Vietnam news in brief - January 14

President visits Phu Quoc Island to commend armed forces

President Luong Cuong visited Phu Quoc Island in the southern province of Kien Giang on January 14 to commend the armed forces for safeguarding maritime sovereignty and maintaining security. He called for increased combat readiness, stronger efforts to prevent crime, and support for the maritime economy, while stressing the need to ensure a warm Lunar New Year for all.

President Luong Cuong and other delegates in Phu Quoc. Photo: Tran Manh/VGP

Prime Minister orders government streamlining for efficiency

On January 13, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired the 10th meeting of the Government Steering Committee on Streamlining the Organizational Structure. The meeting reviewed progress in implementing the government's decision to reduce the number of government agencies to 22, eliminating more than 4,250 subordinate units. The goal is to ensure efficiency, avoid overlapping responsibilities, and improve public service while maintaining key functions and optimizing personnel quality.

Deputy PM Nguyen Hoa Binh attends "Tet Reunion 2025" in Quang Ngai

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh attended the "Tet Reunion - Spring of Gratitude 2025" program in the central province of Quang Ngai on January 14, giving New Year gifts to families and workers. He praised social welfare efforts and encouraged further development while visiting businesses and families of war veterans.

Aviation sector boosts capacity for rising Lunar New Year travel

Vietnam's aviation sector has added more than 500 domestic flights, representing 133,000 seats, for the Lunar New Year or Tet holiday. So far, tickets from Ho Chi Minh City to central and highland provinces have sold out quickly, and authorities plan to increase flights, especially at night. 

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha urges unified action against IUU fishing

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on January 14 chaired the 12th meeting of the National Steering Committee on Combating IUU Fishing with a request given to unified management, severe penalties for offenders, and proactive prevention of IUU activities. Authorities aim to complete integrated data systems, improve vessel monitoring, and streamline law enforcement by Q1/2025 to improve compliance with international regulations and protect marine resources.

Journalists praised for projecting Vietnam's image worldwide

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son praised Vietnamese journalists for their dedication at a Lunar New Year gathering today [January 14]. He stressed their contribution to promoting Vietnam's foreign policy and fostering global connections and urged further development of this important work.

Wood exports estimated to reach $18 billion in 2025

Vietnam hopes to earn more than $18 billion from the export of wood products in 2025, an increase of 10.8% from 2024. Key strategies include trade promotion and sustainable production practices. In 2024, exports grew 20.3% year-on-year, driven by recovering demand in key markets such as the US.

Bac Ninh to lead Vietnam in FDI with US$5.12 billion in 2024

The northern province of Bac Ninh led Vietnam in foreign investment in 2024, with US$5.12 billion going to areas like high-tech and clean industries. The province is driving growth through industrial zones, international cooperation, and support for large enterprises, aiming for sustainability and innovation.

Khanh Hoa targets $2.5 billion from tourism in 2025

The southern province of Khanh Hoa expects to earn $2.5 billion from tourism, up 13.6% year-on-year. Khanh Hoa, which is home to Nha Trang and Cam Ranh, is one of the Asia-Pacific region's top destinations for post-pandemic recovery, according to ForwardKeys.

Tourists relaxing in the cool, clear waters of Khanh Hoa. Photo: Trung Nhan/The Hanoi Times

VinFuture Prize launches 2025 season with expanded global nominations

The VinFuture Prize has officially launched its 2025 season, accepting nominations until April 17. After four years, the number of nominations has tripled, reaching 1,469 in 2024. The prize highlights groundbreaking global scientific innovations, with past winners going on to win prestigious awards such as the Nobel Prize.

Vietjet receives global recognition for safety and operational reliability

Vietjet has been ranked among the top 10 safest low-cost airlines in the world for 2025 by AirlineRatings, which evaluated more than 385 airlines worldwide, including prominent names such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Frontier. The airline has maintained a 7/7 safety rating since 2018. Operating a young Airbus fleet with 99.7% reliability, Vietjet continues to expand globally with 115 aircraft and over 170 routes.