Vietnam news in brief - May 23

National mourning in Cuba for former President Tran Duc Luong

Cuba will hold a national mourning from 6 a.m. on May 24 to midnight on May 25 for former Vietnamese President Trần Đức Lương. President Miguel Díaz-Canel ordered flags flown at half-mast to honor Lương’s role in Vietnam’s renewal and in strengthening Vietnam–Cuba ties.

Hungarian president to visit Vietnam

At the invitation of President Luong Cuong, Hungarian President Sulyok Tamas and his spouse will officially visit Vietnam from May 27 to 29. This will be Sulyok's first visit to Vietnam, which coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Hungary was one of the first countries to formally recognize Vietnam, and the two countries elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership in 2018.

Vietnam - Russia Friendship Association celebrates 75th anniversary

The Vietnam-Russia Friendship Association celebrated its 75th anniversary in Hanoi on May 23, emphasizing its important role in strengthening relations between the two countries. At the event, Chairman Do Van Chien called for broader partnerships and greater youth involvement. The association now has 50 branches nationwide and includes members who have studied, worked, or lived in Russia or the former Soviet Union, as well as individuals who appreciate Russian culture and people.

UK proposes ending Vietnam's exemption from steel safeguards

The UK’s Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has proposed removing Vietnam from its steel safeguard exemption list, as import shares exceeded 3% in 2024. This change could impact Vietnam’s steel exports, especially hot-rolled and organically coated steel. The TRA invites stakeholders to submit comments on its final report via the Trade Remedies Service or by email by 11:59 PM (UK time) on May 26.

Vietnam repatriates remains of 23 martyrs from Cambodia

The Central Highlands province of Gia Lai on May 23 held a memorial and burial ceremony for 23 Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who died in Cambodia and were repatriated by Team K52. Since 2001, over 1,500 fallen Vietnamese soldiers have been recovered and returned home. On May 20, 76 remains of Vietnamese soldiers and experts who died in Laos were repatriated and buried in Nghe An Province.

Vietnam’s income rises 9.1% in 2024

Vietnam’s average monthly income rose 9.1% to approximately $230 in 2024. Binh Duong had the highest average income at around $380, followed by Hanoi at $320. Other localities with average incomes above $290 were Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Haiphong. In contrast, the average income in northern mountainous provinces remained below $130. Hanoi had the highest living costs, followed by Quang Ninh.

Telegram to be banned in Vietnam over legal violations

Citing signs of legal violations, Vietnam has ordered telecom providers to block Telegram by June 2. According to authorities, 68% of Telegram's 9,600 Vietnamese channels contain harmful content, including scams, drug trafficking, and anti-state propaganda. Telegram has been accused of failing to comply with Vietnamese laws on cross-border services and internet safety regulations.

Binh Dinh approves $68.6 million for Phu Cat Airport upgrade

The central province of Binh Dinh has approved $68.6 million for upgrades to Phu Cat Airport, including $7.86 million allocated for 2025. The $127.5 million upgrade includes building a second runway and supporting infrastructure. The Finance Ministry plans to contribute $58.9 million from the central budget.

Ho Chi Minh City to have 400,000 electric motorbikes by 2026

Ho Chi Minh City plans to replace 400,000 gasoline-powered motorcycles used by ride-hailing and delivery drivers with electric motorcycles starting in January 2026. The city aims for 80% replacement within two years and a full transition by 2031. This shift, part of its Green Transition Program, aims to reduce emissions and operating costs while promoting sustainable urban transport.