Vietnam news in brief - March 8

Vietnam-Indonesia boost trade and cooperation

Vietnam and Indonesia are strengthening bilateral ties as General Secretary To Lam visits Indonesia from March 9-11 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. Trade between the two nations has surged from $9 billion in 2019 to $16.7 billion in 2024, with a target of $18 billion by 2028. Cooperation in green energy, high-tech agriculture, and tourism is also growing.

Vietnam-France to strengthen partnerships

Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang visited Herault, France, from March 6-8 to strengthen local cooperation. Discussions centered on climate change adaptation, seafood processing, higher education, tourism, and economic ties. Both sides explored solutions for coastal erosion, student exchange programs, and business partnerships. The visit reinforced the role of the Vietnamese community and bolstered bilateral collaboration at the local level.

Vietnam extends visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries

Vietnam will extend visa exemptions for citizens from Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland for an additional three years, from March 15, 2025, to March 14, 2028. Eligible travelers can stay up to 45 days per entry, provided they meet Vietnam's immigration regulations. The policy will be reviewed for potential further extension.

Binh Dinh’s wood exports reach $1.1 billion in 2024

Binh Dinh, a central coastal province, saw its wood exports reach $1.1 billion in 2024, up 15% year-on-year, with a target of $2 billion by 2030. The province is home to over 320 wood-processing enterprises and FSC-certified forests. Despite strong growth, challenges such as rising costs and market barriers persis, local authorities are calling for improvements in supply chains and an expansion of the domestic market to boost competitiveness.

A special program held to celebrate Vietnam’s police force 

The "Glory of Vietnam People's Police" program is taking place from March 8-9 in Hanoi to commemorate key anniversaries of Vietnam’s security forces. The event showcases martial arts performances, parades, military technology exhibitions, and a music gala. Its aim is to honor the police force's history, promote patriotism, and raise awareness of national security.

Over 1,000 People join traditional costume parade in Ho Chi Minh City

The "Bach Hoa Bo Hanh" (Hundred Flowers Parade) Vietnamese Traditional Costume Festival took place on March 8 in Ho Chi Minh City as part of the Ao Dai (traditional long dress) Festival. Over 1,000 participants displayed traditional Vietnamese outfits from various historical periods, parading through the city’s central streets and attracting large crowds. First launched in 2022, the annual event aims to promote Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Following its success in Ho Chi Minh City, the festival will continue in Hue later this year.

Dak Lak to host the 9th Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival

The 9th Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival 2025 will be held from March 9-13, featuring major cultural and tourism activities. The event aims to promote the Buon Ma Thuot coffee brand, attract investment, and boost Dak Lak Province’s economy. Local authorities have been actively preparing infrastructure and tourism experiences to accommodate visitors, with hotel bookings already exceeding 90%. Additionally, 34 themed tour programs have been planned for attendees.

Female scientist wins Kovalevskaia Award for pioneering inkjet technology

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dang Thi My Dung has been awarded the 2024 Kovalevskaia Prize for her groundbreaking research in inkjet printing technology. Currently serving as Deputy Director of the Institute for Nanotechnology, she has published numerous scientific studies and mentored students in technological research. The Kovalevskaia Prize is a prestigious award recognizing female scientists for their significant contributions to the natural sciences.