Vietnam news in brief - June 18 

Ho Chi Minh City aims for global mega-urban status

Ho Chi Minh City plans to build a multi-centered urban ecosystem that links areas such as Thu Thiem, Thu Duc, Di An, Ben Cat, and Ba Ria–Vung Tau, with the goal of establishing a value-driven regional hub. Ho Chi Minh City ranked high in governance, digital transformation, and quality of life, leading the nation in reform and human development indexes in 2024.

Vietnam-US to boost soybean trade partnership

Vietnam ranks 13th globally in soybean consumption and is the largest importer of US soybeans in Southeast Asia. On June 18, the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) celebrated 30 years of partnership with Vietnam by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost trade in Ho Chi Minh City. In 2024, Vietnam imported 2.2 million tons of US soybeans, valued at nearly $1.1 billion.

Phu Quoc expects to attract billion-dollar investments

Since Phu Quoc Island will host the 2027 APEC summit, authorities in the southern province of Kien Giang are calling for investments in 40 projects worth over $8.9 billion. Major developments include an 18-hole golf course, a mixed-use ecotourism zone, airport expansion, and an APEC convention center. The summit is expected to boost infrastructure, tourism, and international investment in the island city of Vietnam.

VIMF 2025 showcases Vietnam’s industrial potential

The Vietnam Industrial and Manufacturing Fair (VIMF 2025) will take place from June 18 to 20 at the WTC EXPO in Binh Duong. The event will feature 500 companies from 20 countries and 600 booths, accelerating digitalization, renewable energy, and AI training. As many as 85% of companies have pledged to return for VIMF 2026.

Germany invests $50 million in Vietnam’s green workforce

The GEO Group of Germany and O-DOOR Vietnam will invest $50 million in a renewable energy training center in Binh Dinh, now part of a merged administrative unit with the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai. The center will feature wind turbine models, offshore simulation labs, and a hydrogen parts factory. It will support Vietnam’s goal of mastering green technologies.

Hoa Phat rises among Southeast Asia’s top 100 firms

The Hoa Phat Group ranks 62nd in Fortune’s 2025 Southeast Asia 500 list, up 14 places from last year. As Vietnam’s leading steel producer with export to 40 markets, the group generated $5.6 billion in revenue last year, up 17%. Steel remains its core business, driving both domestic dominance and regional expansion.

Tobacco giant achieves record revenue

Vinataba, Vietnam’s largest tobacco producer, made $1.12 billion revenues in 2024, up 18% from the previous year, the company’s highest revenue since it began publishing financial reports in 2015. Despite upcoming tax policy changes that may affect the tobacco industry from 2027 onward, the growth reflects strong domestic sales.

Art program celebrates press contributions

To mark the 100th anniversary of Vietnam Revolutionary Press Day (June 21, 1925–June 21, 2025), a special art performance will be hosted on June 20 at the Hanoi Opera House. Through music, dance, documentaries, and digital art, the program will honor the press’s historical role and contributions, promoting national pride and unity in Vietnam’s modern development journey.

Vietnamese volleyball team to participate in AVC

The men’s team began their AVC Nations Cup 2025 in Bahrain on June 18. Placed in Group D alongside South Korea and New Zealand, the team will face both opponents by June 19. This marks Vietnam’s third consecutive appearance in the tournament, following finishes of 4th in 2023 and 6th in 2024. These results reflect the team's steady international exposure and growth.