The Autumn Economic Forum (AEF) 2026 brought together government officials, diplomats, and business leaders from around the world for three days of high-level dialogue on innovation, investment, and sustainable growth.
Representing the German business association were H.E. Andrea Maria Sühl, Consul General of Germany in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Peter Kompalla, Chief Representative of AHK Vietnam and Ms. Quynh Anh Le, Executive Director of the German Business Association (GBA). Their participation reaffirmed the German business community’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s industrial transformation through technological expertise, innovation, and sustainable investment.
Throughout the Forum, discussions highlighted priorities closely aligned with the strengths of German industry and the European Union’s long-term partnership with Vietnam.
EU–Vietnam Partnership: Turning Cooperation into Investment Opportunities
During the high-level plenary session, H.E. Julien Guerrier, Ambassador of the European Union to Vietnam, highlighted opportunities to strengthen EU–Vietnam cooperation in renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, circular economy, infrastructure, digitalization, and high-tech industries.
He also emphasized the importance of a transparent and predictable regulatory environment in attracting long-term investment. Through the Global Gateway initiative and the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), the EU continues to support sustainable investment, economic cooperation, and Vietnam’s deeper integration into global value chains.
For German and European businesses, these priorities are essential to strengthening investor confidence, encouraging technology-driven partnerships, and unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth.
German Industrial Expertise: Supporting Vietnam’s Transformation
As Vietnam advances toward a higher-value, technology-driven economy, German businesses can contribute significantly through their expertise in advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, engineering, and sustainable production.
Discussions on smart factories, artificial intelligence, and industrial competitiveness highlighted the importance of moving beyond traditional manufacturing toward greater local value creation.
German companies have long supported Vietnam’s industrial development through investment, technology transfer, vocational training, and integration into international supply chains. Stronger cooperation between German investors and Vietnamese enterprises can further enhance local supplier capabilities, accelerate technology adoption, and develop the skilled workforce required for future industries.
Germany’s contribution goes beyond investment capital. It is about sharing expertise, strengthening industrial capabilities, and creating long-term value for Vietnam’s economy.
Green Transformation: Advancing Sustainable Industries
Green growth and sustainability were key themes of AEF 2026, highlighting opportunities for German businesses to contribute through their expertise in energy efficiency, environmental technologies, and sustainable manufacturing. Discussions on energy transition and ESG practices also emphasized the importance of helping Vietnamese enterprises meet international standards and strengthen their integration into global supply chains.
Strengthening Investment Confidence and International Cooperation
A key highlight was the high-level dialogue between Vietnam’s Prime Minister and representatives of the World Economic Forum (WEF), focusing on emerging growth opportunities and international cooperation.
Discussions on foreign investment and Vietnam’s economic development priorities reinforced the importance of a stable and competitive business environment. For German and European investors, continued public–private dialogue and policy consistency remain essential to fostering long-term investment and sustainable growth.
AEF 2026 highlighted the strong alignment between Vietnam’s development priorities and the capabilities of the German business community, particularly in advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, green technologies, and workforce development.
GBA remains committed to strengthening German–Vietnamese economic relations by fostering business dialogue, facilitating partnerships, and advocating for a transparent, predictable, and competitive investment environment.
From investment to innovation, from technology to talent, Germany and Vietnam are building a stronger and more sustainable industrial future together.
