On 6 April 2026, the German Business Association – GBA successfully hosted its Monthly Business Meeting, welcoming more than 50 business leaders and members for an engaging discussion on how Vietnam can sustain its competitive edge amid growing global uncertainties.
The session was chaired by Mr. André de Jong, GBA’s EuroCham Delegate and Managing Director of Bosch Vietnam, leading a forward-looking dialogue on navigating uncertainty, structural transformation, and strategic priorities for businesses in Vietnam.
Speaker Highlights:
- Mr. Simon Kreye, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Economic Section of the German Embassy in Hanoi, emphasized that while Vietnam is deeply integrated into global supply chains, its heavy reliance on imported inputs, especially from China, highlights the urgent need for diversification and a stronger domestic supplier ecosystem. As global trade becomes increasingly political, resilience will be critical to maintaining competitiveness.
- Mr. Bruno Jaspaert, Chairman of EuroCham Vietnam, highlighted that the current energy situation poses a direct and immediate risk to businesses, with over 80% of Vietnam’s fuel imports linked to the Middle East. Rising costs, labor constraints, and regulatory changes will shape the next phase of growth, requiring more sustainable, long-term strategies.
- Mr. Michael Kokalari, Chief Economist of VinaCapital, noted that Vietnam’s economy continues to show solid performance, supported by domestic consumption and the recovery of tourism. However, underlying pressures such as rising input costs and tightening labor conditions remain key challenges. He also recommended that businesses adopt globally recognized, business-critical standards, such as arbitration frameworks, to better manage risks and operate effectively in an evolving environment.
Across the discussion, resilience emerged as the central theme, marking a clear shift in Vietnam’s growth model from efficiency-driven to resilience-driven.
As global uncertainties continue to reshape the business environment, Vietnam’s outlook remains strong but increasingly time-sensitive. With a 10% GDP growth target in sight, expanding free trade zones, and the upcoming International Financial Centre, the country is well-positioned to attract future investment.
A big thank you to our distinguished speakers and valued guests for a thought-provoking and forward-looking discussion!
