Vietnam news in brief - December 31

Vietnam offers condolences to Jeju Air crash victims

Vietnamese senior leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son and Deputy Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Thanh, came to the South Korean Embassy in Hanoi on December 31 to pay their respects to the victims of the Jeju Air crash that claimed 179 lives in the accident on December 29.

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son conveys condolences to victims of Jeju Air crash.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh highlights agricultural growth
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired the annual dialogue with farmers on December 31 under the theme "Awakening the desire for prosperity to develop a prosperous, happy country, confidently entering a new era". The event aimed to address farmers' concerns and suggestions, focusing on agricultural policies, rural development and improving farmers' livelihoods.

It also highlighted Vietnam's agricultural export-import values, which reached a historic $62.5 billion, exceeding the set target of $55 billion, underscoring the vital role of the sector in the country's growth and global competitiveness.

Vietnam strengthens foreign trade with robust economic recovery

Vietnam has a favorable position in global manufacturing and exports due to extensive free trade agreements, according to Nguyen Thuy Hanh, CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam. She highlighted a robust economic recovery in 2024, driven by manufacturing growth, credit expansion of 16.6% year-on-year, export growth of 11.4% and import rise of 16.4%. For 2025, Vietnam's GDP is projected at 6.7%, supported by FDI and reforms in digital transformation, green growth and circular economy.

Binh Duong targets 10% GRDP growth in 2025

The southern province of Binh Duong targets 10% GRDP growth in 2025, building on the 7.48% achieved in 2024. It plans to attract high-tech investments and promot green industries while improving transportation infrastructure and driving digital transformation.

Songwriting contest celebrates ethnic minority culture

The 2024 Songwriting Contest on Ethnic Minority Themes on December 31 awarded 17 works, including two first prizes for "Echoes of the Great Forest" by Cao Nam Cuong and "Fading Spring" by Nguyen Ngoc Khue. The contest promotes the cultural identity of ethnic minorities, with 270 entries highlighting traditions, unity, and socio-economic achievements.

Art performance at the awards ceremony. Photo: Minh Thu/VNA

MobiFone advances AI accessibility with new platform launch

MobiFone has launched MobiAI, a groundbreaking AI application platform that aims to make AI accessible and affordable. With user-friendly interfaces and advanced AI tools such as AIVoice Studio and AIVoice Dubbing, MobiAI supports diverse needs from audio creation to business applications. This marks a milestone in MobiFone's digital transformation journey, solidifying its leadership in Vietnam's AI and digital technology sectors.

Student football championship fosters sportsmanship and talent

The Northern Regional Qualifiers for the 3rd Vietnamese Student Football Championship - THACO Cup 2025 are now underway at Thuy Loi University in Hanoi. Organized by the Youth Union and VFF, the tournament features 67 teams nationwide and promotes sportsmanship and student talent. The northern qualifying round runs until January 10, with nine teams competing for a place in the final.

The opening ceremony of the Northern Regional Qualifiers for the Vietnam Student Football Championship. Photo: Baovanhoa.vn

Poverty rates fall, exceeding government reduction targets

Vietnam's multidimensional poverty rate fell to below 1.9%, down more than 1% from 2023, ethnic minority poverty fell to below 13.5%, down more than 3%, and poverty in disadvantaged districts fell to about 26%, down 5% in 2024. These outcomes exceeded government targets and were driven by comprehensive policies, increased funding, and community efforts.