US and Vietnam Push for Balanced Trade in Virtual Meeting
美越在視訊會議中推動更平衡的貿易關係
In a recent virtual meeting held on April 24, US Trade Representative Jamieson L. Greer and Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral trade relations. The meeting, announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), followed President Trump’s earlier call with General Secretary To Lam on April 4. Both parties emphasized the need for swift progress toward achieving a more reciprocal and balanced trade framework between the two nations.
As part of the ongoing efforts, the ministers directed their respective teams to initiate technical discussions aimed at expanding market access and addressing concerns related to unfair trade practices. This development is particularly relevant for non-Indian multinational companies operating in or trading with Vietnam and the US, as it signals potential regulatory changes and improved trade facilitation that could impact investment strategies, supply chain planning, and market entry considerations across the Asia-Pacific region.
https://vir.com.vn/us-calls-tariff-talks-with-vietnam-productive-127334.html
小編點評：在 4 月 24 日的視訊會議中，美國與越南的貿易官員重申將努力建立更平衡的雙邊貿易關係，並延續先前高層會談的後續工作。雙方同意展開技術性討論，以擴大市場准入並處理不公平貿易行為相關疑慮，這暗示未來可能出現影響亞太地區跨國公司營運的法規變動。
Vietnam Emerges as Regional Leader in 5G and Digital Transformation
越南崛起為 5G 與數位轉型的區域領導者
Vietnam’s strategic vision to build a robust, modern, and sustainable digital ecosystem was in sharp focus at a recent GSMA-led conference, highlighting its growing influence on Asia-Pacific’s digital future. Julian Gorman, GSMA’s head of Asia-Pacific, praised Vietnam’s commitment to advancing its digital economy, noting that Vietnam is positioning itself among global leaders in mobile technology despite not being an early 5G adopter. Viettel Group’s achievements in mastering core 5G technologies, Open RAN research, and plans to achieve nationwide 5G coverage by 2026, underscore Vietnam’s ambition to close the digital divide and make the digital economy contribute 30% to its GDP by 2030. Leaders from multinational firms like Ericsson also reinforced confidence in Vietnam’s digital direction, emphasizing 5G’s transformative role beyond just faster connectivity.
The broader context of Vietnam’s digital agenda, including goals set by the National Digital Transformation Programme—such as building a 1.5-million-strong digital workforce and fostering over 100,000 digital enterprises—marks the country as a rising digital powerhouse. For non-Indian companies, this transformation opens substantial opportunities for partnerships, technology deployment, and market expansion in a high-growth, innovation-driven environment, especially in sectors like telecom, smart manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare, where Vietnam’s 5G-driven shift will drive significant new demand.
https://vir.com.vn/vietnam-strengthens-5g-to-unlock-digital-economy-127243.html
小編點評：越南正成為區域數位領導者，目標在 2026 年前實現全國 5G 覆蓋，並希望於 2030 年讓數位經濟對 GDP 的貢獻達到 30%。在「國家數位轉型計畫」等倡議支持下，越南正在打造強大的數位人才隊伍並培育成千上萬家數位企業。這波轉型為全球企業在電信、智慧製造、農業與醫療等高成長領域的合作與擴張帶來重大機會。
Vietnam’s Gaming Industry Levels Up with Global Reach and TikTok Integration
越南遊戲產業升級：全球擴張與 TikTok 整合助攻
Vietnam’s gaming sector is experiencing a major growth surge, with mobile games projected to generate $712 million in revenue by 2029, according to a 2024 Statista report. Bloomberg also ranked Vietnam among the top five countries globally for mobile game production in 2023, driven by a download growth rate 2.5 times faster than the world average. Industry leaders, including Do Viet Hung of the Asian Electronic Sports Federation, emphasized the sector’s transformation in both technology and player engagement, highlighting the strategic role of digital platforms like TikTok in expanding local publishers’ reach. TikTok’s integration of gaming into broader cultural content—ranging from music to lifestyle—has proven highly effective, with 59% of users discovering new games through the platform, according to a 2024 global survey.
This evolution positions Vietnam as a rising creative powerhouse in the Southeast Asian gaming landscape. For non-Indian companies, particularly in mobile gaming, advertising, content creation, and tech investment, Vietnam offers compelling opportunities. The country’s blend of rapid market growth, digital-savvy audiences, and a supportive innovation ecosystem makes it an attractive destination for partnerships, regional headquarters, and cross-border game launches targeting both Southeast Asia and global audiences.
https://vir.com.vn/digital-leverage-for-vietnamese-gaming-industry-127177.html
小編點評：越南遊戲產業快速擴張，預計到 2029 年行動遊戲營收將達 7.12 億美元，且在全球製作國排名中名列前五；其成長動能來自下載量高速上升與 TikTok 的整合。這股成長為全球企業在行動遊戲、廣告與科技投資領域提供強勁機會，越南正以數位熟練的用戶與活躍的創新生態系，成為具吸引力的創意樞紐。
Next Wave of Mobile: Ericsson Highlights 5G as Catalyst for Vietnam’s Digital Leap
行動通訊新浪潮：Ericsson 強調 5G 是越南數位躍升的催化劑
As 5G emerges as the fastest-scaling mobile technology in history, Ericsson is championing a global shift toward open, programmable, and cloud-native networks to drive digital transformation. These advanced mobile networks—now essential to scaling AI, cloud computing, and immersive technologies—are expected to dominate mobile access by 2029. At the core of this evolution are network application programming interfaces (APIs), which enable developers to access and tailor network capabilities like speed, latency, and security. Through partnerships with leading global carriers and cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services, Ericsson is enabling game-changing applications in banking, logistics, and manufacturing. In this context, 5G is no longer just a connectivity upgrade but a foundational platform for innovation across industries.
In Vietnam, where 5G is already reshaping sectors like manufacturing and smart cities, the implications are profound. Private 5G networks are creating new business models, boosting automation, and increasing efficiency, while aligning with Vietnam’s national goal of becoming a high-income economy by 2045 and achieving 30% digital GDP by 2030. For non-Indian companies, particularly in sectors such as industrial automation, fintech, and cloud services, this evolution presents vast opportunities. Vietnam’s rapid 5G adoption, combined with government support and rising digital demand, makes it an attractive hub for tech deployment, regional R&D, and enterprise digitalisation across Southeast Asia.
https://vir.com.vn/vietnam-is-shaping-up-for-the-next-wave-of-mobile-127075.html
小編點評：Ericsson 認為 5G 是一個具轉型性的平台，透過開放、可程式化的網路與 API，使 AI、雲端運算與沉浸式科技得以落地，並預期到 2029 年將廣泛普及。在越南，5G 已推動智慧城市與製造業升級，支援其數位 GDP 與邁向高所得經濟體的目標。這為全球企業在自動化、金融科技與雲端服務等領域提供重大機會，可在東南亞進行投資、創新與擴張。
VinFast VF 3 Electrifies Indonesian Market with Stylish Urban Mobility and Green Ambitions
VinFast VF 3 以時尚都會移動與綠色企圖「電」亮印尼市場
Vietnamese EV manufacturer VinFast has marked a significant milestone in its Southeast Asian expansion with the mass delivery of 100 VF 3 mini electric SUVs in Indonesia during the Motomobi News Karnaval, held from April 19–20, 2025. The VF 3, already a hit in Vietnam and the Philippines, is turning heads with its bold, compact design, urban-friendly 215 km range, and customisable features. Positioned as an affordable and stylish solution for daily commuting, the VF 3 was the centerpiece of the event, where user-customised variants celebrated creativity and individuality. Backed by attractive incentives such as cashback and free charging through V-GREEN stations until 2028, the VF 3 is quickly building a strong local following. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, emphasized the brand’s commitment to delivering green, intelligent mobility solutions across Indonesia’s dynamic market.
With a competitive price tag of IDR 230 million and premium features such as a 10-inch touchscreen and luxury-style gear selector, the VF 3 is well positioned to democratize electric mobility. VinFast’s aggressive strategy includes expanding its dealership network, launching 500 service workshops, and installing 30,000 charging ports across the country by 2025. For non-Indian companies, particularly in the EV supply chain, renewable energy infrastructure, and smart mobility services, Indonesia’s fast-growing electric vehicle market—bolstered by players like VinFast—presents high-potential entry points for partnerships, investment, and joint development as the region accelerates toward its sustainable transportation goals.
小編點評：VinFast 在印尼推出 VF 3 迷你電動 SUV，並一次交付 100 輛，車款主打小巧可客製化外型、215 公里續航，以及至 2028 年的免費充電等誘因。定價 2.3 億印尼盾的 VF 3 也成為 VinFast 擴建電動車基礎設施與服務版圖的核心支點，為全球企業在電動車供應鏈、智慧移動與綠色能源領域帶來強勁機會，可在東南亞展開合作與投資。
Thaksin Shinawatra Calls for Policy Overhaul as US Tariffs Threaten Thai Exports and Investment Strategy
美國關稅威脅泰國出口與投資策略，塔克辛呼籲全面調整政策
At an April 24 seminar hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM), former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra urged the government to revise its import regulations and investment promotion policies in response to steep US tariffs—some reaching 36%—that could disrupt Thailand’s export-dependent economy. Citing the electric vehicle (EV) sector as a prime example, Thaksin warned that Chinese manufacturers leveraging Thai incentives to bypass US trade rules could provoke further scrutiny. He said that Thailand ran a large trade deficit with China and a moderate surplus with the US, suggesting that there might be something wrong with that picture and emphasizing the need for tighter enforcement of local content regulations. His remarks come as Bangkok prepares for high-stakes trade negotiations with Washington.
Thaksin’s comments indicate a possible recalibration of Thailand’s economic alignment, particularly in light of its deepening ties with Chinese investors, who accounted for nearly 28% of foreign direct investment (FDI) between 2022 and 2024—more than triple that of US firms. This dynamic reflects a broader geopolitical tension, as Thailand attempts to balance between economic opportunity and political neutrality amid an intensifying US-China trade rivalry. For non-Indian companies, especially those in manufacturing, logistics, and trade compliance, this evolving policy landscape presents both risks and openings in Southeast Asia’s supply chain ecosystem, where regulatory shifts may redefine sourcing strategies and regional investment decisions.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40049241
小編點評：泰國前總理塔克辛・欽那瓦呼籲政策改革，以因應高額美國關稅對泰國出口導向經濟的威脅，特別是電動車等產業。他警告中國企業可能利用泰國投資優惠來規避美國貿易規則，進而引發更嚴格審查，因此主張加強本地內容（local content）規範。當泰國在中國投資增加與美國貿易壓力之間尋求平衡之際，非印度企業在調整東南亞供應鏈與投資策略時，將同時面臨風險與機會。
IMF Chief Urges Asia to Strengthen Regional Trade Amid Global Tariff Pressures
面對全球關稅壓力，IMF 總裁呼籲亞洲強化區域內貿易
At a press conference in Washington DC on Thursday, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva acknowledged the mounting challenges faced by Asian economies as they continue to rely heavily on exports, now hindered by newly implemented global tariff measures. While recognising the region’s economic resilience—reflected in consistent growth, prudent inflation management, and sound fiscal strategies—Georgieva encouraged countries with policy flexibility to deploy monetary and fiscal tools judiciously to weather upcoming pressures. She said that Asia was in a challenging position following the implementation of new tariff policies, noting that these had substantially affected several economies across the region.
Georgieva also highlighted the importance of enhancing intra-regional trade, which currently accounts for just 21% of Asia’s total trade, as a strategic move to counteract slowing global commerce. Increased regional cooperation and economic integration, she argued, could provide a buffer against external shocks. For non-Indian companies operating or investing in Asia, this presents both a cautionary note and a potential opportunity—shifts in regional trade patterns and economic alliances may impact supply chain routes, investment flows, and market entry strategies across the continent.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40049221
小編點評：IMF 總裁Kristalina Georgieva呼籲亞洲經濟體強化區域內貿易，以抵消全球關稅升溫對仰賴出口成長模式所造成的衝擊。她肯定亞洲的經濟韌性，同時強調更深度的區域整合可作為抵禦外部衝擊的緩衝，這將為在貿易格局變動中前行的全球企業帶來挑戰與機會。
Thai SMBs Drive Revenue Growth with AI Adoption, Says Salesforce Report
Salesforce 報告：泰國中小企業導入 AI 帶動營收成長
A new report from Salesforce reveals that 90% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Thailand already using AI have experienced revenue growth, highlighting the transformative impact of AI on business performance. The findings, based on insights from 3,350 global SMB leaders and an additional 100 surveyed in Thailand, show that 70% of Thai SMBs are currently using or experimenting with AI, while 84% express optimism about the future as they adopt autonomous AI tools to remain competitive. As digital threats increase, Thai businesses are also seeking trusted partnerships to navigate the complex tech landscape.
Salesforce Thailand Country Leader Thitirat Tongtavorn emphasized that despite smaller teams, Thai SMBs are making a big economic impact, with many achieving growth comparable to larger enterprises. Solutions like Agentforce are helping these businesses scale efficiently through automation, enhanced customer personalization, and stronger digital strategies. For non-Indian companies, this highlights Southeast Asia’s fast-growing and digitally agile SMB sector, presenting opportunities for global tech firms to partner, invest, and expand in the region’s AI-driven transformation.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/economy/40049212
小編點評：根據 Salesforce 報告，90% 採用 AI 的泰國中小企業（SMB）都出現營收成長；其中 70% 正在使用或試驗 AI，84% 對其未來影響抱持樂觀。儘管團隊規模較小，泰國 SMB 透過 Agentforce 等工具實現自動化與數位個人化，創造成長可與大型企業比肩。此趨勢為全球科技公司提供強勁的合作與投資機會，可切入東南亞快速演進、AI 驅動的商業版圖。
Microsoft Thailand’s AI Initiative Aims to Upskill 1 Million Citizens by 2025
Microsoft 泰國 AI 計畫：目標在 2025 年前培訓 100 萬名民眾
In a bid to enhance the country’s global competitiveness, Thailand is collaborating with 35 public and private sector partners through the THAI Academy programme to accelerate AI adoption and upskill its workforce. Prasert Jantararuangthong, Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Minister, emphasized the importance of AI in driving the nation’s economic growth and its alignment with the National AI Master Plan, which focuses on broadening AI literacy across the population. As part of this effort, Microsoft Thailand has committed to helping equip over 1 million Thai citizens with AI skills by the end of 2025, aiming to address the evolving demands of the tech landscape.
Microsoft Thailand’s managing director, Dhanawat Suthumpun, praised the Thai government’s emphasis on AI upskilling, noting that such initiatives will empower the workforce to navigate the rapidly changing digital environment. For non-Indian companies, this collaboration presents valuable opportunities to partner with Thailand’s growing tech ecosystem, particularly in areas like workforce training, AI education, and technology development, marking the country as a strategic hub for AI innovation in Southeast Asia.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40049083
小編點評：Microsoft 泰國與泰國政府及 35 個機構合作，透過 THAI Academy 計畫，目標在 2025 年前為超過 100 萬名民眾提升 AI 技能，並與《國家 AI 總體計畫》方向一致。此計畫為全球企業在人才培訓與科技開發領域提供合作契機，泰國也正藉此把自己定位為區域 AI 創新樞紐。
Thailand Deploys First AI Police Cyborg to Enhance Public Safety During Songkran Festival
泰國於潑水節部署首位 AI 警察機器人，提升公共安全
Thailand has unveiled its first AI-powered police robot, named “AI Police Cyborg 1.0,” to bolster public safety during the Songkran festival in Nakhon Pathom province. Equipped with smart 360-degree AI cameras, the Robocop-style robot integrates live footage from CCTV cameras and drone surveillance, which is processed using AI technology for real-time monitoring. The robot is linked directly to the province’s Command and Control Center, ensuring efficient management of public safety during major events. Capable of facial recognition, suspect tracking, weapon detection, and behavior monitoring, the AI Police Cyborg is a significant step forward in utilizing AI for law enforcement in public spaces.
The deployment of this cutting-edge technology is a significant milestone for Thailand’s efforts to integrate AI in enhancing public safety. For non-Indian companies, particularly those in the AI, robotics, and security technology sectors, this development presents an opportunity for collaboration and innovation in the growing field of smart city solutions and public safety technology in Southeast Asia. The AI Police Cyborg initiative demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to embracing advanced technologies to improve public services and maintain safety in high-traffic areas, making it a potential market for future partnerships.
https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40048875
小編點評：泰國在潑水節期間部署首款 AI 警察機器人「AI Police Cyborg 1.0」，透過即時監控、臉部辨識與武器偵測等功能提升公共安全。該機器人整合 CCTV 與無人機影像，並直接連線省級指揮中心以高效率監控大型活動。此舉凸顯泰國推動 AI 公安治理的方向，也為全球企業在 AI、機器人與智慧城市科技領域於東南亞的安全科技市場建立合作機會。
Delivery Hero to Cease Foodpanda Operations in Thailand by May 23
Delivery Hero 將於 5 月 23 日前停止 Foodpanda 在泰國的營運
Delivery Hero announced on Wednesday that it will cease operations of its food and grocery delivery service, Foodpanda, in Thailand by May 23. This decision is part of the company’s strategy to “optimise its geostrategy” after previously withdrawing from markets such as Denmark, Ghana, Slovakia, and Slovenia. Despite the pullback, Delivery Hero will maintain its regional team in Thailand, which oversees marketing and human resources operations for the Asia-Pacific region. The company expressed gratitude to its employees, customers, partners, and riders in Thailand, promising support during the transition.
Foodpanda has struggled in Thailand’s competitive food delivery market, where it holds just under 15% market share, trailing behind Lineman Wongnai and GrabFood. The company has accumulated significant net losses over the past nine years and was unable to secure a sale of its Southeast Asia business last year. For non-Indian companies, particularly those in the food delivery, logistics, and tech sectors, this market exit signals an opportunity for new entrants to capture market share in a region still seeing intense competition. Additionally, the shift may lead to increased consolidation in the Southeast Asian food delivery market, presenting potential for strategic partnerships and acquisitions.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3009501/foodpanda-delivery-service-to-exit-thailand
小編點評：Delivery Hero 將於 5 月 23 日停止 Foodpanda 在泰國的營運，作為其「優化地緣策略（geostrategy）」的一部分，但仍會保留在泰國的區域行銷與人資團隊。Foodpanda 退出為競爭激烈的東南亞外送市場帶來新進者機會，也可能加速市場整併，為產業內的合作與併購提供想像空間。
National Telecom to Migrate 300,000 NT Mobile Customers to “my by NT” in June
國家電信（NT）將於 6 月把 30 萬名 NT Mobile 用戶遷移至「my by NT」
National Telecom (NT), Thailand’s state telecom enterprise, has announced plans to migrate 300,000 NT Mobile customers to its “my by NT” brand by June, ahead of the expiration of its 2100MHz and 2300MHz spectrum bands on August 3. The migration will be seamless for customers, who will not need to change their existing SIM cards. The transition will involve both postpaid and prepaid customers, with users receiving a welcome SMS detailing their new service packages after the migration. The “my by NT” service, which operates on the 700MHz spectrum, had over 2.18 million users as of March, including 200,000 postpaid customers. The migration will not affect NT’s other telecom services, such as broadband internet or fixed-line telephony.
For non-Indian companies, particularly those in the telecom and technology sectors, this shift in service branding and spectrum usage presents an opportunity to engage with an evolving market in Thailand. The deal between NT and Advanced Info Service (AIS) also signals ongoing collaboration and infrastructure developments in 4G/5G networks, with AIS expanding the 4G/5G coverage on the 700MHz spectrum. Companies with a focus on telecom infrastructure, network equipment, or mobile services may find opportunities for partnerships, technology provision, or service expansions within this changing landscape.
小編點評：國家電信（NT）計畫在 6 月前將 30 萬名 NT Mobile 用戶遷移至「my by NT」品牌，以因應其 2100MHz 與 2300MHz 頻段將到期的情況。此次遷移將無縫進行，用戶不需更換 SIM 卡，並會收到新的資費方案通知。對電信與科技領域的非印度企業而言，這項品牌與頻譜使用的調整，為與 NT、以及其與 AIS 合作擴展 700MHz 頻段 4G/5G 覆蓋相關的基礎建設合作與商機提供切入點。