PM chairs first meeting of steering committee for international financial centre in Vietnam

In his opening remarks, PM PHam Minh Chinh, who is also head of the steering committee, stressed that amid the unpredictable global economy, Vietnam’s proactive positioning in the international financial network is an effort to provide stability.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on January 16 chairs the first meeting of the Steering Committee for Vietnam’s International Financial Centre (IFC). (Photo: VNA)
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on January 16 chairs the first meeting of the Steering Committee for Vietnam’s International Financial Centre (IFC). (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) — Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on January 16 chaired the first meeting of the Steering Committee for Vietnam’s International Financial Centre (IFC), reviewing the implementation of the Politburo’s conclusions and directives, as well as plans to build, operate and develop the IFC in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

The meeting also examined proposals on special mechanisms and policies, working regulations of the IFC Executive Council, and operating regulations for the IFC in Vietnam.

In his opening remarks, PM Chinh, who is also head of the steering committee, stressed that amid the unpredictable global economy, Vietnam’s proactive positioning in the international financial network is an effort to provide stability. This demands a fundamental shift in mindset from merely “participating” to “shaping position,” from fragmented approaches to an ecosystem-based model, and from isolated incentives to a comprehensive framework built on superior institutions, professional governance, high-quality human resources, synchronised infrastructure and world-class services.

He noted that the steering committee has recently achieved consensus, with clear assignment of responsibilities, timelines, accountability and outcomes. The work is being carried out in the spirit of “daring to think, daring to act and daring to take responsibility,” while avoiding haste, complacency or mechanical replication of foreign models. All efforts, he underlined, must suit Vietnam’s conditions, comply with the rule of law, ensure transparency, integrity and accountability, and meet international standards.

The PM called on committee members to engage in frank and responsible discussions, closely aligned with objectives and requirements, particularly focusing on feasibility in implementation. He emphasised the importance of a thorough review of the committee’s work to date, achievements, shortcomings and lessons learned, to build consensus on the main tasks for the next phase.

The establishment of the IFC in Vietnam was announced on December 21, 2025. It is expected to be among the world’s top 75 financial centres and the top 25 in the Asia-Pacific region by 2035./.

VNA

See more

Vehicles transporting import and export goods at Mong Cai international border gate. (Photo: VNA)

Mong Cai smart border gate to open new era for cross-border trade

The smart border gate will be based on Industry 4.0 technologies, with cross-border data connectivity serving as its core. Beyond modernising a single customs checkpoint, the project aims to create a regional-scale “digital gateway” facilitating more efficient trade flows.

Vietnam’s Trade Counsellor in Italy Duong Phuong Thao. (Photo: VNA)

Spring Fair 2026: Trade fairs boost Vietnam–Italy trade connectivity

Vietnam’s Trade Counsellor in Italy Duong Phuong Thao said the bilateral relations are developing positively, providing a solid foundation for economic and trade ties. The Italian Government, financial institutions and business community regard Vietnam as a key market in Southeast Asia.

The booth of the Vietnam Trade Office at a trade fair in Morocco. (Photo published VNA)

Spring Fair 2026: opportunities for trade between Vietnam and Morocco

Tran Le Dung, Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Morocco, said Morocco has accumulated extensive experience in hosting large-scale agricultural trade fairs and exhibitions. Flagship events include the annual International Agricultural Exhibition in Morocco (SIAM), alongside specialised shows covering food and beverages, textiles, handicrafts and logistics.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh delivers closing remarks at the Spring Fair 2026. Photo: VNA

Prime Minister attends Spring Fair 2026 closing ceremony

After 12 vibrant and colourful days, the first Glorious Spring Fair 2026 vividly portrayed the vitality of the nation’s economic and consumer activities at the beginning of the new year, leaving a strong impression on the public and business community.

Vu Thi Thuy, Deputy Consul General and Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China). (Photo: VNA)

Hong Kong experience offers insights for Vietnam–Hong Kong trade cooperation

At this year’s Spring Fair, the Vietnam Trade Office in Hong Kong facilitated the participation of several Hong Kong enterprises in Vietnam to conduct market surveys, seek import sources and showcase their products. Notably, a company under the Hong Kong Productivity Council presented technological solutions for smart homes and smart manufacturing at the event.

People shop for Tet at a supermarket. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnamese goods dominate Tet market in Mekong Delta

In key retail hubs such as Can Tho, Long Xuyen and My Tho, high-quality Vietnamese goods account for 85–90% of Tet market share. Surveys at major supermarket chains and traditional markets show that consumers this year are prioritising locally-processed foods, confectionery and beverages.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh strikes the gong to inaugurate the Vietnam International Financial Centre in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: VNA)

Int’l Financial Centre – A catalyst for Vietnam’s economic breakthrough: Deputy PM

Standing Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh, who chairs the IFC’s Governing Council, said that the establishment of the centre in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang represented the initial realisation of a major task set out in the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress. While characterising the launch as an early milestone rather than a final achievement, he underscored that it reflected meticulous, methodical and determined preparations at multiple levels of government.

Kobayashi Yosuke, Chief Representative of JICA Vietnam. (Photo: JICA Vietnam)

JICA hails milestones in Vietnam partnership amid green, digital push

In line with Vietnam’s development priorities and its goal of becoming a high-income country by 2045, JICA will continue to work with a wide range of partners in both Vietnam and Japan to mobilise technical and financial resources for more sustainable and inclusive cooperation

Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT 2026) is expected to expand its scale by 20% compared to last year's edition. (Photo: bnews.vn)

Int’l trade fair for apparel, textiles, textile technologies to open in Ho Chi Minh City

According to Vietrade, VIATT 2026 aims to promote the development of Vietnam’s textile and garment industry by enhancing production technologies, strengthening sustainability, and expanding technical textile segments. The event is expected to create opportunities for international businesses to tap into the growth potential of Vietnam and ASEAN, while enabling domestic enterprises to connect more effectively with global buyers.