Vietnam news in brief - February 5

Vietnam pushes for US$67bn high-speed rail investment

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has urged the speeding up of investment procedures for the 1,541km North-South High-Speed Rail Project, with a total investment of US$67 billion. The project includes 23 passenger stations, 5 freight stations and trains designed to travel at 350 km/h. The National Assembly has mandated a feasibility study report in 2025, with the aim of completing the project by 2035.

Government strengthens leadership framework and sets goals for 2025

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired the first meeting of the Party Committee for the 2020-2025 term on February 5. The meeting focused on establishing leadership guidelines, assigning responsibilities, and setting the 2025 agenda, including goals for economic growth, digital transformation, and administrative efficiency. Delegates also discussed the implementation of the government's scientific and technological innovation plan.

Vietnam expands measles vaccination to protect high-risk groups

Vietnam plans to expand its measles vaccination campaign, based on risk assessments and recommendations from the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology and the Pasteur Institute. Phase 2 targets children aged 1-10 years in 17 provinces (including Thai Binh, Bac Giang and others), and includes a supplementary campaign for infants aged 6-9 months. This strategy follows epidemiological evolution and advice from the Ministry of Health. Previously, the Ministry of Health launched a measles vaccination initiative in 31 provinces in August 2024.

A doctor at Ho Chi Minh City's Children's Hospital 1 treats a child with measles. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

Vietnam's coreign investment  reaches US$4.3 billion in January

Vietnam attracted over US$4.3 billion in registered FDI in January, up 48.6% year-on-year, and disbursed capital rose 2% to US$1.51 billion. Manufacturing led the way with US$3.09 billion, followed by real estate with US$1.09 billion. South Korea headed the list of investors with US$1.25 billion. Bac Ninh attracted the most FDI with US$1.39 billion.

Authorities tighten control over trade fraud

Hanoi authorities handled 2,775 cases of smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeit goods in January, imposing 2,567 punishments, including 71 criminal cases. Fines and taxes collected totalled VND166 billion (US$6.8 million). Since the beginning of the year, the authorities have stepped up inspections of high-demand goods and online trading.

Vietnam's exports to India  reach US$9 billion in 2024

Vietnam's exports to India in 2024 increased by 8% year-on-year to US$9 billion. Phones and components were in the lead at US$1.7 billion, up 18% from 2023. Electronics followed at US$1.5 billion, up 16% year-on-year.

Eight Vietnamese students reach final of International Chemistry Project Olympiad

Eight Vietnamese students made it to the finals of the International Chemistry Project Olympiad in Russia. Among them, Tran Tuan Thanh, a 10th grade chemistry student, won gold. This is Vietnam's second participation. It won gold and bronze in last year's edition.