Vietnam news in brief - June 12

Leaders reaffirm Vietnam-Russia partnership

On the occasion of Russia Day (June 12), top Vietnamese leaders sent congratulatory messages to their Russian counterparts. Party General Secretary To Lam and President Luong Cuong congratulate President Vladimir Putin. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son also shared messages reaffirming the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Russia.

South Korea’s new president affirms Vietnam’s regional importance

President Luong Cuong and newly elected South Korean President, Lee Jae-myung, agreed on June 12 to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between their countries through high-level exchanges, as well as to expand cooperation in national defense, innovation, and high technology. The two countries will also work closely together in regional and global forums, as South Korea will host the APEC Summit in 2025 and Vietnam in 2027.

PM boosts meets Swedish firms

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Marcus Wallenberg, chairman of SEB, and other leaders of top Swedish corporations in Stockholm on June 12 to promote trade, investment, green growth, and digital transformation. Swedish firms expressing strong interest in expanding their presence in Vietnam. In 2024, Vietnam’s two-way trade with Sweden reached approximately $1.5 billion, up 15% from the previous year.

Vietnam’s broadband speed above global average

In May, Vietnam’s fixed broadband speed reached 176.68 Mbps, surpassing the global average of 101.37 Mbps. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi ranked 36th and 54th worldwide, respectively. According to the Vietnam Internet Network Information Center (VNNIC) and Ookla, this growth reflects the success of Vietnam’s digital infrastructure strategy under Resolution 57 and enhances the country's global ICT profile, attracting foreign investment.

Vietnam’s airlines brace for typhoon

From June 11-12, Vietnam’s carriers adjusted their flight schedules due to Typhoon Wutip, with Vietnam Airlines canceling 14 flights. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam ordered strict safety protocols, round-the-clock monitoring, and infrastructure checks at major airports to ensure safe operations and minimize disruption amid heavy rain and strong winds in central Vietnam.

AI projected to boost Vietnam’s GDP under the government’s plan

According to the report “Vietnam’s AI Economy 2025,” released on June 12 by the Vietnam National Innovation Center, Japan’s JICA, and BCG, AI could contribute $120-$130 billion to Vietnam’s GDP by 2040. To support responsible innovation and attract global investment, Vietnam is building a legal framework and has joined the Hiroshima AI Process.

FPT becomes Airbus's global strategic technology partner

At the Vietnam-France Business Forum in Paris, FPT Telecom and Airbus signed a Master Service Agreement (MSA), officially elevating their partnership. This agreement establishes FPT as a global strategic technology partner of Airbus and grants access to IT projects in critical areas such as customer service, big data, and cloud computing. It solidifies FPT's position as a leading technology provider to a world-renowned aerospace corporation.

Red Journey 2025 promotes blood donation and community solidarity

The southern province of Binh Phuoc has joined 48 cities and provinces in the Red Journey 2025 campaign on blood donation. The campaign runs from May 30 to July 30 to collect 100,000 blood units. Since its inception in 2013, the campaign has held 12 editions and collected nearly 940,000 blood units, promoting community connection through large-scale volunteerism.

Thai group SCGP fully acquires Vietnamese plastic giant

The Thai conglomerate SCGP acquired the remaining 30% of Duy Tan Plastics for $111 million to entirely hold the firm. This acquisition supports SCGP’s plan to expand rigid plastic packaging throughout the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), making Vietnam a priority market due to its strong economic growth and rising foreign direct investment (FDI). Recognized as a leading Vietnamese firm in sustainable and innovative packaging, Duy Tan earned US$211 million in revenue in 2023.

Vietnam AutoExpo 2025 attracts 200 domestic and international companies

The Vietnam AutoExpo 2025 is underway in Hanoi from June 12 to 14, featuring over 200 booths and nearly 200 exhibitors from the transportation and related industries. The event offers networking opportunities, product showcases, and technology demonstrations. It is expected to welcome 12,000 visitors and serve as a premier platform for driving growth in Vietnam’s vehicle and transport support industries.