Vietnam news highlights for April 30, 2023

Free public restroom in Danang for travelers 

"Comfort as Home" program introduced to the public on April 29. Photo: zingnews.vn

Visitors to Danang will be able to use free toilets at local restaurants and coffee shops, as the number of public toilets cannot meet the demand of travelers. About 288 out of 500 businesses in Hai Chau District have agreed to participate in the program called "Comfort as Home". These businesses will display a "Comfort as Home" sign on the front of their establishment.

The city has also launched a smartphone app that allows tourists and residents to find available toilets nearby. In the free restrooms, businesses will be allowed to display free advertisements. The program began in 2015 but has been interrupted in recent years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Transactions worth more than US$17,047 must be reported

Any transaction worth VND400 million (US$17,047) or more will be reported to the central bank from December 1. Businesses and individuals subject to the decision provide financial and non-financial services such as fund management, bank loans, accounting, and legal contracts.

The move aims to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts in Vietnam, ensure national financial and monetary security, and combat domestic and international money laundering crimes. The current amount required for reporting is VND300 million (US$12,800) or more.

Hanoi uses drones to improve transportation management

Drones will be used to visualize and monitor traffic flows at Hanoi's entrances, according to the Traffic Police Department. The drones are designed to detect traffic jams and accidents, allowing police to find the best solutions.

Vietnam has 16,000 new companies in April

The General Statistics Office revealed that nearly 16,000 new enterprises entered the market in April 2023, up 6.4% on year. More than 9,600 companies were reinstated in the same month, an increase of 36% year on year. After four months, the market had a total of 78,900 newly established and reinstated companies.

Former deputy editor-in-chief arrested

Police officers have arrested Le Tuan Dung, former deputy editor-in-chief of Doi song & Phap luat (Life & Law) magazine, on charges of "fraudulent appropriation of property. Police also searched Dung's house in Hanoi for evidence and materials.

The 65-year-old man is accused of appropriating property by taking money from the defendants and promising to help them clear the charges of disturbing public order in Cam Giang District, Hai Duong Province, and illegal invoicing at a local business in Hai Duong City.