Economy
Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and high-potential economies. With a GDP growth of 8% in Q2 of 2025, moderate inflation of 3.57% in June 2025 and over 20 billion USD in annual foreign investment in 2024, the country continues to attract global attention as a competitive hub for manufacturing, trade, and innovation.
Its strategic location between China and major ASEAN markets makes Vietnam an important link in global supply chains. Supported by the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and strengthened trade relations with the United States, the country offers improved market access, reduced tariffs and stronger investor protection in regard to European partners. The export sector, driven by electronics, textiles, and agricultural products, remains a cornerstone of Vietnam’s rapid industrialization.
The government’s ongoing reforms, including simplified business registration, greater access to finance, and modernized infrastructure, have helped Vietnam steadily climb the Ease of Doing Business rankings, improving its score from 60 in 2020 to 66.8 today. These efforts, together with a gradual reduction in bureaucracy, reflect Vietnam’s commitment to creating a transparent and investor-friendly business environment.
Vietnam’s growth is also powered by a young, skilled, and increasingly tech-savvy workforce, making it one of the region’s most attractive destinations for international expansion. English proficiency is improving (with an EF English Proficiency score of 505, equivalent to a B2 level), particularly in the technology and business sectors. Its stable political environment and low levels of violence and unrest further enhance confidence among investors seeking both growth and predictability.
Promising Sectors
Vietnam offers diverse opportunities across several fast-growing industries. The manufacturing sector remains the backbone of the economy, led by electronics, textiles, and agriculture, while renewable energy is quickly gaining traction thanks to supportive government policies for solar and wind projects.
At the same time, rapid urbanization and a growing middle class are driving demand for investments in infrastructure, logistics, and consumer goods. The technology and digital sectors are also expanding, with Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi emerging as regional hubs for startups, fintech, and e-commerce. Ho Chi Minh City functions as Vietnam’s commercial and financial center, while Hanoi serves as a major manufacturing and high-tech hub strategically located in the Red River Delta, an important agricultural region.
The Netherlands & Vietnam
Relations between the Netherlands and Vietnam have deepened in recent years, driven by shared interests in sustainability, innovation, and trade. The Netherlands is among Vietnam’s most active European partners, contributing expertise in agriculture, renewable energy, water management, and logistics.
The EVFTA continues to strengthen these ties, opening doors for greater cooperation and investment between both economies. Dutch companies are well-positioned to engage with Vietnam’s rapidly developing market and to explore new opportunities for partnership, M&A, and strategic projects in one of Asia’s most promising business environments.
