Vietnam News in Brief - March 5

Vietnam helps Laos build UN peacekeeping force

A high-level delegation from the Lao People's Army is in Vietnam on March 4-6 to discuss defense cooperation, exchange views on global and military situations, and agree on cooperation in border security, training, logistics, and technology, as well as Vietnam's support for Laos in building a UN peacekeeping force.

Vietnam prepares to launch LOTUSat-1 satellite

Vietnam's LOTUSat-1 satellite is ready for launch following the completion of manufacturing and ground systems at Hoa Lac. LOTUSat-1, weighing 600 kg, features advanced radar technology for disaster relief, climate monitoring, and resource management. The project, funded by Japanese ODA, is an important step in Vietnam's space technology development and cooperation with Japan. Vietnam and Japan are working on a new launch schedule.

Vietnam expands shrimp exports

Vietnam's shrimp exports are reaching 107 markets, with China being the largest importer, accounting for almost half of Vietnam's seafood exports and nine times more than in 2024. Other important markets include the US, Japan, the EU, and South Korea. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development forecasts growth in emerging markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and South East Asia.

UNESCO Travel Fest 2025 to help businesses expand cooperation

UNESCO Travel Fest 2025 with the Business Matching - TableTop Networking program will be held on March 13-14 at the National Convention Center (Hanoi), bringing together delegates and tourism businesses from Vietnam and abroad. Around 800 members and many companies will attend to network, find partners, and expand strategic cooperation.

Vietnamese tourists prefer wellness vacations in 2025

Vietnamese tourists are increasingly focusing on wellness holidays, according to Booking.com's 2025 Travel Trends Report. As many as 77% want holidays that improve their longevity and 69% are willing to spend more. Six destinations have been selected for these criteria: Kim Boi in the northern province of Hoa Binh, Thanh Thuy in the northern province of Phu Tho, Quang Hanh in the northern province of Quang Ninh, Thanh Tan in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue, Dak Nong in the Central Highlands province of Dak Nong, and Binh Chau in the southern province of Ba Ria - Vung Tau.

Coffee exports reach $1.08 billion in February despite lower volume

Vietnam's coffee exports earned $1.08 billion in February with 193,031 tons shipped. Despite a 14.8% drop in volume, the value was up 50% due to rising global coffee prices. Germany, Italy, and Japan were the top buyers, while Algeria remains a promising market for Vietnamese coffee exports.

Cultural showcase set for National Tourism Year - Hue 2025 opening

Nearly 3,000 professional and amateur performers will take part in the opening ceremony of the National Tourism Year - Hue 2025 on March 25. Held on the Perfume River, the event will showcase Vietnam's six cultural regions, integrating water screens, visual mapping, and fireworks. The celebration coincides with the 50th anniversary of Hue's liberation and its first year as a sub-national city.

Yamaha Vietnam recalls nearly 160,000 motorcycles

Yamaha Vietnam announced on March 5 a recall of 159,320 motorcycles due to problems with engine number stamping, which affects the vehicle registration process. The free recall will run from March 4, 2025 to March 4, 2026 and covers 33 models manufactured between October 2021 and November 2024. Yamaha is also offering customers the opportunity to buy back vehicles with re-stamped engine numbers.

Ho Chi Minh City accelerates waste-to-energy transition with new plant

Ho Chi Minh City has kicked off work on Vietstar waste-to-energy plant, a $140 million project in Cu Chi District. The plant, which will process 2,000 tons of waste per day, will integrate composting and incineration to generate electricity. Expected to be completed in 2026, it will treat up to 50% of the city's waste with modern technology, supporting renewable energy and sustainability goals.