🇻🇳 Vietnam Economic Highlights (Early January 2026)
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 30
This article highlights key topics from Vietnam-related economic news released in early January 2026 that are particularly relevant for Japanese and other international small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as investors. All items are based on reporting by reliable domestic and international media sources and focus on developments that are directly linked to business planning, market entry decisions, and investment considerations for 2026 and beyond.
Vietnam Industry Watch: Key Sectors to Watch
Vietnam’s Overall Economy
National Assembly Sets 2026 GDP Growth Target at Over 10%
Vietnam’s National Assembly has adopted a resolution outlining key economic targets for 2026. The resolution sets an ambitious real GDP growth target of over 10% and aims to raise GDP per capita to USD 5,400–5,500. This outlook is underpinned by strong economic performance in 2025, accelerated public investment, and expectations for continued digital transformation (DX). In parallel, the central bank has set a credit growth target of around 15% for 2026, signaling its intention to prioritize funding for the real economy, including manufacturing, exports, and green agriculture.Sources: JETRO (Business News Flash), January 8, 2026; Vietnam Net, January 16, 2026 (based on developments through January 15)
As policy management increasingly assumes a high-growth scenario, medium-term decision-making will need to closely monitor trends in foreign exchange, monetary policy, and public investment.
Construction and Infrastructure
Multiple Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects Launched in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Nai Province
In early January, several major infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity in the southern economic region were launched. These include the construction of a new bridge linking Ho Chi Minh City with neighboring Dong Nai Province, as well as works related to the expansion of metro (urban railway) lines. Beyond easing chronic traffic congestion, these projects are expected to enhance logistics efficiency for surrounding industrial parks. At the same time, efforts are underway to resolve legal bottlenecks in the real estate market, drawing attention to a potential recovery in construction demand in tandem with infrastructure development.Source: VIETJO, January 15, 2026
With the acceleration of infrastructure development, opportunities are likely to expand not only in construction itself but also in materials supply, equipment, maintenance, and related service sectors.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing PMI Reaches Highest Level in 21 Months
According to S&P Global, Vietnam’s Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for December 2025 rose to 53.0, setting a positive tone for 2026. Production activity has expanded for eight consecutive months, supported by an increase in new orders. Growth has been led by high value-added sectors such as electronics, precision equipment, and semiconductor-related manufacturing, pushing manufacturing’s share of GDP to nearly 25%. At the same time, challenges remain, including raw material shortages, cost pressures from exchange rate fluctuations, and some slowdown in export orders. Supply chain stability therefore continues to be a key concern.Sources: The Investor, January 2, 2026; JETRO, January 15, 2026
While the shift toward higher value-added manufacturing is progressing, the ability to strengthen supply chain resilience and increase local procurement ratios is likely to be a decisive factor for future competitiveness.
Agriculture
New Regulations Including Agricultural Land-Use Tax Exemptions Take Effect on January 1
From January 1, tax exemptions on the use of designated agricultural land have been introduced to support research and experimental production in the agricultural sector. This measure forms part of a broader policy package aimed at modernizing agriculture and increasing value added. The government has also set a target to reduce the proportion of the workforce engaged in agriculture to 25.3% by 2026, promoting a shift toward more efficient farming practices. Emphasis is being placed on the transition to environmentally friendly “green agriculture,” with low-carbon production, organic farming, and the adoption of smart agriculture technologies progressing nationwide.Sources: VnEconomy, January 3, 2026; JETRO, January 14, 2026
Against the backdrop of policy support, Japanese companies’ technologies and materials focused on smart agriculture and environmentally conscious solutions are expected to find new forms of collaboration beyond conventional agricultural models.
IT and Digital Sector
Digital Technology Industry Law Enters into Force, Establishing Legal Framework for AI and Digital Assets
Vietnam’s first-ever Digital Technology Industry Law came into effect on January 1, 2026. The law establishes a legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI), digital assets, and data services, and is intended to support the promotion of Vietnam’s homegrown technology brand, “Make in Vietnam.” At the same time, enforcement related to data localization requirements under the Personal Data Protection Law has been strengthened, driving a rapid increase in demand for data centers. The government has positioned 2026 as a “breakthrough year for science, technology, and innovation.”Sources: Vietnam Briefing, January 1, 2026; VOV, January 1, 2026
As legal and regulatory frameworks reduce uncertainty, the AI, data utilization, and data center-related sectors are gradually moving from pilot phases toward full-scale deployment.
Edited & Summarized by:
KBC-LINK Editorial Team (compiled with independent perspectives and on-the-ground insights).