Vietnam news in brief - January 20

Prime Minister highlights Vietnamese culture at Prague’s Sapa Center

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visited the Vietnamese community at the Sapa Trade Center in Prague on January 19 during his official visit to the Czech Republic. Often referred to as a “mini Vietnam” in Europe, the 40-hectare center is home to over 1,000 businesses and hosts various cultural events. The Prime Minister praised the community’s contributions, emphasized the importance of preserving Vietnamese culture, and called for continued efforts in education and business expansion.

National Assembly Chairman commends contributions of overseas Vietnamese

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man extended a warm welcome to distinguished overseas Vietnamese attending the 2025 Homeland Spring program on January 19. The discussions focused on socio-economic achievements, key projects, and inclusive policies. He highlighted the vital role of overseas Vietnamese as bridges between Vietnam and the world, urging them to contribute further to the nation’s development, strengthen national unity, and advance education, science, and culture

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man shakes hands with overseas Vietnamese. Photo: Huy Hoang/ The Hanoi Times

Ninh Binh’s 2035 development plan unveiled

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha presented plans for Ninh Binh to become a centrally governed city by 2035 during the inauguration of Hoa Lu City on January 19. He stressed the importance of leveraging tourism, cultural heritage, and local strengths to transform Hoa Lu into a "Millennial Heritage City." Sustainable urban development, the preservation of Trang An’s UNESCO heritage, and balancing conservation with economic growth were highlighted as key priorities.

Vietnam’s rubber exports reach record $10.2 billion in 2024

Vietnam's rubber exports hit a record $10.2 billion in 2024, marking a 22% increase from $8.4 billion in 2023. Natural rubber exports rose to $3.4 billion, up 18.2% in value despite a 6.2% decline in volume. Key drivers included a 26% rise in average prices and strong demand from China. Projections for 2025 suggest a 10% growth, with exports expected to reach $11-11.2 billion.

Vietnam establishes national cybersecurity response alliance

Vietnam has launched the National Cybersecurity Incident Response Alliance under the Cybersecurity Law. The alliance brings together government agencies and private companies to address major cyber threats, ensuring legal compliance in evidence collection. Its goal is to enhance cybersecurity resilience and protect critical national information systems.

Vietnam-US reach agreement on anti-dumping duties for catfish fillets

Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade signed a bilateral agreement with the US on January 17 to resolve anti-dumping duties on Vietnamese catfish fillets, settling WTO dispute DS536. Vinh Hoan Corporation, the country’s leading exporter, is exempt from duties. This marks the second bilateral settlement following the 2016 shrimp case (DS429).

Homeland Spring 2025 strengthens Vietnamese unity in Europe

The “Homeland Spring 2025” program brought vibrant Tet celebrations to Vietnamese communities in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Ambassadors Ngo Huong Nam (Netherlands) and Nguyen Van Thao (Belgium and Luxembourg) highlighted Tet’s cultural significance and Vietnam’s achievements in 2024. The events featured traditional dishes, performances, and heartfelt connections, fostering unity among overseas Vietnamese and strengthening ties with local friends in Europe