Vietnam: A New Investment Paradise for Global Giants

Vietnam: A New Investment Paradise for Global Giants

Investment Surge from Global Companies

Over the past few months, Vietnam has emerged as a preferred destination for foreign companies looking to explore investment opportunities and establish partnerships. Nearly 1,000 firms from 28 countries have established a presence in the country since early September 2023. Among these companies are multinational giants like Boeing, Walmart, and Central Retail. Vietnam’s growing popularity among investors stems from its favorable exports, which include wood, agricultural products, textiles, and footwear. As Vietnamese products increase in global popularity, the country has become an attractive investment destination.

Vietnam’s Export Potential

Avaneesh Gupta, the senior vice president of General Merchandise Apparel Sourcing at Walmart, emphasized Vietnam’s potential for exports. Product categories such as seafood, cashew nuts, soy milk, coffee, fresh fruits, and fruit-based snacks were highlighted. A testament to Vietnam’s potential is the deployment of procurement teams by Walmart to explore sourcing opportunities in the country.

Attracting Agriculture Investments

Agriculture is another sector attracting foreign investors. For instance, Central Retail Group has provided technical assistance for cultivating organic honeydew melons to Danny Green Corporation. The increasing attention from foreign investors in the agriculture sector is an indication of the country’s fertile investment landscape.

Direct Investment Appeal

Companies from South Korea, the US, and Europe are interested in direct investment in Vietnam. This interest is due to its strategic geographical location, stable economy, young workforce, and favorable policies. Since the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) in 2019, European enterprises have invested in over 2,250 projects worth $26 billion in Vietnam.

US Corporations Eyeing Vietnam

Major US corporations like Apple, Qualcomm, Nike, Morgan Stanley, Intel, GE, ACORN International, General Dynamics, and Google have also expressed interest in investing in Vietnam. Boeing is looking to expand its investment in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in material supply facilities and establishing technical centers.

Foreign Investment Growth

According to statistics from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, foreign firms invested $18.15 billion in Vietnam in the first eight months of 2023, representing an 8.2% increase compared to the same period last year.

Need for Consistent Policies

While Vietnam continues to attract more sustainable investment inflows, there is a need for consistency in investment incentive policies. This will reassure investors about long-term business operations in the country, paving the way for continued growth and development.