Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2026 Kicks Off in HCMC

The second Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition (VILOG) kicked off in Ho Chi Minh City on August 1. The event underscored the critical importance of enhancing the digital capabilities of MSMEs amidst a global economy being reshaped by AI and digital technologies. Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the APEC 2027 National Secretariat Nguyen Minh Vu stated that improving digital capabilities is essential not only to support the digital transformation of MSMEs but also to unlock new momentum for enhancing productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. The exhibition showcased a wide array of products, including pharmaceuticals, medical and dental equipment, rehabilitation, healthcare technologies, dietary supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceutical ingredients, and production machinery. To maximize the long-term benefits of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), Vietnamese businesses are recommended to move beyond relying on tariff incentives and instead invest in technology, green transformation, data governance, and traceability. Economists argue that beyond 2026, Vietnam's focus should shift from achieving single-year double-digit growth to creating conditions for sustained high growth over the 2026-2030 period and beyond. This aligns with Vietnam's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen, is seen as a strategic solution for decarbonizing sectors difficult to electrify, including heavy industry, long-distance transport, shipping, and aviation. Furthermore, the reform strategy for the financial market aims for a more balanced structure with stronger links between its banking, capital, and insurance sectors, in line with the country’s target of high growth by 2045. This plan seeks to develop a balanced and modern financial market closely integrated with regional and global markets, strengthen the mobilization and allocation of domestic and foreign capital, and enhance the market’s role as a key provider of medium- and long-term capital for the economy and a major driver of sustained high economic growth. Additionally, TikTok Vietnam has partnered with the Central Coordination Office of the National Target Programme and the Centre for Agricultural Trade and Environmental Promotion to enhance the rural economy through e-commerce. Meanwhile, China has become the main growth engine for Vietnam's shrimp exports, offsetting weaker sales to the US. Information Source: VietnamPlus English