Vietnam news in brief - April 10

Vietnam, New Zealand target $3 billion in bilateral trade by 2026

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon agreed to increase bilateral trade to $3 billion by 2026 during a phone call on April 10, highlighting shared interests in maintaining open supply chains and global trade stability. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strategic cooperation, deeper economic ties, and coordination in multilateral frameworks such as CPTPP and AANZFTA to ensure sustainable growth.

Vietnam eyes visa waivers for billionaires, celebrities, global investors

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 10 ordered key ministries to propose short-term visa waivers and streamlined procedures for influential visitors such as billionaires, celebrities, global experts, and investors. The aim is to boost tourism, with a target of 22-23 million international visitors by 2025. The reforms also target improved border tourism, digital payments, and increased international cultural engagement.

Vietnam positions itself as leader in global cybercrime governance

Vietnam showcased the upcoming UN Cybercrime Convention signing, set for October in Hanoi, during the “Road to Hanoi” forum held from April 8–10. As the first international criminal justice treaty in two decades, the Convention defines cyber offenses, mandates 24/7 cooperation channels, enables joint investigations, and streamlines evidence sharing. Delegates commended Vietnam’s leadership and encouraged African countries to join the agreement.

Vietnam Airlines secures $560m for expansion, innovation

Vietnam Airlines and US banking giant Citi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide more than $560 million in financing for the airline's strategic investment projects. The capital will support fleet modernization, international route expansion, digital transformation and infrastructure upgrades, with Citi also providing strategic advisory services throughout the process. The deal marks an important step in enhancing Vietnam Airlines' global competitiveness and connectivity.

Vietnam seafood firms act on proposed 46% US tariff

Vietnam's seafood industry is preparing urgent measures to diversify export markets amid a 90-day delay in a proposed 46% US tariff. While maintaining a cautious approach to trade with the US, companies are seeking alternative markets, coordinating with importers, and calling for swift government support to ease VAT refunds and regulatory hurdles to maintain operations and protect livelihoods.

Vietnam Military History Museum to begin charging admission

The Vietnam Military History Museum will charge an admission fee of $1.55 starting April 12. Admission will remain free for children under 16, seniors over 80, war veterans and national heroes, while people with disabilities, students and seniors over 60 will receive a 50% discount with valid ID. The museum, which houses over 150,000 artifacts including four national treasures, remains a key site showcasing Vietnam's military heritage.

Noi Bai Airport ranks 79th globally despite infrastructure challenges

Noi Bai International Airport is ranked 79th on Skytrax's 2025 list of the world's top 100 airports, marking its seventh appearance on the list. Despite ongoing renovations and operational challenges, the airport has improved service quality through technological upgrades, cultural events and enhanced customer amenities.

2.7 million Vietnamese traveled abroad in Q1 2025

A record 2.7 million Vietnamese traveled abroad, while international arrivals to Vietnam exceeded 6 million in the first quarter of 2025-a historic high, according to Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Trinh Thi Thuy. This increase reflects strong growth in both outbound and inbound tourism.

HCMC artists chronicle five decades of urban transformation

The exhibition "50 Years of Reunification and Development of HCMC" is now on display in Ho Chi Minh City until May 2, featuring 143 paintings. The exhibition celebrates the transformation of the city since its reunification in 1975, and awarded 12 outstanding works for their artistic and thematic contributions.

Vietnamese pomelo enters South Korea with 500-ton export target

Vietnamese pomelo officially hit the shelves of South Korea's Lotte Mart on April 10, marking a milestone for Vietnam's fruit exports. The move reflects growing bilateral trade and Vietnam's push to enter high-value markets. With demand for tropical fruits on the rise, Vietnam aims to expand pomelo exports, targeting 500 tons by 2025 and capitalizing on Korean consumers' health-conscious preferences.