Vietnam news in brief - January 7
Read The Hanoi Times to find out what is happening in the country.
Vietnam and UNICEF tackle key challenges for vulnerable children
President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and UNICEF Vietnam’s Chief Representative Silvia Danailov held discussions on January 7 to strengthen their collaboration in addressing key challenges faced by vulnerable children. Their focus included areas such as digital transformation, climate change impacts, and child nutrition. Both parties aim to develop sustainable policies that align with Vietnam’s long-term goals, with UNICEF reaffirming its commitment to supporting the country's child-focused initiatives.
Vietnamese official awarded Italia's Order of Merit
Nguyen Phuong Hoa, Director General of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism’s International Cooperation Department, has been awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic for her efforts in enhancing cultural ties between Vietnam and Italy. Italian Ambassador Marco Della Seta emphasized that future collaboration will center on cultural, artistic, and heritage exchanges. The 2023-2026 Cultural Cooperation Program has already yielded key successes, including the Italian Youth Orchestra tour, Casa Italia's upgrade to the Italian Cultural Institute in Hanoi, and plans for a Vietnamese Cultural Center in Rome.
Vietnam-South Korea trade sees strong growth in 2024
Vietnam-South Korea bilateral trade reached $86.7 billion in 2024, a 9.2% increase from 2023. Vietnam is South Korea’s third-largest trade partner, following China and the US. Trade between the two countries grew by 9.3%, outperforming the US (6.9%) and China (1.9%). Semiconductor exports surged by 46.3%, highlighting Vietnam's key role in South Korea's trade diversification strategy.
Vietnam sees surge in international accommodation searches
Vietnam saw a 139% surge in international accommodation searches, with Chinese tourist demand jumping nearly 300% during Lunar New Year 2025. Phu Quoc led as the top destination, with a 266% increase, while South Korea and Taiwan (China) also experienced significant growth (94% and 123%, respectively). This trend highlights Vietnam’s rising appeal as it targets 22 million international visitors in 2025.
The cable car system on Phu Quoc Island is currently the longest in the world. |
IELTS exams transition to computer-based testing in Vietnam
IELTS exams in Vietnam will transition to computer-based testing, replacing paper-based exams from March 30. This shift aims to improve convenience and efficiency, offering flexible schedules and faster results within two days. Test-takers can retake individual skills, saving time and reducing costs. Candidates already registered for paper-based tests will be contacted to select alternate options, ensuring smooth preparation and support.
Vietnamese team pays tributes to Hung Kings after AFF Cup victory
The ASEAN Cup 2024 organizing committee and Phu Tho Province hosted an incense offering ceremony at the Hung Kings Temple on January 7 following Vietnam’s victory in the AFF Cup 2024. Coach Kim Sang-sik and player Do Duy Manh led the ceremony, expressing their gratitude in the golden book at the historic site.
Vietnam controls inflation as CPI increases by 3.63% in 2024
Vietnam’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 3.63% in 2024, aligning with the National Assembly’s target and effectively controlling inflation. The increase in rent, fuel prices, and healthcare service adjustments contributed to the 0.29% rise in December compared to the previous month. Despite these factors, inflation remained manageable thanks to proactive government measures
