Vietnam news in brief - December 23
Read the Hanoi Times to keep up with the latest developments in the country.
Dien Bien welcomes 1.85 million tourists in 2024
The northern mountain province of Dien Bien attracted 1.85 million tourists in 2024, earning over US$138 million, a 1.9-fold increase from 2023. This achievement was the result of 169 events held during the National Tourism Year to mark the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory, which boosted the province's perception and strengthened the role of tourism in its economy.
Vietnam Railways increases train services for Tet travel
In anticipation of increased travel for Tet 2025, Vietnam Railways has expanded north-south train services. Additional trains include SE12, TN5, SE14, SE16 and SE26 from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, Vinh and Quang Ngai between January 14 and 19, 2025. Discounts are available for war veterans, seniors, students and children. Tickets are available at www.dsvn.vn, www.vetau.com.vn, www.vetauonline.vn, apps, or stations.
| Vietnam Railways has expanded north-south train services in anticipation of increased travel for the new year holiday. Photo: The Hanoi Times |
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Restoration project preserves historic Hac Y relic
The northern mountain province of Yen Bai is investing US$1 million to restore the Hac Y relic, known as the "Imperial Citadel of Yen Bai". The three-year project aims to preserve its historical, cultural and spiritual values. Declared a national relic in 2001, this important Buddhist architectural complex covers 2 square kilometers and reflects the grandeur of the Tran Dynasty.
Tet bonuses in Ho Chi Minh City vary across sectors
The highest Tet bonus in Ho Chi Minh City for 2025 has been set at an impressive VND1.908 billion (US$78,000), offered by an FDI enterprise. While still a remarkable sum, it falls just short of last year’s VND2.08 billion ($86,000), reflecting a slight decline. On a more personal level, the average Lunar New Year bonus has seen a modest 3.3% increase, reaching VND12.7 million ($518), offering some hope during these challenging times. However, the situation is more somber when it comes to Solar New Year bonuses, which have sharply fallen to just VND3.4 million ($139), a stark contrast to the VND4.7 million ($191) seen in 2024.
Vietnam’s import-export turnover hits record high in 2024
Vietnam's total import-export turnover in 2024 reached a record high of US$783 billion, surpassing 2023's $681 billion. Exports alone hit $403 billion, rising 13.6% from the previous year, driven by strong growth in sectors like electronics and textiles. Despite ongoing challenges, the trade balance remains positive with a $23 billion surplus. Looking ahead, the government targets a 12% export growth in 2025.
Southern organ donation association established
The Vietnam Tissue and Organ Donation Advocacy Association inaugurated the Southern Region Inter-Hospital Organ and Tissue Donation Association on December 23 as part of the Golden Week for Organ and Tissue Donation. The new organization aims to raise public awareness, promote organ donation from brain-dead individuals, share resources, and provide professional training to address the growing demand for organ transplants.
Vietnam Post partners with DataStreams for unified data platform
Vietnam Post and South Korea's DataStreams Corp sealed a partnership on December 23 to develop a unified data platform using big data, AI, and data fabric technology. The cooperation focuses on improving data analysis, optimizing operations, personalizing services, and strengthening data security. Both parties aim to build a data-sharing platform and expand global cooperation to enhance competitiveness and improve customer experience.
Bai Tu Long National Park, which covers 15,783 hectares with six ecosystems and 2,421 species, now has 156 Vietnamese heritage trees. These include 150 Syzygium zeylanicum trees on Minh Chau Island and six ancient trees on Ba Mun and Mang Ha Nam Islands. The identification of heritage trees will enhance biodiversity conservation and promote the northern coastal province of Quang Ninh's ecotourism potential.
