from collaboration between the government, global and domestic companies, academic institutions, and young professionals. Transparent discussions are crucial for overcoming obstacles, promoting teamwork, and achieving mutually beneficial results.
She further urged harmonizing Vietnam’s foreign direct investment approach with worldwide developments in technology and environmental responsibility.
WE need to move past simple investments and adopt strategic collaborations that enhance Vietnam’s role in global supply networks,” said Dr. Quyen. “This involves focusing on developing people, building digital systems, and promoting fair leadership. The outlook for foreign direct investment in Vietnam isn’t only about drawing in funds—it’s about gaining dedication, innovation, and common goals.
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The debate featured varied viewpoints from global trade organizations and local businesses. Image provided by RMIT |
Vietnam’s attention towards high-standard foreign direct investment has been strengthened through new regulatory changes and key areas of concentration. The National Plan for Foreign Investment Collaboration (2021–2030) aims at both the volume and standard of FDI, highlighting advanced technology and digital fields.
Decision No. 29/2021/QD-TTg and Decree No. 182/2024/ND-CP offer tax and land benefits and set up an investment assistance fund for major projects.
With Vietnam shaping its investment story, the Global Business Forum 2025 highlighted the nation’s preparedness to take charge in an emerging period marked by sustainability, strategy, and teamwork.
