Update

Vietnam business environment 2013

According to Euromonitor in its 2013 International Countries’ briefing, Vietnam continues to attract foreign investors thanks to its various investment incentives, a growing labour force and a flexible labour market. The total economically active population stood at 45.6 million in 2011, 10.0% higher than in 2006 as a result of steady population growth. Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to Vietnam reached VND152 trillion (US$7.4 billion) in 2011, down by 13.8% in real terms compared to 2010 amid the country’s economic slowdown. The level of FDI intensity was 6.0% of total GDP in 2011, remaining higher than in some other regional economies including Thailand and Indonesia. Rising labour costs, poor infrastructure, skills shortages and red tape, however, continue to be factors which undermine business confidence in the country.

Given its sizable market (total population of 88.8 million as of 2011) and rising income levels, the consumer landscape in Vietnam is attractive to businesses. Per capita consumer expenditure rose to VND17.7 million (US$863) in 2011, representing a growth of 38.9% in real terms since 2006. As the middle class is expanding, consumer spending on discretionary items (everything except spending on food and non-alcoholic beverages and housing) is set to increase from 56.5% of total consumer expenditure in 2011 to 58.1% by 2020.

ANT Lawyers

Recent Posts

The Employment in Vietnam Guide: 12 Key Legal Answers for Foreign Companies Entering the Market

Foreign companies entering Vietnam's thriving market face unique legal questions, especially around employing local talents.…

6 days ago

13 Critical Steps To Respond to Thailand’s Tough Anti-Dumping Investigation on Cold Rolled Stainless Steel

On October 3, 2024, Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) had officially launched an anti-dumping…

3 weeks ago

Anti-Dumping Investigation on Wood Fiber Boards from Thailand and China (AD21)

On September 25, 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Trade officially initiated an anti-dumping investigation…

1 month ago

Kick-Off Event of the 2024 International Mediation Writing Competition in Vietnam

The Weinstein International Foundation (WIF) has officially launched the 2024 International Mediation Writing Competition (IMWC2024).…

1 month ago

The 2024 Law on the Organization of Courts in Vietnam: Judicial Reform Towards Transparency

In recent years, Vietnam has continuously enhanced its legal framework to meet the demands of…

1 month ago

Real Estate Tax Policy in Vietnam: 10 Insights for Understanding the Challenges and Opportunities

Vietnam’s dynamic economic growth and hot real estate market have drawn the attention of investors…

2 months ago