Vietnam news in brief - March 15

Italian firms see Vietnam as high-potential growth market

Italian businesses see Vietnam as a key market with strong growth potential, particularly in trade and tourism. Vietnam is now Italy's largest trading partner in ASEAN, with bilateral trade reaching US$6.9 billion in 2024, up 13.1% from the previous year. The opportunities were highlighted during the "Meet Asia" conference in Rome on March 14, which brought together over 120 delegates to discuss trade, culture, and tourism.

Vietnam, US expand cooperation with multibillion deals

Vietnamese and US companies signed cooperation agreements worth $4.15 billion during Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien's visit to the US. These include LNG supply agreements between PVGas and ConocoPhillips, and a sustainable aviation fuel feasibility study by BSR and KBR. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached nearly $150 billion in 2024, with the US being Vietnam's second largest trading partner.

Vietnam accelerates infrastructure development

Work on the Cho Moi - Bac Kan Expressway officially began on March 15. With a budget of over $230 million, the 28.8 km, four-lane expressway is set for completion by 2026. The project aims to enhance regional connectivity by linking Bac Kan with Hanoi and Haiphong Port, boosting economic growth in the region.

Tan Son Nhat Airport's T3 terminal set to open on April 30

Tan Son Nhat International Airport's Terminal T3, with a capacity of 20 million passengers per year, will open on April 30. About 80% of the flights served by the new terminal will be domestic, reducing congestion at Terminal T1. Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air will conduct trial flights from the terminal.

Danang to host Food Tour Festival 2025

The Danang Food Tour Festival 2025 will take place from March 28 to April 1, celebrating the 95th anniversary of the city’s Party Committee (March 28, 1930-2025) and the 50th anniversary of Liberation Day (March 29, 1975-2025). The event will feature over 200 local and international dishes, with food booths, art performances, and immersive culinary tours. Competitions for professional chefs and tourists will also be held to promote local cuisine and tourism.

Vietnam reaches quarterfinals of World Team Three-cushion Billiards

Vietnamese champion duo Tran Quyet Chien and Bao Phuong Vinh defeated nine-time champion team from Sweden to earn a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 World Team Cushion Billiards Championships along with Belgium. The tournament in Viersen, Germany, features 16 top teams. After winning the 2024 championship, Vietnam is considered a strong contender for the title along with Belgium, Turkey, South Korea, and Sweden.