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	<title>VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING &#8211; Plus One</title>
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	<title>VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING &#8211; Plus One</title>
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		<title>Lang Son Free Trade Zone: A Strategic Gateway for Logistics Growth</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/lang-son-free-trade-zone-a-strategic-gateway-for-logistics-growth/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Dec 2024 00:59:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://plusone.asia/?p=1451</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Lang Son, strategically positioned as a key trade hub at Vietnam’s northern border, is poised to benefit significantly from its proposed Free Trade Zone (FTZ). This initiative is set to transform Lang Son into a logistics powerhouse, driving economic growth and cross-border trade. 1. The Strategic Importance of Lang Son Lang Son’s geographical advantage—serving as]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lang Son, strategically positioned as a key trade hub at Vietnam’s northern border, is poised to benefit significantly from its proposed </span>Free Trade Zone (FTZ)<span style="font-weight: 400;">. This initiative is set to transform Lang Son into a logistics powerhouse, driving economic growth and cross-border trade.</span></p>
<h3><b>1. The Strategic Importance of Lang Son</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lang Son’s </span>geographical advantage<span style="font-weight: 400;">—serving as a gateway to China and ASEAN countries—offers immense potential for cross-border logistics and trade activities. With its well-established border gate economy, Lang Son is uniquely positioned to:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Enhance Trade Connectivity</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Leverage its proximity to China’s booming markets for export-import activities.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Develop Logistics Infrastructure</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Integrate advanced logistics services to improve supply chain efficiency.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Promote Economic Zones</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Strengthen industrial zones like the </span><b>Dong Dang Economic Zone</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, creating synergies with the FTZ [</span><a href="https://dantri.com.vn/kinh-doanh/khu-thuong-mai-tu-do-giai-phap-thuc-day-tang-truong-logistics-o-lang-son-20241203180646444.htm"><span style="font-weight: 400;">1</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">].</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>2. Lang Son’s Progress Toward the FTZ</b></h3>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Infrastructure Development</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Projects like logistics hubs, cargo transit centers, and road upgrades to facilitate seamless trade [</span><a href="https://logistics.gov.vn/ha-tang/lang-son-day-manh-trien-khai-cac-du-an-trong-diem-phat-trien-kinh-te-cua-khau"><span style="font-weight: 400;">4</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">].</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Digital Trade Solutions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Accelerating e-commerce and cross-border trade solutions to streamline transactions [</span><a href="https://dangcongsan.vn/tam-nhin-moi-muc-tieu-moi-phat-trien-6-vung-chien-luoc/trung-du-va-mien-nui-bac-bo/lang-son-tang-toc-phat-trien-thuong-mai-dien-tu-xuyen-bien-gioi-685387.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">3</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">].</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Investment Policies</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Offering favorable tax incentives to attract domestic and international investors.</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>3. Call to Action</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To realize the FTZ’s potential, Lang Son must:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Attract Foreign Investments</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Promote the FTZ globally as an ideal trade hub.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Enhance Infrastructure</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Focus on logistics networks, smart technologies, and green solutions.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Facilitate Trade Policies</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Simplify customs and regulations for smoother cross-border trade.</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Conclusion</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lang Son’s Free Trade Zone is a </span>game-changing opportunity<span style="font-weight: 400;"> to boost logistics, attract investments, and position Vietnam as a regional trade leader. By building on its geographic strengths and learning from global success stories, Lang Son can emerge as a logistics and trade hub for Southeast Asia.</span></p>
<div class="is-divider divider clearfix" style="max-width:50px;background-color:rgb(139, 139, 139);"></div>
<h4><b>🌐 Sources</b></h4>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://dantri.com.vn/kinh-doanh/khu-thuong-mai-tu-do-giai-phap-thuc-day-tang-truong-logistics-o-lang-son-20241203180646444.htm"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dantri.com.vn &#8211; Khu thương mại tự do: Giải pháp thúc đẩy tăng trưởng logistics ở Lạng Sơn</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://haiquanonline.com.vn/lang-son-ket-noi-va-phat-trien-thuong-mai-du-lich-viet-trung-192444.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">haiquanonline.com.vn &#8211; Lạng Sơn: Kết nối và phát triển thương mại, du lịch Việt-Trung</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://dangcongsan.vn/tam-nhin-moi-muc-tieu-moi-phat-trien-6-vung-chien-luoc/trung-du-va-mien-nui-bac-bo/lang-son-tang-toc-phat-trien-thuong-mai-dien-tu-xuyen-bien-gioi-685387.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dangcongsan.vn &#8211; Lạng Sơn: Tăng tốc phát triển thương mại điện tử xuyên biên giới</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://logistics.gov.vn/ha-tang/lang-son-day-manh-trien-khai-cac-du-an-trong-diem-phat-trien-kinh-te-cua-khau"><span style="font-weight: 400;">logistics.gov.vn &#8211; Lạng Sơn đẩy mạnh triển khai các dự án trọng điểm phát triển kinh tế cửa khẩu</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://dangcongsan.vn/tam-nhin-moi-muc-tieu-moi-phat-trien-6-vung-chien-luoc/dong-nam-bo/khu-thuong-mai-tu-do-giai-phap-dot-pha-thuc-day-tang-truong-logistics-685009.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dangcongsan.vn &#8211; Khu thương mại tự do, giải pháp đột phá thúc đẩy tăng trưởng logistics</span></a></li>
</ol>
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			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Free Trade Zones – Breakthrough Solution to Boost the Growth of Vietnam’s Logistics Sector</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/free-trade-zones-breakthrough-solution/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Dec 2024 02:11:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://plusone.asia/?p=1444</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[On December 2, 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu People&#8217;s Committee hosted the Vietnam Logistics Forum. The event, attended by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, emphasized free trade zones as key to logistics growth, addressing challenges like high costs and infrastructure gaps through trade agreements and modernization. Vietnam&#8217;s]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On December 2, 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu People&#8217;s Committee hosted the Vietnam Logistics Forum. The event, attended by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, emphasized free trade zones as key to logistics growth, addressing challenges like high costs and infrastructure gaps through trade agreements and modernization.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vietnam&#8217;s logistics sector has made significant progress, growing at an average rate of 14-16% annually, more than double the global logistics growth rate. The market size is about $40-42 billion, representing 10% of GDP and 5% of trade turnover. In 2024, Vietnam was ranked among the top 10 global emerging logistics markets, 4th in the region for Logistics Opportunity Index and 43rd globally for Logistics Performance Index.</span></p>
<h3><b>Three key goals for Vietnam’s logistics industry</b></h3>
<ol>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Reduce logistics costs</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from 18% to 15% of GDP by 2025.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Increase the logistics sector&#8217;s share</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of GDP from 10% to 15%, aiming for 20%, and expand its global market share from 0.4% to 0.6%.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Boost sector growth</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to 20% annually, up from the current 14-16%.</span></li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<h3><b>The Strategic Role of Free Trade Zones (FTZ): </b></h3>
<ol>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Increase international competitiveness:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">FTZ helps optimize logistics costs, increase transportation speed, and position Vietnam as a key transhipment hub in the global supply chain</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Develop logistics infrastructure:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Attract investment to build seaports, warehouses, and modern transportation technology, improving logistics performance and capacity.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Promote e-commerce:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">With tax incentives and flexible customs procedures, FTZ supports import-export businesses, particularly rapidly growing e-commerce companies </span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Upgrade logistics services:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Create opportunities for domestic logistics businesses to develop value-added services such as transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management.</span></li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Free Trade Zone is a breakthrough solution to promote the growth of the logistics industry, create a foundation for sustainable economic development, and enhance Vietnam’s position on the global logistics map.</span></p>
<h3><b>🌐 Sources:</b></h3>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://vlr.vn/part-1-free-trade-zones-a-key-to-enhancing-vietnam-s-logistics-competitiveness-19764.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">vlr.vn &#8211; Free Trade Zones: A Key to Enhancing Vietnam&#8217;s Logistics</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://moit.gov.vn/tin-tuc/hoat-dong/hoat-dong-cua-lanh-dao-bo/khu-thuong-mai-tu-do-giai-phap-dot-pha-thuc-day-tang-truong-logistics.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">moit.gov.vn &#8211; Giải pháp đột phá thúc đẩy tăng trưởng logistics</span></a></li>
</ol>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Data Center Economy in Vietnam: Sector Insights and Key Regulations</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/data-center-economy-in-vn/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Aug 2023 03:42:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.plusone.asia/?p=874</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Vietnam&#8217;s data center economy is expected to experience steady growth, with the sector projected to reach US$1.03 billion by 2028. Sector outlook Vietnam&#8217;s data center economy growth is driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.68 percent from 2022 to 2028. Vietnam had 77.93 million internet users in January 2023, indicating a 7.3]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Vietnam&#8217;s data center economy is expected to experience steady growth, with the sector projected to reach US$1.03 billion by 2028.</p>
<h1 style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Sector outlook</strong></h1>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s data center economy growth is driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.68 percent from 2022 to 2028. Vietnam had 77.93 million internet users in January 2023, indicating a 7.3 percent increase from the previous year.</p>
<p>The digital economy in Vietnam is undergoing significant transformations due to evolving regulations and the push for greater digitization. Recent regulations prioritize data sovereignty, personal information protection, and cybersecurity. Data localization norms came into effect on October 1, 2022, to ensure data stays within Vietnam. The government also focuses on digitization initiatives, such as tax incentives for high-tech investments, e-governance, fiber connectivity expansion, and 5G rollout. These policies have stimulated increased investments in data centers in Vietnam.</p>
<h3 id="developmentsinadvancingconnectivityHeader">Developments in advancing connectivity</h3>
<p>In terms of connectivity, Vietnam has made advancements, including the introduction of commercial 5G in December 2020. 5G network coverage now extends to 40 out of 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam. The Ministry of Information and Communications conducted a spectrum auction to expand 4G and 5G services. Efforts are also underway to develop 6G technology.<br />
Vietnam is connected to Asia-Pacific and Europe, Middle East, and African countries as well as the U.S. through five operational submarine cables. Additional cables like the Asia Direct Cable and Southeast Asia-Japan Cable 2 will further enhance Vietnam&#8217;s connectivity by 2023/2024.</p>
<p>The &#8220;National Digital Transformation Program to 2025&#8221; aims to shift 50 percent of business operations to digital platforms by 2025. Edge data center deployment is expected to increase due to the growing connectivity of the 5G network, providing last-mile connectivity and lower latency services. The program&#8217;s targets include a digital economy contributing to 20 percent of the GDP, at least 10 percent representation of the digital economy in each sector, annual productivity growth of no less than 7 percent, and rankings within the top 50 on various indices measuring ICT development, global competitiveness, and innovation. Additionally, goals related to digital society development involve expanding fiber optic internet infrastructure, ensuring widespread availability of 4G/5G services and smartphones, increasing digital checking account adoption, and improving cybersecurity rankings.</p>
<h3 id="sectorpromotionandfavorabletaxpolicyHeader">Sector promotion and favorable tax policy</h3>
<p>To promote growth in the ICT sector, the Vietnamese government has introduced favorable tax policies and incentives for high-tech investments. Companies operating in digital technology domains can benefit from a reduced corporate income tax rate of 10% for 15 years, along with other advantages.<br />
Vietnam&#8217;s data center market attracts investments from both newcomers and established operators. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi serve as major data center hubs, collectively hosting 27 data centers. The industry segments include IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, security and compliance, and tier standards.<br />
Overall, Vietnam&#8217;s data center economy shows promising growth prospects, driven by favorable regulations, increasing connectivity, and government support for digitization initiatives.</p>
<h1><strong>Regulatory frameworks that apply to data centers in Vietnam</strong></h1>
<p>Regulatory frameworks that apply to data centers in Vietnam include:<br />
<em><strong>Law on Investment No.61/2020/QH14</strong>:</em> This law governs investment activities in Vietnam, including the establishment of data center businesses.<br />
<em><strong>Decree No.25/2011/ND-CP</strong>:</em> This decree provides guidelines for implementing regulations related to telecommunications, which includes data center operations.</p>
<p>Foreign data center companies operating in Vietnam have two options:<br />
<em><strong>Business cooperation contract (BCC)</strong></em>: Foreign companies can enter into a BCC with a local partner to operate a data center without setting up a local company. The BCC must involve at least one local partner, and foreign ownership cannot exceed 100 percent.<br />
<em><strong>Joint venture (JV):</strong></em> Foreign companies can establish a local entity through a JV, as data center businesses are classified as telecommunication services under Vietnamese law. Foreign ownership is subject to specific restrictions depending on the type of service provided.</p>
<p>For JVs,<br />
1. In non-facilities-based services, foreign ownership cannot exceed 65 percent.<br />
2. In facilities-based services, foreign ownership should not exceed 50 percent. Importantly, certain international trade and investment agreements may facilitate flexibility in the foreign ownership ratio.</p>
<p>Additionally, if a foreign investor already holds more than 20 percent of the charter capital in another Vietnamese telecommunication enterprise, they cannot possess more than 20 percent of the charter capital in a Vietnamese data center company.</p>
<p>Depending on the data center investment path selected in Vietnam, certain registration procedures are mandated:</p>
<p>1. In the case of a BCC, both parties involved will need to obtain an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) to proceed with the investment under the BCC.</p>
<p>2. In the case of a JV, not only will an IRC be required, but also an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) will be necessary for the establishment of the joint venture.</p>
<p>3. If the data center business falls under the category of a facilities-based service, obtaining Investment Policy Approval from the Prime Minister is essential before the IRC can be issued. This additional step is crucial for regulatory compliance in this specific sector.</p>
<p><strong>Decree 25</strong>, which was issued on April 6, 2011, applies to the telecommunications domain. The decree stipulates details and specifies new guidelines for the execution of several articles of Telecom Law relating to the ratio of ownership, foreign investment, commercial rights fees, and authorized capital.</p>
<h3>International norms under UN, WTO, and FTA frameworks</h3>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s international commitments under the UN, WTO, and free trade agreements also influence data center regulations. While specific provisions for data centers may be lacking, existing agreements cover related services such as online information and database retrieval.</p>
<h3>Law impacting telecommunications and Internet services</h3>
<ul>
<li>Telecommunications Law No. 41/2009/QH12</li>
<li>Decree No. 25/2011/ND-CP</li>
<li>Decree No. 53/2022/ND-CP (provisions of Law on Cybersecurity)</li>
<li>Decree No. 72/2013/ND-CP</li>
<li>Circular No. 17/2016/TT-BTTTT, as amended by Circular No. 08/2017/TT-BTTTT</li>
</ul>
<h3>Data and cybersecurity laws</h3>
<ul>
<li>Law on Cyber Information Security No. 86/2015/QH13, dated November 19, 2015</li>
<li>Law on Cyber Security No. 24/2018/QH14, dated June 12, 2018</li>
<li>Decree No. 53/2022/ND-CP, dated August 15, 2022, detailing several provisions of the Law on Cyber Security</li>
<li>Decree No. 13/2023/ND-CP, dated April 17, 2023, regarding Personal Data Protection (Decree 13), in effect from July 1, 2023</li>
</ul>
<p>Data and cybersecurity laws require the storage of certain data types within Vietnam. Foreign entities may need to localize data storage or establish a presence in Vietnam if requested by the Ministry of Public Security. In specific, decree 13/2023/ND-CP regulates personal data protection, imposing obligations on organizations and individuals involved in data center-related services. It also restricts the transfer of Vietnamese personal data outside of Vietnam.</p>
<h3>Construction of data centers</h3>
<p>Construction of data centers must adhere to specific national standards and technical regulations outlined in Circular 03. These include requirements for data center design, fire prevention, lightning protection, and earthing.<br />
1. The national standard for data centers and telecommunications technical infrastructure requirements, as outlined in TCVN 9250:2021 (or ANSI/TIA-942-B:2017 standard or the Tier standard by the Uptime Institute).<br />
2. The national technical regulation (NTR) concerning fire prevention and firefighting equipment applicable to buildings and facilities, as specified in QCVN 06:2021/BXD.<br />
3. The NTR about lightning protection, which is relevant to telecommunications substations and peripheral cable networks, as detailed in QCVN 32:2020/BTTTT.<br />
4. The NTR regarding earthing for telecommunication stations, as specified in QCVN 9:2016/BTTTT. These regulations are essential in ensuring the compliance and safety of data centers in Vietnam.<br />
These regulations are essential in ensuring the compliance and safety of data centers in Vietnam.</p>
<h3>Land law</h3>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Law on Land No. 45/2013/QH13</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong><span style="color: #555555; font-size: 14.4px;">Civil Code No. 91/2015/QH13, dated November 24, 2015</span></strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>Under Land Law No. 45/2013/QH13 and the Civil Code No. 91/2015/QH13 in Vietnam, foreign investors are not allowed to own land for data center development directly. However, there are provisions for foreign investors to establish data centers through business cooperation contracts (BCC) or joint ventures (JV).<br />
In the case of a BCC, the ownership of real estate must be with the local partner, who then contributes it to the BCC. Foreign investors are not permitted to own real property for data center development.<br />
For JVs, land ownership is also prohibited. Instead, JVs have the option to lease land from the State or sub-lease land within an industrial zone from an industrial zone developer specifically for data center development. Although they cannot own the land, JVs can retain ownership of the data center buildings constructed on the leased land. Any assets attached to the land must be registered with the relevant land authority.<br />
These arrangements allow foreign investors to develop and maintain data center facilities in Vietnam while complying with local land ownership regulations.</p>
<h3>Electricity law</h3>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Law on Electricity No. 28/2004/QH11, dated December 3, 2004</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>Under the current electricity law in Vietnam, specifically the Law on Electricity No. 28/2004/QH11, there is no requirement for special power purchase agreements specifically for data center operations. The law also lacks guidelines for purchasing power from Independent Power Producers (IPPs), except for IPPs operating rooftop solar systems.<br />
However, there is a draft decision proposed by Vietnam&#8217;s Prime Minister that aims to establish a pilot program allowing direct power purchase agreements between renewable power producers and consumers, including data centers. To participate in this program, renewable power plants and consumers, such as data centers, must register with the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT). MOIT will assess and create a list of eligible participants. Only those on the list will be able to directly purchase power from IPPs.<br />
It&#8217;s important to note that this draft decision has not been finalized yet but is expected to be fast-tracked in 2023 after the release of Vietnam&#8217;s Power Development Plan 8 on May 15, 2023. This potential development could provide opportunities for data centers to directly purchase renewable power in the future.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Exploring B2B Opportunities in Vietnam&#8217;s Electric Vehicle (EV) Industry for Foreign Firms</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/i-sink-under-the-weight/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Jul 2023 07:02:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.plusone.asia/?p=293</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Foreign firms and investors should be aware of the growing potential and changing landscape of Vietnam&#8217;s electric vehicle (EV) industry. This emerging sector is entering a period of rapid growth, presenting numerous business-to-business (B2B) opportunities. Understanding the dynamics of Vietnam&#8217;s automotive industry and the market potential is crucial for those looking to enter this promising]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font-weight: 400;">Foreign firms and investors should be aware of the growing potential and changing landscape of Vietnam&#8217;s electric vehicle (EV) industry. This emerging sector is entering a period of rapid growth, presenting numerous business-to-business (B2B) opportunities. Understanding the dynamics of Vietnam&#8217;s automotive industry and the market potential is crucial for those looking to enter this promising market.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">The electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing a worldwide transformation, and Vietnam is no exception. This shift is not only driven by consumers but also by increasing business-to-business (B2B) collaboration, which brings forth lucrative opportunities for firms to provide parts, components, and ancillary services. From EV charging infrastructure to battery manufacturing and supply, there are various avenues for growth in Vietnam&#8217;s relatively underdeveloped EV industry. First-movers may enjoy advantages but should also be prepared to invest in developing the market as a whole. In this summary, we explore the B2B opportunities available in Vietnam&#8217;s electric vehicle industry.</p>
<h1 style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Challenges entering the Vietnamese EV market</strong></h1>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">The Vietnamese EV market poses challenges for businesses looking to enter the industry. One major obstacle is the lack of <strong>infrastructure.</strong> Vietnam needs to establish a robust charging network to support widespread EV adoption, but there is currently a scarcity of charging stations, limited power grid capacity, and a lack of standardized charging protocols. These factors can create operational difficulties.</p>
<p>The government acknowledges these challenges, as Deputy Minister of Transportation, Le Anh Tuan, mentioned in a workshop last year. There are indications that the government will support private sector-led initiatives to develop key enabling infrastructure.</p>
<p>Another challenge arises from <strong>intense competition</strong>. As Vietnam&#8217;s EV industry shows great potential, foreign companies adopting a wait-and-see approach may face fierce competition from established players within Vietnam, such as VinFast, as well as from other countries. Competitors like Tesla, BYD, and Volkswagen have extensive experience, resources, and established supply chains that could pose a challenge to newcomers in the market.</p>
<h3>Policy and regulatory environment</h3>
<p>Policy and regulatory factors play a crucial role in the EV market in Vietnam. Navigating complex and evolving regulations, obtaining permits, and complying with quality standards can pose challenges for businesses. The government recently issued a decree regarding the inspection and certification of imported automobiles and parts, adding another layer of regulations for importers.</p>
<h3>Talent acquisition, skills gap</h3>
<p>The talent acquisition and skills gap is another challenge. Finding skilled professionals with expertise in EV technology is difficult due to a lack of educational institutions specifically focused on this industry. Companies may struggle to recruit and retain qualified personnel, especially with the rapid pace of technological advancements requiring continuous training and upskilling.</p>
<h1><strong>Opportunities</strong></h1>
<p>Despite these challenges, there are opportunities in the domestic EV market. Growing customer interest in EV adoption is expected to drive demand, with the number of EVs projected to reach 1 million units by 2028 and 3.5 million units by 2040. This will fuel supporting industries such as infrastructure, charging solutions, and ancillary EV services, providing opportunities for B2B collaboration and strategic alliances.</p>
<p>There are significant B2B opportunities in-vehicle components and technologies in Vietnam. International companies like ABB and Foxconn have made investments in manufacturing EV-related components. ABB provided robots to VinFast&#8217;s factory, boosting electric vehicle production, while Foxconn plans to establish a factory for EV chargers and components.</p>
<p>Overall, despite challenges, the nascent EV industry in Vietnam offers fertile ground for B2B collaboration and presents opportunities for businesses to contribute to its growth and capitalize on the emerging market landscape.</p>
<h1><strong>EV charging and infrastructure development</strong></h1>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">The development of EV charging infrastructure presents significant opportunities for collaboration in Vietnam. An agreement between Petrolimex Group and VinFast will result in VinFast charging stations being installed at Petrolimex petrol stations, along with battery rental services and dedicated maintenance stations for EV repair.</p>
<h2>Understanding the market for EV services</h2>
<p>The EV industry in Vietnam goes beyond manufacturing and includes services like EV leasing and mobility solutions.</p>
<p>VinFast, through its subsidiary Green Sustainable Mobility (GSM), offers electric car leasing services to transportation companies. Lado Taxi has integrated nearly 1,000 VinFast EVs into their electric taxi fleet, while Sun Taxi has signed a contract to procure 3,000 VinFast cars, representing the largest fleet acquisition in Vietnam so far.</p>
<p>Selex Motors and Lazada Logistics have partnered to use Selex Camel electric scooters in their operations in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The collaboration aims to operate at least 100 electric scooters in 2023.</p>
<p>Dat Bike, a Vietnamese electric scooter company, has collaborated with Gojek to revolutionize transportation services such as passenger transportation, food delivery, and general delivery. They will utilize Dat Bike&#8217;s advanced electric motorbike, the Dat Bike Weaver++, in their operations.</p>
<p>VinFast has invested in Be Group, a technology car company, and signed an agreement to deploy VinFast electric motorbikes. With support from VPBank, Be Group drivers receive exclusive benefits for renting or owning VinFast electric cars.</p>
<p>These collaborations highlight the growing range of services in the EV industry in Vietnam, offering opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and partnerships across various sectors.</p>
<h2>Key takeaways</h2>
<p>As the EV market expands, companies need a strong network of suppliers, service providers, and partners to sustain their operations and meet growing demand. This creates opportunities for B2B collaborations and partnerships that offer innovative solutions, specialized components, or complementary services.</p>
<p>Although challenges exist, the future potential of the EV industry in Vietnam is undeniable. By forming strategic supply chain partnerships and providing after-sales services, B2B businesses can leverage each other&#8217;s strengths, foster innovation, and contribute to the overall growth and development of the EV industry in Vietnam.</p>
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		<title>AI Adoption in Vietnam: Embracing Potential and Overcoming Challenges for Foreign Investors</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/ai-adoption-in-vn/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Jul 2023 07:02:10 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.plusone.asia/?p=291</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Various industries in Vietnam have already embraced the revolutionary technology of AI, which holds immense potential for optimizing operations and workflows. Nonetheless, foreign companies aiming to take advantage of this growing trend should be aware of specific challenges that need to be addressed. With a vibrant economy, a youthful population, and a strong appetite for]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font-weight: 400;">Various industries in Vietnam have already embraced the revolutionary technology of AI, which holds immense potential for optimizing operations and workflows. Nonetheless, foreign companies aiming to take advantage of this growing trend should be aware of specific challenges that need to be addressed.</p>
<p>With a vibrant economy, a youthful population, and a strong appetite for innovation, Vietnam offers an appealing environment for AI implementation. However, there are certain challenges that need to be addressed, such as regulatory frameworks and skill gaps, which foreign companies may encounter when entering the Vietnamese market. This article explores the current state of AI adoption in Vietnam and provides insights into how the country can navigate its journey toward becoming an AI-powered nation. It also highlights the opportunities and challenges that foreign firms face in the field of AI in Vietnam, along with key sectors that have already embraced this promising technology.</p>
<h1 style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>AI Development and Opportunities in Vietnam</strong></h1>
<p>The ICT industry in Vietnam has experienced significant growth, with revenues reaching VND 3,893,595 billion in 2022. Vietnam&#8217;s progress in AI readiness is also evident, as it climbed seven places to rank 55 out of 181 countries in the Government AI Readiness Index. However, Vietnam faces a labor shortage in the field of AI. Despite having around 400,000 IT engineers and over 50,000 IT graduates annually, they only fulfill 25% of the country&#8217;s demand for IT workers.</p>
<p>Nonetheless, Vietnam holds great potential for AI development. The country boasts a thriving startup ecosystem, a young population eager to embrace new technologies, and government policies that support AI advancement.</p>
<h2 style="font-weight: 400;">Government initiatives and support</h2>
<p>The government has approved a National Digital Transformation Program aimed at transitioning governance, the economy, and society towards digitalization by 2025 and beyond. The program sets goals for Vietnam to become a leading country in information technology, improve its E-Government Development Index ranking, and feature among the top countries in the Global Innovation Index.</p>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s commitment to digital transformation emphasizes the crucial role that artificial intelligence will play in achieving these objectives. This creates ample opportunities for AI development and investment in Vietnam&#8217;s evolving technological landscape.</p>
<h2 style="font-weight: 400;">Startup ecosystem</h2>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s startup ecosystem is thriving, with a growing number of unicorns (startups valued at over $1 billion), doubling even during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is attributed to a government-designed ecosystem that attracts investment in Vietnamese technology and startups, along with a young and motivated workforce.</p>
<h2 style="font-weight: 400;">A tech-savvy, golden population</h2>
<p>One advantage Vietnam possesses is its &#8220;golden population&#8221; structure, with nearly 69 percent of the population being of working age. The country&#8217;s flexible and tech-savvy human resources adapt quickly to new technologies, as seen by the high smartphone penetration rate.</p>
<p>Overall, Vietnam presents significant opportunities for AI development, driven by its startup ecosystem, a young and adaptable workforce, and supportive government initiatives.</p>
<h1><strong>Challenges for AI Development in Vietnam</strong></h1>
<p>While Vietnam holds many opportunities and potential for AI applications, there are several challenges that companies face when entering this sector.</p>
<p>One key challenge is the lack of <strong>regulatory frameworks</strong>. Although there are already AI solutions available, Vietnam&#8217;s legal system has yet to catch up with the necessary regulations to ensure smooth development and operation. Ethical considerations regarding the application of AI solutions also need more attention. The <em>National Strategy on Research, Development, and Application of Artificial Intelligence until 2030 </em>provides a broad outline for the development of AI technology in Vietnam. However, further supporting documents are needed to establish a clear path forward.</p>
<p>Another major challenge is the shortage of a <strong>skilled workforce</strong> in AI. Despite having a young population, <strong>Hoai Xuan Nguyen</strong>, Director of the Vietnam Institute of Artificial Intelligence, has noted the country’s lack of specialized AI expertise and abilities. This poses difficulties for foreign companies in finding qualified personnel to lead their AI projects. The rapid evolution of AI technology further complicates the task of finding individuals with comprehensive AI skills. Reports indicate that there is expected to be a continued shortage of programmers and engineers in Vietnam, despite rising compensation and bonuses in the profession, according to the Vietnam IT Market Report by TopDev.</p>
<p>Overcoming these challenges will require concerted efforts to develop appropriate regulatory frameworks and invest in AI education and training programs to build a skilled AI workforce in Vietnam.</p>
<h1 style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Sectors applying AI</strong></h1>
<p><strong>The banking sector</strong> in Vietnam, led by VPBank and Vietcombank, has been at the forefront of AI applications. VPBank utilizes AI for foreign currency transactions, personal credit, and digital banking, while Vietcombank developed a customer care chatbot platform called VCB Digibot.</p>
<p><strong>The traffic and transport sector</strong> also heavily applies AI, particularly through Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). This technology is used for public security monitoring, traffic jam warnings, and traffic violation detection in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, and Quang Ninh.</p>
<p>In <strong>the healthcare sector</strong>, AI is gradually being adopted for clinical decision-making, electronic health records, and diagnostics. VinBrain&#8217;s DrAidTM assists in diagnosing heart and lung disorders, while robot calls utilize AI to check on patients&#8217; health and update medical information. However, the use of AI in healthcare is still in its early stages, with challenges including the lack of specific regulations and high costs for deploying new technology products.</p>
<h1 style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h1>
<p>Despite these challenges, Vietnam offers lucrative opportunities for foreign firms seeking to invest in AI. The dynamic economy and young population make it an attractive destination. Collaboration with local educational institutions, providing training programs, and actively participating in AI infrastructure development can help address limitations and unlock the full potential of AI in Vietnam.</p>
<p>By seizing these opportunities, foreign firms can not only benefit from Vietnam&#8217;s growing market but also contribute to the development of a strong AI ecosystem in the country.</p>
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		<title>An Overview of Vietnam&#8217;s Data Market: Regulations and Current Competition</title>
		<link>https://plusone.asia/an-overview-of-vn-data-market/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Plus One]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Jul 2023 07:01:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[VIETNAM MARKET BRIEFING]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.plusone.asia/?p=285</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Vietnam is placing greater emphasis on its data market as it aims to undergo a digital transformation of its economy. Understanding the present condition, future trajectory, and factors contributing to growth in this market is crucial. The Significance of Vietnam&#8217;s Data Market in the Digital Transformation Era Vietnam&#8217;s data market is gaining increasing importance as]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Vietnam is placing greater emphasis on its data market as it aims to undergo a digital transformation of its economy. Understanding the present condition, future trajectory, and factors contributing to growth in this market is crucial.</p>
<h2><strong>The Significance of Vietnam&#8217;s Data Market in the Digital Transformation Era</strong></h2>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s data market is gaining increasing importance as the country strives to undergo a comprehensive digital transformation. The market was valued at US$858 million in 2020, and it is expected to reach US$1.82 billion by 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.32 percent from 2023 to 2027. This growth aligns with Vietnam&#8217;s commitment to embracing the opportunities of the fourth industrial revolution.</p>
<p>While Vietnam is relatively new to the digital transformation race, it holds significant growth potential, making the market prospects attractive. However, foreign players currently dominate the data market, holding an estimated 70-80 percent market share. Major domestic players such as Viettel, VNPT, and FPT, along with a few small and medium enterprises, account for the remaining 20 percent.</p>
<p>Cloud computing and AI are two sub-sectors within the data market that exhibit high levels of competition. Over the past years, AI and big data have been extensively applied in sectors such as banking and finance, e-commerce, and telecommunications in Vietnam. These advancements indicate the growing adoption of innovative technologies to drive digital transformation in various industries in the country.</p>
<h3 style="font-weight: 400;">Vietnam’s Data Market Revenue 2018 to 2024</h3>
<table style="font-weight: 400;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="125"></td>
<td width="125">2018</td>
<td width="125">2020</td>
<td width="125">2022</td>
<td width="125">2024F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="125">Network Infrastructure</td>
<td width="125">1.22</td>
<td width="125">1.24</td>
<td width="125">1.26</td>
<td width="125">1.35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="125">Storge</td>
<td width="125">.26</td>
<td width="125">.28</td>
<td width="125">.30</td>
<td width="125">.37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="125">Servers</td>
<td width="125">.13</td>
<td width="125">.15</td>
<td width="125">.16</td>
<td width="125">.20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="125">Total</td>
<td width="125">1.61</td>
<td width="125">1.67</td>
<td width="125">1.72</td>
<td width="125">1.92</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Source: Statista</p>
<h2><strong>Data Market Regulations</strong></h2>
<p>Vietnam&#8217;s government has taken significant steps towards promoting the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and creating a favorable environment for foreign AI companies. Decision No. 127 outlines the National Strategy for Research, Development, and Application of AI until 2030, aiming to position Vietnam among the top four ASEAN countries in AI applications by 2030. The strategy focuses on various objectives, including developing legislation, infrastructure, ecosystems, and skilled personnel in the AI field.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Decision No. 677 highlights the importance of foreign companies&#8217; contributions to the information communication technology (ICT) sector, particularly in knowledge sharing and human resource skill development. Additionally, Decision No. 2117 prioritizes incentives  for the following digital technologies upon market entry:</p>
<ul style="font-weight: 400;">
<li>Artificial Intelligence (AI)</li>
<li>Internet of Things (IoT)</li>
<li>Big Data Analytics</li>
<li>Blockchain</li>
<li>Cloud computing, Grid computing, Edge computing</li>
<li>Quantum computing</li>
<li>Next-generation network infrastructure (5G, 6G, NG-PON, SDN/NFV, SD-RAN, SD-WAN Network Slicing, LPWAN, IO-Link Wireless)</li>
<li>Virtual reality, Augmented reality, Mixed reality</li>
<li>Intelligent, Remediating, and Adaptive cybersecurity</li>
<li>Digital Twin</li>
<li>Plant simulation</li>
<li>Precision agriculture</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Key Players in Vietnam&#8217;s Data Market </strong></h2>
<p>Competition in Vietnam&#8217;s data market is fragmented, with no dominant company and a cluster of smaller firms. This presents an opportunity for foreign companies to carve out a share of the market.</p>
<p>In the <strong>server and storage system sub-sector</strong>, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and Dell are prominent players, currently taking up over 40 percent and 28 percent of the server market respectively, followed by Cisco and other firms like Fujitsu and Hitachi.</p>
<p>In <strong>management software</strong>, data integration, and data analysis, key players include FPT, VNPT, CMC TS, MISA, and HIPT.</p>
<p>The <strong>data security market</strong> involves major players such as FPT, SAP Asia Vietnam, IBM Vietnam, Viettel Cyber Security Company, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services Vietnam, Cisco, and HPT Vietnam.</p>
<h2><strong>Current application of digital technologies in the banking sector</strong></h2>
<p>In Vietnam&#8217;s banking sector, technology plays a crucial role in driving competition. Around 92 percent of banks are developing mobile banking applications, with a focus on automation and IoT capabilities. Banks collaborate closely with fintech companies in payment services, digital banking, big data, and blockchain. Advanced analytics, AI, machine learning, and chatbots are widely embraced for value creation. Leading examples of digital banking platforms include Timo/Yolo by VP Bank, Robot OPBA by Nam A Bank, and Live Bank by TpBank. However, there is still a gap between global banks and Vietnamese banks in terms of digitalization, presenting opportunities for fintech and ICT solution providers to tap into the banking market.</p>
<p>Overall, the data market in Vietnam is young but dynamic. Their government regulatory initiatives and competitive landscape indicate a welcoming environment for foreign companies looking to enter the data market, particularly in AI and related technologies.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">
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