Vietnam news in brief - November 25
Read about the latest developments around Vietnam in the Hanoi Times' News in Brief.
Hue begins reconstruction of historic Can Chanh Palace
The Hue Monuments Conservation Center began the reconstruction of Can Chanh Palace, the workplace of Nguyen dynasty emperors and their cabinet, last weekend. The project, estimated at nearly VND200 billion ($8.5 million) and expected to be completed in four years, will be based on archaeological findings and historical documents. Built in 1804, Can Chanh Palace was a venue for imperial meetings and administrative work during the Nguyen dynasty.
Vietnam's rice exports exceed 2023 figures with strong growth
Vietnam's rice exports reached eight million tons worth US$5.05 billion by November 15, 2024, surpassing the 7.1 million tons worth US$3.95 billion exported in all of 2023. With about 293,500 tons shipped in early November, prices for some Mekong Delta varieties rose. Vietnamese 5% broken rice traded at $522/tonne, higher than last week's $515-$520, maintaining its competitiveness in Asia.
Haiphong allocates US$16.5 million for digital transformation in 2024
The northern port city of Haiphong has launched 81 digital transformation initiatives in 2024, with a budget of VND400 billion (approximately US$16.5 million), according to Hoang Minh Cuong, Deputy Chairman of the city's People's Committee. The city has developed a shared data repository with nearly 2,000 data fields and more than 437,000 dossiers. It has integrated 1,580 online public services into the national portal, about 81.51% of the total, and more than 90% of applications are fully processed online.
Indonesia-Vietnam Week 2024 opens in Binh Duong province
The Indonesia-Vietnam Week 2024 was officially launched in the southern province of Binh Duong on November 24. The event celebrates the upcoming 70th anniversary of Vietnam-Indonesia diplomatic relations (1955-2025), with activities such as culinary exchanges, product showcases, and cultural performances from both nations.
| Art performances by artists from Indonesia. Photo: Baobinhduong.vn |
Digital transformation boosts Hoi An's craft villages
Hoi An's "Craft Villages Go Digital" project has won the prestigious Kotler Awards 2024 in the "Impactful Digital & Inno-tech" category. The initiative highlights efforts to digitize traditional craft villages, such as Tra Que Vegetable Village, to increase product value and market reach. The award, which recognizes global marketing innovation, supports Hoi An's goals of cultural preservation, sustainable creativity, and global integration.
Vietnamese teams strengthen community ties through soccer in Japan
The FAVIJA Champions Cup 2024, held in Saitama on November 24, brought together 32 Vietnamese teams from across Japan to promote sportsmanship and community ties. FC T-Connect Binh Dinh was crowned champion of the event. The tournament also fostered ties between the Vietnamese and Japanese communities through a shared passion for football.
Vietnam named Asia’s Best Golf Destination 2024
Vietnam has been voted "Asia’s Best Golf Destination 2024" for the 8th consecutive year by the World Golf Awards. With nearly 100 golf courses, 32 of which meet the international 5-star standard, Vietnam boasts stunning scenery, a favorable climate and modern infrastructure. Hanoi was also honored as the "World's Best Golf City Destination 2024", reaffirming the country's position on the global golf map.
Charity sports event promotes inclusion and supports accessibility
Nearly 2,000 athletes participated in the “Inclusive Steps 2024” charity sports event at Song Hau Park in the southern city of Cantho on November 24. The event aimed to promote sports for health and community integration, especially for participants with disabilities. Funds raised will support the construction of 10 accessible toilets for members.
| Athletes with disabilities participate in the race. Photo: Baocantho.com.vn |
Vietnamese universities achieve high rankings in interdisciplinary science
Vietnam has two universities in the inaugural Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025. Ton Duc Thang University ranked 95th with a score of 56.5/100, and Duy Tan University ranked 176th with a score of 47.4/100. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) topped the list of 749 institutions worldwide. This is the highest global interdisciplinary ranking ever achieved by Vietnamese universities.
