In collaboration with the Southern Center for Investment Promotion, Information and Support (Foreign Investment Agency, Ministry of Finance), the forum will bring together government leaders, foreign investors, Vietnamese entrepreneurs, academics, and journalists for high-level strategic discussions. The event will take place on 20/8 at RMIT University Vietnam's South Saigon campus. Those interested can also participate online via Zoom.

According to Dr. Dang Thao Quyen, senior program manager of international business at RMIT University Vietnam, the impetus for growth stems from a shift in mindset. "Vietnamese businesses are no longer content with being behind-the-scenes suppliers. They are learning to build brand value, invest in long-term growth, and tell their stories on the global stage," she said.

This transformation is further reinforced by strategic moves from the government, including commitments to green growth, increased transparency, and an improved investment environment. After decades, Vietnam is emerging as a strong contender on the international stage. In the first half of 2025, Vietnam attracted over USD 21.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), the highest mid-year level since 2009, despite a global downward trend.

Furthermore, Vietnam's national brand value continues to grow steadily, now ranking 32nd globally according to Brand Finance, up from 47th just a decade ago. This signals extensive structural reform.

However, success always comes with challenges. As the global minimum tax policy reduces the attractiveness of tax incentives and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria become the new norm, Vietnamese businesses must compete on governance, innovation, and human resource quality.

The seminar shares Vietnam's potential and aspirations. Illustrative photo: Pexels

The seminar shares Vietnam's potential and aspirations. Illustrative photo: Pexels

In addition, the gap between registered and disbursed capital highlights the urgent need to accelerate project progress, simplify regulations, and strengthen public-private partnerships. According to Dr. Quyen, the next step is not just attracting capital, but directing it towards areas that deliver sustainable, inclusive, and impactful results.

"We have captured the world's attention, now we must build trust – and maintain it," she emphasized.

Under the theme "Attracting FDI to Vietnam in the Era of Rise: Multifaceted Dialogue for Breakthroughs," the forum creates a space for sharing perspectives and aims to develop feasible solutions for this crucial issue. From keynote speeches to in-depth panel discussions and case studies, the program focuses on connecting policy with practice, linking national priorities with the needs of the private sector.

"This is a rare opportunity for stakeholders to discuss how to elevate FDI flows into Vietnam to a new level, and it's a time for pioneers to realize that Vietnam's international breakthrough will depend on what happens next," a representative of the organizing committee said.

Government leaders can share feasible and persuasive roadmaps. Investors have the opportunity to unlock untapped potential and express their views. For domestic entrepreneurs, this is a chance to collaborate with international partners to expand their reach. Young professionals also hold a crucial position and have a significant influence on the future of global business in Vietnam.

"If we don't tell our own story, others will, and that story may not be what we want," Dr. Quyen shared before the Global Business Forum 2025.

Nhat Le

Readers can register to contribute to the conversation here.