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Vietnam: Doing business & staying in touch
Doing business in Vietnam
Business etiquette in Vietnam is rooted in respect, formality, and the importance of relationships. Personal connections often play a key role in business dealings, and establishing trust is essential before formal agreements are reached. Initial meetings may be more about getting to know one another than about detailed negotiations.
Greetings are typically formal, with a slight bow or a handshake, though handshakes may be softer than in Western cultures. When exchanging business cards, it is customary to use both hands, and cards should be studied briefly before putting them away, as a sign of respect.
Titles and hierarchy are important in Vietnamese business culture. It is respectful to address people by their title and surname, and to defer to senior figures in meetings. Decisions may take time, as they often require consultation within the group, and patience is appreciated.
Meetings should be scheduled in advance, and punctuality is expected. The dress code tends to be conservative; business suits are standard for men, while women should wear formal dresses or suits. Gifts are not required, but small tokens, particularly from your home country, are appreciated and should be presented with both hands.
Politeness and indirect communication are valued. It is important to remain calm and avoid confrontation or overt criticism during discussions, as saving face is a key cultural principle. Building long-term relationships is often more important than immediate outcomes.
Vietnam has one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economies, marked by steady development, increasing industrialisation, and a rising middle class. Since the economic reforms known as Đổi Mới began in the late 1980s, the country has transformed from a largely agrarian economy into a dynamic hub for manufacturing, trade, and services. Today, Vietnam is considered a lower-middle-income country, with ambitions to reach high-income status in the coming decades.
Key sectors driving the economy include electronics, textiles, agriculture, and tourism. Vietnam is a major exporter of rice, coffee, seafood, and pepper, and has become a vital part of global supply chains for electronics and garments. The country has attracted significant foreign direct investment, thanks to competitive labour costs, political stability, and trade agreements with major economies.
Urban centres like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are financial and commercial hubs, while industrial zones and export processing areas have sprung up across the country. At the same time, rural areas continue to rely heavily on agriculture, although efforts are being made to modernise and diversify economic activity outside of cities.
Vietnam's economy has proven resilient, with solid growth rates even in challenging global conditions. The government continues to invest in infrastructure, education, and innovation to support long-term development. Challenges remain, including income inequality, environmental concerns, and the need for continued reforms, but the overall outlook remains positive.
Keeping in Touch in Vietnam
Mobile phone coverage in Vietnam is generally good, with strong signals in cities, towns, and most tourist destinations. Coverage can be patchy in remote or mountainous areas, but major roads and popular sites are well served. Vietnam uses the GSM network, so most international phones will work, provided they are unlocked.
Travellers can easily purchase prepaid SIM cards from local providers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. SIM cards are widely available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile phone shops. A passport is usually required for registration.
Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Vietnam and is generally free to use in most hotels, cafés, restaurants, and even some public spaces like airports and shopping centres. The quality of connections is good in cities and tourist areas, with many establishments offering reliable and fast internet access.
Vietnam has a state-controlled media environment, with newspapers, television, and radio operating under government oversight. The most widely read newspapers include Tuoi Tre, Thanh Nien, and Nhan Dan, which are published in Vietnamese, although some outlets provide limited English-language content for expatriates and tourists. English-language publications such as Vietnam News and VN Express International offer local news and updates accessible to visitors.
Television is dominated by state-run channels like VTV (Vietnam Television), though international channels such as BBC, CNN, and Discovery are available in many hotels and through cable or satellite providers. Radio broadcasts are primarily in Vietnamese, but some foreign-language programming is available in major cities.
Internet access is widespread, and many people use social media platforms like Facebook, Zalo, and Instagram. While popular websites and communication apps are generally accessible, some content may be restricted or censored. Visitors can stay informed through international news sources online, as Wi-Fi and mobile data are readily available throughout the country.
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