Vietnam news in brief - April 8

Prime Minister honors former Lao leader

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 7 led a high-level Vietnamese delegation to attend the memorial service for former Lao President and Party Chairman Khamtay Siphandone. He expressed deep condolences and praised Siphandone's contributions to Laos and Vietnam-Laos relations. During the visit, the prime minister met with top Lao leaders to reaffirm the countries' special solidarity and continued cooperation.

Vietnamese helps over 50 people in Myanmar earthquake

The Vietnamese rescue team had rescued 14 victims and provided aid to more than 50 people during their international mission in Myanmar before returning home on April 8. Their efforts included medical assistance, wound treatment, shelter construction, disinfection, and relief supplies. The mission was praised by Myanmar authorities and locals, and reflects Vietnam's strong commitment to humanitarian assistance in disaster-stricken areas.

Vietnam plans to import US timber for balance trade

Vietnam plans to import significant volumes of raw timber from the US to support its wood processing and furniture export industries, as domestic plantations cannot meet demand. The country also plans to re-export finished wood products to the US, boosting trade balance and economic ties. In 2024, Vietnam’s timber exports to the US totaled around $9.4 billion, according to VIFOREST.

Vietnam welcomes over 6 million international visitors in Q1

Vietnam welcomed a record number of more than 6 million international tourists in the first quarter of 2025, the highest ever for the period. China and South Korea remained the largest markets with 1.58 million and 1.26 million visitors, respectively, accounting for 47% of the total. Authorities attributed the growth to improved visa policies and proactive tourism strategies. Vietnam targets to attract 22-23 million international visitors by the end of 2025.

Vietnam Railways celebrates reunification with themed train journey

A special pair of "Reunification (Thong Nhat) Trains" with special designs reflecting the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South (1975-2025) will be operated. Departing from Hanoi (SE1) and Ho Chi Minh City (SE4), the two trains will converge in Danang on April 30. The program includes on-board activities, fare discounts for national contributors, and digital engagement to honor national unity and pride.

Vietnam War-themed film tops box office with $2.9 million

The Vietnamese war-themed film “Dia Dao – Mat troi trong bong toi” (Tunnels – Sun in the Dark), directed by Bui Thac Chuyen, earns over US$2.9 million in revenue within four days of release, as of April 7. Set in the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, the film portrays guerrilla fighters protecting a field hospital and military equipment during the resistance war against the Americans. Premiering ahead of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam's Liberation Day (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025), the film is generating strong local interest and is expected to maintain its box office momentum in the coming days.

 Exhibition highlights national unity and historical legacy through artifacts

The special exhibition "50 Years of Echoing Heroic Songs" opened on April 8 at the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum in Ho Chi Minh City to feature nearly 500 pictures, documents and artifacts. It pays tribute to the historic 1975 campaign and educate younger generations and celebrate Vietnam's national reunification and the city's post-war development journey.

Thanh Hoa aims to attract 16 million tourists in 2025

The central province of Thanh Hoa has set an ambitious target of welcoming 16 million tourists and generating US$1.85 billion in tourism revenue in 2025, with more than 150 registered activities and events in all four seasons. The target builds on the breakthrough of 2024, which was marked by the introduction of new tourism experiences such as Sam Son beach activities, mountain trekking, and cultural festivals. In 2024, Thanh Hoa earned around US$1.37 billion in tourism revenue and attracted 15.3 million tourists.

Hoi An brings together over 1,000 artists for international choir competition

Up to 1,000 international artists from around the world will take part in the 8th Vietnam International Choir Competition in Hoi An on April 9-13, featuring professional performances and serving as a platform for global musical exchange. Recognized worldwide for its vibrant atmosphere and hospitality, Hoi An continues to affirm its role as a UNESCO Creative City and a unique cultural tourism destination.