In a recent announcement by TripAdvisor, Hanoi has secured a prominent position as one of the top 25 most beloved destinations globally, ranking 14th overall. This recognition comes as part of the Traveler’s Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations, released in January 2025. Additionally, Hanoi shined brightly in the cultural sphere, clinching 2nd place among the world’s leading cultural destinations.
Streamlined Government Structure for 2021-2026
As Vietnam moves forward, the restructuring of its government apparatus is taking shape for the 2021-2026 tenure. The new structure will consist of 14 ministries, three ministerial-level agencies, and five government-affiliated agencies, reflecting an effort to streamline operations and enhance efficiency within the government.
Da Nang International Fireworks Festival Returns with Exciting Lineup
The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is set to kick off its longest and largest season yet from May 31 to July 12, 2025. This year’s event promises six thrilling nights of fireworks displays, delighting attendees with a spectacular show of colors and creativity that celebrates art and culture through pyrotechnics.
Nationwide Initiative Eliminates Temporary and Dilapidated Houses
In an ongoing nationwide campaign, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs has reported significant progress in the elimination of temporary and dilapidated housing across the country. As of February 21, 2025, a total of 107,941 such houses have been removed, marking an increase of 1,752 since mid-February. This initiative aims to improve living conditions for disadvantaged communities throughout Vietnam.
Strengthening Vietnam-New Zealand Relations
During an official visit to Vietnam, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the upgrading of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This partnership was formalized through a Joint Statement on February 28, 2025, highlighting the commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation in various fields.
ASEAN Future Forum 2025 Focuses on Regional Collaboration
The ASEAN Future Forum 2025, themed “Building a United, Inclusive, and Resilient ASEAN amidst Global Transformation,” serves as a vital platform for discussions aimed at strengthening regional cooperation. The forum seeks to promote sustainable development and enhance ASEAN’s role in global affairs, emphasizing the importance of unity among member states in addressing contemporary challenges.
National Assembly Sets Ambitious GDP Growth Target for 2025
At the 9th extraordinary session of the 15th National Assembly held on February 19, 2025, lawmakers approved a resolution targeting a minimum GDP growth rate of 8% for the year. Out of 464 delegates, an overwhelming majority—463 members—voted in favor, reflecting a strong consensus on the economic goals for the nation moving forward.
Update on Government Members for Current Term
In conjunction with its restructuring efforts, the National Assembly has also passed resolutions regarding the organizational structure of the government and the number of cabinet members for the current term. These changes aim to optimize governance and ensure effective leadership in fulfilling national objectives.
Recognition of Van Phuc Silk Village in Global Craft Network
Van Phuc Silk Village, along with Bat Trang Pottery Village, has been inducted into the global Network of Creative Craft Cities. This recognition highlights the village’s rich heritage in silk weaving, which has flourished for over a millennium. Today, Van Phuc silk remains a sought-after product, admired both domestically and internationally.
Vietnamese Hotels Shine in Forbes Travel Guide Rankings
Vietnam has made a notable mark in the hospitality sector with ten hotels featured in the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide’s World’s Best Hotels list for 2025. This includes two five-star hotels, four four-star hotels, and several other high-ranking luxury properties, showcasing the country’s growing reputation as a premium travel destination.
Bat Trang Pottery Village Joins Creative Craft Cities Network
Bat Trang Pottery Village, renowned for its exquisite ceramics crafted over 500 years, has also gained entry into the global Network of Creative Craft Cities. The village’s artisans are celebrated for their refined pottery pieces, which are gaining popularity among both local and international consumers.
Ambitious Targets Set for Shrimp Exports
The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) has announced a goal for shrimp exports to reach between $4 billion and $4.3 billion in 2025. In January, shrimp exports led the growth among seafood products, generating $273.349 million, which accounted for 35.3% of the total seafood export turnover.
Vietnam Airlines Earns Global Recognition
Flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has been honored as one of the Top 20 World’s Best Airlines for 2025 by AirlineRatings. Additionally, the airline won the award for the World’s Best Value Premium Economy for the second consecutive year, solidifying its status in the international aviation market.
Progress in Housing Elimination Program
According to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, as of February 14, 2025, there has been significant progress in the nationwide program aimed at eliminating temporary and dilapidated houses. The report indicated that 106,189 houses have been removed, marking an increase of 5,552 since early February.
Economic Growth Objectives for 2025
Under Resolution No. 25/NQ-CP dated February 5, 2025, the Vietnamese government has outlined specific growth targets across various sectors and industries. These measures are designed to ensure a robust national economic expansion, aiming for at least 8% growth in 2025.
Vietnam Cycling Team Achieves Historic Victory
In a landmark achievement for Vietnam’s cycling community, veteran cyclist Hoang Hai Nam secured the gold medal in the men’s 60+ individual time trial at the 2025 Asian Road Cycling Championship in Thailand. This marked Vietnam’s first participation in an amateur event at the continental level, showcasing the country’s potential in sports.
Six Vietnamese Scientists Honored with Asia Innovation Award
The Hitachi Global Foundation has recognized six Vietnamese scientists with the Asia Innovation Award 2024, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to scientific research and innovation. This accolade underscores the growing prominence of Vietnam in the global research community.
Surge in International Arrivals to Vietnam
January 2025 saw a remarkable increase in international arrivals to Vietnam, reaching nearly 2.1 million visitors. This represents an 18.5% rise from December and a 36.9% increase compared to the same month the previous year. Factors contributing to this surge include favorable visa policies, enhanced tourism promotion initiatives, and the acclaim garnered from international travel awards.
Strong Export Performance in January
In January 2025, Vietnam achieved a significant milestone as seven export items surpassed $1 billion in turnover, together representing 67.9% of the nation’s total export value. This impressive performance highlights the resilience of Vietnam’s economy amid global challenges.
Legislative Session Reviews Key Reforms
During an eight-day session, the legislators of the 15th National Assembly reviewed and passed critical drafts related to amendments of laws governing the organization of the National Assembly, the Government, and the promulgation of legal documents. These reforms are aimed at modernizing the legislative framework to better serve the needs of the nation.
Vietnam continues to make strides across multiple sectors, from cultural recognition and economic growth to international partnerships and sporting achievements.
