European executives call for deeper Vietnam trade cooperation
A November 4–6 delegation to Hanoi involves around 110 senior executives from nearly 40 European companies.
Closer investment and trade cooperation with Vietnam was a priority for European executives meeting senior government officials in Hanoi during a November 4–6 visit. The delegation, organised by the EU-ASEAN Business Council, includes around 110 senior executives representing nearly 40 European companies.
The council’s latest business sentiment survey placed Vietnam ahead of other ASEAN markets for European companies’ expansion plans. It found that 64 per cent of respondents intended to expand their Vietnamese operations within five years. Among businesses without operations there, 34 per cent were considering entry, giving Vietnam the strongest interest in that group.
Meeting discussions examined ways to improve investor confidence and attract higher-value investment. Topics included easing regulatory obstacles, improving intellectual property safeguards, tackling illicit trade, simplifying customs processes and developing closer relationships between overseas investors and domestic businesses.
Chris Humphrey, the council’s executive director, called for further reforms to help businesses benefit from the EU-Vietnam free trade agreement and pursue integration beyond removing tariffs. He also sought increased European investment, closer research and development cooperation, capacity building and exchanges of expertise.
Business leaders pointed to investment opportunities across high-tech manufacturing, innovation in science and technology, sustainable aviation, renewable energy and low-carbon solutions. They also identified healthcare modernisation, insurance and financial services as areas with potential.
