This year’s conference reinforced its position as a trusted partner for Vietnam’s import-export business community. Attended by approximately 350 representatives from domestic and international enterprises and leaders of six major export-import associations, the event offered comprehensive insights into economic and financial opportunities and challenges expected in 2025.
Panel discussion
The event was especially noteworthy as it celebrated a decade of MB’s steadfast commitment to its clients.
"The annual MB Economic Insights has brought tangible value to economic and business activities," said Nguyen Van Dung, deputy chairman of Ho Chi Minh City’s People’s Committee.
He outlined Ho Chi Minh City’s ambitious objectives: transform into a modern industrial city by 2030 and reach advanced industrial development with a focus on the green and digital economies, and sustainability by 2045.
He expressed hopes that discussions and feedback from the conference would inform the city’s macroeconomic management strategies leading into 2025.
Shantanu Chakraborty, country director of the Asian Development Bank in Vietnam, delivered an in-depth analysis of Asia’s economic landscape and international trade trends.
"Growth in the region continues to be driven by strong domestic demand and a recovery in exports," he noted.
Nonetheless, Chakraborty warned of major challenges, including increased trade protectionism amid geopolitical tensions, climate change ramifications, and the instability in China’s property market.
From a regulatory standpoint, Tran Thanh Hai, deputy director of the Import-Export Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade, presented an extensive analysis of Vietnam’s import-export performance, supported by detailed statistics that facilitated comparisons between past and current trends.
He emphasised the characteristics of Vietnam’s current trade market and provided practical recommendations for businesses involved in the global supply chain.
Nguyen Xuan Thanh, an economic expert and senior lecturer at the Fulbright School of Public Policy and Management, offered a detailed examination of Vietnam’s macroeconomic progress.
"Effective control of inflation has ensured stable economic growth," said Thanh, who went on to highlight that export-led industrial production continues to be a primary growth engine, potentially allowing Vietnam to achieve growth rates exceeding 7 per cent in 2024 and 2025.
However, he cautioned about variables affecting price ratios, domestic consumption, and investment. "Public investment disbursement in infrastructure is lagging the economy," he said, while expressing confidence that the government’s upcoming measures would convert public investment into a growth catalyst in 2025.
On monetary policy, Thanh recommended a credit growth target of 15 per cent for 2024 and 2025, emphasising the importance of collaboration within the commercial banking sector to address the financial needs of major corporations, including those in real estate.
A highlight of the event was the panel discussion, where top experts offered in-depth evaluations and practical strategies for businesses to navigate current challenges and capitalise on opportunities. The discussion also addressed sustainable development strategies and the adaptability of Vietnamese enterprises, creating an engaging atmosphere and equipping businesses with a diverse range of solutions tailored to various economic scenarios.
The success of the 10th MB Economic Insights conference reinforced its vital role in equipping Vietnam’s business community with essential information, guidance, and strategies for navigating an increasingly complex global economic landscape.
Tran Mau Huy, a representative from Hao Hung Co., Ltd., shared his perspective as an import-export business leader.
"Despite challenges from exchange rate fluctuations and geopolitical tensions, we are witnessing signs of economic recovery in 2024," Huy said. He went on to say the forum had provided valuable access to financial solutions, particularly derivative hedging tools, which enabled Hao Hung to maintain operational stability and plan confidently for future growth.
'MB Economic Insights' is an annual economic forum hosted by Military Commercial Joint-Stock Bank to disseminate economic and financial knowledge, provide forecasts, and support client management practices, business planning, and strategic solution development. This year’s event also showcased advanced digital technology integration and online interaction throughout the conference.
