{"id":25126,"date":"2026-06-16T19:07:55","date_gmt":"2026-06-16T12:07:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/b-company.jp\/?p=25126"},"modified":"2026-06-16T19:07:55","modified_gmt":"2026-06-16T12:07:55","slug":"how-foreign-investors-can-find-reliable-local-business-partners-in-vietnam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/b-company.jp\/zh\/how-foreign-investors-can-find-reliable-local-business-partners-in-vietnam\/","title":{"rendered":"\u5916\u56fd\u6295\u8d44\u8005\u5982\u4f55\u5728\u8d8a\u5357\u627e\u5230\u53ef\u9760\u7684\u5f53\u5730\u5546\u4e1a\u4f19\u4f34"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"B&Company-Vietnam<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

<\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/div>

<\/span>B&Company is the first Japanese company specializing in market research and investment consulting in Vietnam since 2008.<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This article is written in English and automatic translation is used for other language versions. Please refer to the English version for\u00a0accurate\u00a0content. Although we strive to ensure the accuracy of the original information, please check separately for each information. Interpretations and\u00a0future prospects\u00a0are the\u00a0personal opinions\u00a0of each researcher.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t

\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnam has become one of Asia\u2019s most attractive investment destinations, driven by strong economic growth, a growing consumer market, competitive manufacturing, and deeper integration into global supply chains. As foreign companies seek opportunities in manufacturing, sourcing, distribution, joint ventures, and strategic investment, finding reliable local partners has become increasingly important.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This article outlines Vietnam\u2019s investment appeal, domestic business landscape, key considerations when working with Vietnamese companies, successful partnership cases, and how\u00a0B&Company\u2019s\u00a0business matching services can help investors identify suitable partners.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Vietnam Is an Attractive Destination for Foreign Investors<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Over the past decade, Vietnam has transformed from a low-cost manufacturing destination into one of the most dynamic economies in Asia. The country offers a combination of political stability, a large workforce, an expanding middle class, and extensive participation in global trade agreements.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnam\u2019s economic performance continues to strengthen investor confidence. According to the World Bank, Vietnam\u2019s GDP grew by 8.0% in 2025 and is forecast to maintain robust growth at 6.8% in 2026 and 7.1% in 2027. The country also has one of the highest trade-to-GDP ratios in the world, approaching 170%, reflecting its deep integration into international trade and manufacturing networks. [1]<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnam GDP growth\u00a0(%)<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Vietnam<\/span><\/p>\n

Source: Vietnam General Statistics Office<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Foreign direct investment (FDI) remains a key driver of Vietnam\u2019s economic development. In 2025, total registered\u00a0FDI\u00a0reached USD 38.42 billion, while disbursed\u00a0FDI\u00a0reached USD\u00a027.62 billion, up 9% year-on-year and the highest level recorded during the 2021\u20132025 period. [2]<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In terms of cumulative FDI amount in Vietnam, South Korea remained the largest foreign investor. Singapore and Japan also maintained significant investment positions and continue to play strategic roles in Vietnam\u2019s industrial development<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cumulative\u00a0FDI\u00a0Amount and Number of Projects by Major Countries (2024)<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Cumulative\u00a0FDI\u00a0Amount\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Source: Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) of Vietnam<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Manufacturing and processing continue to attract the largest share of foreign investment, while sectors such as real estate, logistics, retail, and high-tech services are also drawing increasing attention.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Share of Cumulative FDI by Sector (%, 2025)<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Share<\/span><\/p>\n

Source: Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI)<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These figures demonstrate that Vietnam is no longer viewed solely as a low-cost production base. Instead, it has become a strategic destination for companies seeking long-term growth opportunities, supply chain diversification, and access to Southeast Asia\u2019s rapidly expanding markets.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For foreign companies, partnering with local businesses can offer several practical advantages, such as faster market entry, better understanding of local regulations, access to customers and suppliers, support with licenses and permits, and stronger local business networks.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As a result, finding the right Vietnamese partner is often a critical factor in achieving long-term success in the market.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Overview of Vietnamese Domestic Companies<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Vietnam\u2019s domestic business sector has expanded significantly alongside the country\u2019s economic growth. According to\u00a0B&Company\u2019s\u00a0enterprise database, Vietnam had more than 1 million domestic companies in 2024, compared with approximately 20,000 foreign-invested companies.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, the domestic business landscape is highly fragmented. Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises account for around 98% of all domestic companies, while large enterprises represent only about 2%. This structure shows that although Vietnam has a broad and dynamic base of local businesses, many companies remain relatively small in scale and may have limited management resources, financial transparency, or experience in working with international partners.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Number of local Vietnamese enterprises by company size (%)<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Number<\/span><\/p>\n

Source:\u00a0B&Company\u00a0enterprise database<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnamese companies have become increasingly competitive and export-oriented, especially in sectors such as electronics, textiles, furniture, food processing, supporting industries, logistics, and retail.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, readiness for international cooperation varies significantly. While some firms have strong management systems, financial transparency, compliance standards, and global\u00a0business experience, others still rely on informal management and owner-driven decision-making. Therefore, foreign companies should assess not only products and services, but also management quality, financial reliability, compliance, and communication capability.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cultural understanding is also important. Vietnamese companies are generally relationship-oriented, pragmatic, and flexible, but key decisions are often made by owners, general directors, or a small senior management group. Approaching the right decision-makers and building trust through direct communication can help partnerships progress more smoothly.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnamese prioritize a work-life balance in the workplace<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Vietnamese\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Source:\u202f<\/span><\/i>VnExpress<\/span><\/i><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Face-to-face meetings remain highly valued in Vietnam. In-person discussions, factory visits, and site visits often help build trust more effectively than emails or online meetings alone. They also provide useful opportunities to observe a company\u2019s facilities, working style, production capacity, quality control practices, and overall commitment to cooperation.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

At the same time, clear documentation is essential. Key issues such as pricing, payment terms, lead times, warranties, exclusivity arrangements, quality responsibilities, and after-sales support should be clearly confirmed in writing. Providing meeting summaries, written follow-up notes, and bilingual documentation when\u00a0necessary\u00a0can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that both sides have the same understanding before moving forward.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Key Considerations When Searching for Vietnamese Business Partners<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

The first step in finding a suitable Vietnamese business partner is to clearly define the purpose of cooperation. For example, a company looking for a manufacturing partner will\u00a0need to assess production capacity, quality control, certifications, and delivery capability, while a company seeking a distributor should focus more on sales channels, customer networks, market coverage, and after-sales support.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Business matching in Vietnam should therefore be approached as a structured process, not simply as a search for company names. It typically involves identifying potential local partners, screening their credibility and business fit, arranging direct meetings, and conducting follow-up communication to confirm mutual interest and cooperation terms.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Type of cooperation<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nImportant factor to consider<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Manufacturing Partnerships (OEM\/ODM)<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n– Production capacity<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Machinery and equipment<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Quality control systems<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Material sourcing capability<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Certifications and compliance standards<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Workforce availability<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Export experience<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

Distribution Partnerships<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n– Sales channels<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Geographic coverage<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Customer portfolio<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Warehouse capacity<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– After-sales services<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Financial capability<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

Joint Ventures and Capital Investment<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n– Ownership structure<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Financial performance<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Land-use rights<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Licenses and permits<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Tax compliance<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

– Legal and litigation risks<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Although Vietnam offers many partnership opportunities, foreign companies may face challenges such as limited public information, differences in management standards, language barriers, and unclear decision-making processes. For this reason, careful partner screening, direct communication, and proper documentation are essential to building reliable and long-term business relationships.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Business Matching process and potential challenges for foreign investors<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Business\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Source:\u00a0B&Company\u00a0Vietnam<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Successful Examples of Foreign\u2013Vietnamese Partnerships<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many successful collaborations demonstrate how foreign companies and Vietnamese businesses can create mutual value.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Company<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nExplanation<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Samsung<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nSamsung is one of the most successful examples of supplier development in Vietnam. Through close cooperation with Vietnam\u2019s Ministry of Industry and Trade and local enterprises, the number of Vietnamese Tier-1 suppliers increased from 25 in 2014 to 306 in 2023<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
AEON<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nAEON Vietnam has built strong partnerships with local suppliers by helping Vietnamese companies improve product quality and meet international retail standards. In 2025, AEON expanded its Vietnamese Products Week program to Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Cambodia, including 383 AEON stores and supermarkets in Japan alone<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sumitomo Corporation<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nLarge-scale projects also show the value of strategic partnerships. The North Hanoi Smart City project, a joint venture between Vietnam\u2019s BRG Group and Japan\u2019s Sumitomo Corporation, covers nearly 272 hectares with a planned investment of about USD 4.2 billion<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

B&Company’s synthesis<\/em><\/p>\n

These cases demonstrate how foreign companies can help local companies integrate into global supply chains while strengthening Vietnam\u2019s industrial ecosystem. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How\u00a0B&Company\u00a0Supports Business Matching in Vietnam<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

To overcome these challenges, foreign investors can use business matching services as a bridge to connect with suitable Vietnamese partners. Based on specific requirements such as location, production capacity, distribution network, and language capability, these\u00a0services help identify and screen potential partners, arrange meetings, coordinate factory visits, and support follow-up communication. They also provide market insights, basic due diligence support, translation, and cultural mediation, helping foreign companies save time, reduce risks, and build more reliable partnerships in Vietnam.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Established in 2008,\u00a0B&Company\u00a0is the first Japanese market research and consulting firm dedicated to the Vietnamese market, with offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. With an enterprise database covering more than 1 million companies in Vietnam,\u00a0B&Company\u00a0can effectively support business matching by identifying, screening, and connecting foreign companies with suitable local partners.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Business Matching Service at\u00a0B&Company\u00a0Vietnam<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Business<\/span><\/p>\n

Source:\u00a0B&Company<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Read more<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Kochi Vietnam Support Desk: Strengthening business bridges between Kochi and Vietnam<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n