Vietnam news in brief - April 4

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Vietnam suspends recreation for former Lao president

Vietnam today began postponing all artistic programs and public entertainment activities in two-day national mourning period on for the passing of General Khamtay Siphandone, former president of Laos. Special events including those for the death anniversary of Hung Kings - the nation’s legendary founders are also halted. Vietnam recognizes Gen. Khamtay Siphandone's significant role in fostering lasting ties between the two nations. Earlier, Vietnam's top leaders paid their respects to the general both in Vientiane and Hanoi. 

Vietnamese rescue team finds 21 victims in Myanmar

After five days of operation in Myanmar, the Vietnamese rescue team successfully recovered nearly 20 bodies from collapsed structures and, in cooperation with Turkish and Myanmar colleagues, retrieved one survivor. Myanmar's Minister for Security Soe Win expressed gratitude for Vietnam's timely assistance and hopes for continued support in the ongoing recovery efforts.

Vietnam proposed to abolish death penalty in 44.44% of capital crimes

Eight out of 18 crimes (44.44%) currently punishable by death would not be subject to capital punishment under a draft amendment to the Penal Code. These crimes would instead be penalized with life imprisonment without parole, including corruption, bribery, espionage, subversion, destruction of technological infrastructure, illegal drug transportation, production and trafficking of counterfeit medicines, and crimes against peace.

Vietnam develops new strategies for rice sector

At a workshop held today in Cantho, experts called for increasing the value of rice to boost its competitiveness. The event highlighted Vietnam's goal to increase value, ensure global competitiveness, and advance its plan to produce one million hectares of low-emission, high-quality rice in the Mekong Delta.

Vietnamese ISPs boost minimum speeds to 300 Mbps

Major telecom companies in Vietnam, including VNPT, FPT, and Viettel, have upgraded their Internet packages, raising the minimum speed to 300 Mbps, double the previous range of 120-150 Mbps, bringing Vietnam closer to the world's top Internet speeds. According to Ookla Speedtest, the global average fixed broadband speed in February was 98.31 Mbps, while Vietnam recorded 164.77 Mbps. This upgrade supports the country's digital development needs, in line with the Politburo's Resolution 57 on technological breakthroughs.

United Airlines expands daily service to Ho Chi Minh City

United Airlines will begin daily Boeing 787-9 service from Los Angeles and San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City via Hong Kong (China) on October 26. The expansion is part of United Airlines’ broader push into the Asia-Pacific region and aims to fly to 32 cities in the region - more than any other US carrier.

Vietnam Railways adds trains for holiday travel

Vietnam Railways has introduced more than 40 additional passenger trains to meet the growing demand for travel to popular tourist destinations such as Dong Hoi, Danang, Nha Trang, and Quy Nhon during the upcoming Reunification holiday (April 30). Train fares for the holiday period have risen by 2% to 4% compared to 2024, depending on the route. Discounted tickets are available for seniors, children, students, union members and war veterans, ensuring wider access to affordable travel.

Vinh Phuc sees growth in electronic component manufacturing

The northern province of Vinh Phuc earned US$2.4 billion from electronic component manufacturing services in Q1/2025, up 12.27% from the same period last year. With over 200 active electronics projects and growing exports to major markets, the province is emerging as a high-tech hub. It plans to expand semiconductor investment, improve infrastructure, and train skilled workers to become a leading center for Vietnam's electronics industry.

Flemish government commits to climate change adaptation in Vietnam

The Flemish Government, Belgium, has committed nearly $3.3 million to climate change adaptation projects in Vietnam. The program focuses on sustainable partnerships, innovative technologies and practical measures to mitigate climate change. With 69 projects worldwide, including five in Vietnam, Flanders aims to boost climate finance and contribute to Vietnam's efforts to address the climate crisis, especially in vulnerable regions such as the Mekong Delta.