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Economy & Trade

The Forces Behind Vietnam’s Rapid Economic Growth

Post by: SourceVietnam

Written by Ethan Minh

Reading Time: 6 minutes

December 30, 2024

Vietnam has experienced remarkable economic growth due to strategic reforms (Doi Moi), a focus on manufacturing and exports, a young and dynamic workforce, and investments in infrastructure and education. The future outlook is optimistic despite the challenges.

vietnam-economic-growth

Southeast Asian economies remain an attractive option. Vietnam’s particular case stands out as its economy has been developing quickly and moving increasingly towards more active and inventive forms of economic management.

History shows that the rapid pace of economic development is a constant source of optimism for potential investors as it starts showing strong bi-directional investment flow concerning projects undertaken in the area from all the nearby countries.

As more new businesses enter the economy, it grows larger and offers more possibilities. Emerging economies provide additional opportunities for investors, including tax policies and regional partnerships.

The rise of Vietnam’s economy

During the 1980s, Vietnam encountered conflict, destitution, and seclusion. Nevertheless, everything shifted in 1986 when the government implemented the Doi Moi (Renovation) policy. This policy transitioned Vietnam from a regulated economy to a market-driven one. It concentrated on boosting trade, drawing in foreign investment, and promoting private enterprises. These alterations pave the way for Vietnam’s development and assimilation into the worldwide economy.

Vietnam’s economic progress is impressive. This story shows how smart choices, good investments, and dedicated citizens have helped Vietnam grow. Vietnam is becoming an important player in Southeast Asia’s economy because of its strong industries and young workforce. By building global partnerships, focusing on its people, and improving infrastructure, Vietnam is creating a bright future.

This journey provides important insights for other developing countries, demonstrating that prioritizing long-term growth, innovation, and sustainability can result in genuine economic change. A crucial aspect of this change has been Vietnam’s adoption of open markets. Vietnam has progressed by opening its economy.

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Vietnam became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2007

In 2007, Vietnam joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) to aid trade. The country also made deals with key partners like South Korea, Japan, and the European Union. These actions have helped Vietnam sell more goods abroad and attract foreign investors.

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Vietnam’s manufacturing

Vietnam’s economic growth is primarily due to its emphasis on manufacturing. The nation has become a hub for electronics, textiles, and equipment. Government policies, affordable labour, and a talented workforce contribute to attracting major companies such as Samsung, Intel, and Nike. They aim to expand their production variety and decrease their dependence on other markets.

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Intel is leveraging Vietnam’s skilled workforce

These companies take advantage of Vietnam’s talented workforce, reduced production expenses, and enhanced supply chains. In this sense, Vietnam is on a large scale of world manufacturing, producing from luxury to commodity items including automotive components. It ranked 21st on the list of top exports in 2023, a testament to how far the manufacturing sector had succeeded.

The growth in manufacturing has also impacted other parts of the economy. Manufacturing jobs are pulling workers away from agriculture, leading to higher wages and increased home spending.

Tourism industry

Vietnam’s tourism industry has rapidly grown, attracting more travellers. From January to March 2024, the country welcomed over 4.6 million international tourists, a 72% increase from last year. Visitors enjoy its cultural diversity, natural beauty, social media presence, and affordability.

vietnam-tourism-industry
Foreign tourists enjoy creative tours in Vietnam

Domestic tourism has also risen, with local trips four times more common than a decade ago. Tourism contributes 7% to the GDP and supports nearly 6 million jobs.

Demographic dividend

Vietnam’s economy is growing fast because it has so many young people. Most of the 100 million people in Vietnam are under 35 years old. It’s beneficial for the country since many young people are prepared to work.

Many people are moving to the cities for work — which increases productivity. Millions are moving to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as fast-growing urban areas, including towns like urban infrastructure development or nation-building. Labour mobility and urban infrastructure development are key to the development of Vietnam’s economy.

The expanding middle class and increasing need for consumer products are fueling growth in retail, hospitality, and technology sectors. The transition from country to city life is expected to persist, generating fresh business prospects.

Government investments in infrastructure and education

Vietnam is improving transportation, including roads, ports, and airports, to help its economy grow. These improvements facilitate activities such as transporting goods, travelling, and commuting to work.

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Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line No. 1 officially opens

The government invests in education and training programs to help people gain the skills they need for jobs in factories, service industries, and technology companies. A skilled workforce is one of Vietnam’s greatest strengths. By providing higher education and vocational training, the country improves its workers’ ability to meet the needs of a modern economy.

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Vietnam emphasizes the importance of education

Thanks to hard work, Vietnam has become a strong player in the world economy. Vietnam is a growing business hub known for producing quality products at low prices. It attracts companies from other countries to invest in Southeast Asia.

Economic resilience and outlook

Vietnam’s economy stays strong despite COVID-19 in 2020. It grew by 5.05% year on year in 2023, beating several neighbouring economies with increased exports, manufacturing output, and consumer spending.

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Vietnam’s economic outlook is improving steadily

Expect more growth underway: analysts have a World Bank growth forecast of 6.1% in 2024 and 2025 due to the rise in the demand for Vietnamese products. The administration will focus on environmental considerations and new tech, as well as infrastructure improvements.

Challenges remain, as the economy relies heavily on manufacturing, making it vulnerable to global supply chain issues and reduced demand. The government is working to address these challenges through necessary changes and investments.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s economy has a real success story. Good planning, smart spending, and hard work from its people are driving big improvements. Vietnam is rapidly emerging as an economic power in Southeast Asia, with a large number of factories and a young population. Vietnam works with other countries, invests in its people, and builds roads that will connect better bridges in the future.

Vietnam’s actions can provide valuable lessons for other nations, particularly those striving to enhance their economies. It demonstrates that concentrating on gradual growth over time, generating fresh ideas, and maintaining sustainability can truly be rewarding.

Due to Vietnam’s strong dedication to advancement, it is poised to become a significant force in the global economy for many years ahead.

4.6/5.0 (29 vote)
Ethan Minh

Content Strategist

Before taking on the position of Content Strategist at MediaStep, Ethan Minh graduated with honors from New York University and accumulated more than 8 years of experience working at multinational companies, corporations, and marketing agencies such as Omnicom Group and The Interpublic Group of Companies (IPG). He has developed content across all platforms to implement promotional strategies for businesses.

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