In less than one month, LuLu Group International has organised two charter flights transporting nearly 200 tonnes of Vietnamese agricultural products. Photo: Ministry of Industry and Trade.
In less than one month, LuLu Group International has organised two charter flights transporting nearly 200 tonnes of Vietnamese agricultural products. Photo: Ministry of Industry and Trade

According to the Foreign Market Development Department under Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), the UAE-based retail conglomerate, which operates the LuLu Hypermarket chain, is increasing purchases of Vietnamese products at a time when many international businesses remain cautious due to concerns over regional instability.

The second charter flight carrying 98 tonnes of Vietnamese agricultural products, organised by MAY Exports Vietnam, departed from Tan Son Nhat Airport for the UAE on May 12.

The MoIT said that LuLu Group International’s continued expansion of procurement activities and its operation of charter flights for Vietnamese goods reflect growing confidence in Vietnamese enterprises across the Middle East market. The move is also expected to create further opportunities to boost production and exports to the region, which is considered highly promising for Vietnamese businesses.

Beyond its commercial significance, the charter flights also reinforce Vietnam’s increasingly important role in the global agricultural supply chain. Maintaining stable cargo flows amid a complex geopolitical environment demonstrates the flexibility and effective coordination between Vietnamese exporters and major international distribution groups.

The successful deployment of the second charter flight has also raised expectations for the establishment of regular cargo routes between Vietnam and the Middle East in the future.

The Foreign Market Development Department noted that, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue, many international maritime shipping routes are facing risks of disruption, rising logistics costs, and unstable delivery schedules. In this context, maintaining dedicated charter flights for Vietnamese agricultural exports carries particular significance.

The flights not only provide a timely logistics solution to ensure stable supplies for distribution systems in the UAE, but also highlight the adaptability of Vietnamese businesses in responding swiftly to fluctuations in global trade.

For fresh agricultural products in particular, delivery time is crucial to maintaining quality and freshness upon arrival to consumers. Consecutive charter flights help significantly shorten transportation times, reduce risks during transit, and maintain supply chain stability between Vietnam and the Middle East, where demand for high-quality tropical produce is rising steadily.

The ministry added that the expanded procurement activities by a major partner such as LuLu Group International will not only strengthen the position of Vietnamese goods within one of the region’s leading retail systems, but also generate positive spillover effects for exports to the wider Middle Eastern market, particularly Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

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Masan delivers record Q1 profit Masan delivers record Q1 profit
Masan delivers record Q1 profit

In Q1 2026, MSN posted net profit after tax before minority interest (NPAT Pre-MI) of VND1.97 trillion ($75.77 million), doubling on-year. Consumer-retail earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) rose to $94.62 million, up 23.6 per cent on-year, reflecting broad-based growth across the platform.

Q2 2026 preliminary momentum indicates MSN is on track to grow NPAT Pre-MI by approximately 60 per cent on-year.

WinCommerce (WCM) – the company operating the WinMart/WinMart+/WiN chains – delivered NPAT Pre-MI of $7.85 million in Q1 2026, up 3.5 times on-year, equivalent to a 1.8 per cent margin. The result is driven by higher store traffic, disciplined network expansion and operating leverage.

WCM recorded a net addition of 225 new store openings for Q1 2026, bringing the total store count to 4,817 nationwide. Notably, 100 per cent of new store openings surpassed store‑earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation breakeven level within the quarter.

Like-for-like (LFL) growth across all formats was primarily driven by higher store traffic (bill count) as modern trade penetration accelerates. Among them, minimarts delivered LFL growth of 11.8 per cent on-year in Q1 2026, up from 8.6 per cent in Q1 2025.

Supermarkets delivered LFL growth of 19.9 per cent on-year for Q1 2026, up from 6.1 per cent in Q1 2025, supported by renovations that lifted store traffic. Supermarkets also achieved EBIT-positive with 3.5 per cent margin, up 386 per cent on-year points (bps) on-year. As of March 2026, 60 supermarkets have been renovated, with the remainder on track for completion by year-end.

Masan Consumer’s Q1 2026 revenue reached $325.77 million, up 13.1 per cent on-year, while NPAT Pre-MI reached $69.23 million, up 11.5 per cent on-year.

Retail Supreme demonstrated clear improvements across key execution metrics as March 2026. First, active selling outlets reached approximately 500,000, up 2.3 times compared to before Retail Supreme. Second, stock keeping unit per order reached 5.5 (up 17 per cent) while approximately 57,000 outlets now carry around six or more categories, up 2 times. Third, approximately 50,000 outlets are implementing MCH’s in-store execution standards, up 1.8 times.

Masan Consumer’s gross margin was stable at 46.7 per cent on-year.

Masan delivers record Q1 profit

Masan MEATLife (MML) delivered revenue of $95.38 million in Q1 2026, up 19.8 per cent on-year, with NPAT Pre-MI of $5.65 million, up 27.2 per cent on-year. EBIT grew on-year to a 7.4 per cent margin, up 450 bps on-year, as both fresh and processed meat benefited from improved economies of scale and higher porker utilisation. Total MML sales at WCM grew 30.2 per cent on-year.

Phuc Long Heritage posted net revenue of $21.88 million in Q1 2026, up 34 per cent on-year. The EBITDA margin reached 20.8 per cent while NPAT Pre-MI grew 1.6 times on-year to a 10.3 per cent net margin, up 260 bps on-year. Growth was driven by delivery scaling and stronger in-store productivity gains, with LFL average daily sales in standard-format stores reaching $1,011.54, up 21.2 per cent on-year.

Masan High-Tech Materials (MSR) delivered a record quarterly NPAT of $20.65 million in Q1 2026, compared with a $8.54 million loss in Q1 2025, supported by stronger commodity pricing, improved operating performance, and lower net interest expenses.

Net revenue reached $115 million, up 114.9 per cent on-year, led by APT revenue of $94.23 million, up 3.2 times on-year. APT averaged $1,865/mtu in Q1 2026 and reached $3,150/mtu as of March 31, 2026, compared with MSR’s revised 2026 budget assumption of approximately $1,200/mtu. In the event current price levels are sustained for the rest of the year, MSR expects to achieve materially better financial results.

Throughput is expected to recover from Q2 2026 and ramp further in Q3 2026 following the amendment of the 28-million-tonne mining licence, with full-year ore processed projected to exceed FY2025 levels.

MSR is expected to generate stronger operating cash flow and accelerate deleveraging, with revised guidance indicating net-debt-to-EBITDA declining from 3.5 times in Q1 2026 to 1.7 times by year-end.

Assuming APT prices average above $1,500/mtu, MSR targets net-debt-to-EBITDA of 0.1 times by end-2027, and conservatively net cash position by end-2028, which would create room for lower interest expenses, higher earnings quality, and potential dividend payments in the upcoming years.

Masan has announced plans to migrate MSR to the HSX mainboard, aiming to enhance value recognition, broaden the shareholder base, improve liquidity, and support strategic investor engagement.

MSN’s profit share of Techcombank in Q1 2026 was $50.77 million, up by 11.8 per cent on-year.

Building on a record Q1 2026, MSN’s revenue and NPAT Pre-MI are estimated at $1.98 billion and $176.92 million in the first half of 2026, up 38 per cent and 76 per cent on-year, respectively.

Masan posts steady gains as Vietnam targets stronger retail growth Masan posts steady gains as Vietnam targets stronger retail growth

Vietnam’s push for stronger retail growth by 2030 is being matched by improving performance in the country’s major consumer groups.

Masan Consumer lifts foreign ownership limit to 100 per cent Masan Consumer lifts foreign ownership limit to 100 per cent

On March 18, the State Securities Commission announced that it had received Masan Consumer Corporation’s application to double its foreign ownership limit to 100 per cent.

Masan High-Tech Materials plans HSX listing Masan High-Tech Materials plans HSX listing

Masan High-Tech Materials has released documents for its 2026 AGM, slated to take place in Hanoi on April 16.

The government on May 5 released a dispatch on focusing on directing the drastic implementation of measures to combat, prevent, and handle acts infringing intellectual property rights.

Government intensifying crackdowns on IPR infringements

The dispatch is sent to the chief justice of the Supreme People’s Court; the Prosecutor General of the Supreme People’s Procuracy; ministers and heads of ministerial-level agencies; secretaries of provincial and municipal Party committees, and chairpersons of people’s committees of provinces and centrally governed cities; and the chief of the Standing Office of the National Steering Committee against Smuggling, Trade Fraud, and Counterfeit Goods.

According to the dispatch, in recent years, efforts to combat, prevent, and address infringements of intellectual property (IP) rights have recorded notable progress. Competent authorities have carried out synchronised and effective measures, detecting and handling numerous cases, thereby contributing to curbing violations.

“However, IP infringement remains complex in several sectors and localities, significantly affecting the investment and business climate, as well as the legitimate rights and interests of citizens, enterprises, and related organisations,” said Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung who signed the dispatch.

In order to create a strong shift and enhance the substantive effectiveness of IP enforcement – thereby fostering a transparent and healthy investment climate and strengthening national credibility in international integration, the prime minister requires ministers, heads of ministerial-level agencies, and chairpersons of provincial and municipal people’s committees, and requests secretaries of Party committees at all levels, to strictly, synchronously, and decisively implement relevant legal regulations, the government’s Resolution No.397/NQ-CP dated December 5, 2025, and the PM’s Directive No.02/CT-TTg dated January 30 on strengthening IP enforcement.

A key priority must be placed on a nationwide crackdown with no exceptions. Specifically, from May 7-30, authorities are to launch an intensive nationwide campaign, mobilising resources to urgently deployed measures against IP infringements. Violations must be handled strictly in accordance with the law, under the principle of “no forbidden zones, no exceptions”.

The Ministry of Public Security is tasked with leading investigations into serious IP infringement cases, including copyright, related rights, trademarks, and geographical indications. Particular focus must be placed on dismantling high-traffic websites engaged in online copyright violations, especially those distributing pirated films, music, mobile games, and television programmes in Vietnamese and foreign languages.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Defence is assigned to direct border guards, coast guard forces, and relevant units to coordinate closely with the Ministry of Public Security and local authorities in enforcing anti-infringement measures.

Judicial bodies, including the Supreme People’s Procuracy and Supreme People’s Court, are required to accelerate prosecution and adjudication of IP cases, ensuring strict, deterrent, and lawful rulings, with emphasis on handling exemplary cases.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism must immediately conduct inspections on compliance with software copyright regulations in enterprises, as well as copyright enforcement for films, music, television programmes, and online games. Authorities are required to increase the number of handled cases by at least 20 per cent compared to May 2025, while strengthening public awareness campaigns through media channels.

In addition, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, together with provincial and municipal authorities, has to direct market surveillance forces to intensify inspections and strictly address violations, particularly counterfeit trademark goods, with a similar 20 per cent increase target.

The Ministry of Finance is tasked with instructing customs authorities to tighten inspection of import-export goods, proactively suspending clearance for shipments with clear signs of IP infringement, again aiming for a minimum 20 per cent rise in enforcement actions.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is requested to coordinate with relevant agencies to promptly provide international partners with comprehensive updates on Vietnam’s IP enforcement efforts.

All ministries and localities are required to carry out daily rapid reporting on major and complex cases, submitting updates to the Ministry of Science and Technology for consolidation and reporting to the prime minister on a weekly basis or upon request. A final report covering results up to May 30 must be submitted by May 31.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Science and Technology is asked to take the lead in implementing assigned tasks under Official Dispatch No.1860/VPCP-KTTH dated May 1, providing expert opinions and assessment conclusions to support enforcement of industrial property rights.

Following the campaign period, ministries, agencies, and localities are required to review and evaluate outcomes, and continue enhancing enforcement measures to ensure IP protection becomes a regular, systematic, and effective task nationwide.

The National Steering Committee against Smuggling, Trade Fraud, and Counterfeit Goods is tasked with intensifying inter-agency coordination, supervision, and guidance, promptly addressing bottlenecks and handling major, complex cases within its authority.

At the local level, Party committee secretaries have to mobilise the entire political system to actively engage in IP enforcement. Chairpersons of provincial and municipal people’s committees must urgently establish inter-agency task forces led by themselves, ensuring close coordination among local authorities and effective implementation of assigned duties, while promptly reporting issues beyond their competence.

The government’s fresh move demonstrates its strong determination to deliver a tangible shift in IP enforcement, aligning Vietnam’s regulatory framework with international standards and reinforcing investor confidence. With a coordinated, high-intensity approach and clear accountability across agencies, the campaign is expected to mark a critical step towards safeguarding innovation, protecting legitimate rights, and sustaining a fair business environment.

This milestone not only affirms its outstanding academic capability, but significantly expands the high-quality international education map in the region.

Four international accreditations in 12 months

In Ho Chi Minh City’s international education landscape, authorisation to deliver the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme has long been considered a hallmark of academic excellence. However, attaining the status of a Full IB Continuum School–possessing the capacity to seamlessly implement all three core programmes from Primary Years, Middle Years, to the Diploma Programme–represents a far more rigorous echelon.

This is not merely a matter of adopting a curriculum; it is a profound systemic challenge where everything from educational philosophy and faculty proficiency to operational infrastructure must be harmonised.

Tesla Education achieves IB Continuum
Tesla Education has become the fifth institution in Ho Chi Minh City authorised to deliver the Full IB Continuum

The official award of the IB Diploma Programme certification in April 2026 marks the culmination of Tesla Education’s five-year standardisation journey. The milestone follows a rapid sequence of international accreditations secured within just 12 months: CIS (June 2025), Cambridge (July 2025), IB MYP (November 2025), and IB DP (April 2026).

This is no coincidence, but the result of a deliberate long-term strategy, underpinned by the consistent adoption and execution of the rigorous standards set by the International Baccalaureate Organisation and other leading global accreditation bodies.

Multi-tiered assurance

In an increasingly fluid world, students must combine a global outlook with the ability to adapt while remaining grounded in local values. Recognising that no single programme can fully deliver this, Tesla Education has developed a mutually reinforcing academic ecosystem, where leading international standards operate in tandem rather than isolation.

The IB Continuum serves as the backbone, shaping mindset and ensuring a coherent learning journey from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Alongside this, the Cambridge programme strengthens subject mastery, providing depth in core disciplines. While the IB is widely recognised for fostering critical thinking, independent inquiry, and global citizenship, Cambridge builds the academic rigour and subject-specific expertise sought by leading universities in the UK and the US.

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Tesla Education achieves IB Continuum
The Full IB Continuum pathway creates a learning environment where students are not only equipped with knowledge, but also develop intellectual confidence and adaptability

In particular, the integration of the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) core curriculum within this ecosystem is by no means a “regulatory concession,” but a deliberate, strategic choice. For Vietnamese families, the MoET framework is the anchor that keeps students connected to their mother tongue, history, and national culture. This parallel integration allows students to grow the wings of an international mindset, mastering future skills while retaining their local roots. They can flexibly transition their pathways, fully prepared to step out into the world yet entirely capable of contributing to their homeland.

Strategic location and pioneering financial approach

The introduction of a full IB Continuum at Tesla Education reshapes the decision landscape for parents in Ho Chi Minh City. With most IB Continuum schools clustered in the eastern and southern districts, areas such as Tan Binh, Phu Nhuan, and Binh Tan have lacked fully integrated international pathways. Tesla Education’s campus in Tan Binh helps close this gap, offering a more balanced distribution of access across the city.

Location plays a critical role in the long-term learning experience. Reducing daily travel in increasingly congested traffic can save students one to two hours a day, preserving energy and supporting both wellbeing and participation in extracurricular activities. For many families, this also removes a significant “hidden cost” associated with long commutes.

Tesla Education achieves IB Continuum
From “exclusive” to “accessible”: Tesla Education is expanding access to the International Baccalaureate pathway for Vietnamese families

This advantage is particularly valuable for expatriate communities surrounding Tan Son Nhat Airport. For the large population of South Korean and other expatriates, the demand for an accredited, familiar international curriculum is high. A localised IB Continuum school directly meets this elite demand, sparing families from exhausting cross-city logistics.

Beyond locational leverage, Tesla Education approaches the educational investment pragmatically. With overseas study costing $30,000 to $40,000 annually, a world-class domestic pathway is increasingly attractive. To commemorate the IB Continuum milestone, Tesla has launched a DP Scholarship Fund offering up to 90 per cent tuition coverage for outstanding Grade 10 students.

Reaching up to VND500 million ($19,000), this support makes an elite IB education remarkably accessible. This initiative democratises opportunities, signalling that international education is no longer an exclusive “luxury” but a strategic, long-term investment for modern families.

Ultimately, the synergy of a prime location, a standardised global academic framework, and agile financial policies positions Tesla Education as a masterstroke of strategy. Parents can now holistically optimise both educational quality and their children’s future investment journey.

Established in 2015 in Ho Chi Minh City, Tesla Education is a fully authorised IB Continuum World School, delivering a seamless International Baccalaureate journey from Early Years through High School. The institution pioneers a dual-pathway model that beautifully synergises the Vietnamese national curriculum with the globally renowned IB framework, placing a strong emphasis on science, technology, project-based inquiry, and holistic skill development.

For the current academic year, Tesla is proud to launch the Academic Excellence Scholarship for incoming Grade 10 students. Offering up to 90 per cent tuition coverage–equivalent to a maximum value of VND500 million ($19,000).

Discover more at: tesla.edu.vn

New Zealand institutes strengthen educational exchange and cooperation with Vietnam New Zealand institutes strengthen educational exchange and cooperation with Vietnam

A delegation of New Zealand Institutes of Technology & Polytechnics and Private Training Establishments made its first official visit to Vietnam from March 29 to April 5.

Vietnam and Queensland deepen education ties to power innovation Vietnam and Queensland deepen education ties to power innovation

On April 15, the National Innovation Centre (NIC) under the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), hosted the Education for Innovation Showcase in Hanoi, bringing together around 80 representatives from government agencies, universities, research institutes and businesses across Vietnam and Australia.

ACCA rolls out career workshops for Vietnamese students and teachers ACCA rolls out career workshops for Vietnamese students and teachers

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants has held a workshop in Hanoi to help operationalise career guidance at school level following new regulatory direction.

For the first time in 13 years, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has placed a country in the “Priority Foreign Country” (PFC) category — the highest level of concern under the Special 301 Report. Vietnam is also the only country designated as PFC in 2026, marking a significant escalation in intellectual property and trade-related concerns between the two countries.

According to the 2026 Special 301 Report released on April 30, 2026, USTR determined that Vietnam has failed to provide adequate and effective protection and enforcement of intellectual property (IP) rights, while also failing to ensure fair and equitable market access for U.S. rights holders.

The Special 301 Report is an annual review conducted pursuant to Section 182 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. § 2242). Under this framework, USTR identifies foreign countries that are considered to deny adequate and effective IP protection or fair market access to U.S. persons relying on intellectual property protection.

The 2026 review process included public submissions by January 28, 2026, submissions from foreign governments by February 11, 2026, a public hearing on February 18, 2026, and publication of the final report on April 30, 2026.

Three Levels of Classification under the Special 301 Report

The Special 301 framework classifies countries into three categories of concern.

The first is the “Watch List” (WL), which includes countries with ongoing concerns relating to IP protection, enforcement, or market access.

The second is the “Priority Watch List” (PWL), reserved for more serious concerns that often trigger intensified bilateral engagement and pressure for legal and enforcement reforms.

The highest category is “Priority Foreign Country” (PFC), applied to countries considered to engage in the most severe or egregious acts, policies, or practices affecting U.S. intellectual property rights, particularly where meaningful negotiations have not been pursued in good faith.

According to USTR, this is the first time since 2013 that a country has been designated as a PFC.

Five Main Grounds Cited by USTR

In this year’s report, USTR identified five principal reasons for elevating Vietnam directly from the Watch List to PFC status.

First, enforcement measures against online piracy were described as inconsistent and ineffective, despite previous actions against several major piracy platforms.

Second, anti-counterfeiting efforts and enforcement against trademark-infringing goods were deemed insufficiently robust.

Third, border enforcement measures relating to IP-infringing goods were considered ineffective.

Fourth, Vietnam was criticized for lacking effective enforcement mechanisms against the use of unlicensed software.

Fifth, USTR noted the absence of adequate criminal enforcement measures against cable and satellite signal theft.

Notably, in the 2025 Special 301 Report, Vietnam remained only on the Watch List. At that time, USTR acknowledged several positive developments, including enforcement actions against piracy websites such as “Xoilac,” “Fmovies,” and “Rophim.” However, the report also stated that there had been “little or no progress” on several longstanding concerns. The direct elevation to PFC status in 2026 suggests that the United States views prior warnings as having failed to produce sufficient practical results.

PFC Status Does Not Automatically Trigger Sanctions

Although highly significant, designation as a Priority Foreign Country does not automatically result in tariffs, sanctions, or immediate trade penalties.

The Special 301 Report is not a judicial ruling, nor is it a decision issued by the World Trade Organization (WTO) or any international tribunal. However, under U.S. law, USTR is generally required to initiate a Section 301 investigation within 30 days of a PFC designation, unless doing so would be detrimental to U.S. economic interests.

If such an investigation is initiated, USTR must request formal consultations with Vietnam. Should consultations fail to resolve the dispute, the United States may proceed with formal dispute settlement mechanisms or unilateral trade measures.

Under the statutory timeline, USTR typically reaches a determination within six months, although the process may be extended to nine months if the matter is particularly complex or if the designated country demonstrates significant progress.

Potential measures available to the United States following an adverse determination may include binding agreements, compensation demands, suspension of trade concessions, additional tariffs, import restrictions, or restrictions affecting services.

Vietnam Is the Only PFC Country in 2026

Vietnam is the sole country designated as a Priority Foreign Country in the 2026 Special 301 Report.

Countries placed on the Priority Watch List include Chile, China, India, Indonesia, Russia, and Venezuela.

Meanwhile, the Watch List includes Algeria, Argentina, Barbados, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, the European Union, Guatemala, Mexico, Pakistan, Paraguay, Peru, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and Türkiye.

The Need for a Quantifiable Action Plan

Legal and policy observers suggest that Vietnam’s response should not focus solely on disputing the report’s findings, but also on demonstrating measurable enforcement outcomes and a credible reform roadmap.

Vietnam may need to develop a dedicated “Vietnam IP Enforcement Action Plan” with concrete benchmarks over 30-, 60-, 90-, and 180-day periods, specifically targeting the five issues identified by USTR.

In parallel, regular publication of enforcement data is likely to become increasingly important, including statistics relating to administrative, civil, and criminal actions; border control measures; e-commerce and livestream enforcement; online piracy; unlicensed software use; and international cooperation.

More broadly, strengthening IP protection should not be viewed merely as compliance with U.S. demands. If implemented effectively, it could serve as an opportunity to modernize Vietnam’s IP enforcement system, improve the business environment, enhance investor confidence, and better protect Vietnamese enterprises and creators in the digital economy.

The full details of the USTR’s Special 301 Report in English are here: 2026 Special 301 Report

Specifically, the Department of Vietnam Customs issued Official Dispatch No.15912/CHQ-GSQL to regional customs sub-departments on enhancing oversight of rare earth export activities.

The directive comes amid broader government efforts to tighten management of mineral resources, particularly high-value strategic minerals.

Under the new requirements, customs authorities will only process export procedures for rare earth products that fully meet conditions and have legally verified origins in accordance with governmental Decree No.17/2020/ND-CP, and are included in export lists issued periodically by the Ministry of Industry and Trade or otherwise approved by competent authorities in special cases.

Full inspections mandated as Vietnam moves to control rare earth exports
Vietnam is expected to issue a national rare earth strategy in 2026

Decree 17 dated February 2020 on amending a number of articles of decrees concerning business investment conditions in sectors under the management of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

At the customs declaration stage, enterprises must provide complete and detailed information on mineral names, quality standards, mine origin, and the entities responsible for extraction and processing.

In cases where trading companies are not directly involved in extraction or processing, they must supplement information on domestic purchase contracts and invoices. Details of mining licences, recovery permits, or export authorisations must also be fully declared.

Notably, the Department of Vietnam Customs requires physical inspection of all rare earth export shipments, except for certain specific cases.

Inspections will be conducted based on risk management principles, combined with verification against product categories and quality standards set by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Where sufficient grounds for determination are lacking, customs authorities will take samples for assessment by accredited conformity assessment organisations.

Inspection results will serve as the basis for customs clearance decisions or legal handling. Customs units are also required to strengthen information collection and analysis on rare earth exporters, and promptly place high-risk cases under post-clearance audit.

The Department of Vietnam Customs has instructed all units to strictly implement the directive and publicly post its contents at customs clearance points for enterprises to follow. Any implementation issues must be promptly reported for guidance and resolution.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam possesses substantial rare earth potential, with reserves ranked among the top two or three globally and distributed across 21 cities and provinces.

The Ministry has largely completed baseline surveys of rare earth-bearing areas, is maintaining strict oversight, and is drafting a national rare earth strategy expected to be issued in early 2026.

Rare earths were for the first time incorporated into the Law on Geology and Minerals, which was passed by the National Assembly in November 2024 and took effect from July 2025.

An amended law, adopted in December 2025, affirms rare earths as specially important strategic minerals, requiring strict control over exploration, extraction and processing, while prohibiting the export of unprocessed rare earth ores.

Experts propose development direction for rare earth industry Experts propose development direction for rare earth industry

Vietnam has the world’s second-largest reserves of rare earths – an estimated 22 million tonnes – yet the resources have remained untapped, scientists have said.

South Korea's Trident obtains rights to rare earth mines in Vietnam South Korea’s Trident obtains rights to rare earth mines in Vietnam

Trident Global Holdings, a prominent South Korea-based conglomerate with interests in mining, real estate, and carbon capture technology, has acquired rights to three significant rare earth element mines in Vietnam.

Vietnam yet to tap rare earth resources Vietnam yet to tap rare earth resources

Vietnam boasts a large reserve of approximately 30 million tonnes of rare earth, but the country has yet to conduct thorough research about how to exploit and process it effectively.

Photo: Thoibaotaichinhvietnam.vn
Photo: thoibaotaichinhvietnam.vn

According to a first-quarter market report released on April 23 by Mordor Intelligence, Green SM’s share in the app-based taxi segment rose from 51.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2025 to just over 54.5 per cent.

The performance extends a trend seen over the past year, during which the Vietnamese electric ride-hailing brand overtook competitors and sustained steady growth, surpassing the 50 per cent threshold in late 2025.

Beyond market share, Green SM also ranked highest in customer satisfaction, while leading in network coverage, trip volume, and average daily revenue.

The report noted that the overall ride-hailing market continued to expand in the first quarter, with gross merchandise value (GMV) reaching $580.71 million, equivalent to 153.26 million trips.

Electric and hybrid vehicle rides accounted for 58.34 per cent of total GMV, highlighting rising demand for green mobility among consumers.

Fluctuations in fuel prices have also put pressure on traditional taxi models, further underscoring the cost advantages of electric vehicles.

Green SM in pole position to take e-taxi market share Green SM in pole position to take e-taxi market share
GSM and Mai Linh to enter auto repair services in Vietnam GSM and Mai Linh to enter auto repair services in Vietnam
Green SM wins AREA 2025 green leadership award Green SM wins AREA 2025 green leadership award
Green SM Indonesia signs investment loan with Bank Central Asia Green SM Indonesia signs investment loan with Bank Central Asia
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Be Group reports company-wide profitability in 2025 Be Group reports company-wide profitability in 2025

Becoming an early seller on emerging platforms is not just a test, but a strategic move to capture a ‘blue ocean’ before competitors fully recognise the opportunity.

In 2026, Vietnam’s e-commerce landscape is no longer dominated solely by major players. Instead, the market is witnessing the rise of platforms that are smarter, safer, and more personalised.

In this context, joining emerging platforms offers undeniable exclusive advantages.

New e-commerce platforms: ‘Blue ocean’ opportunity or a risk trap for sellers in 2026? (PR)

The primary leverage lies in an ‘absolute priority’ algorithm, where new marketplaces proactively boost visibility for pioneer sellers to build their ecosystem, granting you a central presence without the need for massive keyword bidding budgets.

Simultaneously, ‘dream-tier’ operational costs – featuring preferential commission rates and comprehensive shipping subsidies – present a golden opportunity to optimise profit margins, which are otherwise being eroded by escalating fee pressures on legacy platforms.

Most notably, the distinct value comes from a direct connection with category management teams rather than impersonal automated responses, ensuring that a seller’s voice carries genuine weight in shaping the platform’s core features and policies.

However, not every emerging platform is a guaranteed ‘gold mine’ for businesses. Sellers must remain vigilant against latent risks, primarily the disconnect between technological quality and actual traffic volume.

Without robust marketing solutions to drive user engagement, a storefront can easily become ‘commercially invisible’, losing the opportunity to reach customers despite the platform’s superior technical features.

New e-commerce platforms: ‘Blue ocean’ opportunity or a risk trap for sellers in 2026? (PR)

Furthermore, operational stability is a critical factor; vulnerabilities such as payment glitches, delayed order processing, or fragmented logistics systems can directly tarnish a shop’s reputation.

Most notably, as Vietnam’s personal data protection regulations reach a peak of stringency in 2026, legal compliance and cybersecurity have shifted from being optional to mandatory.

Should an e-commerce platform lack a fortified security infrastructure, sellers risk facing vicarious liability – both legally and reputationally – in the event of a severe data breach.

MuaMau: A strategic ecosystem

MuaMau provides a comprehensive solution for sustainable operations. More than just a marketplace, it sets new standards that help sellers optimise resources and scale their business systematically:

Flexible operating model: Through the MuaMau platform, businesses can choose between a fully managed system to maximise efficiency or a semi-managed model, allowing sellers to maintain control over product quality while reducing operational pressure, minimising manual processes, and saving on labour costs.

Guaranteed traffic support: MuaMau ensures stable traffic, helping sellers eliminate concerns about sales performance in the early stages so they can focus entirely on product quality.

New e-commerce platforms: ‘Blue ocean’ opportunity or a risk trap for sellers in 2026? (PR)

Built-in marketing leverage: The platform integrates tools for connecting with KOLs and running seasonal promotional campaigns, allowing brands to scale effectively without heavy investment in external marketing teams.

New e-commerce platforms are becoming an ‘escape route’ for sellers overwhelmed by rising costs and intense competition. While risks still exist, with a clear mindset and technological agility, this presents a strong opportunity to establish your presence and lead in a new market landscape.

E-commerce platforms to pay taxes on behalf of sellers E-commerce platforms to pay taxes on behalf of sellers

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has proposed that all VAT and personal income tax of sellers on e-commerce platforms are deducted as soon as the order is successfully confirmed and paid for.

Legal reins evolved in e-commerce Legal reins evolved in e-commerce

In the context of Vietnam’s e-commerce market entering a new phase of development, tightening legal regulations are placing increasing demands for compliance on all stakeholders.

E-commerce platforms and social networks face stricter responsibilities under draft law E-commerce platforms and social networks face stricter responsibilities under draft law

The government has submitted a draft law on e-commerce to require identity verification of livestream sellers and affiliate marketers through the national digital ID system, aimed to enhance transparency and protect consumers.

VinFast deliveres over 58,000 EVs globally in Q1

VinFast on April 22 announced its preliminary vehicle deliveries for the first quarter of 2026. Accordingly, the Limo Green and the VF 3 were VinFast’s two best-selling models with cumulative deliveries of 12,693 and 11,088 vehicles, respectively.

The carmaker also delivered 8,490 VF 5 vehicles, 7,819 VF 6 vehicles, 5,080 VF 7 vehicles, 3,809 Minio Green vehicles, and 3,741 VF MPV 7 vehicles during the period.

The company also delivered 143,136 e-scooters and e-bikes in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 219 per cent increase on-year. This growth reflects the strong momentum of the green transition and further reinforces VinFast’s solid position and growing influence in Vietnam’s motorbike market.

The company also announced that it will release its financial results for the first quarter of 2026 before market opens on June 8.

At Vingroup’s AGM in Hanoi on April 22, Vingroup chairman and founder Pham Nhat Vuong said that VinFast sets a goal to deliver about 300,000 vehicles globally in 2026, including approximately 200,000 units in Vietnam.

“We are restructuring VinFast’s operations on a global scale. Under the plan, VinFast is expected to begin turning a profit by 2027. In the Vietnamese market, VinFast is already becoming profitable as early as this year,” Vuong said.

For the full year 2025, VinFast delivered 196,919 electric vehicles, representing a 102 per cent increase on-year.

To facilitate its growth, the carmaker continues to expand its overseas footprint in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The company has launched new manufacturing facilities in Tamil Nadu and Subang, alongside its new domestic plant in Ha Tinh.

Vingroup set for $350 million international bond issuance Vingroup set for $350 million international bond issuance

Vingroup plans to issue up to $350 million in international bonds, with listing documents submitted to the Vienna Stock Exchange.

VinFast partners with 14 Philippine e-scooter dealers VinFast partners with 14 Philippine e-scooter dealers

The Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer formed distribution agreements expanding two-wheeler sales coverage across the archipelago.

Vietnam second fastest growing automotive market in ASEAN‑6 Vietnam second fastest growing automotive market in ASEAN‑6

Vietnam’s automotive market ranked as the second‑fastest growing market in ASEAN‑6, according to a report by PwC Vietnam on April 20.

The acquisition expands the group’s business portfolio and marks a strategic transformation towards multi-industry development, alongside its core sectors of steel, solar energy, real estate, and resort and hospitality services.

Thanh Nam completed the share transfer on March 3, acquiring a 98.3 per cent ownership stake in Vietnam Coffee Export JSC (Via Coffee). The deal is considered a long-term strategic move, enabling the group to enhance its competitiveness and gradually penetrate deeper into the agricultural export value chain-one of Vietnam’s most promising sectors.

Thanh Nam’s development journey began in 2004 in the steel industry, with stainless steel as its flagship product. From the early stages, the company demonstrated strong adaptability to market dynamics, continuously innovating to maintain its competitive edge. In 2010, its slitting and cutting centre was put into operation, contributing to improved production capacity and a more complete supply chain.

Thanh Nam Group moves into coffee export market
Steel plant with outstanding production capacity – a solid financial pillar in the group’s multi-industry ecosystem

Building on this foundation, Thanh Nam gradually expanded its product portfolio to include cold-rolled steel, galvanised steel, electro-galvanised steel, and pickled hot-rolled steel – products that have become key pillars in the group’s long-term development strategy.

Entering a new phase of development, in 2020, Thanh Nam continued to invest in the energy sector with solar power projects in Phu Yen province (now part of Dak Lak province), marking an important milestone, positioning energy as one of the group’s key sectors alongside steel in its business structure.

Thanh Nam Group moves into coffee export market
The group’s solar power project in Phu Yen (now part of Dak Lak province) – a testament to its sustainable development strategy

In 2023, the board of directors announced the transition to a holding company model, with a strategic orientation towards multi-industry development, focusing on two key expansion areas: real estate and agriculture. From this point, Thanh Nam’s ecosystem has been gradually completed with strategic components.

Currently, the group has put into operation one of its two resort real estate projects, including Kien Hotel in Danang and Vuon Dao Hotel in Halong (currently under renovation), contributing to enhanced brand value and diversified revenue streams.

The deal with Via Coffee marks another significant milestone, bringing Thanh Nam into the coffee export sector. Via Coffee operates a network of three branches in Dak Lak, Quang Tri, and Son La – key raw material regions – and is planning to expand with an additional factory in Quoc Oai area in Hanoi to further complete its production and logistics network.

A key differentiator in Via Coffee’s strategy is the parallel development of both premium robusta and arabica product lines. This approach enables the company to flexibly cater to diverse customer segments and enhance its ability to penetrate international markets.

Despite being a relatively new entrant, Via Coffee has already recorded positive signals, becoming a partner in demanding markets such as the United States, Japan, Germany, Italy, Russia, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, and Algeria.

Thanh Nam Group moves into coffee export market
The first shipments departing for the United States and Europe – a testament to VIA COFFEE’s rapid market adaptability

Going beyond the export of green coffee beans, Thanh Nam also aims to build the Via Coffee brand for value-added products such as roasted coffee and instant coffee in the near future. This is considered a strategic move to increase product value and gradually elevate Vietnamese coffee in the global market.

After more than two decades of development, Thanh Nam has steadily built a multi-pillar ecosystem including steel, solar energy, real estate, resort and hospitality, and agriculture. This multi-industry strategy helps the company diversify risk while creating synergies across sectors, optimising capital efficiency and management capabilities.

The expansion into the coffee sector is not merely an investment move, it also reflects the company’s long-term vision and adaptive transformation mindset. In the context of a constantly evolving market, a selective development strategy aligned with core competitive advantages is helping Thanh Nam build a solid foundation for future growth.

Thanh Nam Group JSC

Address: Address: 3rd Floor, Tower A, Golden Palace Office Building, No. 99 Me Tri street, Tu Liem ward, Hanoi.

Hotline: (84-24) 3787 1396

Website: https://thanhnamgroup.com.vn/

Email: info@thanhnamgroup.com.vn

Cross-border e-commerce surge propels coffee exports Cross-border e-commerce surge propels coffee exports

As Vietnam advances its digital trade revolution, cross-border e-commerce is playing an increasingly vital role in economic expansion, especially for major export sectors like coffee.

Local coffee exporters work to improve recognition Local coffee exporters work to improve recognition

Vietnamese coffee exporters remain upbeat about the sector’s growth outlook.

Vietnam’s coffee exports set new record despite price pressures Vietnam’s coffee exports set new record despite price pressures

Vietnam’s coffee export turnover reached a record high of $7.94 billion in the first 11 months of 2025, far surpassing the previous peak of $5.6 billion recorded in 2024.