As part of our ongoing effort to keep members informed, we are pleased to share the most relevant updates in Vietnam across Legal, Tax, Accounting, Banking, and HR. These insights are contributed by our GBA members, bringing practical expertise and market perspectives to support the business community in navigating regulatory developments and economic trends.
1. Vietnam’s Consumer Revolution: A Strategic Opportunity for German Retail
Vietnam is evolving from a manufacturing hub into one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing consumer markets, driven by rising incomes, urbanisation, an expanding middle class and increasing demand for high-quality, trusted international products.
Vietnamese consumers increasingly value German products, particularly in health, beauty, baby care and household categories, reflecting strong confidence in German quality and brand reputation.
German retailer dm-drogerie markt is highlighted as a retail concept whose product portfolio aligns with Vietnam’s growing consumer preferences, although this is presented as a practical observation rather than formal market research.
Long-term consumer trends supporting retail opportunities include greater health awareness, demand for premium personal care and baby products, growing interest in sustainable and organic products, and confidence in European quality standards.
The EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) continues to improve market access for qualifying EU-origin products through tariff reductions, while businesses must still comply with Vietnam’s import, product registration and labelling requirements.
Vietnam’s increasingly sophisticated consumer market presents a strategic opportunity for German retailers to expand beyond traditional manufacturing and export-focused investment models. Read more here>>>
Sourced by: Dr. Oliver Massmann, Partner & General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC
2. Institutional Reforms and External Engagement Remain Key Growth Tailwinds
In H1 2026, the National Assembly (NA) passed 9 laws and 10 resolutions, while the Government issued more than 280 legal documents and submitted an additional 40 draft laws and resolutions for consideration at the NA’s October session.
Resolution No. 168/NQ-CP (dated 27 June) raised the growth target for H2 2026 to 11.9%, with local authorities expected to achieve growth rates of 10-12%. Meanwhile, the policy framework established under Resolutions No. 68-NQ/TW, 79-NQ/TW and 10-NQ/TW aims to promote the development of the private sector, state-owned enterprises and FDI, while strengthening linkages between foreign-invested and domestic businesses.
Fiscal support measures remain in place, including the extension of VAT, CIT, PIT and land-rent payment deferrals through the end of 2026, continued fuel tax relief until September, and an increase in the tax revenue threshold for household businesses to VND 1 billion.
At the same time, Vietnam has continued to strengthen high-level diplomatic engagement, supporting efforts to attract foreign investment and further integrate the country into global value chains.
Sourced by: BIDV Economics Research Institute
3. Over 50% of Vietnam’s Office Buildings Need Value-Enhancing Upgrades
Occupier priorities are shifting beyond location and rent to include energy efficiency, workplace quality, and Net Zero capabilities as top concerns.
Approximately 65% of current office buildings risk becoming obsolete by 2030 if they are not upgraded to meet modern standards.
Investing in ESG upgrades is a long-term value protection strategy, not just a cost. Strategic investments (typically 1-7% of asset value) can yield significant operational cost savings.
Buildings with green certifications and clear emission reduction roadmaps are achieving rental rates 15-30% higher than comparable non-certified assets.
Global corporations are driving demand for green real estate to meet their corporate Net Zero commitments, particularly for Scope 3 emissions.
ESG is creating a “win-win” collaboration model where landlords enhance asset value and tenants achieve lower operating costs and sustainability targets.
Sourced by: JLL Vietnam
4. Vietnam’s New Construction Law: New Opportunities and Responsibilities for Investors
Vietnam’s new Law on Construction (No. 135/2025/QH15), effective 1 July 2026, aims to streamline administrative procedures and improve the efficiency of project implementation.
The reform enables faster project starts by exempting more projects from construction permits and reducing approvals to a single state appraisal where permits remain required. On the flip side, investors assume greater responsibility for design compliance and the accuracy of the project commencement dossier, increasing their overall project risk.
Businesses should also note that the new Law does not take full effect all at once. While it formally enters into force on 1 July 2026, certain provisions already applied from 1 January 2026, including the rules on construction permits, special public investment projects, and several transitional arrangements. For any project currently in preparation, it is therefore important to check which regime governs each step.
Sourced by: Mr. Leif D. Schneider, Attorney-at-Law of Luther Vietnam Law & Dr. Tino Haupt, Attorney-at-Lawof Luther Vietnam Law