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AmCham Vietnam - HCMC Weekly Newsletter
April 21st, 2026
| | Update from the Executive Director | | |
Vietnam has introduced a mandatory pre-arrival declaration for certain foreign travelers entering via Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Foreign nationals and overseas Vietnamese using visas must submit personal information online before departure and present a confirmation QR code upon arrival; Vietnamese passport holders and transit passengers are exempt. The requirement—part of a broader digitalization push—is intended to streamline immigration, reduce congestion during peak hours, and improve processing times, though non-compliance may lead to delays at entry checkpoints.
At the same time, Ho Chi Minh City is advancing its ambition to become a regional economic hub across both logistics and finance. The city has approved a nearly $5 billion Can Gio International transshipment port, led by MSC’s Terminal Investment Limited, which will significantly expand capacity and strengthen Vietnam’s position in global supply chains. In parallel, the city’s International Financial Centre (VIFC) has already attracted around $19 billion in committed capital, with further progress dependent on finalizing a legal framework and regulatory sandbox to accelerate investment flows and fintech innovation.
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Last Friday, AmCham’s Healthcare Committee hosted a reception and meet-and-greet with Melissa A. Brown, US Consul General, providing members with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with U.S. Consulate leadership. The event also marked the Committee’s first gathering in several months, bringing together stakeholders across the healthcare sector to reconnect and exchange insights on recent industry developments.
The Healthcare Committee reaffirmed its role as a key platform for advocacy and collaboration, working to promote a more transparent, efficient, and innovative healthcare environment in Vietnam. Its ongoing efforts, including contributions to discussions on the Pharmaceutical Law and related regulations, continue to support improved policy frameworks and sustainable sector growth.
| | Are you a brand new AmCham Member and not sure what to do next? Or perhaps you’ve been a Member for a while and want to utilize your benefits better to ensure you’re getting value for your membership dues. Come join us this afternoon for our Membership 101 orientation, where we’ll explain everything AmCham does and how you can take advantage of the Chamber to grow your business and connections. Please register here to join us. | | Y’all, it’s hot outside! The good news is that our monthly Connect and Cocktails will be held tomorrow evening at a new venue, the Cloud on the 48th floor at Landmark 81. Come enjoy the air conditioning and meet fun people in a friendly atmosphere, and what’s even better is that it’s free for Members! No stuffy networking here – just nice chats with old and new friends. Register here. | | | | We are excited to see Fleming International upgrade to Bronze Premium membership. Many of you may remember their beautifully crafted candles at our Governors’ Ball, which added a special touch to the evening. (They smelled fantastic!) A leading, export-focused manufacturer with strong ties to U.S. retailers, Fleming’s deeper engagement with AmCham reflects its continued commitment to strengthening U.S.–Vietnam business connections. With a long-standing presence in Vietnam and a focus on quality and sustainability, the company brings valuable expertise to the community and is well positioned to deepen collaboration with fellow members. | | |
I wish you all a great week ahead!
Yours sincerely,
Travis Mitchell
Executive Director
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Members are encouraged to bring forward any advocacy needs or related questions to the relevant Committees, or by email to advocacyaction@amchamvietnam.com.
Similarly, we invite members experiencing instances of administrative delays and challenges to share details via email to communications@amchamvietnam.com. We are compiling this information on behalf of our members.
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At AmCham Office, Suite 323, New World Saigon Hotel, 76 Le Lai, Ben Thanh Ward, HCMC
Join us for an exclusive AmCham 101 – New Member Orientation, designed to help you maximize the value of your AmCham membership and connect with fellow business leaders.
Whether you’re a new member looking to dive in or an existing member seeking to refresh your understanding of our offerings, this orientation is the perfect platform to enhance your AmCham experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the full potential of your membership and forge valuable connections within the AmCham community. For any queries, please contact Ms. Sam Hoang, our Membership Manager.
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At The Cloud Lounge, 48th Fl., Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection, 720A Dien Bien Phu St., Thanh My Tay Ward, HCMC
Join us this April for AmCham Connect & Cocktails at the stunning new venue, The Cloud, perched on the 48th floor of Vinpearl Landmark 81.
This signature monthly gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with AmCham members and fellow professionals in a relaxed, after-work setting—while enjoying a selection of wine, beer, and handcrafted cocktails, all set against breathtaking city views.
Come expand your network, unwind with great company, and don’t miss your chance to win exciting prizes in our Lucky Draw!
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Webinar via Zoom
Much to discuss! From the war in Iran to new tariff structures, a lot is at stake in the upcoming meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi next month. Our esteemed speakers will delve into key questions about the U.S.-China relationship, providing insights from both a bilateral and regional perspective. They will be prepared to address your questions regarding the potential impact on American businesses.
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Webinar via Zoom
AAIP’s next Virtual Doorknock Event will focus on the Year Ahead for the United States and APEC. As the U.S. views APEC as the premier platform for the United States to advance U.S.-business-friendly economic policies in the region, SO Mace will discuss U.S. efforts to work through APEC to open Asian markets to American exports and continue to promote deregulation and U.S.-friendly business policies while the leadership of NCAPEC will be on hand to update AAIP members on their plans to advocate on behalf of American companies during this year’s APEC engagements. This will give AAIP members the opportunity to discuss their priority items for the year and how to work towards achieving deliverables as consistent with China’s 2026 APEC theme, “Building an Asia-Pacific Community, Promoting Common Prosperity,” which focuses on three key priorities: Openness, Innovation, and Cooperation.
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Webinar via Zoom
In today’s volatile and rapidly evolving business environment, leaders in Vietnam face increasing uncertainty driven by regulatory changes, global supply chain shifts, and digital transformation. Making sound strategic decisions has never been more critical.
Join faculty from the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business for an exclusive one-hour webinar introducing Red Teaming, a powerful decision-making methodology used by leading corporations, governments, and startups worldwide. Designed to challenge assumptions, reduce blind spots, and strengthen strategies, red teaming equips organizations with practical tools to navigate complexity and drive growth.
Whitney Hischier and Steve Rotkoff teach these techniques to MBA students, policy experts, and global organizations. In this session, they will share the neuroscience behind effective decision-making and introduce key tools to help leaders solve the right problems by leveraging the collective intelligence of their teams.
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At The Cabana, Hilton Saigon, 11 Cong Truong Me Linh, Sai Gon Ward, HCMC
On the occasion of the Global New York Trade Mission to ASEAN (May 7–15, 2026), Source of Asia, the representative office of Empire State Development (ESD) in ASEAN, the economic development agency of New York State, USA, is hosting a series of exclusive Reception Events in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore, gathering business leaders, institutional representatives, and companies from New York State. These receptions aim to foster meaningful connections, encourage dialogue, and explore potential collaboration opportunities between U.S. and ASEAN stakeholders.
| | | Upcoming Committee Meetings | | |
Members are welcome to join, in-person or virtually:
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Logistics & Transportation Committee Meeting, April 22, 2026 – 9:00 am - 10:00 am
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Education & Training Committee Meeting, May 6, 2026 – 9:00 am - 10:00 am
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Capital Markets and Financial Services Committee (CMFSC) Meeting, May 11, 2026 – 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
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Legal & VBF Liaison Committee Meeting, May 13, 2026 – 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
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HR Committee Meeting, May 21, 2026 – 9:00 am - 10:00 am
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Tourism & Hospitality Committee Meeting, May 21, 2026 – 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
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Tax & Customs Committee Meeting, May 21, 2026 – 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
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Make the Most of Your AmCham Membership!
AmCham members are encouraged to take full advantage of the exclusive discounts and special offers available through the AmCham Membership Discount Program. Simply present your AmCham Membership Card to enjoy valuable deals from our trusted Discount Partners. You can view the complete list of offers here.
Interested in Becoming a Discount Partner?
We welcome companies looking to join the program and promote their products or services to a dynamic network of over 2,000 business professionals representing more than 550 corporate members. It’s a great opportunity to boost visibility and attract new customers.
To become a Discount Partner, please complete this Form or contact us at amcham.membership@amchamvietnam.com for more details.
| | Thank You to Our Premium Members | | |
The American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam
in Ho Chi Minh City
New World Hotel Suite 323
76 Le Lai Street, Ben Thanh Ward
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Phone: +84 28 3824 3562
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