Vietnam news in brief - February 4
For the latest updates on Vietnam, be sure to check out The Hanoi Times.
Hanoi hosts grand celebration for Communist Party’s 95th anniversary
The special art program "95 Years of Lighting Faith" was held in Hanoi on February 3 to celebrate the 95th anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. With iconic songs, symphonic performances and modern visual effects, the event honored the Party, President Ho Chi Minh and the nation. Leading artists and orchestras were featured to create a memorable tribute.
Vietnam's agricultural exports hit $62.5 billion
Vietnam's agricultural exports reached $62.5 billion in 2024, up 18.5% from 2023. Despite the growth, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan warns of production constraints and urges value-added strategies such as circular agriculture. Major exports - coffee, rice, cashew nuts and fruit - are thriving, and farmers are reaping high profits. He advocates deeper market integration and international cooperation to sustain long-term expansion.
Vietnam's tourism recovers fastest in Southeast Asia
Vietnam's tourism recovery rate reached 98% of pre-pandemic levels in 2024, the highest in Southeast Asia, ahead of Thailand (88%), Singapore (86%) and Indonesia. The country welcomed 17.6 million international visitors, ranking third in the region. Demand for sustainable tourism surged, with Danang, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City among the top eco-friendly destinations.
| International tourists explore Hanoi on a double-decker bus. Photo: Hoai Nam/ Economic and Urban newspaper |
Vietnam's aviation sector handles 3.6 million passengers on Tet
Vietnam's aviation sector carried a total of 3.6 million passengers, up 16% year-on-year. Tan Son Nhat Airport processed 1.38 million passengers, up 7.6%, while Noi Bai and Danang airports recorded increases of 12% and 26% respectively. Airlines added 15 aircraft, increased night flights and optimized operations to meet demand. However, there were delays due to weather and airport congestion.
Vietnam spends $1 billion on Cambodia's raw cashew nuts
Vietnam has spent more than $1 billion to buy nearly all of Cambodia's raw cashew exports in 2024. Cambodia, now the world's second-largest producer of raw cashews, exported $1.15 billion worth of cashews, 90% of which went to Vietnam. This supply helped Vietnam maintain its top position in global cashew kernel exports, which reached a record $4.34 billion in 2024.
Vietnam's data center construction costs rank among the lowest in Asia
Vietnam's data center construction costs are among the lowest in Asia at $5.5-$8.4 million per megawatt, according to Cushman & Wakefield. This cost advantage, along with competitive land prices and strategic location, is positioning Vietnam as an emerging data hub. However, challenges remain in terms of power stability and regulations, although policy changes may attract more international operators.
Vietnam expands reforestation efforts to boost sustainability
Vietnam launched the 2025 Tree Planting Festival in central provinces to strengthen environmental protection and climate resilience. Quang Nam aims to plant more than 11.1 million trees, while Quang Tri and Quang Binh also expanded reforestation efforts. The festival supports the national One Billion Trees Program (2021-25) and promotes sustainable forestry and green growth.
