Samsung Vietnam’s 2024 Profit Drops Despite Revenue Growth
三星越南2024年營收增長，但利潤有所下降
Samsung Electronics’ factories in Vietnam generated over $3.2 billion in profit in 2024, marking a decline compared to the previous year, despite increased revenue. Samsung Electronics Vietnam Thai Nguyen Co. Ltd. (SEVT), the company’s largest mobile phone factory globally, recorded nearly $22.9 billion in revenue, up 7.5% from 2023, but its profit fell by over 7% to $1.44 billion. Similarly, Samsung Electronics Vietnam in Bac Ninh reported $14.8 billion in revenue with a profit drop of nearly 8%, while Samsung Display Vietnam saw declines in both revenue and profit, with the latter plunging 26% to $584 million.
Despite these setbacks, Samsung continued to expand its investment in Vietnam, including a $1.8 billion display and electronic component project in Bac Ninh. The South Korean tech giant remains Vietnam’s largest foreign direct investor, with six factories and over $22 billion in investments. Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex, specializing in television production, saw a 14% revenue increase but a 5.2% drop in profit to $265 million. Overall, Samsung Electronics posted $220 billion in consolidated revenue and $25.2 billion in profit in 2024, both higher than in 2023, even as Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance reported a rising trend of losses among foreign direct investment enterprises in the country.
小編點評：三星越南獲利下滑但持續擴產，雖然2024年營收增長7.5%，但三星電子越南廠獲利卻出現下滑：SEVT 廠利潤下降逾7%，北寧廠下降近8%，三星顯示器越南公司（SDV）獲利更驟降26%。儘管如此，三星仍持續擴大投資，累計投資總額超過220億美元，穩居越南最大外商投資者。
Schneider Electric Opens Training Center in Vietnam to Boost Green Skills
施耐德電機於越南開設培訓中心，致力提升綠色技能
Schneider Electric and the Schneider Electric Foundation, in collaboration with multiple agencies, have inaugurated the Center of Excellence at Ly Tu Trong College in Ho Chi Minh City. The facility is designed to train over 200 teachers and enhance skills for more than 45,000 students across Vietnam in energy and automation. Equipped with advanced technology solutions such as smart building systems, smart factories, and solar energy systems, the center aims to bridge the gap between education and industry, preparing young professionals for careers in digital transformation and energy transition.
Schneider Electric plans to support 20 vocational colleges in Vietnam, training thousands of students and teachers in electricity, automation, and renewable energy by 2030 to meet the growing demand for green human resources. Diane Le Goff, global manager of the firm’s Youth Education & Entrepreneurship CSR programs, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a highly skilled workforce and driving Vietnam’s sustainable economic transformation. As part of its global efforts, Schneider Electric aims to train one million young people in energy management this year.
小編點評：施耐德電機在胡志明市李自重技術學院開設卓越中心，計畫培訓逾200名教師並提升4.5萬名學生在能源與自動化領域的技能。該公司目標在 2030年前支援越南20所職業院校，培養數千名電力與再生能源人才，以應對綠色人才需求的增長。
Vietnam’s Enfarm Recognized at Global AI Summit for Agricultural Innovation
越南 Enfarm 因農業創新於全球 AI 峰會獲得認可
Vietnamese agritech start-up Enfarm has been named one of the 50 most innovative initiatives at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris, standing out as one of just four Asian projects selected from over 800 applications. Enfarm, co-founded by CEO Nguyen Do Dung and Dr. Ho Phi Long, integrates AI and IoT technology to provide farmers with high-precision soil analysis, optimizing fertilizer use, improving crop yields, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The company’s AI-driven platform has boosted coffee farm yields in Vietnam’s Central Highlands by 30% while cutting fertilizer use by the same percentage, effectively increasing farmers’ income by 1.5 times.
Dung highlighted the company’s mission to bring cutting-edge AI solutions to smallholder farmers, addressing challenges like climate change, market volatility, and inefficient resource use. He emphasized the need for greater AI adoption in Vietnam, calling for government support, AI literacy programs, and consumer backing of domestic AI products to enhance the country’s technological self-sufficiency. With its innovative approach and strong social impact, Enfarm aims to expand beyond Southeast Asia and establish itself as a global leader in AI-powered agriculture.
小編點評：越南新創Enfarm在巴黎AI行動峰會獲獎，其透過AI與物聯網技術優化施肥並提高產量，使越南咖啡產量提升30%並減少碳排。共同創辦人阮都勇與何飛隆博士計畫將此技術推向全球，協助小農應對氣候變遷與市場波動的挑戰。
ASEAN Urged to Boost Regional Cooperation in Trade, Digitalization, and Sustainability
東協受促加強貿易、數位化與永續發展的區域合作
Amid growing concerns over climate change and technological competition, ASEAN nations are being called to strengthen regional cooperation in trade, digitalization, and connectivity to secure economic growth and national interests. With trade in services—spanning finance, telecom, travel, and transport—gaining momentum, ASEAN has positioned itself as a net exporter of services. The tourism sector, which accounts for over 40% of intra-regional travel, presents a key opportunity for economic resilience. Meanwhile, ASEAN’s digital economy is expected to expand from $300 billion to nearly $1 trillion by 2030, with the potential to reach $2 trillion through enhanced regional policies such as the Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which focuses on cybersecurity, data flow, and digital trade.
Infrastructure development and climate-conscious policies are also critical in sustaining ASEAN’s economic competitiveness. Regional cooperation in sustainable infrastructure—such as clean energy and low-carbon transport—aligns with commitments under the Paris Agreement, targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. Strengthening digital connectivity, streamlining supply chains, and improving cross-border logistics will further bolster economic resilience while mitigating environmental impact. As global economic fragmentation poses risks, ASEAN policymakers are urged to view regional collaboration as a public good, ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth for the bloc’s future.
https://vir.com.vn/asean-can-leverage-trade-and-digitalisation-to-foster-resilience-123286.html
小編點評：東協各國受促在貿易、數位化與永續發展上深化合作，以應對氣候變遷與科技競爭。東協數位經濟規模預計在2030年達到 1兆美元，若落實《數位經濟框架協議》更有望翻倍。加強基礎設施與氣候政策，對東協在2050年實現淨零排放至關重要。
Vietnam, India, and US AI Stocks Poised for Strong Growth in 2024
越南、印度與美國AI股有望在2024年強勁增長
Vietnam and India are expected to be the top-performing Asian stock markets this year, while US artificial intelligence (AI) technology stocks could deliver up to 25% returns, according to Maybank Securities. Dan Ives, the firm’s global head of technology, predicts Nasdaq-listed AI stocks will continue their upward trajectory, driven by increasing global adoption. Apple is projected to become the first company to reach a $4 trillion market capitalization, while Nvidia and Tesla remain strong growth contenders. Despite lingering risks from US-China trade tensions, Ives suggests a portfolio with 60-70% in US stocks, 10-15% in Chinese stocks, and the remainder in alternative investments.
Maybank Securities (Thailand) also highlights Vietnam’s potential, with its stock market poised for an upgrade to the FTSE Emerging Index in September, attracting more investors. Vietnam boasts Asia’s highest profit growth rate of around 25%, significantly outpacing the MSCI ex-Japan average of 11%. However, risks include the depreciation of the dong and potential US tariff increases due to Vietnam’s trade surplus with Washington. Maybank suggests investors allocate 35% of their portfolio to global stocks—70% of which should be US stocks—while balancing with fixed income assets, Thai stocks, and alternative investments.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2968191/maybank-upbeat-on-us-ai-tech
小編點評：越南與印度預計將領跑2024年亞洲股市，而受全球採納AI技術帶動，輝達（Nvidia）與特斯拉等美股AI板塊報酬率有望達25%。馬來亞證券指出，越南企業獲利成長強勁且有升級至FTSE權重的潛力，但仍需警惕匯率貶值與貿易緊張風險。
Indonesia Lifts iPhone 16 Ban After Apple Agrees to Increased Investment
蘋果同意增加投資後，印尼解除 iPhone 16 禁令
Indonesia and Apple Inc. have reached an agreement to lift the country’s ban on iPhone 16 sales, ending a five-month standoff over local manufacturing requirements. In exchange, Apple has pledged to invest several billion dollars in the country, including funding research and development programs and establishing new production facilities. The Ministry for Industry is expected to sign a memorandum of agreement with Apple this week, with an official permit to follow soon. The dispute began in October when Indonesia refused to grant a sales permit, but Apple’s increased investment, including plans for an AirTag production plant on Batam island and an accessories factory in Bandung, helped secure the deal.
The agreement is a political win for President Prabowo Subianto, whose administration’s tough negotiations have led to a larger foreign investment commitment from the US tech giant. While Apple has no immediate plans to manufacture iPhones in Indonesia, it has settled a previous $100 million compliance debt and will expand its Apple academies to train local talent. The move grants Apple access to Indonesia’s vast consumer market as it looks to offset declining sales in China. However, with Indonesia having backtracked on business agreements in the past, uncertainties remain over the deal’s final implementation.
小編點評：印尼政府在蘋果公司承諾投資數十億美元（包括在巴淡島設立 AirTag 工廠及萬隆設立配件廠）後，正式解除iPhone 16銷售禁令。此舉被視為總統普拉伯沃（Prabowo Subianto）爭取外資的政治勝利，但過往協議落實的紀錄仍讓未來發展存在不確定性。
Alibaba to Invest $53 Billion in AI and Cloud Amid Tech Resurgence
阿里巴巴在科技復甦潮中，將投入530億美元發展AI與雲端
Chinese tech giant Alibaba has announced plans to invest at least 380 billion yuan ($53 billion) in artificial intelligence and cloud computing over the next three years, marking its largest investment in the sector to date. The move underscores the company’s commitment to AI-driven growth and long-term technological innovation, following years of regulatory scrutiny that had dampened investor confidence. The announcement comes on the heels of Alibaba’s strong quarterly earnings report, which saw an 8% revenue increase to 280 billion yuan, sparking a 14% surge in its Hong Kong-listed shares.
The investment also follows Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma’s recent appearance at a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping, signaling potential government support for the private sector. The tech industry in China has been experiencing a resurgence, bolstered by new AI advancements, including the launch of a chatbot by Chinese startup DeepSeek. As Beijing seeks to revive economic growth amid sluggish consumption and property market concerns, Alibaba’s renewed focus on AI and cloud computing is seen as a strategic move to reclaim its dominance in the tech sector.
小編點評：阿里巴巴計畫在未來三年內投入530億美元發展AI與雲端運算，這是該公司在監管挑戰後最大規模的投資。此舉緊隨強勁財報與馬雲會見習近平的消息之後，顯示阿里巴巴在技術復甦之路上可能獲得政府的支持。
China’s DeepSeek Sparks AI Shockwave, Disrupts Global Markets
中國 DeepSeek 引發 AI 震撼彈，擾動全球市場
In a groundbreaking moment reminiscent of the 1957 Sputnik launch, Chinese AI startup DeepSeek stunned the global tech industry by unveiling a powerful chatbot at a fraction of the cost of US-developed models. The revelation triggered a market upheaval, with shares of chip giant Nvidia plunging 17%, erasing nearly $600 billion in market value—the largest single-day loss for a public company. Meanwhile, some of Nvidia’s key customers saw modest gains. The unexpected development underscores China’s growing AI capabilities, raising concerns about the competitive landscape and geopolitical implications.
The US responded swiftly, announcing broad-based tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, signaling potential economic tensions ahead. Newly appointed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplayed the move, calling tariffs a negotiating tool rather than a lasting policy shift. Investors, already bracing for heightened volatility in 2025, are urged to diversify beyond large-cap IT stocks, as cyclical sectors like industrials, financials, and mid-cap equities gain traction. While DeepSeek’s true impact remains to be seen, its emergence reinforces the rapid pace of technological advancement and the vulnerability of even the most dominant tech firms.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2968336/tariffs-and-the-ai-sputnik-moment
小編點評：中國AI新創公司DeepSeek推出一款性能強大且成本僅為美國模型極小部分的聊天機器人，導致輝達（Nvidia）股價暴跌17%，市值蒸發6,000 億美元。此發展凸顯了中國日益增長的 AI 實力，促使美國祭出關稅，預示經濟緊張局勢加劇，並提醒投資者在波動升高時應進行分散投資。
EECO and HSBC Thailand Partner to Boost Global Investment in EEC
泰國東部經濟走廊（EECO）與匯豐銀行合作，推動全球對 EEC 的投資
The Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO) has signed a strategic partnership with HSBC Thailand to attract foreign direct investment into Thailand’s high-value industries, targeting THB500 billion over the next five years. The agreement grants EECO access to HSBC’s vast international network, spanning 58 markets, and aims to strengthen investment opportunities from key economic corridors such as China, Europe, ASEAN, and Japan. HSBC will support EECO’s investment promotion roadshows in 2025, focusing on sectors like next-generation automotive, digital technology, aerospace, and bio-circular-green industries. EECO Secretary-General Chula Sukmanop emphasized that foreign investment is crucial for Thailand’s economic growth and that HSBC’s global expertise will enhance the EEC’s competitiveness as a regional investment hub.
HSBC Thailand CEO Giorgio Gamba reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to facilitating foreign investment, highlighting Thailand’s strategic location and strong manufacturing ecosystem. In 2024, Thailand saw THB727 billion in FDI approvals, the highest in two decades, with the EEC accounting for 78% of the total. The surge in investment, particularly in smart electronics and electric vehicle production, underscores the EEC’s role in global supply chains. The MoU signing was followed by a business seminar attended by over 50 leaders from multinational corporations, embassies, and chambers of commerce, further reinforcing Thailand’s position as a premier investment destination in Southeast Asia.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046830
小編點評：泰國東部經濟走廊辦公室（EECO）與泰國匯豐銀行達成合作，目標在未來五年內吸引 5,000 億泰銖的外國直接投資（FDI），重點領域包括汽車、數位科技、航太及生物循環綠色產業。此合作將利用匯豐的全球網絡，強化泰國作為區域投資樞紐的地位。
Grab’s Economic Impact in Thailand: Contributes 1% of GDP, Creates 280,000 Jobs
Grab 對泰國經濟之影響：貢獻 1% GDP 並創造 28 萬個就業機會
A new study by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has revealed that ride-hailing and delivery platform Grab contributed approximately 1% of Thailand’s GDP in 2023, generating 179 billion baht in economic activity. The study found that Grab’s operations created over 280,000 new jobs and boosted household income by 24 billion baht. TDRI research fellow Nonarit Bisonyabut emphasized that digital platforms like Grab have a widespread economic impact, influencing sectors such as tourism, automotive, energy, and retail. However, experts warn that the rapid rise of the gig economy, particularly among younger workers, may lead to significant shifts in traditional employment structures.
The study also addressed regulatory challenges and the need for government intervention to support gig workers and small businesses. Associate Professor Dr. Danuvas Sagarik from NIDA stressed the importance of upskilling and reskilling programs to help workers adapt to labor market changes. Additionally, researchers urged policymakers to enhance consumer protections against online fraud and implement balanced regulations that encourage fair competition. The TDRI report proposed three key recommendations: leveraging digital platforms to reduce inequality, enforcing regulations that protect users while fostering innovation, and providing support for gig workers and MSMEs to ensure sustainable economic growth.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046750
小編點評：泰國發展研究院（TDRI）研究顯示，Grab在 2023 年為泰國GDP貢獻1%（約1,790 億泰銖），並創造超過28萬個工作機會。報告呼籲政府應為零工經濟從業者與小微企業提供監管支持，並強調透過技能培訓與完善法規來確保經濟永續增長。
Nissan Reportedly Seeks Tesla Investment Amid Turnaround Efforts
日產汽車（Nissan）在轉型之際傳出正尋求特斯拉投資
Nissan is reportedly exploring investment from Tesla as part of its search for a new strategic partner following failed merger talks with Honda, according to the Financial Times. Former Tesla board member Hiromichi Mizuno, backed by former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, is leading efforts to secure a deal, with some Nissan board members aware of the discussions. A consortium led by Tesla is being considered, with Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. potentially taking a minority stake to prevent a full takeover, given its close ties to Beijing.
As part of the talks, Mizuno and his team are reportedly hoping Tesla will consider acquiring Nissan’s manufacturing plants in Tennessee and Mississippi. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk appeared indifferent to the idea, stating on X, “The Tesla factory IS the product,” signaling that the EV giant may not be interested in integrating Nissan’s facilities into its operations. The negotiations come as Nissan seeks stability and new growth opportunities in the evolving electric vehicle market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/automobile/40046561
小編點評：在與本田（Honda）的合併談判失敗後，日產汽車（Nissan）據傳正尋求由特斯拉（Tesla）領頭並包含鴻海在內的財團進行投資。然而，特斯拉執行長馬斯克目前對收購日產製造工廠表現冷淡，而日產則希望藉此合作在電動車市場中尋求突破。
AI, Omnichannel, and D2C Reshape ASEAN Retail Market
AI、全通路與 D2C（直面消費者）模式重塑東協零售市場
Artificial Intelligence (AI), omnichannel strategies, and direct-to-customer (D2C) business models are transforming the ASEAN retail sector, including Thailand, as consumer behavior shifts toward sustainability and convenience. Kristie Davison, vice president for sales in Asia Pacific at Relex Solution, highlighted that Thai consumers are increasingly purchasing eco-friendly products through social media while demanding greater personalization and seamless shopping experiences. The rapid growth of e-commerce and technological advancements are further shaping the region’s retail landscape, requiring businesses to adapt to changing consumer expectations.
To stay competitive, retailers are embracing three key trends: AI-driven personalization to enhance customer experience and delivery efficiency, omnichannel strategies that integrate online and offline shopping for a seamless journey, and the D2C model, which allows brands to engage directly with customers through exclusive deals. Davison emphasized that AI is playing a crucial role in improving operational efficiency and meeting the demands of younger, sustainability-conscious consumers. As the retail sector evolves, businesses that successfully leverage these trends will be better positioned to thrive in the competitive ASEAN market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046543
小編點評：人工智慧、全通路（Omnichannel）策略與直面消費者（D2C）模式正在重塑東協零售業，消費者對環保、個性化與無縫購物體驗的需求日益增加。零售商正積極整合AI驅動的個人化服務，以維持競爭力並滿足年輕一代對永續發展的重視。