In February 2025, Vietnam’s economy continued to witness significant investment activities, reflecting the country’s attractiveness as a business destination for international corporations. Several major projects in high-tech, semiconductor, energy, and retail sectors were announced, along with government policies aimed at supporting economic growth. Below are the most notable events of the month:

1. Government Sets 8% GDP Growth Target for 2025

On February 5, 2025, the Vietnamese government issued Resolution No. 25/NQ-CP, setting a target of 8% GDP growth for 2025. Policies to support businesses, improve the business environment, and accelerate public investment will be key drivers in achieving this target. The resolution highlights the promotion of high-tech industries, manufacturing, and innovation as priority sectors for economic growth.

2. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Vietnam in the First Two Months of 2025

As of the end of February 2025, total foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam reached USD 6.9 billion, an increase of 35.5% compared to the same period last year. The manufacturing and processing sector accounted for the largest share, with total investment reaching USD 4.72 billion. South Korea was the top FDI investor in Vietnam, with total registered investment exceeding USD 1.5 billion, accounting for 21.7% of total FDI, a 5.4-fold increase year-over-year. (Source: Mekong ASEAN)

3. Sumitomo Plans to Build a Second Industrial Park in Vinh Phuc

Sumitomo Corporation (Japan) is planning to invest in a second industrial park (IP) in Vinh Phuc after the success of Thang Long Vinh Phuc IP. During a meeting with provincial leaders, Sumitomo proposed to study and implement a new project, focusing on high-tech and ecological industries. Previously, Thang Long Vinh Phuc IP was invested by Sumitomo since 2015, with a total registered capital of more than VND 2,000 billion and an area of ​​213 hectares. Local authorities welcomed this proposal and committed to supporting legal procedures to attract more Japanese investors.

4. Vietnam Approves Nuclear Energy Development and Application Plan Until 2030, Vision to 2050

On February 15, 2025, the Prime Minister signed Decision No. 154/QĐ-TTg approving the Development and Application Plan for Nuclear Energy until 2030, with a Vision to 2050. The plan aims to establish infrastructure to facilitate the research and application of nuclear energy in healthcare, industry, agriculture, and environmental fields. The government has also emphasized strict compliance with international safety regulations.

5. Vietnam to Host the International Conference on AI and Semiconductors 2025 (AISC 2025)

Vietnam will host the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductors 2025 (AISC 2025) in Hanoi and Da Nang from March 12 to 16, 2025. The conference is expected to attract over 1,000 experts from leading technology firms such as Intel, TSMC, Samsung, MediaTek, Google DeepMind, along with top research institutes and universities worldwide. This will be a crucial opportunity for Vietnam to solidify its position in the semiconductor and AI industries.

6. Amkor Technology Expands Investment in Vietnam

On February 18, 2025, Amkor Technology, a global leader in semiconductor assembly and testing, announced an additional USD 500 million investment in its Bac Ninh project. This increases Amkor’s total investment in Vietnam to USD 1.6 billion, positioning the country as a key hub in the regional semiconductor supply chain.

7. Vietnamese Universities Introduce Semiconductor Programs

In response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry, several Vietnamese universities, including Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang University, have launched new semiconductor programs. Collaboration programs with international technology companies are also being implemented to enhance training quality and align with industry needs.

8. 7-Eleven and GS25 Plan to Enter the Hanoi Market

Japanese and Korean convenience store giants 7-Eleven and GS25 currently have no stores in Hanoi but have announced plans to expand into the city in 2025, with 50 to 70 new stores expected to open. These brands aim to capitalize on increasing consumer demand and the growing convenience store market in urban areas. Currently, Circle K dominates the convenience store market in Hanoi.

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