WEEKLY NEWSLETTER May 22, 2023 |
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We are pleased to inform you that following Minister Dao Ngoc Dung's statement at the Vietnam Business Forum on March 19 and the PM/FDIs conference on April 22 regarding the work permit issue and the amendment of Decree 152/2020/ND-CP on work permits (Decree 152), EuroCham has the honor of organizing, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MOLISA), a dialogue workshop on May 26, 2023, in Ho Chi Minh City. The event will be co-hosted by AmCham and BritCham.
This conference aims to focus on two main objectives: - Resolving difficulties and obstacles faced by members of EuroCham and other foreign chambers in obtaining work permits.
- Gathering comments from businesses regarding the amendment of Decree 152.
You are invited to engage in constructive dialogues with the following representatives from MOLISA: - Director of the Employment Department of MOLISA – Mr. Vu Trong Binh
- Deputy Director of the Employment Department of MOLISA – Ms. Nguyen Thi Quyen
- Other officials from MOLISA in charge of this matter.
For our consolidation and preparation, as well as better coordination with MOLISA, please kindly fill out the Google form by clicking the button below. Please submit your difficulties and comments on the amendment of Decree 152 by 12:00 p.m. next Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
Should you have any further inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact our Senior Sector Committee Coordinator, Mr. Le Phuoc Toan, at toan.le@eurochamvn.org.
Event details: - Date: Friday, May 26, 2023, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Venue: New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai Road, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Representatives from the authorities:
- Representatives from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA)
- Representatives from key local DOLISAs in the southern provinces, including Ho Chi Minh city DOLISA, Binh Duong DOLISA, Dong Nai DOLISA, and Ba Ria - Vung Tau DOLISA.
- Registration fees: VND 650.000/person for members and co-host members; VND 950.000/person for non-members (simultaneous translation and tea break included)
- For more information, email Ms. Nhung at nhung@eurochamvn.org
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| EUROCHAM NEWS AND ADVOCACY |
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Vietnam achieves major breakthrough in energy sector with approval of Power Development Plan (PDP) VIII |
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Photo credit: Vietnam Plus - "A wind farm in Tra Vinh province. Under the plan, renewable energy would rise to prominence by 2050 with a total capacity of 400 GW."
Vietnam's energy sector is buzzing with excitement as the country reaches a significant milestone - the official approval of the highly anticipated Power Development Plan (PDP) VIII. This groundbreaking plan sets out an extensive roadmap that will shape the future of energy in Vietnam from 2021 to 2030, with an outlook to 2050. As a result, this represents a pivotal moment in Vietnam's journey towards a sustainable energy future, as it is poised to attract a surge of international investment into the country's energy sector.
EuroCham Chairman Gabor Fluit expressed his belief in EuroCham's pivotal role in shaping PDP VIII's comprehensive and effective nature. He highlighted EuroCham members' invaluable global expertise in developing, financing, and managing renewable energy projects. Their deep understanding of infrastructure requirements for generating and transmitting renewable energy positions them as dedicated supporters of Vietnam, local developers, and suppliers in their transition towards sustainability.
Here are the targets set out for 2030, compared to Vietnam's current energy mix: |
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However, this approval marks just the beginning of a challenging journey. The real work lies ahead in translating it into an implementation plan to meet the ambitious targets outlined above.
According to Tomaso Andreatta, EuroCham Green Growth Sector Committee Chairman, the approval of PDP VIII is a crucial step in completing the government's formal framework to reform the energy system to meet the needs of the 21st century. To succeed, various reforms are needed, including strengthening local banks, attracting international investment in infrastructure, and bolstering Vietnam Electricity (EVN) to modernize the grid. Furthermore, decision-making processes must consider lifecycle economics, and new technologies that enable decarbonization must be embraced.
While challenges lie ahead, we give our appreciation to the Vietnamese government for taking this step! Let us sustain the momentum by progressing with the necessary next steps to reach Vietnam's renewable energy mix goals.
To delve deeper into the details of PDP VIII, EuroCham has drafted an insightful article that provides comprehensive information. Click the button below to access the article and learn more about Vietnam's energy future.
Continue reading this newsletter for interviews with our Board Members, as they delve into the significance and impact of PDP VIII. Gain valuable insights and firsthand perspectives from these industry leaders.
We are also thrilled to announce that we will be hosting a series of informative events in the near future, specifically designed to provide greater detail on the far-reaching impact of PDP VIII on our members and the nation as a whole. Stay tuned for more information! |
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Chairman Gabor Fluit joins EU Delegation Europe Day celebration in Ho Chi Minh City |
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Chairman Gabor Fluit, EuroCham Board Members and numerous Sector Committee chairs took part in a celebration of Europe Day, which unfolded in a dignified celebration held in Ho Chi Minh City. The ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of none other than European Union Ambassador to Vietnam, Giorgio Aliberti.
Europe Day, observed on May 9 each year, marks the anniversary of the historical Schuman Declaration in 1950 that laid the foundation for the creation of the European Union. This day holds great significance for Europeans as it symbolizes peace, unity, and solidarity among European Member States.
This year's Europe Day in Vietnam holds a special place as it coincides with the commemoration of 50 years of diplomatic ties between numerous European countries and Vietnam. |
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EuroCham's visit to Roche Diagnostics: spotlight on the crucial role of diagnostics and advocacy for a strong medical devices sector |
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EuroCham, including Chairman Gabor Fluit, Vice-Chairman Jean-Jacques Bouflet, Executive Director Delphine Rousselet, Advocacy Manager Vinh Dang, Senior Sector Committee Coordinator Toan Le, and Chairman of the EuroCham Medical Devices and Diagnostics Sector Committee Qadeer Raza, visited the Center of Excellence Training at Roche Diagnostics Vietnam in HCMC on Tuesday, May 16.
The discussions that took place during this visit emphasized the indispensable role played by medical devices and diagnostics in enabling timely and accurate diagnoses, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and the overall effectiveness of healthcare services.
A main focus of the meeting was also to highlight the value of diagnostics and emphasize the crucial contribution of the EuroCham Medical Devices and Diagnostics Sector Committee. Their efforts are dedicated to facilitating early diagnosis, detecting symptomatic patients, and supporting medical examination and treatment within Vietnam's healthcare system. |
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In addition, the meet-up served as a platform to address challenges encountered during implementation of regulations, particularly regarding the lack of guidance in specific areas. With this in mind, a key point of discussion revolved around EuroCham's ongoing advocacy efforts to enhance the regulatory environment and regulator capacity in the medical devices industry. On this topic, participants acknowledged the necessity of a robust regulatory framework that promotes innovation while ensuring patient safety.
Overall, the meeting provided valuable insights and opportunities to work towards a more supportive and effective regulatory landscape.
Interested in joining the EuroCham Medical Devices and Diagnostics Sector Committee? Email mddsc@eurochamvn.org for more info. |
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VIETRADE panel: FAABS Chairman Jesper Clausen Urges Vietnam to Embrace EVFTA and Promote Sustainable Products for EU Market Success |
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On May 11, Jesper Clausen, Chairman of the EuroCham Food, Agri, and Aqua Business Sector Committee (FAABS), participated in a panel discussion organized by the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE) in Danang.
In his remarks, he congratulated the province of Danang for its remarkable success in promoting local products. He also emphasized that Vietnam should take advantage of the European Union-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to gain a competitive edge over other countries in the region by being an early adopter.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of food safety and traceability to retailers and consumers in Europe. He further stressed the importance of incorporating green and sustainable production practices into the overall strategy of promoting Vietnamese products in the EU.
Mr. Clausen also commended the One Commune One Product (OCOP)program as an excellent approach to adding value to products within the commune or province of their origin, praising it as adding value rather than solely pursuing volume as a positive direction. He suggested promoting this program or expanding it beyond the Vietnamese market as the next step.
As he wrapped his comments, he advised Vietnamese SMEs to seek out European companies or contacts with experience in EU markets for guidance on getting started. This would allow them to gain valuable insights and support for entering and succeeding in Europe.
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EuroCham receives award from the Vietnam Investment Review for promoting foreign investment in Vietnam |
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Pictured above: EuroCham Advisory Board Member Preben Hjortlund accepting the award on EuroCham's behalf.
On May 15, a conference on "Stronger Investment Partnerships for a Thriving Vietnam" was organized by the Vietnam Investment Review. The conference provided a platform for discussions on accomplishments, lessons learned, and strategies employed in attracting foreign investment, as well as exploring emerging trends and identifying new investment opportunities.
The conference brought together government officials, senior economists, representatives from international organizations, and businesspeople. EuroCham, represented by Advisory Board Member Preben Hjortlund, Pharma Group's External Affairs Manager Thach Do, and Head of the Hanoi Office cum External Relations Manager Van Nguyen, were among the participants. |
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A prestigious award was presented to EuroCham for its partnership with the Vietnam Investment Review in driving foreign investment in Vietnam. Mr. Hjortlund graciously accepted the trophy on behalf of EuroCham. Thanks a lot to the Vietnam Investment Review for honoring EuroCham with this prestigious award!
Click the button below to read an article detailing the event. |
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EuroCham joins Hoan My Medical Group at Prima's grand unveiling |
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Pictured above: EuroCham Chairman Gabor Fluit and Secretary-General Erwin Debaere.
Hoan My Medical Group recently unveiled Prima, a healthcare navigator that provides personalized well-being solutions. The launch event, held in Ho Chi Minh City on May 15, saw the presence of esteemed guests including Gabor Fluit, Chairman of EuroCham, and Erwin Debaere, Secretary-General of EuroCham and Group Chief Financial Officer of Hoan My Medical Corporation.
During the event, Dr. Dilshaad Ali Bin Abas Ali, group CEO of Hoan My Medical Group, emphasized the significance of holistic health in line with the World Health Organization's definition. He stated, "Health, as defined by the WHO, encompasses complete physical, mental, and social well-being, extending beyond the mere absence of disease or infirmity. Our new brand, Prima, aims to deliver the highest level of comprehensive care to patients, promoting awareness and cultivating a culture of premium healthcare in Vietnam."
EuroCham wholeheartedly congratulates Hoan My Medical Group, and our Secretary-General Erwin Debaere for the successful launch of Prima! |
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IP Business Advisor from the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk joins global brand professionals at INTA Annual Meeting Live+ in Singapore |
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Benoit Tardy, IP Business Advisor at the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk, a project currently implemented by EuroCham Vietnam, attended the highly anticipated International Trademark Association (INTA) Annual Meeting Live+ in Singapore on May 18 and 19, 2023.
This globally renowned event attracted participants from various corners of the world, underscoring its truly international character. INTA's 2023 Annual Meeting Live+ served as a platform to unite influential brand professionals across diverse industries and geographies. Recognized as the largest gathering of its kind, this extraordinary event facilitated invaluable connections among professionals on a global scale.
Embracing the opportunity, Mr. Tardy actively participated in a range of conferences, fostering meaningful interactions with esteemed IP professionals, representatives from IP offices, and fellow colleagues involved in EU-funded projects. |
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EuroCham and BeluxCham would like to invite you to our upcoming luncheon seminar titled “Vietnam Retail Market & Consumer Trends” where we will discuss the latest trends in the Vietnam retail market and consumer behavior.
The Vietnam retail market has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, driven by a growing middle class and increasing consumer spending. According to a report by the Vietnam Retailers Association, the retail market in Vietnam grew by 10.9% in 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Join us to hear our expert speakers' insights on the current state of the Vietnam Retail Market, including the latest trends and consumer behavior. |
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Tay Ninh Province, an enticing and rapidly expanding hub for foreign direct investment (FDI) companies, is poised to host a momentous Business Connection Forum in collaboration with EuroCham and esteemed Tay Ninh government officials. Set to take place on June 2, this highly anticipated event aims to cultivate meaningful connections among organizations, investors, and both domestic and international enterprises.
The forum will witness the distinguished presence of key figures, including the honorable Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) Le Minh Hoan, along with Tay Ninh's esteemed Party Secretary Nguyen Thanh Tam. Notably, leaders from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), and Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) will also grace the occasion, alongside prominent Vietnamese companies present in the region.
Furthermore, a Gala Dinner, hosted by Tay Ninh's leaders, awaits on June 1 at the prestigious Melia Vinpearl Tay Ninh Hotel.
Tay Ninh Province warmly extends an invitation to EuroCham members, offering to cover travel and accommodation expenses. Space is limited! To secure your attendance, we kindly request that you RSVP by emailing Ms. Nhung at nhung@eurochamvn.org. |
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[Business luncheon] How to Unlock Greater Commercial Growth Through ESG Integration
- Date & time: June 7, 11:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
- Location: The Reverie Saigon, 22-36 Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe ward, D1, HCMC
- Fee: EuroCham members: 900,000VND/pax | Non-members: 1,100,000VND/pax (lunch included)
- Contact: Ms. Khanh at eventsupport@eurochamvn.org for more information
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Achieving commercial expansion hinges on bolstering engagement with your employees and stakeholders. In our upcoming webinar co-organized by EuroCham and Lim-Loges & Masters titled "How to Unlock Greater Commercial Growth Through ESG Integration", we reveal how ESG integration can transform your business growth trajectory. ESG considerations are gaining increasing importance in business practices worldwide, including Vietnam. As companies become more aware of their impact on the environment and society, integrating ESG factors into their operations has become a key priority. This is an excellent opportunity for business leaders to learn how to expand commercial growth and catalyse profitability by unlocking the untapped potential of ESG integration while ensuring sustainable operations. |
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In this June 15 webinar co-organized by EuroCham and Bosch, we will discuss the role the economy and companies have in supporting the climate goals and give you examples on how digitalization can support this development. A particular emphasis is on the situation in Vietnam, which represents one of the major economies in the ASEAN countries with huge potential for future growth. |
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EuroCham Cambodia's Real Estate & Construction Forum is back on May 23! This flagship event is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for Cambodia's booming construction sector, expected to draw 200+ guests, and huge attention from government and business decision-makers.
This is not only a great opportunity for our members to gather insights and network, but it also provides a chance for members of EuroCham Vietnam's newly-formed Construction Sector Committee to explore opportunities in Vietnam's neighbor to the west.
Don't miss its "European development project - Deutsches Haus in Ho Chi Minh City" workshop featuring our Advisory Board Member Horst Geicke and Gold Premium Corporate Partner Deutsches Haus. Dive deep into this groundbreaking project, which has raised the bar in Vietnam by setting new benchmarks for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in Vietnam's building industry.
See you in Phnom Penh! |
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Join us for the Central and Eastern European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam's (CEEC) very first networking event in Danang, organized by CEEC and co-hosted by EuroCham and the German Business Association (GBA)!
The event will take place at the exquisite Hai Van Lounge Bar, nestled within the prestigious FURAMA Resort. Indulge in an array of delectable complimentary canapés and savor discounted drink rates, graciously provided by our generous hosts.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your network, exchange ideas, and discover potential partnerships in various sectors. Connect with the vibrant Central and Eastern European community in Vietnam. See you in Danang! |
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Attention EU SMEs! Are you seeking to expand your business and thrive in Malaysia?
Whether you're exploring the Malaysian market for the first time or considering expanding your existing operations, this training is tailored to meet your needs. Even if you've recently embarked on doing business in Malaysia, you'll benefit from insights on tax incentives, employment passes, and other government-provided advantages, all while ensuring the protection of your intangible assets.
Join us for this free webinar, co-organized in part by the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk—a project currently being implemented by EuroCham Vietnam.
For participants in Vietnam, you can tune in at 3:30 p.m. |
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The leading ESG-lens investment conference, with participation from 50+ businesses over two days, will bring together key stakeholders to look at the opportunities in Vietnam for sustainable finance and ESG investing and explore high-yield returns on partnerships aimed to meet the needs and challenges of Vietnam’s dynamic society and environment.
To secure your tickets, kindly click the button provided below and use the code "EUROCHAM15" at checkout to avail an exciting 15% discount! |
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Trade fairs have become increasingly complex, characterized by the emergence of new ideas and technologies, alongside the prevalence of fraud and counterfeiting. Staying abreast of these dynamic industry shifts can prove challenging.
Therefore, we are delighted invite you all to this free webinar titled "How to Protect Your Intellectual Property Rights at International Trade Fairs?" The event is scheduled for June 20, 2023, at 3 p.m. for participants in Vietnam.
We urge you to join us for this informative session, co-organized in part by the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk—a project currently being implemented by EuroCham Vietnam. |
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Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City receives top honor at 2022-2023 Vietnam National Architecture Awards |
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The Vietnam National Architecture Award 2022-2023 Ceremony took place on April 25, 2023, at the esteemed Hanoi Opera House. Distinguished guests in attendance included Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Tran Hong Ha, Chairman of the Central Committee for Economic Affairs of the Party Dr. Tran Tuan Anh, various ministers and deputy ministers, representatives from the Vietnamese military, and German Ambassador Dr. Guido Hildner.
Organized by the Vietnam Association of Architects in collaboration with the Ministry of Construction and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the Vietnam National Architecture Awards is a prestigious bi-annual contest that recognizes outstanding architectural achievements.
EuroCham Gold Premium Corporate Partner, Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City, emerged as the recipient of the highest honors at the ceremony. This remarkable achievement reflects the outstanding architectural excellence and innovation demonstrated by Deutsches Haus in shaping the urban landscape of Ho Chi Minh City. As a valuable contributor to EuroCham's mission of fostering strong business ties between European and Vietnamese enterprises, Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City continues to exemplify the highest standards of excellence in their field.
During the ceremony, Nikolaus Goetze, Senior Partner of gmp International in Hamburg, graciously accepted the honor on behalf of the architect. Mr. Elmar Dutt, the General Director of Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City, was also present to witness this remarkable achievement. |
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BASF's sustainable solutions for Vietnam's petrochemical sector: join the mission towards zero net emissions by 2050 |
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Join BASF's mission to support Vietnam's petrochemical sector in achieving sustainability goals and contributing to zero net emissions by 2050! They recently hosted a seminar in collaboration with Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical, a company of PETROVIETNAM Group, to showcase their sustainable products and solutions.
As part of BASF Vietnam's Sustainability Day series, their aim is to foster collaborations and provide support to customers in their sustainability journey.
To watch a video highlighting their seminar or read a Vietnamese-language article detailing what happened at the event, please click the buttons below. |
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EuroCham Board Members discuss PDP VIII and Vietnam's green transition in media appearances |
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EuroCham Board Members were actively engaged in many media appearances last week, providing their expert commentary on the approval of PDP VIII. |
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Vice-Chairman Minh Nguyen and Board Member Stuart Livesey appeared on Vietnam National Assembly Television on May 16 to discuss the significance of PDP VIII.
Vice-Chair Minh Nguyen expressed appreciation from the business community, particularly the European business community, for the Vietnamese government's approval of PDP VIII. He emphasized that this approval represents a tangible step towards fulfilling Vietnam's commitments at COP26, as well as its green development and investment attraction strategies. According to him, global trends indicate that green and sustainable development is inevitable, and Vietnam's commitment and strategy are now being concretized. |
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Board Member Stuart Livesey acknowledged the challenges and the time required for approving PDP VIII, while expressing the enthusiasm of renewable energy businesses to invest in Vietnam. He also highlighted the importance of a PDP VIII implementation plan. |
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In his interview with VTV4, Mr. Livesey further emphasized Vietnam's remarkable potential to become a prominent export hub by adhering to global carbon credit standardization. He added that Vietnam's commitment to the green transition makes it an appealing destination for foreign direct investment.
To view specific segments of these interviews, kindly click on the corresponding buttons below. Mr. Nguyen's segment can be accessed at 4:20 in the video from Vietnam National Assembly Television, while Mr. Livesey's segment begins at 5:35. For Mr. Livesey's interview with VTV4, his segment commences at 12:38. |
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EuroCham Tourism & Hospitality Sector Committee member explores Vietnam's tourism recovery and growth |
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In an exclusive interview with VTV, EuroCham Tourism & Hospitality Sector Committee member Martin Koerner provided valuable insights into Vietnam's tourism industry recovery and potential growth. The interview, which aired on May 8 as part of a report highlighting the positive trajectory of the country's tourism sector, underscored the pivotal role tourism plays in propelling Vietnam's economic growth, especially in the post-COVID-19 era.
During the discussion, Mr. Koerner shed light on the transformative power of film tourism as a driving force for attracting visitors. Film tourism refers to the growing trend of travelers seeking out destinations showcased in movies or TV shows.
Mr. Koerner pointed to the success of the romantic comedy "A Tourist Guide to Love," a film that portrays Vietnam's mesmerizing landscapes and vibrant culture. With global accessibility through streaming platforms like Netflix, the movie has captured audiences' attention worldwide, leading to a surge in inquiries from prospective travelers expressing their interest in visiting Vietnam. He emphasized the significance of industry stakeholders forming strategic partnerships with film producers to tap into this burgeoning market.
To hear Mr. Koerner's insightful perspectives, the full interview can be accessed by clicking the button below. |
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Join our dynamic team and unlock your career potential - apply now for our exciting open position: |
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Join EuroCham today and be part of our milestone 25th anniversary! Link up with a thriving community of industry leaders, gain access to exclusive benefits, and elevate your brand presence in Vietnam. Our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment ensures that you receive top-notch service every step of the way. Together, we can soar to even greater heights.
Don't miss out - join us today and let's make things happen! Contact our Membership Team if you have any questions: |
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