Vietnam news in brief - March 12
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Highlights of General Secretary To Lam in Singapore visit
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, To Lam, on March 12 laid flowers at the Asian Civilizations Museum in honor of President Ho Chi Minh, paying tribute to his legacy and reinforcing the strong ties between Vietnam and Singapore. The day before, on March 11, Lam engaged with Vietnamese intellectuals in Singapore, discussing key topics such as technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and digital transformation. He emphasized the role of innovation in driving Vietnam’s economic growth and urged the intellectual community to contribute to the nation's progress.
New direct flight enhances Vietnam-Singapore connectivity
The Singapore-Phu Quoc direct flight was announced on March 11 with the attendance of General Secretary To Lam. Set to launch on May 30, the route will operate with four weekly flights and is expected to strengthen both tourism and economic ties between the two regions. Vietnamese Vietjet Air signed a $300 million aircraft financing agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners and a supply agreement with Satair to expand its Airbus fleet.
Another Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park launched
The Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) II project Quang Ngai costing US$161 million was kicked off on March 12. The 498-hectare project aims to develop a smart, sustainable industrial park. Officials urged Singapore's Sembcorp and Vietnam's Becamex to ensure timely completion, integrate innovation, and support local workers.
The groundbreaking ceremony of VSIP II Quang Ngai project on March 12 with the attendance of National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man and Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh. Photo: Dinh Hai/VGP
World Bank forecasts Vietnam’s GDP growth for 2025
The World Bank (WB) has released economic projections for Vietnam with GDP expected to grow by 6.8% in 2025 and remain stable at 6.5% from 2026. FDI inflows are expected to remain stable in the short term, but public investment should be strengthened, especially in urban infrastructure, transportation, and energy. Vietnam can mitigate the impact of global economic fluctuations through growth-supporting fiscal policies.
Major agricultural exhibitions to take place in HCMC
Ho Chi Minh City will host two horticulture and agriculture exhibitions. HortEx Vietnam 2025 opens on March 12, attracting both domestic and international companies. More than 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the event, which will offer product showcases and networking opportunities to help companies access advanced technologies and expand markets. At the same time, AGRITECHNICA ASIA 2025 will be held on March 12-14, focusing on sustainable agricultural products, processes and farming models.
Vietnamese airlines explore direct flights to three European countries
Vietnamese airlines are studying new direct routes to Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland following the government's 2025 visa waiver program. Airlines are developing travel packages, simplifying entry procedures, and offering promotions to attract more visitors.
The elephants are attending a buffet party at the Buon Don Elephant Festival 2025. Photo baodaklak.vn
Dak Lak holds festival honoring elephants
The Buon Don Elephant Festival 2025 kicked off on March 12 in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the liberation (March 10, 1975 - March 10, 2025) and the 9th Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival. The event will feature various activities such as elephant health rituals, elephant decorations, and an elephant buffet party to honor the cultural and economic role they play.
