On March 13, the GBA Members for Members Workshop titled “Vietnam’s Macroeconomic Outlook & Key Policy Shifts Impacting Foreign Businesses” brought together numerous participants in Hanoi. Co-hosted by CEEC Vietnam, Forvis Mazars Vietnam and NordCham Vietnam, the event focused on Vietnam’s investment landscape, macroeconomic outlook, and the latest policy developments, along with emerging areas for investment. Attendees gained a practical understanding of the evolving investment landscape in Vietnam.
Key Takeaways:
- Macroeconomic Outlook in 2025:
Participants gained insights into Vietnam’s growth prospects, supported by exports, industrial recovery, and FDI, while navigating geopolitical tensions, trade barriers, and economic slowdowns. Despite logistics costs and currency fluctuations, stimulus policies aid private investment and consumption.
The session also addressed President Trump’s proposed tariffs, which could disrupt trade but open opportunities for Vietnam as a manufacturing hub. However, risks such as weaker export demand, trade barriers, and rising costs remain, requiring businesses to focus on diversification and risk management.
- Key Policy Changes Impacting Foreign Businesses in Vietnam:
Speakers discussed Vietnam’s administrative restructuring and key policy changes affecting foreign investors. Topics included sustainability compliance, energy regulations – such as Decree 57/2025 on Direct Power Purchase Agreements and Decree 58/2025 on rooftop solar –, the implementation of the Global Minimum Tax and Investment Support Fund, as well as updates on severance allowances for expatriates and on-the-spot import/export policies. These reforms aim to enhance Vietnam’s business climate and align with international standards.
- Northern Vietnam as a Potential Future Hub for Semiconductors:
Northern Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a competitive semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing hub, driven by strong government support, investment incentives, and a skilled workforce. Provinces like Hung Yen and Vinh Phuc offer favorable conditions for industrial expansion, attracting multinational corporations seeking alternatives in global supply chains. With robust infrastructure and strategic location advantages, the region is becoming a key destination for high-tech and manufacturing investments.
We extend our gratitude to our keynote speakers and panelists for their valuable contributions:
- Dr. Can Van Luc, Chief Economist of the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV)
- Mr. Minh Nguyen, Partner/Chairman of Forvis Mazars Vietnam
- Mr. Paul Tonkes, Industrial Deputy Director of Indochina Kajima Development (ICCK)
- Mr. Ralf Ziser, Executive Director/CEO of Ingun Vietnam
The workshop concluded with a dynamic panel discussion, featuring highly engaged audience participation. This interactive session allowed attendees to delve deeper into the topics discussed and gain personalized insights.
A big thank you to Forvis Mazars Vietnam and Core5 Vietnam for sponsoring the event.
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