Vietnam news in brief - March 18

Vietnam poised for growth, key EU sectors identified

Vietnam has great potential to become a dynamic and fast-growing economy, according to Jens Ruebbert, Chairman of the EU-ASEAN Business Council. He highlighted the government's openness to investment and ongoing reforms to enhance global trade integration. Key sectors for EU-Vietnam cooperation include green energy, high-tech industries and digital transformation, supported by trade agreements such as EVFTA.

Hanoi hosts major international food and hospitality exhibition

Food & Hospitality Hanoi 2025 is now running until 20 March at I.C.E, Hanoi, with over 180 exhibitors from more than 24 countries occupying 6,000 sqm and more than 7,200 trade visitors expected. The event showcases F&B, hospitality and bakery products, as well as competitions such as Hanoi Chef Talent and Vietnam Barista Championship. A highlight will be the Asia's Excellent Taste Awards 2025, Vietnam's first internationally recognized culinary awards.

Filum AI's $1m funding boosts Vietnam's AI sector

Vietnam's AI-powered CXM platform Filum AI has secured $1 million in funding from regional investors including Nextrans, VinVentures and TheVentures. Founded in 2020, Filum AI aims to enhance customer experience management with AI-powered solutions. The funding will support R&D expansion and market entry into Southeast Asia, reinforcing Vietnam's position as an emerging AI hub.

Panasonic Vietnam accelerates tree-planting efforts for sustainability

Panasonic Vietnam set a national record on March 18 as the fastest company to plant one million trees through its "Live Healthy, Contribute Green" program. Launched in 2022, the program supports Panasonic Green Impact and Vietnam's One Billion Tree Project. The milestone, which was achieved in the southwestern province of Bac Lieu, underscores Panasonic's commitment to sustainability and climate protection.

Vietnam's vaccine production gets boost from Pfizer-VNVC partnership

Pfizer Vietnam and VNVC signed a Memorandum of Understanding on March 18 in Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen vaccine manufacturing in Vietnam. Pfizer will provide expertise through knowledge sharing sessions, while VNVC aims to build a modern vaccine production facility. This partnership seeks to build local capacity, reduce reliance on imports, lower costs and increase access to vaccines for the Vietnamese people.

Vietnam increases seafood imports from Norway

Vietnam imported 72,078 tons of seafood from Norway in 2024, valued at $252 million, up 20% in value and 16% in volume from 2023. Salmon exports exceeded 24,000 tons, making Vietnam a top market in Southeast Asia. The Norwegian Seafood Council attributes this growth to strategic partnerships, marketing efforts, and increasing demand for high-quality, sustainable seafood.