Vietnam news in brief - April 14 

Vietnam proposes aerospace cooperation with China

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 14 proposed that Chinese aircraft manufacturer Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) should cooperate with and help Vietnam develop its aviation industry and explore space. During a meeting in Hanoi with COMAC Chairman He Dongfeng, he encouraged partnerships in aircraft leasing, maintenance centers, high-tech workforce training, and space exploration.

Youth delegates boost Vietnam–China relations

The 24th Vietnam-China Youth Friendship Meeting opened in Hanoi on April 14 under the theme "Vietnam-China Youth: Steadfast in Ideals." The event welcomed 100 outstanding Chinese youth delegates to discuss political education, youth responsibilities, and strengthening bilateral friendship. It is a key activity in the "Vietnam-China Year of People-to-People Exchange 2025."

New Zealand travelers' bookings to Hanoi jump 130%

Hanoi has emerged as one of the top holiday destinations for New Zealand travelers, with bookings in 2024 up 130% year-on-year, according to New Zealand's largest travel company, House of Travel. This trend reflects a growing interest in new, affordable destinations as families seek unique cultural experiences that stretch the New Zealand dollar further.

South Korea exports melons to Vietnam after long talks

After 17 years of negotiations, South Korea has officially exported golden melon and Korean melon to Vietnam for the first time. These greenhouse-grown fruits are usually shipped from December to May. Previously exported to Japan and Singapore, their entry into Vietnam marks a new market. Talks continue to expand fruit trade between the two countries.

Vietnam’s tech exports to US hit $7.4 billion in Q1

Vietnam earned over $7.4 billion from exporting computers, electronic products, and components to the US in Q1, up 48.2% year-on-year. This was the country's top export group to the US, accounting for 23.8% of the total export value, boosted by the easing of US tariffs on key technology goods such as smartphones and computer chips.

Vietnam approves airport plan to handle 15 million passengers by 2050

Vietnam has approved the master plan for Gia Binh International Airport in the northern province of Bac Ninh for 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050. With an estimated investment of $1.3 billion, the airport is designed to handle five million passengers and 250,000 tons of cargo annually by 2030, expanding to 15 million passengers and one million tons by 2050. According to the national aviation plan, Vietnam will have 15 international airports by 2030.

Thai Nguyen aims for $140 million in tourism revenue this year

The northern province of Thai Nguyen, home to more than 1,000 cultural and historical relics, aims to attract six million visitors by 2025, including 250,000 international arrivals, with projected tourism revenues of US$140 million. The province will focus on high-quality, experience-based tourism tied to tea culture, community models, and night tours, while promoting digital transformation, sustainability, and regional connectivity.

Hundreds of Korean firms eye Vietnam’s high-tech sector

Hundreds of South Korean firms will attend the CICON Vietnam 2025 economic cooperation conference in Hanoi on April 17 to explore investment opportunities. The conference will focus on digital technology, green energy, and smart cities. Several investment deals are expected to be signed, highlighting Vietnam's efforts to attract high-quality foreign direct investment amid a shifting global trade and tariff landscape.

Vietnam to export 4.35m tons of rice to the Philippines in 2025

Vietnam remains the Philippines' top rice supplier, accounting for 80%-85% of its imports. The country is expected to ship about 4.35 million tons of rice to the Philippines in 2025, up 4.8% year-on-year. Despite diverse suppliers, the Philippines is expected to continue relying heavily on Vietnamese rice due to its competitive pricing, quality, and stable supply.

ESG forum offers strategic guidance for Vietnamese firms

The first Vietnam ESG Forum will be held on April 23 in Hanoi under the theme "Sustainable Development Strategy in a New Era." The forum aims to raise awareness, promote practical ESG practices, and foster sustainable change in Vietnam. It will feature expert discussions, policy recommendations, and the inaugural Vietnam ESG Awards, providing businesses with strategic direction and global competitiveness.