US and Vietnam Push for Balanced Trade in Virtual Meeting
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
Editor’s Note: In an April 24 virtual meeting, U.S. and Vietnamese trade officials reaffirmed efforts to build a more balanced trade relationship, following up on earlier high-level talks. They agreed to begin technical discussions on expanding market access and addressing unfair trade practices, signaling possible regulatory changes that could affect multinational companies operating in the Asia-Pacific region.
Vietnam Emerges as Regional Leader in 5G and Digital Transformation
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
Editor’s Note: Vietnam is emerging as a regional digital leader, aiming for nationwide 5G coverage by 2026 and targeting a 30% digital economy contribution to GDP by 2030. Backed by initiatives like the National Digital Transformation Programme, the country is building a strong digital workforce and fostering thousands of digital enterprises. This transformation presents major opportunities for global firms to partner and expand in high-growth sectors such as telecom, smart manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare.
Vietnam’s Gaming Industry Levels Up with Global Reach and TikTok Integration
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
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s gaming industry is rapidly expanding, with mobile game revenues expected to reach $712 million by 2029 and a global ranking among the top five producers, fueled by fast-growing downloads and TikTok integration. This growth offers strong opportunities for global firms in mobile gaming, advertising, and tech investment, as Vietnam emerges as a creative hub with digital-savvy users and a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Next Wave of Mobile: Ericsson Highlights 5G as Catalyst for Vietnam’s Digital Leap
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
Editor’s Note: Ericsson views 5G as a transformative platform enabling AI, cloud computing, and immersive tech through open, programmable networks and APIs, with widespread adoption expected by 2029. In Vietnam, 5G is already advancing smart cities and manufacturing, supporting the country’s digital GDP and high-income economy goals. This presents major opportunities for global firms in automation, fintech, and cloud services to invest, innovate, and expand across Southeast Asia.
VinFast VF 3 Electrifies Indonesian Market with Stylish Urban Mobility and Green Ambitions
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.
Editor’s Note: VinFast has launched the VF 3 mini electric SUV in Indonesia with a mass delivery of 100 units, offering a compact, customizable design, 215 km range, and incentives like free charging through 2028. Priced at IDR 230 million, the VF 3 anchors VinFast’s broader push to expand EV infrastructure and services, creating strong opportunities for global firms in EV supply chains, smart mobility, and green energy across Southeast Asia.
Thaksin Shinawatra Calls for Policy Overhaul as US Tariffs Threaten Thai Exports and Investment Strategy
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
Editor’s Note: Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has called for a policy overhaul to address steep U.S. tariffs that threaten Thailand’s export-driven economy, particularly in sectors like EVs. He warned that Chinese firms exploiting Thai incentives to bypass U.S. trade rules could prompt further scrutiny, urging tighter local content regulations. As Thailand navigates between rising Chinese investment and U.S. trade pressure, non-Indian companies face both risks and opportunities in adjusting supply chain and investment strategies across Southeast Asia.
IMF Chief Urges Asia to Strengthen Regional Trade Amid Global Tariff Pressures
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
Editor’s Note: IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva urged Asian economies to strengthen intra-regional trade to offset the impact of rising global tariffs, which are straining the region’s export-reliant growth. While acknowledging Asia’s economic resilience, she emphasized that deeper regional integration could help buffer external shocks, offering both challenges and opportunities for global firms navigating shifting trade dynamics.
Thai SMBs Drive Revenue Growth with AI Adoption, Says Salesforce Report
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
Editor’s Note: According to a Salesforce report, 90% of Thai SMBs using AI have seen revenue growth, with 70% currently adopting or experimenting with the technology and 84% optimistic about its future impact. Despite smaller team sizes, Thai SMBs are achieving growth on par with larger firms by leveraging tools like Agentforce for automation and digital personalization. This trend presents strong partnership and investment opportunities for global tech companies in Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving, AI-driven business landscape.
Microsoft Thailand’s AI Initiative Aims to Upskill 1 Million Citizens by 2025
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
Editor’s Note: Microsoft Thailand, in partnership with the Thai government and 35 organizations, aims to upskill over 1 million citizens in AI by 2025 through the THAI Academy programme, aligning with the National AI Master Plan. This initiative presents opportunities for global firms to collaborate in workforce training and tech development as Thailand positions itself as a regional AI innovation hub.
Thailand Deploys First AI Police Cyborg to Enhance Public Safety During Songkran Festival
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
Editor’s Note: Thailand has deployed its first AI-powered police robot, “AI Police Cyborg 1.0,” during the Songkran festival to enhance public safety through real-time surveillance, facial recognition, and weapon detection. Integrated with CCTV and drone feeds, the robot connects directly to a provincial command center for efficient event monitoring. This move highlights Thailand’s push toward AI-driven public safety, creating opportunities for global firms in AI, robotics, and smart city technologies to partner in Southeast Asia’s growing security tech market.
Delivery Hero to Cease Foodpanda Operations in Thailand by May 23
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
Editor’s Note: Delivery Hero will cease Foodpanda operations in Thailand by May 23 as part of its strategy to optimize its geostrategy, despite maintaining its regional team for marketing and HR in Asia-Pacific. This exit presents opportunities for new entrants and potential consolidation in Southeast Asia’s competitive food delivery market, offering prospects for partnerships and acquisitions in the sector.
National Telecom to Migrate 300,000 NT Mobile Customers to “my by NT” in June
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.
Editor’s Note: National Telecom (NT) 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. The migration will be seamless, with no SIM card changes required, and customers will receive new service packages. For non-Indian companies in telecom and technology sectors, this shift presents opportunities for partnerships and infrastructure development as NT collaborates with AIS to expand 4G/5G coverage on the 700MHz spectrum.