Vietnam news in brief - July 3

Google launches AI video tool in Vietnam

Google launched its advanced AI video model, Veo 3, in Vietnam on July 3 as part of the Gemini ecosystem. Veo 3 can transform text or images into realistic videos with sound. Included in the Google AI Pro plan, it marks Google’s continued expansion in Southeast Asia and comes with safeguards like visible watermarks and hidden SynthID tags.

Vietnam’s farm exports hit US$33.8 billion in H1

Vietnam earned $33.8 billion from agro-forestry-fishery exports in the first half of the year, which is a 15.5% increase from last year. The US became the top importer, accounting for 21%, up 16%. Meanwhile, exports to Japan rose 25% and exports to China fell 0.7%. Vietnam has also been working to diversify its export markets and balance its trade relations with the US and China.

Vietnam joins global plastic reduction campaign

On July 3, Vietnam launched its 2025 "No Plastic Bag Day" campaign, supported by Unilever Vietnam, Pacific Environment, and major retailers such as AEON, LOTTE Mart, and MM Mega Market. The campaign promotes green shopping, waste sorting, and circular economy practices. It aligns with global efforts to reduce single-use plastics and encourage sustainable consumer behaviors.

Top 3 firms lead Forbes Vietnam 2025 ranking

Petrolimex, Hoa Phat Group, and Mobile World were named the top three listed companies in 2025 by Forbes Vietnam. Vietnam Gas (PV GAS) ranked 4th with $4.3 billion in revenue. The list reflects the firms' strong performance since the pandemic, with the total revenue of the 50 firms reaching nearly $63 billion, up 21% from last year.

Tetra Pak inaugurates aseptic packaging plant

Swedish firm Tetra Pak has invested $104 million in the second phase of its aseptic packaging plant in Ho Chi Minh City to increase the plant's capacity to over 30 billion packs per year, serving Vietnam and regional markets. More than 55% of the production will meet domestic demand. These investments reflect strong confidence in Vietnam’s investment environment and support green growth and waste management strategies.

Cruise tourism sees strong growth in Vietnam

Vietnam welcomed 175,400 cruise passengers in the first half of 2025, an 8% year-on-year increase. With its 3,260-kilometer coastline, strategic location on major regional shipping routes, the country is stepping up its efforts to become Asia’s cruise hub.

Anker recalls power banks in Vietnam

Anker Innovations is recalling over 30,900 power banks in Vietnam due to faulty electrode welding that may cause overheating. The recall includes models A1681, A1689, A1257, and A1647. Affected customers can receive free replacements or vouchers. Anker will cover all costs. The recall is in effect from June 27 until completion. Consumers can check product codes on Anker’s website and contact customer service for return instructions.