Vietnam news in brief - June 14

Vietnam passes law to boost tech industry

Vietnam became the first country in the world to pass a Law on Digital Technology Industry. The law, ratified on June 14, aims to support domestic technology firms, encourage international integration, and improve Vietnam’s global standing. It establishes legal frameworks for artificial intelligence (AI) and digital assets, creates overseas tech networks, and provides incentives to attract foreign experts and global partnerships.

Embassy confirms safety of Vietnamese in Israel

Vietnamese people in Israel are safe following Iran’s missile attacks on June 13 and 14, according to the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel. Though no casualties have been reported, one Vietnamese family near Tel Aviv was slightly affected. The embassy has issued emergency hotlines for and continues to monitor the situation: +972-55-502-5616, +972-52-727-4248, and +972-50-878-3373.

AI tool enhances public legal access

Developed by LuatVietnam.vn, Vietnam’s AI-powered legal assistant, fielded over 28,000 questions within 10 days of launching on the National Legal Portal on May 31. The tool processes over 300 legal documents daily and covers 31 legal fields. With an 83.25% positive feedback rating, the tool promotes legal transparency and digital transformation by improving public and international access to accurate Vietnamese legal information.

Japanese and Korean filmmakers join jury at DANAFF III

Renowned Korean director Jang Joon-hwan and Japanese producer Shozo Ichiyama will serve on the Asian Film Competition jury at DANAFF III, the 3rd Danang Asian Film Festival, which will be held from June 29 to July 5. The festival, organized by the Vietnam Association for the Promotion and Development of Cinema, celebrates Asian cinema and spotlights new talent through screenings, panels, and competitions.

Vietnam aims to win 80-100 gold medals at the 33rd SEA Games.

Vietnam aims to win 80 to 100 gold medals and finish in the top three at the 33rd SEA Games, which will be held in Thailand from December 9 to 20. Around 1,000 Vietnamese athletes will compete in 45 sports. They are targeting top spots in athletics, karate, and wrestling while seeking to improve their performance in boxing, cycling, swimming, shooting, and fencing.

Vietnam’s phone exports rise after US tariff break

From January to May, Vietnam exported $22.4 billion worth of phones and components, with the US accounting for over $4.4 billion. Currently, Vietnam ranks second globally in smartphone exports and is attracting significant foreign direct investment (FDI) from Apple partners. The country aims to reach $140-$145 billion in electronics exports this year.

Cashless payments in Vietnam grow through partnerships

With 5.5 billion transactions in Q1, Vietnam is advancing in cashless payments, nearly catching up to Thailand and India. Mastercard and Visa have praised Vietnam’s open digital economy and its growing cross-border capabilities. Strategic partnerships, such as the collaboration between Mastercard and NAPAS, as well as Visa’s support for smart transit, enhance convenience and security.

Vietnamese pageants to promote culture and global image

Vietnam will this month host three major beauty pageants: Miss Cosmo Vietnam on June 21, Miss Vietnam on June 27, and Miss Earth Vietnam on June 28. These national events spot local talent and promote Vietnam’s culture, values, and international image. Winners are expected to represent the country at prestigious global competitions.

Vietnam faces more storms this year

The country is predicted to see 11-13 storms or tropical depressions in the East Sea by the end of 2025, with 5-6 of them likely to make landfall. Heavy rains and flash floods are becoming more common, prompting disaster preparedness efforts. Storm Wutip, the year’s first, weakened after approaching China’s Leizhou Peninsula, yet it still caused strong winds and rain in central coastal Vietnam.