Ho Chi Minh City Attracts $5.7 Billion in Industrial Zones in Nine Months

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest southern economic hub, has attracted approximately $5.7 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) into its industrial parks and economic zones from January to September this year. This effort is part of the city's push to invite investment in nine priority sectors, with a particular focus on developing the International Financial Centre, digital finance, smart banking, large-scale logistics and port developments, as well as green industries, clean energy, and next-generation industrial parks. Ho Chi Minh City continues to be the leading recipient of FDI in Vietnam, with a total of 21,351 projects worth $146.8 billion. In the first half of 2026 alone, the city recorded registered FDI of nearly $7.5 billion, exceeding 68% of its annual target, underscoring its strong investment appeal. The Vietnamese government plans to periodically adjust market access restrictions for foreign investors based on socio-economic conditions and management requirements. This strategy aims to adapt to rapid changes in global capital flows, technological advancements, and supply chain restructuring, shifting the focus of investment attraction from quantity to quality and efficiency. This is expected to foster stronger connections between Vietnamese businesses and foreign suppliers, diversify sourcing, improve production efficiency, and expand the participation of domestic firms in value chains. The article also touches upon Vietnam's trade deficit with Malaysia and the deepening economic cooperation with countries such as the Philippines, Argentina, and Canada. Furthermore, it highlights specific industrial sector trends, including the performance of Vietnam's timber and forest product industry, Hai Phong city's maritime and shipbuilding capabilities, and export figures for Vietnamese shrimp. In terms of finance, the daily trading band for commercial banks is provided, indicating measures for economic stability. Ho Chi Minh City aims to become one of Asia's leading logistics and international transshipment hubs by 2045, while transforming into a smart and sustainable coastal city. The synergy between urban development and investment attraction is expected to drive Vietnam's economic growth. Source: VietnamPlus English