Vietnam news in brief - February 7

Vietnam strengthens trade ties with Grand Est

Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang called for strengthening bilateral trade by increasing Vietnam's exports of key products such as farm produce, seafood, textiles and footwear to France's Grand Est, while boosting imports of high-tech products and pharmaceuticals. During his visit to the Grand Est - a major administrative region of France established in 2016 - he also urged local businesses to invest in Vietnam, especially in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, renewable energy, and digital transformation, while expanding cooperation in education, innovation, and sustainable development.

Vietnam's trade turnover hits $63.15 billion in January

Vietnam's total trade turnover reached $63.15 billion in January, down 3.5% year-on-year. Seven export items each exceeded $1 billion, including electronics, computers, machinery, textiles, footwear, wood products, and transportation equipment.

Seafood exports climb to US$774 million in January, up 3.3% year-on-year

Vietnam's seafood exports reached $774 million in January, up 3.3% year-on-year, driven by strong shrimp exports, which rose 13% to $273 million. Exports to China and Hong Kong jumped 64.9%.

Hateco Haiphong welcomes first container carrier of the year

Hateco Haiphong International Container Terminal (HHIT), the most advanced deep-water port in northern Vietnam, welcomed the container ship ISL Dubai on February 7, marking its first of the year. HHIT features smart technologies such as automated gates, semi-automated berths and 5G networks. The city of Haiphong is home to the largest port system in the northern region and ranks 33rd in the world in terms of container throughput.

Thuan An Fishing Port officially opened

Thuan An Fishing Port in the central province of Thua Thien Hue was officially inaugurated on February 7. Covering 5.47 hectares of land and 13 hectares of water, it handles 20,000 tons per year and accommodates 500 vessels. Its operation supports the elimination of the yellow card for IUU fishing, improves fishing logistics in central Vietnam, and supports sustainable seafood harvesting and processing.

Vietnamese iced coffee ranks 8th among the world's best beverages

Vietnamese iced coffee has been ranked 8th among the world's best coffees, with a rating of 4.3/5, according to Taste Atlas. This iconic drink combines strong Vietnamese coffee, condensed milk and ice, traditionally brewed using a Phin filter with Robusta beans. A black version without milk is also popular.

Vietnamese love to drink iced coffee. Photo: Huy Hoang/The Hanoi Times

Vietnamese chef earns prestigious international culinary judging title

Doan Van Tuan, a professional chef working in Danang, home to world-class beaches, has been recognized by the World Association of Chefs' Societies (Worldchefs) as a Regional Judge for Hot Kitchen & Culinary Arts with a five-year certification. He is the first Vietnamese chef to obtain this title, marking a significant achievement for Vietnam's culinary industry and tourism development.

Yen Tu Spring Festival 2025 begins in Quang Ninh

The Yen Tu Spring Festival 2025 kicked off on February 7 in the northern province of Quang Ninh. The three-month festival features a grand palanquin procession, spiritual rituals such as drum beating, bell ringing and blessing ceremonies, and a variety of traditional cultural activities.

Many cultural activities are held during the Yen Tu Spring Festival. Photo: VGP