EVFTA a Milestone in Vietnam-EU Bilateral Cooperation

The VN-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has been a milestone in the 30-year relationship between Vietnam and the European Union, ushering in a new era of bilateral cooperation and development. The trade agreement, which went into effect on August 1, 2020, has brought Vietnam-EU economic partnership to the next level and established a solid foundation for future economic and investment collaboration. The EVFTA has delivered significantly positive impacts on Vietnam’s economy, both economically and institutionally.

Three years after the implementation of the EVFTA, Vietnam has demonstrated its commitment to full implementation of the trade agreements regarding tariffs, market access for services, investment, public procurement, and deregulation. The EVFTA has played a major role in improving trade, foreign investment, business awareness, and economic development in Vietnam.

Total export turnover from Vietnam to the EU has increased, thanks to EVFTA tariff preferences. The EU’s foreign direct investment (FDI) into Vietnam has also increased, resulting in a positive impact on the country’s economy. Vietnamese businesses are benefiting from the EVFTA, and a majority of them expect further positive impacts in the future.

Vietnamese Peacekeepers Celebrate National Day in Abyei

Military Engineering Unit Rotation 2 celebrated Vietnam’s National Day at the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in Africa on September 2. Major General Benjamin Olufemi Sawyerr, commander of the UNISFA Mission, congratulated Vietnam on its National Day and praised Vietnamese peacekeepers for their efforts in bringing peace and hope to the local people. Colonel Nguyen Viet Hung, commander of the Vietnamese peacekeeping force in Abyei, affirmed Vietnam’s commitment to protecting national independence and promoting peace and prosperity in Abyei.

Strengthening Vietnam-Japan Extensive Strategic Partnership

Otsuji Hidehisa, President of the House of Councillors of Japan, will visit Vietnam from September 4-7 to strengthen the extensive strategic partnership between the two countries. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties. Vietnam and Japan have deepened their economic cooperation, with increasing trade and investment. Japan is one of Vietnam’s top foreign direct investors and the largest supplier of official development assistance. Both countries have also cooperated in culture, education, tourism, and regional development.

Vietnam 14th Most Favored Country by Expats, Thanks to Budget-Friendly Living

Vietnam is ranked 14th as the best place for expats in 2023, with a happiness score of 82, according to the Expat Insiders 2023 Report. Expats appreciate the budget-friendly living in Vietnam and the favorable personal finance conditions. While there are challenges in areas such as air quality, urban environment, and administrative services, the majority of expats feel welcome and enjoy their financial situation in the country.

HCM City Works to Elevate Tourism Profile

Ho Chi Minh City has been leading the country in tourism revenue, reflecting its efforts in promoting the tourism sector. The city has introduced new tourism products and services, attracting a significant number of visitors. Efforts are being made to develop a tourism strategy, improve tourism databases, and organize key activities and events to attract more visitors. The city also aims to enhance regional tourism links and promote tourism cooperation with other provinces and cities. Additionally, tourism promotion activities are being carried out in key markets.