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Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung (R) meets with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on May 8 as part of his trip to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, the Philippines. (Photo: VNA)

Top Vietnamese leader’s Thailand visit marks milestone in shaping bilateral ties in coming decade

The upcoming official visit to Thailand by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and State President To Lam is expected to become a milestone shaping the bilateral relations over the next decade, according to Thai newspaper The Standard.

In an article, the newspaper said the visit carries significance not only as a diplomatic event marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, but also as a strategic opportunity to deepen cooperation in a rapidly changing global landscape.

According to the article, the visit takes place after Vietnam and Thailand upgraded their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2025, when the two sides signed eight memoranda of understanding and adopted a 34-point joint statement, described as the most comprehensive cooperation framework in the history of bilateral relations.

The article also highlighted the role of General Secretary and State President Lam in Vietnam’s new development phase, noting that the country is expected to strongly implement its major policy orientations and international commitments.

Regarding future cooperation prospects, the newspaper said the two countries are pursuing three main pillars of cooperation: sustainable peace, growth and the future.

Economically, the two sides aim to raise bilateral trade turnover to 25 billion USD in the near future while promoting the “Three Connectivity” strategy, which focuses on supply chain connectivity, local economy connectivity and green economy connectivity.

The Standard noted that Vietnam and Thailand possess complementary strengths amid the restructuring of global supply chains.

Vietnam is seen as having advantages in electronics manufacturing and technology human resources, while Thailand holds strengths in electric vehicle production, petrochemicals and logistics infrastructure, cited VNA.

According to the article, enhancing connectivity rather than engaging in direct competition would generate mutual benefits for both economies.

Beyond economic cooperation, the newspaper also referred to prospects for expanding coordination in security, combating transnational crime, digital economy development, artificial intelligence and green energy transition.

It said promoting substantive cooperation mechanisms would help both countries respond more effectively to emerging regional challenges.

From a geopolitical perspective, the article assessed that Vietnam-Thailand relations are becoming increasingly important as the region faces uncertainties related to strategic competition among major powers, the East Sea situation and energy security concerns.

According to the author, stronger cooperation between the two major ASEAN economies would contribute to reinforcing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s centrality and expanding strategic space for both countries.

The article noted that five decades of Thailand-Vietnam relations have demonstrated that two countries have built deep cooperation, becoming nearly 20-billion-USD trading partners and Comprehensive Strategic Partners. Although the 50-year journey has not always been smooth, the direction of the bilateral ties has remained clear.

The article also emphasised that General Secretary and State President Lam’s visit comes at a time when multiple factors are converging, including the most comprehensive cooperation framework ever established between the two countries, pressures from trade wars and energy crises, and the reality that the two economies are more complementary than competitive.

If both sides can transform shared visions into concrete outcomes, benefits will directly reach the people of both countries, it said.

According to The Standard, in a world increasingly polarised economically and geopolitically, middle-sized nations such as Thailand and Vietnam, with a combined GDP of about 1.1 trillion USD and a population of 170 million people, have stronger incentives to seize opportunities for cooperation rather than let them pass by.

The newspaper concluded that the top Vietnamese leader's visit is expected to serve not only as a diplomatic anniversary event but also as an opportunity to elevate the bilateral economic partnership and jointly cope with the new global order.

Japanese firms bet on Vietnam as a strategic growth hub

Japanese companies are accelerating investment in Vietnam, expanding beyond manufacturing into retail, housing and consumer sectors as they reposition the Southeast Asian nation as a strategic growth hub in Asia.

In the first weeks of the second quarter, several Japanese firms announced new projects in Vietnam.

Retailer AEON received a licence for a US$149 million shopping mall project in Bac Ninh Province, while railway and property developer Nishitetsu said it planned to develop around 22,000 affordable homes in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, confectionery maker Fujiya has selected Tay Ninh Province as a production base for its Country Ma’am biscuit line for distribution across Asian markets, including Japan.

The investments highlight how Japanese businesses are upgrading their approach to Vietnam, viewing the country not only as a low-cost manufacturing base or emerging consumer market but increasingly as a strategic part of their regional growth networks, analysts say.

The trend gained momentum following a recent visit to Vietnam by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, during which both sides agreed to target annual Japanese investment of US$5 billion and bilateral trade of US$60 billion by 2030.

The two sides also agreed to deepen cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital transformation and strategic infrastructure, with a focus on technology transfer and moving up global value chains.

Vietnam’s long-term market wager

As Japan faces slower domestic growth, rising costs in China and intensifying geopolitical competition, Southeast Asia has become an increasingly important expansion market for Japanese companies, with Vietnam drawing attention due to its population of more than 100 million, rapid urbanisation and a growing middle class.

Experts say Japanese investment strategies in Vietnam have therefore shifted from primarily leveraging lower labor costs to building long-term consumer, urban and technology value chains.

Where Japanese firms once focused mainly on manufacturing goods in Vietnam for export, many are now investing directly in domestic consumption, including shopping malls, convenience stores, fashion retail and housing developments, according to VOV.

Customers shop for fruits at Japan's AEON Van Giang General Merchandise Store. Photo: VNA/VNS.

Tezuka Daisuke, executive officer and chief Vietnam business officer of AEON Co (Japan) and general director of AEON Vietnam Co, said Vietnam was the company’s fastest-growing market outside Japan.

Modern retail currently accounted for only 12% to 15% of the Vietnamese market, leaving significant room for expansion, he told saigontimes.vn.

Despite inflationary pressures and rising global costs, AEON reported its highest-ever revenue and operating profit in Vietnam during the first nine months of fiscal year 2025, which ended in November. Operating profit rose by 23% year-on-year to JPY144.7 billion (US$990 million), the online newspaper reported.

A higher strategic position

In addition to AEON, Vietnam is playing an increasingly important role in the corporate strategies of Japanese companies, reflecting a shift from cost-driven manufacturing towards long-term operational integration.

The case of Fujiya illustrates this transition. The production of its flagship Country Ma’am biscuit line in Tay Ninh for participation in regional supply chains, including Japan, indicates that Vietnam is taking on a broader role in Japanese operational networks.

This shift goes beyond labor cost advantages. For Japanese companies, which operate under stringent quality and supply chain standards, the ability to manufacture in Vietnam for export back to Japan signals a notable increase in confidence in local production capabilities, experts noted.

A 2025 survey by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) found that 67.5% of Japanese firms operating in Vietnam expect to be profitable in the fiscal year ending March 2026, the highest level in more than 15 years.

Vietnam is no longer viewed solely as a low-cost manufacturing base but as a higher-quality investment destination with long-term profit potential, according to Mitsutoshi Okabe, chief representative of JETRO in HCM City.

JETRO also reported that committed Japanese capital in Vietnam is projected to rise by more than 20% in 2025, outpacing other ASEAN markets in the share of firms planning to expand investment.

Vietnam’s emerging competitive edge

However, a gap remains between Vietnam’s role as an expanding manufacturing hub and its ambition to become a technology center.

During a recent visit to Vietnam, Japanese officials signalled stronger interest in high-tech investment areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

According to Mitsutoshi Okabe, many Japanese companies are currently exploring opportunities in Vietnam’s semiconductor sector, particularly in packaging, testing and supporting component manufacturing.

Japan has strong capabilities in semiconductor equipment and materials, making this direction highly attractive for Vietnam.

However, the JETRO representative in HCM City noted that most Japanese firms remained in the market research phase rather than committing to concrete high-tech investments in Vietnam.

Key concerns included the availability of skilled human resources, living conditions for foreign experts and the transparency and predictability of the regulatory and investment environment.

Okabe said more time would likely be needed for companies to conduct thorough assessments before making final decisions.

He added that attracting core semiconductor activities such as chip design or wafer fabrication would require Vietnam to invest further in engineering education, utilities infrastructure and the broader supplier ecosystem.

According to JETRO, Japanese firms in Vietnam are also increasingly facing competition not only from other foreign-invested enterprises but also from domestic companies, reflecting the rapid maturation of local industry beyond a purely cost-driven model.

VSIP projects highlight growing Vietnam–Singapore Partnership

The Vietnam–Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) projcts have emerged as one of the most visible symbols of the steadily expanding partnership between Vietnam and Singapore.

Over nearly three decades, the VSIP model has evolved far beyond a traditional industrial park network, becoming a strategic platform that reflects the deepening economic connectivity, political trust, and long-term development vision shared by the two Southeast Asian nations.

First launched in 1996 in Binh Duong province (now part of Ho Chi Minh City) with strong backing from the governments of both countries, VSIP has continuously expanded across Vietnam. From an initial industrial cooperation project, the network has developed into one of the most successful foreign-invested industrial park models in the country.

Today, VSIP projects are operating in various provinces and cities throughout Vietnam, attracting more than 1,000 investors from various countries and territories, including numerous multinational corporations and globally recognised brands.

The industrial parks have generated hundreds of thousands of jobs while contributing significantly to Vietnam’s industrialisation and modernisation process through the development of modern, environmentally friendly, and highly integrated manufacturing zones.

Vietnamese and Singaporean leaders have repeatedly described the VSIP as a “beacon” of bilateral relations and a vivid example of effective economic cooperation between ASEAN member states, VOV reported.

VSIP, a success story in Vietnam-Singapore economic cooperation.

The success of the VSIP also reflects the increasingly close economic ties between Vietnam and Singapore. Singapore has consistently remained among the largest foreign investors in Vietnam, with investments spanning manufacturing, logistics, urban development, infrastructure, finance, and high technology.

In recent years, the two countries have sought to elevate the VSIP model to a new stage of development. Rather than focusing solely on industrial production, next-generation VSIPs are expected to integrate advanced technology, services, smart infrastructure, and eco-urban development. The shift aligns with both countries’ broader priorities in green growth, digital transformation, and sustainable supply chain development.

During a recent phone conversation with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung proposed that Singapore continue expanding and upgrading the network of next-generation VSIPs associated with high-tech transfer and innovation cooperation.

Expressing strong support for the proposal, PM Lawrence said Singapore hopes to increase the total number of VSIP projects to 30 by 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the first VSIP project in Vietnam.

The continued expansion of VSIP projects comes as Vietnam and Singapore deepen their broader strategic partnership. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1973 and upgraded ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2013. In 2023, both sides launched the Green Economy–Digital Economy Partnership (GE-DEP), focusing on emerging sectors such as renewable energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.

A major milestone was reached in 2025 when Vietnam and Singapore elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, opening a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

Beyond economic cooperation, Vietnam and Singapore have also strengthened ties in science and technology, education, defence, human resource development, and people-to-people exchanges.

Singapore is widely recognised as one of Asia’s leading innovation-driven economies, while Vietnam offers a rapidly growing market, abundant human resources, and strong long-term growth potential. These complementary strengths continue to create favourable conditions for deeper cooperation in strategic sectors.

Education and workforce training have also become important pillars of bilateral relations. Thousands of Vietnamese officials, students, and professionals have participated in training and exchange programs under the Singapore Cooperation Program over the past three decades.

As regional and global uncertainties continue to evolve, Vietnam and Singapore are increasingly positioning their partnership around innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth.

Amid that broader relationship, the VSIP network remains one of the clearest and most enduring symbols of bilateral cooperation - a model that not only reflects the achievements of the past three decades but also points toward the future direction of Vietnam–Singapore relations.

Ho Chi Minh City boosts tourism appeal through culinary, cultural experiences

An increasing number of travel and tourism businesses in Ho Chi Minh City are launching new products that combine culinary experiences with Vietnam’s rich ethnic cultural heritage, in response to evolving traveller preferences and efforts to stimulate tourism demand.

According to Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director of Agoda Vietnam, travellers are becoming more selective when choosing accommodation, prioritising properties with strong reviews, quality amenities and distinctive dining options. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on the overall travel experience, alongside peer-based quality assurance.

New tourism offerings in Ho Chi Minh City are helping strengthen the city's destination brand by drawing on a diverse range of local cultural characteristics.

Tran Minh Hoang, a sales director of the local company Dau An Show, said the firm’s Chao Show combines traditional Vietnamese music, regional cuisine and modern lighting technology. At the heart of the performance is a collection of 30 indigenous musical instruments gathered, restored and crafted by artisans from across the country, forming one of Vietnam’s most comprehensive and distinctive collections of traditional instruments.

Alongside the musical performances, Chao Show offers signature dishes representing Vietnam’s three regions, he added. The program has attracted both international visitors and domestic audiences, creating promising opportunities for preserving and promoting the nation’s cultural heritage.

The Chao Show by the Ho Chi Minh City-based the company Dau An Show presents the flavours of Vietnam’s three regions through nine signature Vietnamese dishes. (Photo: VNA)

Beyond introducing new products, tourism operators are also refreshing existing attractions. The Suoi Tien theme park in Tang Nhon Phu ward has announced its 22nd southern fruit festival, which is set to feature several new attractions, including a fruit buffet, a miniature floating market, illuminated night-time performances, traditional Mekong Delta hammocks and countryside cuisine. A culinary highlight will be a series of beef dishes paired with 26 different fruits, which the organisers hope will set a new Vietnamese record.

Meanwhile, a southern flavors food festival, organised by PhuThoTourist at its Dam Sen cultural park in Binh Thoi ward this May, showcases the culinary traditions of the Kinh, Hoa, Khmer and Cham communities through hundreds of regional specialties, cited VNA.

From a management perspective, Nguyen Cam Tu, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Promotion Center, said that while building on previous achievements, the municipal tourism sector is pursuing a more innovative approach, focused on product development, destination enhancement, promotional renewal and stronger tourism branding.

As part of these efforts, the center is implementing its summer impressions program during the second quarter of 2026, working with tourism businesses to develop new travel experiences and enrich existing tour offerings.

Particular attention is being placed on the development of the night-time economy through pilot public-private partnership models in the cultural and sports sectors, including museum tours, artistic performances and other evening attractions.

Vietnam issues heatwave warnings as temperatures exceed 39C

Hanoi temperatures climbed close to 40C as northern Vietnam entered the peak of a dangerous early-summer heatwave.

On the third day of an intense heatwave, temperatures in Hanoi climbed close to 40 degrees Celsius, turning outdoor conditions into what residents described as a “furnace.” Forecasters say the severe heat across northern Vietnam will persist for another two days, while central regions could endure extreme temperatures for three more days.

Hanoi approaches 40C

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, widespread severe heat covered northern and central Vietnam on May 25, with some areas experiencing exceptionally dangerous temperatures.

Measurements taken at 1pm showed temperatures across multiple regions ranging from 37C to 39C, with several locations surpassing 39C.

In Hanoi, the Lang meteorological station recorded a peak temperature of 39.7C.

Other localities also reported extremely high temperatures, including Vinh Yen in Phu Tho Province at 39.5C, Do Luong in Nghe An Province at 39.6C, Bac Ninh at 39.3C, and Huong Khe in Ha Tinh Province at 39.2C.

The heatwave has been accompanied by low humidity levels during midday hours, commonly dropping to just 45-50%, creating oppressive and uncomfortably dry conditions.

Northern Vietnam remains a “heat furnace” for two more days

Meteorologists forecast that the peak of the current heatwave will continue over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Across the northern plains, including Hanoi, Phu Tho Province, and areas stretching from Thanh Hoa to Hue City, severe and exceptionally severe heat is expected to persist on May 26 and 27.

Maximum temperatures in these areas are forecast to range between 38C and 40C, with isolated locations potentially exceeding 40C.

Authorities noted that the most intense heat during the day would likely last from 9am to 7pm, while minimum relative humidity could fall to just 40-45%, VNN reported.

In other northern areas - excluding Dien Bien and Lai Chau provinces - as well as Da Nang and eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Lam Dong, temperatures are also expected to remain dangerously high.

Those regions could see highs of 36C to 38C, with some locations topping 40C. Humidity levels are forecast to remain between 45-50%, while heat conditions may persist from 9am to 6pm.

Weather authorities emphasized that official temperatures are measured in meteorological shelters. In reality, outdoor temperatures may feel 2C to 4C hotter, especially in dense urban areas with large amounts of concrete and asphalt.

Hoang Phuc Lam, Deputy Director of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, said this was the second major heatwave of May 2026 and already more intense than the previous episode recorded between May 13 and 16.

“If the heat continues for another two to three days, temperatures in some regions could exceed 40C, while certain areas may even reach 41C to 42C,” Lam warned.

He added that the heatwave is expected to last through May 27 in northern Vietnam and until May 28 in central regions.

High fire risk and health warnings

Meteorological authorities also warned that prolonged extreme heat combined with very low humidity significantly increases the risk of fires and explosions in residential areas, as well as forest fires.

Residents have been advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and take precautions to protect their health - particularly elderly people, children, and outdoor workers exposed directly to sunlight.

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