Vietnam news in brief - January 5

Government boosts financial support for high-tech projects

Vietnamese Government is expanding financial support for semiconductor and AI companies through the Investment Support Fund under a new decree that came into effect on December 31, 2024. Eligible high-tech projects, including R&D centers and chip manufacturing, can receive up to 50% initial investment funding or annual financial support. The decree aims to boost domestic competitiveness and foster innovation in key sectors such as semiconductors, AI and advanced manufacturing.

Vietnamese Embassy launches competitions to celebrate diplomatic ties

The Embassy of Vietnam in Sri Lanka has launched competitions on bilateral relations and logo design to celebrate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Sri Lanka (1970-2025). Running from January to June, the competitions aim to promote cultural understanding and youth engagement. The winning logo will be used in events to mark the milestone.

Businesses resume operations, signalling optimism for recovery

Some 8,843 businesses resumed operations nationwide in December, an increase of 14.8% and above the annual average. In 2024, a total of 76,179 businesses resumed operations, averaging 6,348 per month. Along with new registrations, 233,419 enterprises entered the market, reflecting optimism for 2025 despite ongoing challenges. This growth indicates that government measures are effectively supporting business recovery and expansion.

Vietnam ranked 4th most affordable honeymoon destination

Vietnam ranks 4th among the world's most affordable honeymoon destinations, according to Travel + Leisure magazine. Highlights include Sapa's Muong Hoa Valley and Fansipan, and Hanoi's vibrant culinary scene with pho (rice noodles with beef or chicken) and banh mi (bread). The magazine also named Vietnam the "Best Destination for Foodies". Mexico topped the list for its beaches, cultural sites and affordable resorts.

Pho - a famous traditional dish of Vietnam. Photo: Duy Khanh/ Economic and Urban Newspaper

Airlines adjust schedules as Tet demand soars

Many of Vietnam's airlines have increased flights for Tet 2025, as many routes are fully booked and ticket prices are rising daily. Popular routes from Ho Chi Minh City to northern and central provinces and cities are reported high prices, averaging $120 (excluding fees), and some flights are sold out. In response, Vietnam's Authority of Civil Aviation is planning to increase the number of flights and extend airport operating hours to cope with rising passenger traffic.

Poor households in Quang Binh receive housing assistance

The central province of Quang Binh has helped 1,553 poor and near-poor households to get rid of temporary and dilapidated housing as part of a 2025 campaign. The plan includes building 826 new houses with support of $2,500 each and repairing 727 houses with funding of $1,250. This initiative reflects social solidarity and aims to complete solid houses by September 2025 so that they are safe during storm seasons.

Vietnam faces crucial AFF Cup final in Thailand

The second leg final of the AFF Cup 2024 between Thailand and Vietnam kicks off today (January 5) at 8pm (Vietnam time) at the Rajamangala Stadium. Vietnam holds a slight advantage after a 2-1 home win, but facing a tough challenge in Thailand. Fans can watch the decisive match live on VTV2 and VTV Cantho.

Xuan Son's precise finish doubles Vietnam's lead to 2-0 - Photo: Hoang Tung/Tuoitre.vn

Women's futsal team achieves historic global recognition

Vietnam's women's futsal team has been ranked by Futsalplanet as one of the top 10 national futsal teams of 2024, after an impressive year that saw them win the Southeast Asia and Thailand International tournaments, as well as a silver medal in China. This is the first time a Vietnamese futsal team has achieved this honor. The final results will be announced in February 2025.