Industry & Retail

On the back of sound economic growth, a continuing inflow of foreign direct investment and a healthy labour force, the industrial base in Vietnam has been steadily expanding over the past two decades, with export-orientated manufacturing playing a major role within the overall economy. The potential for manufacturing in Vietnam is much higher than it was just five years ago. Recently signed free trade agreements are likely to further boost competition, as well as extend the country’s international reach, as manufacturers continue to view Vietnam as a low-cost alternative to China.

This chapter contains interviews with Michael Behrens, General Director, Mercedes-Benz Vietnam, and Chairman, European Chamber of Commerce; and Mai Kieu Lien, CEO, Vinamilk.