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Dear ,

Ho Chi Minh City launched construction of four major infrastructure projects on January 15, 2026 with a total investment of nearly VND240 trillion, including Metro Line No. 2, the Rach Chiec National Sports Complex, and the Phu My 2 and Can Gio bridges. Initiated to mark the 14th National Party Congress, the projects aim to improve transport connectivity, reduce congestion, and support urban and sports development. Metro Line No. 2 will create a key northwest mass-transit corridor and is targeted for completion in 2030, while the bridges are expected to be finished by 2029.

On January 16, 2026, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced that Vietnam aims to launch its International Financial Center in Ho Chi Minh City by no later than February 9, adding that an international arbitration center and a specialized court would be inaugurated at the same time.

We are delighted to invite you to our first Connect & Cocktail event of the year at Mâm Mâm Eatery & Lounge this Wednesday, January 21, from 6:00–8:30 pm. Now is the time to execute your New Year's resolution! You should get out the office, go meet a few new people, and say hi to old friends. AmCham proudly has the nicest people (though I am biased) and our networking events are fun, easy, and worth your time. Register here. 

I also look forward to welcoming members to our upcoming committee meetings: the Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee on January 20 at 3:00 pm; the Legal & VBF Liaison Committee on January 21 at 5:00 pm; the Energy Committee with AmCham Hanoi on January 22 at 10:00 am; and, next week, the Digital Economy & Technology Committee on January 27 at 9:00am, and the Logistics & Transportation Committee on January 28 at 9:00 am. Remember, these are for members only and are free. Come to learn the latest business insights! 

The U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City has announced the revitalization of the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) HCMC Chapter with an introductory meeting on January 27 at Diamond Plaza. Led by Regional Security Officer Jerry Aylward, the event highlights renewed public–private collaboration to strengthen security through information sharing and networking. OSAC offers free benefits, including professional networking, expert security analysis, and real-time connectivity via OSAC.gov and a private WhatsApp group.

Interested participants should RSVP by January 22, 2026, to HCMCRSOOSAC@state.gov with their name, organization, email, and WhatsApp number.

Leadership Opportunities. I’m looking for your help! Our committees are our primary vehicle for conducting advocacy and for providing business insights to our members. I love our committees as I learn something every single meeting, and it’s a great way for our members to make sure you are aware of the latest updates and even be thought leaders in your sectors. 

One way you can be active is by volunteering to serve in a committee leadership position. Many committees are now soliciting interest from potential candidates interested in serving in leadership positions. Elections for most committees will take place in January or February. If you are interested in serving in a leadership role, please contact existing Committee leaders, Board Liaisons, Executive Director Travis Mitchell at travis.mitchell@amchamvietnam.com, or Events and Committees Manager Lily Nguyen at lily.nguyen@amchamvietnam.com. 

AmCham Membership Renewal. It’s that time of year to renew your AmCham membership for 2026! Our AmCham team has been working harder than ever this year to deliver value and support you, our members, particularly through our Committees, business intelligence events, and advocacy efforts. We look forward to your continued support, and we are ready to welcome our new members. As you join or renew your membership, please consider becoming a Premium Member.

Premium Membership offers the opportunity for qualified companies to highlight your status as business leaders and your strategic support for AmCham Vietnam’s mission and programs. Premium Membership offers a range of discounts, benefits, and exclusive VIP access. Customized packages are available. To learn more, see LINK or contact Office Manager Cindy Tran at cindy.tran@amchamvietnam.com.

We welcome your feedback to let us know how we can serve you better I wish you a great week ahead..

Yours sincerely,



Travis Mitchell

Executive Director

We thank all members who recently shared their comments on draft legislation currently under discussion.

• AmCham has submitted a request to the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Industry and Trade seeking guidance on the implementation of the 2025 Law on Chemicals, which will take effect on January 1, 2026.

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.

Members are welcome to join, in-person or virtually:

• Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee Meeting, January 20, 2026 – 3:00 pm-4:00 pm
• Legal & VBF Liaison Committee Meeting, January 21, 2026 – 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
• Energy Committee Meeting with AmCham Hanoi, January 22, 2026 – 10:00 am-11:00 am
• Digital Economy & Technology Committee Meeting, January 27, 2026 - 9:00 am-10:00 am
• Logistics & Transportation Committee Meeting, January 28, 2026 – 9:00 am-10:00 am

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.

[Vietnam Economic News] Three decrees, two circulars issued to implement Chemicals Law. Vietnam has issued three decrees and two circulars guiding implementation of the Chemicals Law, ensuring uninterrupted production. Under Notice No. 363/BCT-HC sent to the Ministry of Finance and provincial and municipal People’s Committees to guide implementation of Law No. 69/2025/QH15, relevant legal documents have been issued and taken effect from January 17, 2026.

[The Investor] WB projects Vietnam's GDP growth at 6.3% in 2026, best in East Asia & Pacific. In the January 2026 edition of its Global Economic Prospects, the World Bank Group anticipated Vietnam's GDP growth at 6.3% in 2026 and 6.7% in 2027.

[VnEconomy] Cooperation between Vietnam and the U.S. in AI discussed. The U.S. side praised Vietnam's vision and ambition in AI development.

[VnEconomy] Vietnam targets $25 bln in wood exports by 2030. The industry's export revenue in 2025 reaching $18.5 billion.

[VnEconomy] Vietnam emerges as a global semiconductor intersection. Having secured a raft of semiconductor assembly, packaging, and testing plants, Vietnam’s next stage of development includes a greater focus on chip design.

[The Investor] Vietnam PM sets Feb 9 deadline to launch International Financial Center in HCMC. Vietnam aims to launch its International Financial Center in Ho Chi Minh City by no later than February 9, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said on Friday, adding that an international arbitration center and a specialized court would be inaugurated at the same time.

[VOV.vn] Strategy shift needed to attract next-generation FDI. Next-generation foreign direct investment (FDI) is expected to generate higher value added for host economies while meeting stricter standards on advanced technology, knowledge transfer, green development, corporate governance and social responsibility. What does Vietnam need to prepare to capture this new wave?

[VOV.vn] New growth model seen as key to Vietnam’s double-digit expansion in 2026-2030. With a target of double-digit GDP growth in 2026-2030 and the ambition of becoming a high-income country by 2045, many economists say Vietnam’s economy needs to move quickly to redefine its growth model, with stronger economic restructuring toward greater efficiency, sustainability and innovation.

[VNExpress] Coca-Cola celebrates Vietnam's weaving heritage in Tet 2026 campaign. Coca-Cola Vietnam has introduced its Tet 2026 campaign, titled "Weave a New Tet," presenting Tet as a time not only for traditional rituals but also for connection and shared celebration.

[Vietnam Briefing] 2026 Vietnam Public Holiday Schedule: Vietnam Culture Day Added as New Public Holiday. November 24 has been officially designated as Vietnam Culture Day and recognized as an annual public holiday, with employees entitled to a day off on full pay. This article provides updates on all newly approved plans for the 2026 Vietnam public holiday schedule.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam

in Ho Chi Minh City

New World Hotel Suite 323

76 Le Lai Street, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phone: +84 28 3824 3562