Vietnam news in brief - May 5

Sri Lankan President visits Ho Chi Minh Relic Site

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka on May 5 visited the Ho Chi Minh Relic Site in Hanoi, where Vietnamese President Luong Cuong presented his counterpart with a Ho Chi Minh Badge, demonstrating shared values and enduring cultural and political ties between the two countries.

Vietnam to open trade talks with US

Vietnam will begin its first round of trade negotiations with the US on May 7 to ensure fair trade and protect Vietnam's interests amid new US tariff measures. In the first quarter, Vietnam's exports to the US rose 22% to $31.4 billion, while imports reached $4.1 billion, up 21%.

Vietnam hosts regional workshop on maritime dispute resolution

Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) are co-hosting a regional workshop in Hanoi from May 5–6, focused on ITLOS’s role in resolving maritime disputes under the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The event, comprising three sessions, highlights Vietnam’s strategic maritime position and its strong support for peaceful dispute resolution through international law.

Vietnam displays 87 Buddhist treasures at Vesak 2025

For the first time, 87 Vietnamese national Buddhist treasures are on public display at the Vietnam Buddhist Culture Exhibition, as part of the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025 taking place in Ho Chi Minh City on May 6-8. Artifacts such as statues, bas-reliefs, and ancient scriptures highlight the historical role of Buddhism under the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties (from 1009 to 1945). 

Haiphong seaport handles over 29.3 million tons of cargo

The northern coast city of Haiphong's seaport system handled over 29.3 million tons of cargo from January to April, up 10% year-on-year. Growth was driven by the expansion of the Lach Huyen terminals and rising inland waterway volumes. Haiphong Port JSC's profit after tax increased by 81% to US$6.34 million. Long-term prospects remain strong as planned rail links and industrial zone development enhance connectivity.

Tourism booms in Quang Ninh and Haiphong with 1.88 million visitors

The northern coastal province of Quang Ninh and its neighboring city of Haiphong welcomed a combined 1.88 million visitors during the April 30-May 1 holiday, up 96.6% year-on-year. Quang Ninh received over 1.1 million tourists, up 112%, while Haiphong attracted 780,000, up 39.28%. The strong growth highlights the rising appeal of both destinations, boosted by major cultural events such as Ha Long Carnival 2025 and Do Son Tourism Festival.

VEC proposes tolls for Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway

The Vietnam Expressway Corporation (VEC) has proposed tolls of US$0.084 per kilometer for the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway when it is completed in 2026. The 58-kilometer route will connect Ho Chi Minh City, Long An, and Dong Nai, improving regional connectivity. Toll revenues will support the repayment of ODA loans and ensure the financial sustainability of VEC's expressway operations.

Vietjet reports strong Q1/2025 revenue growth

In Q1/2025, Vietjet reported revenue of US$716.8 million and pre-tax profit of US$32.8 million, up 25% and 24%, respectively. Through efforts such as expanding international routes and signing aircraft purchase agreements, Vietjet surpassed its business targets and won many global awards, including the title of "World's Best Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier 2025" by AirlineRatings.