Vietnam news in brief - March 26

An Giang seeks Israeli investment in agriculture, seafood processing

Leaders of An Giang, a province in the Mekong Delta, are seeking investment from Israeli businesses in agriculture and seafood processing, as discussed in a meeting with Israeli Ambassador to Vietnam Yaron Mayer on March 26. The province is also looking for Israeli support to expand rice and seafood exports to Israel, as well as assistance in water management, biotechnology, and education to strengthen bilateral ties.

Vietnam, Laos strengthen cooperation in drug prevention

Anti-narcotics cooperation in eight border provinces of Vietnam and Laos achieved positive results in 2024, with nearly 4,600 cases detected, involving 6,103 suspects. However, drug crimes continue with increasingly sophisticated methods. This issue was discussed at the 21st Vietnam-Laos Border Anti-Narcotics Coordination Conference in the northern mountain province of Dien Bien on March 26.

Hue celebrates 50th liberation anniversary

Hue, the centrally-governed city of Vietnam, hosted a grand ceremony on March 26 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its liberation (March 26, 1975-March 26, 2025) and the 95th anniversary of the city's Party Committee (April 1930-April 2025). The liberation of Hue was a key historical event that contributed to national reunification. Over the years, Hue has achieved significant milestones and remains the only place in Vietnam and Southeast Asia with eight UNESCO-declared cultural heritage sites.

Major exhibition highlights Danang’s progress and investment potential

The exhibition "Danang - Development and Integration", covering an area of 10,800 m², celebrates the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the city (1975-2025). Open from March 26-30, 2025, it showcases Danang's economic, social and defense achievements and highlights its investment potential. Featuring 130 booths in four zones, the event promotes trade, tourism and military progress, reinforcing Danang's role as a dynamic, modern city.

Highland Coffee reports $41.5 million EBITDA in 2024

Highlands Coffee, Vietnam's largest coffee chain, reported a 4.5% year-on-year increase in EBITDA, reaching $41.5 million in 2024. Founded in 1999 as a packaged coffee retailer in Hanoi, the company expanded into a cafe chain in 2002 with its first store in Ho Chi Minh City. Today, it boasts 850 outlets, including international locations. Its expansion and cost-effective strategy have helped solidify its market presence amid the recovery of Vietnam's beverage sector.

Auto plant begins operation in Quang Ninh

The Thanh Cong Viet Hung Auto Plant in the northern province of Quang Ninh was inaugurated on March 26. With a total investment of $343 million, the 36.5-hectare plant will assemble Škoda vehicles with an annual capacity of 120,000 units. It is also Škoda Auto's first production and assembly plant in Southeast Asia. The project is expected to boost local industry, investment and economic growth in Quang Ninh.

Cantho hosts 6th Vietnam Shrimp Industry Technology Expo

The VietShrimp 2025 expo with 200 booths is taking place in the Mekong Delta city of Cantho on March 26-28. The event features four seminars attended by policymakers, scientists, businesses, and farmers to find effective and sustainable solutions for Vietnam's shrimp sector. This approach is in line with the government's strategy for green economic development.

MobiFone officially launches 5G services

MobiFone officially launched its 5G services on March 26, aiming to cover all 63 provinces and cities soon. Operating in the 3,800-3,900 MHz band, MobiFone's 5G network offers speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps, which is 10-15 times faster than 4G. In addition, MobiFone is rolling out digital transformation solutions for enterprises that integrate AI, IoT, cloud and big data technologies.

Tennis legend sees great potential for pickleball in Vietnam

Tennis legend Andre Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam winner, visited Vietnam for the first time and expressed his excitement about the country's pickleball potential. Speaking in Ho Chi Minh City on March 26, he praised the sport's growing popularity in Vietnam and shared insights to help local players develop. Agassi joined top pickleball stars, including world No. 1 Ben Johns, for an exhibition event.