The strategic cooperation signing ceremony took place at Long Chau's office in Hanoi. Representatives from the three enterprises highlighted statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating that Vietnam is currently among countries with a high global infertility rate, with an estimated 50% of cases occurring in individuals under 30. The total fertility rate (TFR) decreased to a record low of 1,91 children per woman in 2024, placing it among the lowest in Southeast Asia.

According to WHO, one million couples in Vietnam experience infertility or subfertility each year. Experts note this issue is not only a modern medical challenge but also negatively impacts the birth rate, hindering sustainable population development.

In response to this situation, Long Chau, AF Hanoi, and Merck Healthcare Vietnam launched the project "Enhancing reproductive health and improving infertility and subfertility in the community." The parties announced the key pillars of their strategic cooperation.

Specifically, the three entities will organize educational programs to raise community awareness about reproductive health, as well as the prevention and treatment of infertility and subfertility, promoting healthier lifestyles. The project will also expand access to specialized medical solutions through Long Chau's accessible network and hospitals, featuring a series of counseling, screening, prevention, and treatment activities.

Three parties perform the signing ceremony. Photo: LC

During his speech, Nguyen Van Cuong, Chief Executive Officer of AF Hanoi, stated that the project resulted from discussions, mutual understanding, and unified action among the three parties, with the common goal of delivering practical, sustainable value to everyone.

According to Cuong, the collaboration creates a comprehensive healthcare model: hospitals provide medical expertise and treatment protocols. Long Chau offers a widespread, accessible network. Merck contributes its scientific platform, medicines, and international-standard assisted reproductive solutions.

"When these three pillars connect, people have the opportunity to access 'the right information - at the right time - with the right solutions', receiving early screening, appropriate counseling, and timely treatment, thereby enhancing their chances of parenthood from the very first steps", Nguyen Van Cuong explained.

Nguyen Van Cuong - Chief Executive Officer of AF Hanoi speaks at the event. Photo: LC

Ghislaine Dondellinger, General Manager of Merck Healthcare Vietnam, noted that infertility and subfertility affect individuals and couples, leading to emotional distress and psychological barriers. Over the years, Merck has provided new medical products and services, alongside essential knowledge and support.

"We believe that through education, empathy, and medical solutions, we can create positive, sustainable changes in their lives. We hope this collaboration contributes to increasing Vietnam's birth rate, addressing a pressing societal need", Ghislaine Dondellinger stated.

Ghislaine Dondellinger, General Manager of Merck Healthcare Vietnam. Photo: LC

Sharing this perspective, Nguyen Do Quyen, Deputy General Director of FPT Retail and Chief Operating Officer of Long Chau's pharmacy and vaccination center system, highlighted that 2025 marks a significant turning point in national health policy with the Politburo's issuance of Resolution 72-NQ/TW, which emphasizes breakthrough solutions to improve public health, including reproductive health and population quality.

Following the promulgation of Resolution 72-NQ/TW, programs to enhance health and population quality have been progressively implemented through practical actions at both central and local levels. From a business perspective, Quyen believes this is a crucial moment for the private sector to collaborate and realize significant national goals.

Nguyen Do Quyen - Deputy General Director of FPT Retail and Chief Operating Officer of Long Chau. Photo: LC

Quyen also emphasized that reproductive health is a sensitive, private topic, often remaining an unspoken concern within many families. Numerous individuals harbor worries but lack accurate information and reliable spaces to share them. Long Chau approaches this project with a consistent spirit: for the community, for people, and "for a healthy Vietnam." With comprehensive knowledge, appropriate access, and empathy, each family can best manage their health.

With 2,400 pharmacies and 200 vaccination centers across 34 provinces and cities, the unit's team aims to become an extended arm of the healthcare sector. "Specifically for reproductive health, we are committed to three priorities: raising scientifically accurate awareness; helping reduce stigma and psychological barriers; and providing sustained support so that people can access accurate information, receive appropriate, convenient, private, and more respected assistance", Deputy General Director Do Quyen added.

Dong Ve