Vietnam news in brief - May 17
Let's explore the latest information about Vietnam compiled by The Hanoi Times.
Vietnam allocates allowances for public employees
The National Assembly approved an amount of VND44 trillion ($1.76 billion) for an early retirement package following the apparatus restructuring. Meanwhile, Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang said the package needs an estimated VND59 trillion ($2.27 billion). In case the spending exceeds the approved amount, the government is allowed to use the central budget's wage reform reserves for the payment.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the second-day session on May 17. Photo: Nhat Bac/VGP.
Government intensifies fight against trade fraud
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued Directive 13/CT-TTg on May 17, ordering a crackdown on smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeiting from May 15 to June 15. The directive calls for tighter border checks, stronger market inspections, harsher penalties, public awareness campaigns, and better coordination among authorities to protect consumers and maintain Vietnam’s reputation of fair trade.
Vietnam allocates funds for public sector reform, tuition waivers
Amid administrative streamlining, the National Assembly approved $265 million for tuition waivers and related tasks in a resolution to update the state budget for 2025. The policymakers also requested that the government ensure at least 3% of the budget is allocated to science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, in line with the 2025 goal of making science a key driver of economic growth.
Photo exhibition on President Ho Chi Minh goes digital
The Nhan Dan newspaper is hosting a digital photo exhibition titled "Radiant Name of the Nation" in Hanoi from May 16-19 to celebrate President Ho Chi Minh’s 135th birthday anniversary (May 19, 1890-2025). The event blends technology with historical storytelling using QR codes, virtual museum tours, and music podcasts, highlighting the cultural and political significance of Ho Chi Minh’s legacy and bringing it closer to the public.
Vietnam and Germany boost agricultural ties
A delegation from Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture visited Germany from May 14 to 18 to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and strengthen agricultural trade cooperation. During the visit, a forum was held to connect Vietnamese and German agribusinesses and facilitate discussions about supply chains, market access, and joint ventures. The ministry signed six memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Erfurt’s vocational training center to promote sustainable agriculture, workforce development, and trade promotion. These agreements pave the way for deeper collaboration in the agri-food sectors.
Vietnam and China bolster tourism cooperation
Vietnam and China officially launched a cross-border tourism route between Cao Bang City, Vietnam, and Baise City, Guangxi, China, on May 16. This "two countries-two zones" cooperation model is an unprecedented initiative that aims to promote sustainable tourism, enhance cultural exchange, and strengthen tourism ties between Vietnam and China. This launch follows the successful opening of the Ban Gioc–Detian Waterfall scenic area in 2024.
Binh Duong launches two smart, eco-industrial parks
On May 17, Binh Duong Province broke ground on two new industrial parks: Cay Truong and Bau Bang Phase 2. The parks received a total investment of over US$280 million, positioning them as next-generation IPs. They will prioritize high-tech, eco-friendly industries and attract quality foreign direct investment (FDI) while promoting green development through rooftop solar, renewable energy integration, and net-zero emissions targets. These efforts are part of a comprehensive sustainable industrial ecosystem planned by Becamex IDC.
Vietnamese students win big at global science fair
Vietnamese students won two runner-up prizes, one third prize, three fourth prizes, and four special awards at the 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the US — their best performance ever at the event. Competing against 1,700 students from over 60 countries, the Vietnamese students' success highlights Vietnam’s growing presence in global science and technology, reflecting the country's commitment to innovation and international educational integration.
Devotees gather for major Buddhist ritual
On May 17, a Buddha relic procession drew thousands of monks, Buddhists, and visitors to Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province, northern Vietnam. During the Vesak 2025 celebrations, the Shakyamuni Buddha relic was ceremoniously carried from Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi to Tam Chuc Pagoda, emphasizing its significance as a prominent spiritual center in Vietnam.
The Tam Chuc Pagoda during the procession ceremony of the Shakyamuni Buddha relics. Photo: Anh Tuyet/Kinh te & Do thi Newspaper
Vietnamese students win big at global science fair
Vietnamese students won two runner-up prizes, one third prize, three fourth prizes, and four special awards at the 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the US - their best performance ever at the event. Competing against 1,700 students from over 60 countries, the Vietnamese students' success highlights Vietnam’s growing presence in global science and technology, reflecting the country's commitment to innovation and international educational integration.
