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Vietnam is pursuing a long-term vision to become a strong maritime nation, guided by the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh, emphasizing responsible use of marine resources and protection of territorial waters. The 2026 Maritime Forum is set to be a key platform for discussions towards this goal.
Vietnam and Switzerland have affirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in economic, technological, and business fields to strengthen their Comprehensive Partnership. Following the conclusion of FTA negotiations with EFTA, enhanced trade and investment between the two countries are anticipated. Cooperation in advanced technology areas such as AI and green energy will also be promoted.
Asia's fortunes are diverging based on how countries address AI, climate change, and private capital. Vietnam's approach to these challenges is a key focus.
Vietnam is accelerating strategic policy implementation to develop the international MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) tourism market. Through events like the Da Nang International Tourism Fair, the country aims to foster sustainable growth and create new cooperation opportunities.
Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man met with Swiss President Guy Parmelin on October 18, agreeing to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in economy, technology, and investment. Switzerland acknowledged Vietnam's economic growth and stable political system.
Lang Son Province, Vietnam, has approved the investment for the Dinh Lap 5 Wind Power Plant project. With a total capital of over 4.079 trillion VND (approximately 24 billion JPY), the 100MW facility aims to expand renewable energy sources and boost the local economy.
On October 18, Vietnamese President and Party General Secretary To Lam met with Liechtenstein Prime Minister Brigitte Haas in Hanoi. Discussions likely focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Lai Châu Province in northern Vietnam is aiming for double-digit annual growth, building on a 9.62% GRDP increase in the first nine months of 2026. The industrial and construction sectors are key drivers, with investment attraction and accelerated public investment disbursement being crucial.
Composer Nguyen Thanh Trung and People's Artist Hoang Tung have released a new song, "Gặp em cô gái Việt Nam" (Meeting a Vietnamese Girl), celebrating the virtues of Vietnamese women. The song, dedicated to the upcoming 96th anniversary of the Vietnam Women's Union in 2026, highlights their strength, gentleness, and devotion to family.
The Danang International Tourism Fair (DITF 2026) has opened in Danang, Vietnam, with a focus on transitioning to high-value tourism. The event emphasizes strengthening international partnerships and promoting sustainable tourism. Over 300 tourism service providers are participating, engaging in business discussions with domestic and international buyers.
A massive 3,400-ton steel arch, a key component of a pedestrian bridge crossing the Saigon River, has been transported by water to Ho Chi Minh City. This transport marks a significant step in the project connecting the city center with Thu Thiem, symbolizing ongoing infrastructure development.
Seizures of methamphetamine across Asia are soaring, with Myanmar emerging as a major production hub. This trend poses significant security and economic challenges for the region.
On October 18, Liechtenstein's Prime Minister Brigitte Haas visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam, to lay a wreath. This visit is seen as a symbolic diplomatic gesture between the two nations.
Liechtenstein Prime Minister Brigitte Haas laid a wreath at the War Heroes Memorial in Hanoi during her official visit to Vietnam. This marks a new milestone in bilateral relations, with expectations for enhanced economic and practical cooperation.
Vietnam is focusing on solutions addressing specific local needs following a Politburo resolution on science, technology, and digital transformation. Efforts are underway to boost citizens' digital skills and leverage population data and electronic authentication to advance digital government, economy, and society.
Four cases of meningococcal disease (Group B) have been confirmed at a secondary school in Hiep Phuoc Commune, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City. Multiple students exhibiting flu-like symptoms are also being monitored. Authorities are prioritizing containment to prevent further spread, as timely intervention is crucial for this potentially fatal illness.
Vietnam's top leader To Lam and Swiss President Guy Parmelin took a stroll around Hanoi's Hoan Kiem Lake as part of the Swiss President's official state visit, highlighting cultural exchange and deepening bilateral ties.
Consular officials from Australia and Norway have met with two members of the exiled "Viet Tan" organization detained in Vietnam, expressing concerns over their mental distress and health. Vietnamese authorities claim the individuals entered the country illegally.
Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang Province, located along Vietnam's northern border with China, is a premier tourist destination attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually with its breathtaking natural beauty. The majestic scenery highlights Vietnam's natural richness and international appeal.
Bac Ninh Province in northern Vietnam is focusing on developing a digital customs model and streamlining procedures to reduce costs and improve efficiency for businesses. The province is building an ecosystem to attract next-generation foreign direct investment (FDI), aiming for a balance between cultural heritage and industry, services, and quality of life.
Vietnam experienced varied weather conditions on October 18, with heavy afternoon rains forecast for the South while the North enjoyed sunny skies after early morning fog. Maritime areas also require caution.
Vietnam's outbound investment reached $2.77 billion in the first nine months of 2026, marking a significant increase year-on-year. The domestic economy also showed robust growth with a GDP increase of 9.01%, driven by the manufacturing and tourism sectors.
Vietnam's domestic automaker, Ô tô Giải Phóng, reported a net loss of VND 14.6 billion ($8.7 million USD) in the first nine months of this year, marking its 15th consecutive year of losses. Declining sales and a high cost structure are cited as the root causes of its persistent financial struggles.
In Ho Chi Minh City, an anonymous community has launched a Google Maps initiative called 'Life-Carrying Carts' to support elderly and disabled street vendors. Over 130 stalls are registered, boosting customer traffic, though challenges like outdated information and system risks persist.
Vietnamese doctors highlight that consuming spicy foods at dinner can lead to frequent nighttime urination, disrupting sleep. Irritation of the bladder is identified as the cause, with lifestyle adjustments recommended.
Vietnam has significantly lowered the threshold for mandatory cashless payments in gold transactions from VND20 million to VND5 million per day. The new regulation, effective October 16, aims to enhance transparency and control within the domestic gold market.
Vietnamese President To Lam and Swiss President Guy Parmelin shared a stroll around Hanoi's Hoan Kiem Lake, engaging with local traditional crafts like 'to he' and portrait artists. This follows the upgrade of the Vietnam-Switzerland Comprehensive Partnership in January 2025, with economic cooperation being a key focus.
A Taiwanese nephrologist warns that early morning awakenings around 4 AM, common in middle-aged and older adults, can lead to chronic inflammation and damage to the kidney's filtration membrane due to sleep deprivation and fragmentation. Research from the American Society of Nephrology indicates that increased sleep fragmentation significantly reduces glomerular filtration rate and elevates the risk of proteinuria.
The Communist Party of Vietnam is prioritizing the enhancement of cadres' capabilities and discipline, who are responsible for concretizing and implementing the Party's lines, policies, and resolutions. This strategy aims to maintain the Party's leadership and solidify its role in socio-economic development.
On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Vietnam echoes the UN's theme that safe housing is fundamental for poverty alleviation and improved living standards. The nation, which has focused on poverty reduction for 40 years under its 'Doi Moi' policy, reaffirms its commitment to strengthening efforts in this area.
Ho Chi Minh City hosted the 'Grateful City - Connecting Love' art exchange program, raising over VND 165 billion for the 'For the Poor' fund. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to poverty eradication.
On the second day of its second session, Vietnam's National Assembly focused discussions on the implementation of socio-economic development plans, state budget, and public investment for 2026, and plans for 2027. The government aims for GDP growth of over 10% in 2027, designating it a year for 'acceleration, breakthrough, and momentum creation.'
In Vietnam's Thanh Hoa province, eco-friendly rice cultivation models are being promoted as part of the national effort to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, bringing tangible benefits to farmers.
On October 18th, Vietnam's weather forecast indicates sunny conditions across the North, while the South is expected to experience heavy rainfall from the afternoon into the evening. Coastal areas should also be cautious of strong winds and thunderstorms.
Vietnam is striving to develop its semiconductor industry, exploring localization and international cooperation. Key issues include collaboration with Japan, AI development, and intellectual property protection. Developing products aligned with market needs and enhancing technological capabilities are crucial for domestic value creation.
Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training has announced a plan to consolidate six public institutions into four universities by the fourth quarter of 2026. This move aims to enhance educational quality and efficiency, seen as part of Vietnam's efforts to meet economic growth and human resource development challenges.