Tag: Vietnam

  • Viettel Begins Construction of Vietnam’s Largest Data Center

    Viettel Begins Construction of Vietnam’s Largest Data Center

    Viettel has started building a new data center campus in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This will be Viettel’s largest data center yet, boasting a capacity of 140 MW and around 10,000 racks. The facility will cover approximately 40,000 sqm (430,555 sq. ft.) on a 4-hectare site. The data center is expected to be operational by 2026 and fully completed by 2030.

    It will be situated in Tan Phu Trung Industrial Park, Cu Chi district, which is 25 km from Ho Chi Minh City and 15 km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Huyen Nguyen, Deputy Director of Viettel’s International Business Center, mentioned that the data center aims to achieve a power usage effectiveness (PUE) of less than 1.4 and comply with Uptime Tier III standards. Viettel currently runs 15 data centers in Vietnam with a total capacity of 87 MW.

    The company plans to build 24 data centers by 2030, with a combined capacity of 560 MW. Viettel’s IDC data center unit offers colocation and cloud services from five data centers across Hanoi (x2), Da Nang (x1), and Ho Chi Minh City (x2), totaling 25,000 sqm (269,100 sq. ft).

    Notably, Vietnam recently lifted restrictions on the foreign ownership of data centers, removing the 49% cap.

  • Fake milk powder producers busted for paying $150,000 bribe

    Fake milk powder producers busted for paying $150,000 bribe

    Two men behind a fake milk powder production ring allegedly paid US$150,000 as bribe after being exposed.

    The Ministry of Public Security announced Monday that its Criminal Investigation Agency had initiated legal proceedings against Vu Manh Cuong and Hoang Manh Ha, the CEO and deputy CEO of Hacofood Group and Rance Pharma, for “bribery”, Pham Gia Khai, former CEO of Vietnam Pharmaceutical JSC, for “brokering bribery” and Nguyen Van Quan for fraud and property embezzlement.

    According to preliminary investigation, after their goods were temporarily seized by the environmental police in December last year, Ha and Cuong decided to bribe their way out.

    Their goal was to get away with a fine rather than face criminal charges.

    Cuong gave Ha $150,000, and he handed it over to Khai.

    Khai gave the money to Quan to “settle” the matter, ensuring they do not face criminal charges for producing and selling fake goods.

    Quan had falsely claimed to have connections with government authorities and individuals in power, suggesting he could reduce the severity of the legal consequences and prevent criminal prosecution.

    Khai took him at his word and handed over the money, but Quan kept it for his personal use.

    On April 10 the Criminal Investigation Agency charged Ha and Cuong along with four accomplices with the production and sale of fake food products and violating accounting regulations, resulting in serious consequences.

    The fake milk powder production ring started operation in August 2021 when Ha and Cuong noticed the increasing demand for milk powder.

    The falsely claimed their product included bird’s nest extract, cordyceps, macca powder, and walnut powder.

    The milk powder was distributed nationwide, primarily targeting people with diabetes, kidney disease, premature infants, and pregnant women.

    The accused instructed their employees to replace the ingredients and add flavoring agents and additives.

    The investigators determined that the quality of some substances in the milk powder was less than 70% of stated levels, sufficient to prove the product fake.

    The suspects exploited a regulation that allows businesses to self-declare the quality, content, nutritional composition, and effects of their products.

    By the time of their arrest on April 11, the ring was suspected of producing 573 types of fake milk powders, generating nearly VND500 billion (US$19.23 million) in revenues.

    The police also discovered that Rance Pharma and Hacofood had underreported their actual revenues in their records to evade tax worth more than VND28 billion.

    The Criminal Investigation Agency believes there is enough evidence to prove 12 varieties of milk powders are counterfeit products. The investigation into the remaining 72 is ongoing.

  • Vietnam to welcome nearly 800,000 international visitors for reunification holiday

    Vietnam to welcome nearly 800,000 international visitors for reunification holiday

    Vietnam is preparing for a surge in air traffic during its five-day reunification holiday, with 792,000 international visitors expected, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

    From April 30 to May 4, Vietnamese airports are forecast to handle around 5,000 international flights, averaging 830 flights a day, a 20% increase compared to the same period last year. The busiest international hubs will be Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, followed by Noi Bai in Hanoi, Da Nang, Cam Ranh and Phu Quoc.

    Domestically, the southern metropolis of HCMC remains the country’s top traffic hub. Tan Son Nhat Airport alone will account for 70% of all domestic flights, with more than 5,000 flights scheduled over the holiday period. The popular Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City route is also booming, with over 1,200 flights planned, up 16% from 2024.

    Vietnamese airlines will operate over 7,500 domestic flights, offering around 1.5 million seats, representing a 21% jump from the same period last year. Tan Son Nhat Airport is ramping up operations to handle the influx, increasing flight frequency to 46 flights per hour between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., compared to the usual 40–42.

    Airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are also expanding their schedules, boosting night flights by approximately 20% to meet heightened demand. Although Tan Son Nhat’s new domestical terminal T3 has been completed ahead of schedule, most domestic operations for Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet will continue at the existing T1 terminal for now.

    Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport is preparing for around 370 domestic flights on its peak day, serving roughly 68,000 passengers. The airport has also introduced biometric identification technology via mobile app VNeID to streamline domestic flight procedures.

  • 43% of job seekers are under 40

    43% of job seekers are under 40

    In the first quarter 43% of job seekers were aged 30–39 and 37% were in the 20–29 age group, according to statistics from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

    They are from the quarterly labor market bulletin compiled by the ministry’s Institute of State Organizational and Labor Sciences based on data from 18,000 job seekers on recruitment websites, 25,000 employers and 200,000 job postings.

    The candidates were most concentrated in business administration, sales, procurement and brokerage, marketing, and advertising, while employers were mainly looking for workers in engineering, transportation and sales.

    Pham Ngoc Toan, director of the institute’s Center for Strategic Forecasting and Public Service Information, said job seekers used a variety of methods, including in-person visits, public employment service centers, and online job portals.

    The 30–39 age group accounting for a large proportion of job seekers is a trend normally seen early in the year, he said, explaining that it usually has work experience and skills and often seeks changes in position, salary or working environment making it more prone to job-hopping.

    “This doesn’t necessarily mean they are unemployed — it is often about job transition, as reflected in the drop in the unemployment rate compared to the previous quarter.”

    However, this figure also reflects challenges in the labor market.

    The under-40 group is more vulnerable to the so-called “mid-career job trap” as traditional jobs are increasingly being replaced by technology and younger workers enter the market.

    Whether workers are replaced or not depends heavily on their ability to adapt to evolving job requirements, which can be vastly different even compared to just two years ago.

    Global economic conditions and U.S. tariff policies are also expected to impact Vietnam’s labor market in the coming months.

    Toan advised workers to improve their IT skills to better prepare for future opportunities.

    In Q1 demand was highest for workers with university degrees or higher (nearly 53%), followed by those with college or vocational training (40%).

    Only 7% of positions required no technical qualifications.

    Around 51% of job seekers held university degrees or higher, and 29% had vocational or college qualifications.

    A mismatch was noted in temporary jobs, with demand accounting for just 8% of vacancies while 32% of job seekers were looking for such roles.

    The outlook for the next quarter depends largely on domestic business activities, which could be influenced by U.S. tariff policies, particularly in labor-intensive sectors like electronics and garments.

    On the other hand, recruitment is expected to rise in sales, customer service, logistics, transportation, and construction, driven by increased public spending in construction projects.

    Nearly 145,000 people applied for unemployment benefits in Q1, down by almost 30,000 from the final quarter of 2024.

    Nearly 124,000 were approved for benefits, while only 3,600 opted for vocational training support.

    Unskilled workers remained the largest group applying for unemployment benefits (60%) followed by university graduates (19%), college graduates (over 7%), vocational secondary graduates (6%), and those with basic vocational certification (8.5%).

    In terms of occupations, workers in the garment and related industries accounted for the largest share of claimants at 21%, followed by assemblers (7%) and sales staff and accountants (3.6% each).

  • How Vietnam is overtaking Thailand as favorite destination for Indian travelers

    How Vietnam is overtaking Thailand as favorite destination for Indian travelers

    Vietnam’s landscapes, growing upscale tourism infrastructure, globally recognized cuisine, and expanding network of direct flights have made it a top destination for travelers from India in Southeast Asia, steadily surpassing Thailand.

    For years, Thailand was the go-to destination for Indian travelers visiting the region. However, more Indian tourists are now turning their attention to Vietnam, which offers a similar experience at more affordable prices. In late March, The Economic Times published an article titled “Forget Thailand, Vietnam is the new playground for Indian tourists,” noting that Vietnam is now drawing more interest from Indian travelers than any other Southeast Asian destination.

    New playground for India’s wealthy

    Vietnam has become a strong contender among high-end Indian travelers, as they seek alternatives to Japan and Singapore after visiting Thailand’s popular islands like Koh Samui and Phuket. The rising presence of luxury hotels, particularly in beach destinations like Phu Quoc, is attracting India’s elite.

    The Economic Times highlights that India’s wealthy organize approximately 5,000 ultra-luxury weddings annually, with budgets ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. Despite intense competition, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay successfully hosted the wedding of Indian billionaire Rushang Shah in 2019 and another billionaire couple’s ceremony in early 2024. The arrival of luxury brands like The Luxury Collection and Ritz Carlton Reserve in Phu Quoc further bolsters the island’s appeal.

    Beyond luxury stays, Phu Quoc offers a range of experiences that appeal to Indian travelers.

    Sun Paradise Land in southern Phu Quoc features attractions like the Guinness World Record-holding “Kiss of the Sea” multimedia show, nightly fireworks, the world’s longest three-wire cable car, and the Kiss Bridge.

    “Phu Quoc offered so many surprises. A morning cable car ride over the sea, fireworks at night… I’ve never experienced anything like that anywhere else,” said Rohan Khanna, a visitor from New Delhi.

    In addition to Phu Quoc, Ha Long Bay is also becoming a popular destination for Indian travelers. More and more wealthy Indian families are choosing Phu Quoc and Ha Long for milestone events, positioning Vietnam as a top Asian wedding destination. With its natural beauty, luxury hotels, and professional event services, both locations are proving ideal for hosting special moments.

    Outstanding culinary experiences

    Food plays a decisive role for Indian tourists when choosing a travel destination. Given the diversity in dietary and religious preferences across India, catering to halal or halal-friendly standards is essential to ensure repeat visits.

    Top tourist destinations in Vietnam, such as Sun World Ba Na Hills in Da Nang and Sun World Fansipan Legend in Sa Pa, have embraced these dietary needs, offering Indian tourists familiar flavors that meet their cultural requirements.

    Da Nang, which was added to the Michelin Guide’s 2024 expansion, has seen a significant increase in Indian visitors.

    Da Nang welcomed 222,000 Indian tourists in 2024, accounting for 5.3% of total international arrivals. Nearly 50% of Indian visitors to Vietnam chose Da Nang as their primary destination, solidifying its position as the most popular Vietnamese city among Indian travelers.

    Affordable food prices in Da Nang and other beach destinations like Phu Quoc also add to Vietnam’s appeal.

    Compared to regional competitors like Thailand, seafood in Vietnam is significantly more affordable. Thailand’s Nation Story even noted that seafood in Phu Quoc costs about half as much as in Thailand.

    More direct flights

    Vietnam’s growing network of direct flights from major Indian cities is also contributing to the rising demand. There are currently around 56 direct flights per week between the two countries. Several new direct routes, including one from Ahmedabad to Da Nang, were launched in 2024.

    Sandeep Arya, Indian Ambassador to Vietnam, shared that aviation authorities from both countries are planning to add 14 more flights connecting cities like New Delhi, Chennai, and Mumbai with Vietnam. India is also encouraging airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, and IndiGo to open more direct routes to boost tourism.

    According to the General Statistics Office, international arrivals to Vietnam in the first quarter of 2025 exceeded 6 million, a 29.6% increase year-on-year. Over 143,000 of these visitors were from India, continuing the trend of double-digit growth compared to the same period last year.

    In 2024, Vietnam welcomed more than 500,000 Indian tourists, making India one of its most promising inbound markets. With an expanding range of competitive offerings, Vietnam is well on its way to becoming the top destination for Indian travelers in Southeast Asia by 2025.

  • Vietnam president sends congratulatory letter to Amanda Nguyen, first woman of Vietnamese origin to fly into space

    Vietnam president sends congratulatory letter to Amanda Nguyen, first woman of Vietnamese origin to fly into space

    Vietnam’s President Luong Cuong sent a letter of congratulations to Amanda Ngoc Nguyen as she became the first woman of Vietnamese woman to fly into space in a historic all-female crew this week.

    Blue Origin, founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, organized a flight of New Shepard, a fully reusable, suborbital rocket system, with a crew of six women in West Texas, the U.S., on April 14 (local time).

    The flight, called mission NS-31, is the 11th human spaceflight project of Blue Origin. The six participants are outstanding women in many fields, including Vietnamese American Nguyen – founder and general director of the non-governmental organization RISE.

    The New Shepard’s journey was a great success, reaching an altitude of 100 km in space and returning safely. After the flight, Nguyen marked herself as the first woman of Vietnamese origin to fly into space.

    Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.S. Nguyen Quoc Dung attended the New Shepard mission and presented a letter from State President Luong Cuong to Nguyen. In the letter, the President expressed his joy and pride that for the first time a woman of Vietnamese origin had flown into space, affirming the talent and intelligence of Vietnamese people in the U.S. and around the world.

    The President’s letter emphasized that in 2025, Vietnam and the U.S. will celebrate the 30th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations and in the overall relationship between the two countries, Vietnam highly appreciates the positive contributions of the Vietnamese community in the U.S. to the development and progress of the U.S., as well as promoting the Vietnam-U.S. cooperative relationship.

    The President also highly appreciated the cooperation between Amanda Nguyen and the Vietnam National Space Center (VNSC), helping to promote the cooperative relationship between the U.S. and Vietnam.

    Born on Oct. 10, 1991, Nguyen graduated from the Harvard University and interned at NASA in 2013. She then worked at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, and then served as deputy White House liaison at the U.S. State Department.

    In November 2014, she founded Rise, a non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting the civil rights of survivors of sexual assault. In 2019, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to fight for the rights of victims of sexual assault.

  • Hoka opens its first store in Vietnam

    Hoka opens its first store in Vietnam

    Footwear retailer Hoka has launched a store in Vietnam, marking its first physical presence in the market.

    Located at Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon Centre, the store is in partnership with distributor Central Brand & Specialty Group (CBS) and offers a full range of products, from road and trail running to street-ready styles.

    The shop features 3D foot-scanning technology, which analyses consumers’ foot shapes and offers personalised shoe recommendations.

    “We chose Saigon Centre – the most strategic and vibrant location in Ho Chi Minh City – because it not only reflects the position of a leading brand like Hoka, but also perfectly fits CBS’s commitment to enhancing everyday lifestyle,” said Ty Chirathivat, CEO of Central Brand & Specialty Group (CBS), during the brand’s opening ceremony.

    Hoka was first launched in Vietnam four years ago, sold through Supersports retail channels.

    Earlier this year, Hoka opened its Bondi 9 pop-up in Hong Kong to mark the latest generation of its ultra-cushioned road-running shoe.

  • Vietnam discovers 12 mines containing over 10 tons of gold

    Vietnam discovers 12 mines containing over 10 tons of gold

    A major gold discovery in central Vietnam has revealed 12 mines containing over 10 tons of gold and 16 tons of silver, according to the Mid-Central Geological Division.

    The discoveries were made following geological investigations across 32 areas with gold ore potential.

    Vietnamese authorities have identified around 500 gold-bearing locations nationwide. Of these, 30 sites have undergone detailed surveys, revealing an estimated total of 300 tons of gold reserves. Most of these deposits are concentrated in mountainous areas of northern Vietnam and several central provinces.

    Starting in 2025, the Department of Geology and Minerals has been launching a new project to evaluate mineral potential in central Vietnam, focusing on localities like Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh and Phu Yen provinces.

    Another mineral survey project, initiated in 2017, led to the recent discovery of 40 gold mines with total estimated reserves of nearly 30 tons.

  • Vietnam eyes to begin high-speed rail construction in 2026

    Vietnam eyes to begin high-speed rail construction in 2026

    Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered the Ministry of Construction to expedite procedures to commence construction of the North-South high-speed railway project by the end of next year.

    According to a government release on Saturday, the PM wants the bidding mechanism completed this month so the National Assembly can review it for approval next month.

    This would push the construction date one year earlier than the original plan.

    The railway, one of Vietnam’s most ambitious transportation projects in this decade, was approved for investment by the National Assembly in November last year with a preliminary cost of approximately VND1.7 quadrillion (US$67 billion).

    The 1,541-km route will start at in Hanoi and end in Ho Chi Minh City, passing through 20 localities.

    It will be designed for speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. It includes 23 passenger stations and 5 freight stations.

    The government also eyes to start building the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Lang Son railway in December. It will be a key project linking the capital with China-bordering provinces.

    Concerning another northern rail project, Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong, officials are set to negotiate with their Chinese counterparts next month and a loan agreement is expected to be signed in November.

    The government has also tasked Hanoi and HCMC with reviewing their plans to build and acquire loans for more metro routes.

  • United Airlines expands Asia network with new flights to Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines

    United Airlines expands Asia network with new flights to Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines

    The United Airlines plans to add daily flights to Vietnam and Thailand in October, further expanding the network for the U.S.-based carrier that already has the most Asia service, reported CNBC.

    In the expansion, its airplanes from Los Angeles and San Francisco that are headed for Hong Kong will then go on to the two new destinations: Thailand’s Bangkok and Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, with service set to begin on Oct. 26.

    On Oct. 25, United Airlines plans to add a second daily nonstop flight from San Francisco to Manila, the Philippines, and on Dec. 11, it will launch nonstops from San Francisco to Adelaide, Australia, which will operate three days a week.

    The news site noted that the carrier has been adding far-flung destinations not served by rivals to its routes, like Nuuk, Greenland, and Bilbao, Spain, which will start later this year. Getting the mix right is especially important as carriers seek to grow their lucrative loyalty programs and need attractive destinations to keep customers spending.

  • MobiFone Rolls Out 5G, Boosting Vietnam’s Digital Growth

    MobiFone Rolls Out 5G, Boosting Vietnam’s Digital Growth

    Initially, the 5G service will be available in major city centers, with plans to expand nationwide soon. The network operates on the 3.800-3.900 MHz frequency band, using both 5G NSA (non-standalone) and 5G SA (standalone) architectures. The network speed can reach up to 1.5 Gbps, which is 10 to 15 times faster than 4G.

    Existing 4G subscribers with 5G-compatible smartphones can access the 5G network across coverage areas without changing their SIM cards. For enterprise customers, MobiFone offers over 100 products and solutions for eight priority sectors, addressing national digital transformation. MobiFone has already implemented various 5G-based solutions for government agencies and businesses nationwide.

    Examples include an artificial intelligence (AI) camera solution for smart tourism and traffic management, as well as a 5G private network solution at Vicem Hoang Mai Cement Joint Stock Company.

    Vietnam launched 5G services at the end of 2024. As of January 2025, Viettel has 5.5 million 5G subscribers, while Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) has extended 5G coverage to 63 provinces and major airports, serving around 3 million users. MobiFone aims to accelerate 5G commercialization to support national economic growth.

    Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the importance of expanding 5G commercialization to achieve at least 8% economic growth by 2025. Mastering 5G technology is crucial to meet this goal. According to the GSMA, 5G is expected to contribute over USD 930 billion to the global economy by 2030, benefiting key sectors such as industrial manufacturing, public administration, services, IT and communications, and finance.

    To support 5G infrastructure development, the National Assembly has allocated state budget funds to assist telecom companies with the rapid network expansion. Enterprises deploying at least 20,000 5G base stations by the end of 2025 will have 15% of their equipment costs covered. MobiFone’s 5G service not only enhances digital transformation but also boosts technological innovation and economic competitiveness. By leveraging 5G, Vietnam aims to become a regional technology leader and an attractive destination for foreign investment.

  • Italian motorbike brand Ducati to shut down only northern Vietnam store

    Italian motorbike brand Ducati to shut down only northern Vietnam store

    Ducati Vietnam will close its Hanoi showroom – the only one serving northern Vietnam – on Tuesday, citing market challenges.
    While the Hanoi dealership would cease operations, Ducati would continue to offer maintenance and repair services in the city, a Ducati Vietnam representative said.

    The closure decision stemmed from the lower-than-expected performance of the northern dealership.

    Although specific sales figures remain undisclosed, the representative indicated that the bulk of Ducati sales originate from customers in southern Vietnam.

    The representative acknowledged this move “would make it difficult for northern customers wanting to learn about and experience Ducati bikes.”

    The Hanoi showroom has been operating for nearly four years.

    Ducati currently offers nine models in Vietnam in a range of categories including scrambler, naked bike, sport, and adventure, all imported from Thailand.

    The importer and distributor for Ducati in Vietnam is CT-Wearnes Vietnam, a subsidiary of Singapore-based Wearnes Automotive.

    CT-Wearnes also distributes luxury car brands Bentley and Aston Martin in the country.

    In the motorcycle sector, CT-Wearnes previously handled distribution for India’s Royal Enfield from September 2022 but ceased operations for that brand exactly two years later, in September 2024, due to low sales volume.

    The closure occurs against a backdrop of a struggling market for large-displacement motorcycles (over 175cc) in Vietnam.

    Unlike the scooter segment, official sales data for these motorcycles is not regularly published. All such motorcycles sold locally are imported, primarily from Thailand.

    A sales manager at an official motorcycle dealership in HCMC highlighted a sharp decline in demand over the past two years, estimating that overall motorbike sales fell by approximately 30% in 2024 compared to 2023.

    “The enthusiasm for large bikes has cooled down due to economic difficulties as well as stricter government regulations on modifications and upgrades,” the manager said.

    “Motorbike dealerships all have to cut costs to make a profit.”

    Despite the downturn, Vietnam’s motorcycle market features most major global manufacturers.

    Competitors include Japanese brands like Honda and Yamaha, and Italian producers such as Ducati, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi. There are also products from the U.K.’s Triumph, and Germany’s BMW Motorrad.

    Currently, Al Naboodah International Vietnam holds the distribution rights for the largest number of motorcycle brands, including Harley-Davidson, Triumph, KTM, and Husqvarna.

  • DHL Supply Chain Vietnam appoints Bertrand Juvigny as Country Managing Director

    DHL Supply Chain Vietnam appoints Bertrand Juvigny as Country Managing Director

    DHL Supply Chain has announced the appointment of Bertrand Juvigny as Managing Director for DHL Supply Chain Vietnam, effective March 24.

    In his new role, Juvigny will focus on driving business growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering high-quality logistics solutions to customers across the country. Based in Vietnam, he will oversee the business strategy, new business development, and will report directly to Steve Walker, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster.

    According to Walker, Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic logistics markets, with significant growth potential driven by increasing consumer demand and its strategic role in global supply chain diversification. As businesses increasingly adopt a China Plus X strategy and seek to enhance their supply chain resilience, Vietnam has emerged as a key market.

    “We are excited to welcome Bertrand to our team. His experience will be invaluable in advancing the growth agenda for our customers and helping them navigate this shift to build resilient and efficient supply chains in Vietnam,” said Walker.

    Juvigny brings extensive experience and a proven track record in logistics, having held leadership positions in supply chain management, business development, and operational excellence across various markets in Asia. His expertise spans multiple industries, including consumer goods, retail, and luxury.

    Most recently, Juvigny served as Vice President, Consumer, Asia Pacific at Kuehne + Nagel. Prior to that, he was the General Manager at Lifestyle Logistics Limited, a logistics start-up specializing in warehousing and distribution in the fashion, luxury, and retail sectors in mainland China and Hong Kong. He also spent over five years at CEVA Logistics in various strategic roles.

    “I am honored to join DHL Supply Chain Vietnam and lead its talented team,” Juvigny said. “The supply chain landscape in Vietnam is evolving rapidly, and I look forward to leveraging our strengths to enhance service offerings and support our customers’ growing needs. I am eager to work with the team to build on their success and strengthen our market-leading position.”

    DHL Supply Chain Vietnam continues to expand its operations and enhance its service capabilities to meet the increasing demands of the market.

    Recently, the company was ranked third on Vietnam’s Best Workplaces 2024 list by the Great Place to Work Institute, reflecting its commitment to fostering an exceptional work environment for its employees and maintaining a focus on operational excellence and employee well-being.

    DHL offers an unmatched portfolio of logistics services, ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air, and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management.

    With approximately 400,000 employees in over 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling sustainable global trade flows.

    DHL specializes in growth markets and industries such as technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, energy, auto-mobility, and retail, positioning the company as “the logistics company for the world.”

    DHL is part of DHL Group, which generated revenues of approximately EUR 84.2 billion (US$90.9 billion) in 2024. The group is committed to sustainable business practices and environmental responsibility, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

  • Honda unveils first made-in-Vietnam electric scooter

    Honda unveils first made-in-Vietnam electric scooter

    Honda has launched its first electric scooter produced in Vietnam, the ICON e:, after years of dominating the gasoline-powered motorbike segment.

    The bike was introduced to the media on Thursday and will hit the market early next month, when its prices will be revealed.

    Last year the Japanese giant had said the ICON e: would be sold for under VND30 million (US$1,170), not including the price of the battery pack.

    With its main target customers being students, it has an LCD screen, a 26-liter trunk and a USB charger since.

    Honda said the bike could travel 50 kilometers on a single charge. Its 1.3-kilogram battery is removable and can be charged separately within 7.5 hours.

    Its maximum speed of 49 kilometers per hour means it can be ridden by people without a driving license.

    Honda’s new offering is set to intensify competition in the electric two-wheeler market where VinFast, Yadea, Pega, Dat Bike, and Selex are offering a variety of products, mostly targeting young customers.

    Honda first entered Vietnam in 1996, and its slow and steady development strategy means it now accounts for 70-80% of the motorbike market.

  • Vietnam’s largest coffee chain Highlands Coffee posts $41M in profit

    Vietnam’s largest coffee chain Highlands Coffee posts $41M in profit

    Vietnam’s largest coffee chain Highlands Coffee posted an EBITDA of VND1.05 trillion (US$41 million) last year, up 4.5% from 2023.

    The chain contributed 36% of the EBITDA from coffee and tea of its parent company Jollibee Foods Corporation. EBITDA stands for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization.

    An average store posted VND16 million in revenue per day.

    Same-store sales, however, declined by 3.7% year-on-year. The figure measured stores’ sales that had been operating for at least 15 months.

    Highlands Coffee, by the end of last year, operated 850 outlets in Vietnam and other countries.

    The brand was established in 1999, starting with sales of packaged coffee products in Hanoi. In 2002, Highlands Coffee expanded into the coffee chain model with its first store in Ho Chi Minh City.

    In 2012, Highlands Coffee was acquired by Jollibee Foods Corporation, a Philippines-based restaurant conglomerate.

    At the end of 2016, JFC and its partner, Vietnam Thai International Company, planned to list Highlands Coffee on the Vietnamese stock market. However, this intention has yet to materialize.

    Highlands Coffee has thrived by focusing on widespread coverage. Their strategy revolves around offering a streamlined menu while expanding into office buildings, apartment complexes, street-front locations, and shopping centers.

    Vietnam’s beverage store revenue last year was estimated at VND118.26 trillion, a 13% increase from the previous year, according to a report by iPOS, which provides digital management solutions to over 100,000 businesses.

    This marked the highest revenue and the fastest growth rate since 2018.