Japan Investments Profile in Vietnam - LNT & Partnerslntpartners.com/documents/Japan_Investment...

Japan Investments Profile in

Vietnam

Investment Profile

2 Japan Investments Profile in Vietnam


Contents

Japan Investments Profile in Vietnam ............................................................. 1

Foreword ......................................................................................................................................................... 4

VIETNAM ....................................................................................................................................... 5

GDP Growth .................................................................................................................................................... 6

Population ....................................................................................................................................................... 6

Financial Health ............................................................................................................................................ 7

Key Sector Strengths .................................................................................................................................. 7

Opportunities ................................................................................................................................................. 8

Overview of Key Legal Issues .............................................................................................................. 10

VIETNAM- JAPAN RELATIONS ........................................................................................................ 12

Key Japanese Organizations in Vietnam ......................................................................................... 13

Key Vietnamese Organizations in Japan ......................................................................................... 13

ODA and Other Government Assistance ......................................................................................... 14

Key Agreements ......................................................................................................................................... 16

LNT & PARTNERS PROFILE .................................................................................................. 17

About Us ........................................................................................................................................................ 18

Our Team ...................................................................................................................................................... 18

Our Lawyers ................................................................................................................................................ 18

Our Practice Groups ................................................................................................................................. 19

Our Rankings............................................................................................................................................... 20

Our Awards .................................................................................................................................................. 21

Our Japanese Clients ................................................................................................................................ 22

International Cooperation .................................................................................................................... 23

Our Strategic Partners ............................................................................................................................ 24

Appendix 1 ................................................................................................................................................... 25

Appendix 2 ................................................................................................................................................... 29


Foreword

Japan has historically regarded Vietnam as a critical economic partner, and recent

trends in foreign investment from Japan have cemented the growing ties between the

two countries. As Vietnam’s political landscape stabilizes, its regulatory framework

untangles and its rich resources and labor market begin to draw regional interest, the

attraction of Vietnam to Japan as an ideal investment landscape is expected to continue

to burgeon at a rapid rate.

It is, therefore, no surprise that Japan regards Vietnam as a long-term strategic partner.

The country’s FDI contribution increases almost every single year, making Japan now

the largest investor of Vietnam. In addition, the huge Japanese interest in Vietnam is

evidenced by the growing FDIs into Vietnam amid waning investments into China. A

study by JETRO found that FDIs into the Southeast Asia region from Japan doubled in

2012 yet decreased by 18% in China which suggests that Japanese investors are

beginning to shift their investments from China to Southeast Asia, mostly in Vietnam.

To ensure this growth continues in the long-term, the Vietnam Government and local

businesses have made endeavors to streamline and simplify the processes for Japanese

investors to set up business in the country.

We hope this profile will give you some insight into why so many Japanese investors

have rapidly expanded into Vietnam, and how your business will benefit from also

entering this country of opportunities


VIETNAM


GDP Growth

Thanks to its strengthening export-oriented economy, Vietnam’s GDP has been growing

year by year, much of which has been driven by key industries such as manufacturing,

electronics and agriculture.

As the Vietnamese Government continues to implement its roadmap of liberalizing the

country’s economy, GDP growth is expected to continue to remain stable and/or

increase. Furthermore, following Vietnam’s much awaited entry into the Trans-Pacific

Partnership (“TPP”) Agreement in late 2014 or early 2015, which will effectively tear

down trade barriers with Vietnam’s key trading partners, GDP is expected to grow

rapidly with the anticipated increase in exports.

Population

Vietnam is home to approximately 90 million people and is one of Asia’s most densely

populated countries. Over 70% of the population resides in rural areas, which rely

primarily on agricultural production.

Vietnam has a young population, with working-age adults representing over 50% of the

population. The younger generation is increasingly aspiring to achieve affluent lifestyles.

And with the introduction of jobs and an increase in wages, young people have more

disposable income, creating an ideal market for new products and services.

This youthful society presents an opportunity to foreign investors, both in terms of

potential markets and also in terms of human resources. The youth of Vietnam are

better educated than their predecessors and they have the drive to achieve a higher

standard of living, which makes them an eager and diligent workforce.

Graph compiled with data taken from The World Bank


Financial Health

The Vietnamese Government has taken efforts to curb the country’s recent high inflation

rates, which have hampered investment progress in the past several years. These efforts

have been successful and by the end of 2013, Vietnam’s average annual inflation rate

stood at 6.60%, the lowest it has been in 10 years. As the Government continues rolling

out its fiscal policies to slash inflation, which has decreased further as of early 2014,

investor interest is expected to rise and Japanese businesses will benefit from the

ensuing economic growth.

The Government’s efforts to achieve monetary stability have also been successful. The

exchange rate of Vietnam’s official currency, the Vietnamese Dong (VND), has remained

steady over the course of the past couple of years.

Investors can take comfort in that the days of instability in Vietnam’s economy have

passed. A testament to the country’s positive financial outlook is the year-by-year

increase in the Vietnam Stock Market (VN-Index) and the Government’s continued

efforts to tackle its number of bad debts.

Key Sector Strengths

Electronics Manufacturing

Vietnam’s large supply of low wage workers and favorable tax incentives for the

industry have attracted a growing number of foreign companies assembling or

manufacturing electronics in the country. In 2013, computer and consumer electronics

products and components dominated Vietnam’s total exports.

Textiles

The country also boasts a strong textiles industry and the demand for these products is

expected to increase following entrance into the TPP Agreement. Vietnam’s

liberalization of business lines in this sector has led to unprecedented investor interest

to satisfy the growing demand from overseas markets. Growth is expected to jump from

12-13% to 15-20%, reaching 20 billion USD in 2017 and projected to surge to 50 billion

USD by 2025.

Agriculture

With over 70% of the population living in rural areas, exports in agriculture remain one

of Vietnam’s major contributors of GDP. The country’s tropical climate and unique

geographical location have made it ideal for producing certain crops. Today, Vietnam is


one of the world’s largest exporters of rice, cashew nuts, coffee and black pepper. Other

major exports of the country include seafood, rubber and wooden products.

Banking

While the Vietnamese banking industry has traditionally been restrictive against

prospective foreign stakeholders, the Government has recently passed new regulations

that will allow investors to acquire a larger stake in the country’s national banks. The

loosening of these restrictions is expected to drive further interest in this industry as

large infusions of capital will be needed to upgrade the systems, operations and

branches of the current commercial and retail banking system.

Logistics

The growth potential of Vietnam’s logistics industry has been expanding as a result of

the country’s increasing export turnover. Foreign interest in this industry has been

supported by recent figures provided by the Deputy Minister for Transport, who cited

that local logistics providers are only able to handle 20% of market demand (with the

remaining 80% being handled by foreign companies).

Tourism

For services, Vietnam’s tourism industry has attracted some of the largest FDI

commitments into the country. In 2012, Vietnam welcomed over 7 million visitors.

These figures, which are growing, make tourism a key growth industry driven by strong

global and domestic demand.

Opportunities

While challenges remain in the country’s regulatory framework, Vietnam remains an

attractive destination for foreign investment – not least because of the Government’s

efforts to open its market to investors.

Today, almost all investment sectors in the country are open to foreign investors (many

as a result of the WTO commitments) and the rollout of further market openings is

expected to take place within the next 1-2 years. On the agenda is also Vietnam’s long

awaited entrance into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP), the conclusion of

which is expected to considerably drive demand for commodities from the country.

It is, therefore, no surprise that in the 2014 ASEAN Business Outlook Survey by the U.S.

Chamber of Commerce, Vietnam was ranked as the second most popular ASEAN

destination for investment (after Indonesia). As a positive outlook, 85% of survey

respondents in Vietnam further expected profits to increase in 2014.


The total amount of FDI has been increasing since 2011 and it is expected to continue in

years to come.

This positive outlook, which is driven by a stabilizing economy, a liberalization of the

market and a dynamic labor force, has placed Vietnam on the radar as an emerging

market to watch.

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

12000

14000

16000

18000

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Total FDI influx into Vietnam (US$ mil.)

Total number of FDI projects in Vietnam

FDI Trend (2008-2013)

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Total FDI influx into Vietnam

(million USD)

15,428.9 16,345.4 12,100.9 9,914.5 7,854.1 14,272.4

Total number of FDI projects in

Vietnam 1171 839 833 919 1100 1275


Overview of Key Legal Issues

Investment Process in Vietnam

In 2007, Vietnam acceded to the WTO, which expanded foreign investors’ access to

Vietnamese markets. Vietnam’s WTO commitments have drastically altered the

investment environment by largely superseding the protective legislation which was

one of the greatest challenges to doing business in Vietnam.

Since accession, according to the Ministry of Finance, wholly foreign-owned entities

have become the most common legal structure for FDI, followed by joint ventures and

then BOT, BT, BTA and BCC contract arrangements.

Licenses for foreign investors will be largely granted on the discretion of the ministries.

The process may take approximately anywhere from 3 months (average time for the

service sector) to 12 months (for large-scale projects needing prime ministerial

approval).

However, there has been a proposal to amend the current Law on Enterprises, which is

expected to transform Vietnam into a more investment-friendly environment for

investors. In practice, foreign investors in Vietnam are often required to obtain HS codes

and investment licenses before commencing their business activities. The proposed

amendments will remove these hurdles; instead, foreign investors will only be required

to obtain a Business Registration Certificate in the same manner as Vietnamese

companies. Moreover, the abolition of HS codes will allow businesses to engage in any

business activities (other than those otherwise specifically prohibited such as activities

in weaponry and drugs).

Restrictions

Prior to investing in Vietnam, certain requirements, such as demonstration of financial

capacity and industry experience, will generally need to be fulfilled to the satisfaction of

the authorities.

Furthermore, while investment in a vast majority of sectors in Vietnam is open

nowadays, certain sectors will demand for additional conditions to be satisfied. For

example, projects in sectors that may have an adverse environmental effect (e.g.,

manufacturing) will likely require an environmental impact assessment report.

FDI approval for special services, such as banking, insurance, finance, and securities, will

also be subject to higher scrutiny by the authorities, and satisfaction of more stringent

conditions may be needed


Taxation

There is a double tax avoidance agreement in force between Vietnam and Japan, which

allows taxes paid in one of these countries to be offset against taxes payable in the other.

Companies are generally subject to the corporate tax rate of 22%, which is applied from

January 1st, 2014 until December 31st, 2015. From January 1st, 2016 onwards, this tax

rate will be lowered to 20%.

Investors may also be able to enjoy preferential tax rates (or even tax exemptions) if

they satisfy some of the range of eligibility requirements set out under Vietnamese law

(e.g., by operating projects in encouraged sectors).

Legal Framework

However, Vietnamese laws are sometimes vague, ambiguous and inconsistent. This may,

at times, lead to inconsistent applications of the law by the authorities. For this reason,

we advise prospective investors to consult with the relevant authorities prior to

carrying out their investment projects if any regulatory ambiguity or inconsistency

arises.

For more information on Vietnam’s legal landscape pertaining to FDI, please refer to the

2014 IFLR Report by Bui Ngoc Hong, Do Huy and Nguyen Xuan Thuy at Appendix 3.


VIETNAM – JAPAN RELATIONS


Key Japanese Organizations in Vietnam

Japanese interest in Vietnam is bolstered by the strong financial and technical support

provided by various organizations in the country. These organizations have assisted in

providing support, such as official development assistance (ODA), the provision of

which has been well-received by the Vietnamese Government.

The following key organizations are expected to play a more active role in Vietnam’s

economic development in the future, which will act as a catalyst for a boost in Japanese

investment:

1. Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

2. Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)

3. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

4. Development Bank of Japan (DBJ)

In addition to external support, Japanese investors benefit from the numerous industry

groups and associations in Vietnam. Dedicated organizations for the Japanese business

community exist to welcome investors into the country and offer services to aid them in

their business endeavors. These organizations often exchange dialogue with the

Vietnam Government to enable Japanese investors to voice any concerns:

1. Japanese Business Association of Ho Chi Minh City (JBAH)

2. Japan Business Association in Vietnam (JBAV)

3. Japan Da Nang Organization

4. Vietnam-Japan Human Resources Cooperation Center (VJCC)

5. The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam

For more information on these organizations, please refer to Appendix 1.

Key Vietnamese Organizations in Japan

Japanese investors who are interested in Vietnam may seek information from the Vietnam-Japan Business Association.

The Embassy of Vietnam is located in Tokyo. There is also a Vietnamese Consulate General located in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kushiro and Nagoya.

For more information on these organizations, please refer to Appendix 1.


ODA and Other Government Assistance

As part of the Japanese Government’s pledge to assist developing countries in various

areas including infrastructure and construction, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

established the ODA loan and grant aid program. Vietnam is one of the grateful

beneficiaries of the Japanese Government’s ODA program and thanks to this assistance,

the country has seen the successful completion of major and much-needed

infrastructure projects.

Some recent projects that are on the way to or have been successfully established

through ODA assistance include the following:

PROJECT

2013

Grants

Grant for “Next-Generation” vehicles

Human resource development scholarship

Loans

North-South Expressway Construction Project

Lach Huyen Port Infrastructure Construction Project

Thai Binh Thermal Power Plant and Transmission Line Construction Project

2012

Grants

Grant for medical equipment

Aid grant for small and medium-sized enterprises

Loans

reconstruction of bridges in the Central District

Hanoi City Urban Railway Construction Project (Line 1)

Climate change support program

Combined Cycle Power Plant Construction Project

Noi Bai International Airport to Nhat Tan Bridge connecting road

2011

Grants

North-South Expressway Construction Project

Lach Huyen Port Infrastructure Construction Project

Loans

Afforestation of the coastal sandy area in Southern Central Vietnam


E-Customs and national single window for customs modernization project

Development of traffic control systems for expressways in Hanoi


PROJECT

2010

Grants

Saigon East-West Highway Construction Project

Ho Chi Minh City Water Environment Improvement Project

Climate change support program

Nhat Tan Bridge (Vietnam-Japan Friendship Bridge) Construction Project

Nghi Son Thermal Power Plant Construction Project

Ninth Poverty Reduction Support Credit

Loans

Rehabilitation of small-scale reservoirs in Quang Ngai Province

Program for the improvement of capabilities to cope with natural disasters caused by climate change



Two Japanese NGO projects

2009

Grants

National Highway No. 1 Bypass Road Construction Project

Thai Binh Thermal Power Plant and Transmission Line Construction Project

Small-Scale Humanitarian Infrastructure Development Project

Project to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy

Financing of small and medium-sized enterprises

Loans

Groundwater development in Central Highland Provinces


Improvement of equipment in national hospitals for obstetrics and gynecology

Project for reinforcing customs functions at Haiphong Port

The Forest Preservation Program


Key Agreements

The promotion of Japanese investment into Vietnam is facilitated by the strong bilateral

investment relations between the two countries. This relationship has been encapsulated by

multiple bilateral agreements and treaties. Some key agreements include:

1. The Japan – Vietnam Investment Treaty (JVIT)

Signed on November 14th, 2003, came into effect on December 19th, 2004

The JVIT assigns the most favored nation treatment to both countries. Therefore,

Japanese investors can expect to receive equal trade advantages, such as preferential tax

rates, to those enjoyed by Vietnamese investors. The JVIT further prohibits adverse

behavior that would affect the investment interests of Japanese investors, as well as

liberalize and protect their trade interests.

2. The Japan – Vietnam Economic Partnership Agreement (JVEPA)

Signed on December 25th, 2008, came into effect on October 1st, 2009

The JVEPA aims to liberalize and facilitate commodities and services trading between

Japan and Vietnam. This aim is implemented primarily by way of a reciprocal removal of

a vast majority of import duties and tariffs in the two countries. The JVEPA further

provides for other commitments to promote bilateral investment relations, such as the

protection of intellectual property and also the prevention of anti-competitive conduct.

3. The Japan – Vietnam Joint Initiative (JVJI)

Signed on December 4th, 2003

The JVJI sets out a comprehensive action plan entered into between Vietnam and Japan

to boost Vietnam’s investment landscape and increase its industrial competitiveness.

Under this initiative, the Japanese Government agreed to offer support in the form of

ODA to invest in and provide technical support for major infrastructural projects in

Vietnam.

4. Japan – Vietnam Joint Statement on the Strategic Partnership for Peace and

Prosperity in Asia

Made in 2011

In a meeting between the Japanese Government and Vietnamese Government in 2011,

dialogue was exchanged in order to determine the means for both countries to make a

positive contribution to the peace, stability and prosperity of the region. Under the Joint

Statement, Vietnam expressed its gratitude for the extensive Japanese contribution by

way of ODA, while Japan expressed that it will continue efforts to support Vietnam’s

economic development by providing technology and expertise.

In the energy and natural resources sector, both countries agreed to cooperate in the

peaceful use of nuclear energy, as well as develop Vietnam’s growing rare earth industry

under which Japan will provide financial and technical support


LNT & PARTNERS

PROFILE


About Us

LNT & PARTNERS is a leading full-service independently ranked local law firm in

Vietnam with offices in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hong Kong (affiliate), and San

Francisco. The firm is among Vietnam’s most prominent, representing a wide range of

multinational and domestic clients, including Fortune Global 500 companies as well as

well-known Vietnamese listed companies on a variety of business and investment

matters.

Our Team

Our Lawyers

Mr. Hong Bui

Practice areas

• Compliance

• Foreign Investment

• M&A

Mr. Huy Do

Practice areas

• Intellectual Property

• Dispute Resolution

• Antitrust/ Competition

Ms. Quyen Hoang

Practice areas

• Corporate

• Employment & Benefits


• M&A

Dr. Net Le

Practice areas

• Banking & Finance

• M&A

• Tax

Dr. Tuan Nguyen

Practice areas

• Antitrust/ Competition

• Bankruptcy


• M&A

Dr. Vinh Nguyen

Practice areas


• Employment &

Benefits

• Tax

Mr. Binh Tran

Practice areas

• Real Estate/ Infrastructure



Mr. Su Tran

Practice areas


• Real Estate/

Infrastructure

• Banking & Finance


Our Of Counsel and Senior Advisor

Our Practice Groups

LNT & PARTNERS has domain expertise in key legal disciplines organized into five

Practice Groups:

(i) Corporate Group: Our highly-regarded corporate team regularly handle M&A

deals, advise on complicated business licenses, guide investors with their

inbound and outbound investments, and navigate regulatory compliance issues

(including in matters of competition, labor and taxation) to deliver

commercially-practical solutions to our clients.

(ii) Dispute Resolution Group: Our award-winning dispute resolution lawyers,

which include two former judges, have represented major companies in both

court and international arbitral proceedings

(iii) Banking and Finance Group: Our banking and finance team has been at the

forefront of millions of dollars’ worth of financial transactions for large financial

institutions, funds, and private companies.

(iv) Intellectual Property/TMT Group: Our IP/TMT professionals have extensive

experience in advising and representing major clients in some of the most

complex and high-profile IP related matters in various industries, including

biotech, pharmaceutical, electronics and software.

(v) Real Estate and Infrastructure Group: Our real estate and infrastructure team

has been behind some of Vietnam’s largest development projects.

Mr. Kiyoshi Hirasawa

Practice areas

• Japan Practice

• Corporate, M&A


Dr. Sy Chung Pham

Practice areas

• Corporate Compliance


• M&A


Our Rankings

PUBLICATION PRACTICE AREAS RANKING YEAR

Asia Pacific

Legal 500

Banking and Finance Leading Lawyers 2013 / 2012

Corporate/ M&A Leading Lawyers 2013 / 2012

Dispute Settlement Leading Lawyers 2013 / 2012

Tax Leading Lawyers 2013 / 2012

Chambers and

partners

Banking and Finance Vietnam Leading

Law Firm

2013 / 2012 / 2011

/ 2010

Corporate/ M&A Vietnam Leading

Law Firm

2013 / 2012 / 2011

/ 2010 / 2009

Projects, Infrastructure &

Energy

Vietnam Leading

Law Firm 2013 / 2012

International

Financial Law

Review (IFLR)

Banking and Finance Notable 2013 / 2012

Mergers & Acquisitions Notable 2013 / 2012

Project Finance Leading Lawyers 2012 / 2011

PLC Which

Lawyer? Recommended Law Firm 2012 / 2011


Our Awards

Leading Law Firm 2014 – Asia Pacific Legal 500

Recognised Firm 2014 – International Financial Law Review

Most Trusted Law Firm of the Year – Lawyers World Magazine

Vietnam Deal Firm of the Year 2014 – Asia Legal Business, a Thomson Reuters Company, SE Asia Awards 2014

Full Service Law Firm of the Year 2014 – Vietnam

Intellectual Property Innovators of the Year – Vietnam

Commitment to Cross-Border Investment – Vietnam

- Acquisition International

Corporate Finance Law Firm of the Year in Vietnam

– 2014 Corporate Intl Magazine Global Award

ALB Award Deal Firm of the Year – Finalist 2013, 2012 Employer of Choice 2012 – ALB 2nd position


Our Japanese Clients

Our partners have had the privilege of representing multiple Japanese clients, from

major conglomerates to branch offices, in a broad spectrum of industries and matters,

including:


International Cooperation

The Firm’s partners have established strong relationships with attorneys at

international law firms such as:

US Law Firms

European Law Firms

Asian Law Firms


Our Strategic Partners

LNT & PARTNERS has developed an active presence across a broad range of industries

through its strategic partnerships with leading industry publications and sector groups,

including:

Vietnam Investment Review

Quang Trung Software City

Colliers International Vietnam


Appendix 1

Key Japanese Organizations in Vietnam

1. Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

Hanoi Office

Address: Suite 205-207, 2nd Floor, 63 Ly Thai To Street, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-3825-0630

Fax: +84-8-3821-9362

E-mail: [email protected]

URL: http://www.jetro.go.jp/vietnam/

Ho Chi Minh City Office

Address: 14th Floor, Sun Wah Tower

115 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Tel: +84-8-3821-9363

Fax: +84-8-3821-9362

E-mail: [email protected]

URL: http://www.jetro.go.jp/vietnam/

2. Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)

Hanoi Representative Office

Address: 3rd Floor, Sun City

13 Hai Bai Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-3824-8934/8935/8936

Fax: +84-8-3824-8937

URL: http://www.jbic.go.jp/

3. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

Primary Office (Hanoi)

Address: 16th Floor, Daeha Business Center

360 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-3831-5005

Fax: +84-8-3831-5009

Liaison Office (Ho Chi Minh City)

Address: No. 905, 9th Floor, Saigon Riverside Office Center

2A-4A Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Tel: +84-8-3827-4942

Fax: +84-8-9827-4943

URL: http://www.jica.go.jp/vietnam/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.jetro.go.jp/vietnam/


http://www.jetro.go.jp/vietnam/

http://www.jbic.go.jp/

http://www.jica.go.jp/vietnam/


4. Development Bank of Japan

Head Office (Japan)

Address: Otemachi Financial City South Tower

9-6 Otemachi, 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8178

Tel: +81-3-3270-3211

URL: www.dbj.jp/

5. Japan Business Association of Ho Chi Minh City (JBAH)

Address: No. 1407, 14th Floor, Sun Wah Tower

115 Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Tel: +84-8-3821-9369

URL: http://www.jbah.info.vn/jp/

6. Japan Business Association in Vietnam (JBAV)

Address: Room 605, Sun Red River Building

23 Phan Chu Trinh Street, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-2220-9907

Fax: +84-4-2220-9909

Email: [email protected]

URL: http://jbav.vn/

7. Japan Da Nang Organization

Address: 4 Tran Phu Street, Da Nang

Tel: +84-511-3889-543


URL: http://www.japan-danang.org/index.php/ja/

8. Vietnam-Japan Human Resources Cooperation Center

Address: No. 91 Chua Lang Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-3775-1278/1279

Fax: +84-4-3775-2226


URL: http://www.vjcc.org.vn/

http://www.dbj.jp/

http://www.jbah.info.vn/jp/


http://jbav.vn/


http://www.japan-danang.org/index.php/ja/


http://www.vjcc.org.vn/


9. The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam

Address: 27 Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Tel: +84-4-3944-7419/7420

Fax: +84-4-3944-7418


URL: http://jpf.org.vn/jp/

Key Overseas Investment Organizations in Japan

1. Vietnam-Japan Business Association

Address: 805-30 Kanda Higashi Konyacho

Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0034

Tel: +81-3-5413-7418

Fax: +81-3-5207-6786


URL: http://vjba.org/

2. Embassy / Consulate General of Vietnam in Japan

Address: 50-11, Motoyoyogi-cho

Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151

Tel: +81-3-3466-3313

Fax: +81-3-3466-3391


URL: www.vietnamembassy-japan.org/en/

3. Consulate General of Vietnam in Osaka

Address: 4-2-15 Ichinocho Higas

Sakai-ku, Osaka 590-0952

Tel: +81-72-221-6666

Fax: +81-72-221-6667

E: tlsqvn@[email protected]

URL: http://www.vietnamconsulate-osaka.org/en


http://jpf.org.vn/jp/


http://vjba.org/


http://www.vietnamembassy-japan.org/en/

mailto:tlsqvn@[email protected]

http://www.vietnamconsulate-osaka.org/en


4. Consulate General of Vietnam in Fukuoka

Address: 4th Floor, Aqua Hakta

5-3-8 Nakasu, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka 810-0801

Tel: +81-82-263-7668

Fax: +81-92-263-7676


URL: http://www.mofa.gov.vn/vnconsulate.fukuoka/en

5. Consulate General of Vietnam in Kushiro

Address: 4th Floor, Omachi Building

1-1-10 Omachi, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0847

Tel: +81-154-44-1040

6. Consulate General of Vietnam in Nagoya

Address: 6th Floor, 1st Centrair Building

1-1 Centrair, Tokoname0shi, Aichi-ken 479-8701

Tel: +81-569-37-7790

[Type a quote from the document or the summary of an interesting point. You can position the text box anywhere in the document. Use the Drawing Tools tab to change the formatting of the pull quote text box.] [Type a quote from the document or the summary of an interesting point. You can position the text box anywhere in the document. Use the Drawing Tools tab to change the formatting of the pull quote text box.]


http://www.mofa.gov.vn/vnconsulate.fukuoka/en


Appendix 2

Recent Press Announcements

SMTB tie up with a Vietnamese bank December 16th, 2013

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2013/12/16/business/smtb-ties-up-with-

vietnam-bank

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank said Monday it has signed a memorandum of understanding for business cooperation with the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV).

Through the partnership with the Vietnamese state-run bank, the Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. unit will help Japanese firms open local bank accounts, extend dong-denominated loans and give advice on mergers and acquisitions.

The collaboration is also designed to provide Japanese clients with more information on the investment environment and regulations in the Southeast Asian country.

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust also aims to start trust and asset management services in Vietnam through the BIDV, one of the country’s four major state-run commercial banks.

The Vietnamese bank has already teamed up with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and Shinkin Central Bank.


Mizuho Bank, Aeon Vietnam tie up for one-stop payment services December 22nd, 2013

http://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Deals/Mizuho-Bank-Aeon-Vietnam-tie-up-for-

onestop-payment-services

HANOI -- Mizuho Bank will establish a partnership with Aeon Vietnam, a subsidiary of Japanese supermarket operator Aeon, to provide comprehensive cash management and payment transaction services for the retailer.

The partnership will be the first attempt to offer such services in Vietnam, where management of sales data has lagged, and it is expected to help modernize the country's retail sector.

Mizuho Bank and its existing Vietnamese business partner, Vietcombank, will form a comprehensive alliance with Aeon Vietnam on Monday. The two banks will handle all cash management and payment transaction operations for supermarkets directly operated by Aeon Vietnam and for the 120 or so stores in Aeon Vietnam's first Aeon Mall, which will open in January 2014, in Ho Chi Minh City.

Sales data will be managed comprehensively through point-of-sale systems to be installed in each store and which are capable of supporting credit card transactions. The banks will also offer other financial services, including direct deposit of employee salaries.

The partnership will also issue an Aeon-Vietcombank debit card. To promote sales and enhance customer loyalty, the card will offer such perks as points based on purchase amounts and coupons.


Mitsubishi Corporation Constructs Coal Fired Power Plant in Vietnam December 25th, 2013

http://jcnnewswire.sys-con.com/node/2908553

TOKYO – Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), together with Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction of Korea, and Vietnamese partners, Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 2 and Pacific Corporation, has concluded a contract with state-owned Vietnam Electricity (EVN) to build a coal fired thermal power plant in Vietnam.

The plant, located in Vinh Tan in Binh Thuan province, will be composed of two units of 600 MW each with completion expected by 2017 for the first unit and by 2018 for the second unit.

Electricity demand in Vietnam is expected to see a remarkable increase of more than 10% per annum in the coming years due to rising population and economic growth. Southern Vietnam in particular, the country's largest economic bloc, which includes Ho Chi Minh City, faces a critical situation in relation to the current imbalance between existing supply and the increasing demand for electricity. There is therefore urgent need for the development of power generation infrastructure in the region.

Currently, nearly half the country's electricity supply is generated by hydraulic power, but due to weather and other factors, the need for a more stable source of electricity is ever more present. This project, therefore, is expected to play an important role in preventing the shortage of electricity in the area.

Under "New Strategic Direction", its recently released corporate strategy, MC is seeking to accelerate global business development by leveraging the shift towards Asian markets. As building multiple robust and large-scale earnings drivers is also part of the company's business strategy, MC intends to pursue other power generation related business opportunities in the future.


Lixil Vietnam opens Dong Nai Factory January 10th, 2014

http://vietnamnews.vn/economy/249994/lixil-vietnam-opens-dong-nai-factory.html

DONG NAI (VNS) — Lixil Global Manufacturing Vietnam, a company under Japan's Lixil group, inaugurated its factory in the Long Duc industrial zone in the southern province of Dong Nai on Wednesday.

The factory, constructed on an area of 55ha at a total investment of US$440 million, will produce aluminium and PVC windows and doors for houses, offices, as well as civil and industrial projects.

It is the biggest investment project of the Lixil Group in Viet Nam, as well as by Japan in Dong Nai Province. The inauguration marks the end of 20 months of construction. Going forward, the factory will provide jobs for about 2,000 local workers.

Dinh Quoc Thai, chairman of the provincial People's Committee, told Vietnamplus newspaper that the number of Japanese investors seeking official approval to conduct business in Dong Nai had been increasing in recent years.

In 2013 alone, he revealed, Japanese investors accounted for 30 per cent of the $1.6 billion in foreign direct investment in the province.

Thai pointed out that the committee is always willing to support companies and create the best operating conditions for companies to carry out their production and other business activities effectively.

The Lixil group of Japan specialises in manufacturing products for the construction industry. Currently, it offers kitchen and bathroom fixtures, such as toilets and bathtubs, under the brand ‘INAX' in Viet Nam.


Tokyo-Mitsubishi Bank in Hanoi granted approval to change allocated capital January 25th, 2014

http://www.stoxplus.com/News/134850/1/186/the-bank-of-tokyo-mitsubishi-ufj-ltd-

hanoi-branch-approved-to-change-allocated-capital.stox

On January 20, 2014, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV)’s Governor issued Decision 79/QD-NHNN on changing capital in the license of The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. - Hanoi branch.

Specifically, the Governor approved the change in the allocated capital recorded in the establishment and operating license No. 55/GP-NHNN of The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. - Hanoi branch to USD105 million.

The Decision shall take effect from the date of signing and is an integral part of the above-mentioned establishment and operating license


Tokyo Metro offers assistance to Hanoi Metro February 18th, 2014

http://english.vov.vn/Economy/Tokyo-Metro-offers-assistance-to-Hanoi-Metro/273354.vov

Japan’s Tokyo Metro will provide technical assistance and counselling services for the Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board (MRB) to develop and run urban metro lines.

A document to this effect was signed in Hanoi on February 18 by Tokyo Metro Co. Ltd CEO Yoshimitsu Oku and MRB director Nguyen Quang Manh.

Both sides will exchange information and increase cooperation in human resources for metro projects.

Since February 2013 the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has helped Hanoi carry out a project on technical assistance and increased capacity building of a Hanoi agency to operate and repair metro lines in the city.

Tokyo Metro and MRB experts are working on the establishment of an agency to manage and operate the lines in the future.

Yoshimitsu Oku expressed hope Tokyo Metro’s 90 years of experience will help Hanoi develop modern urban rail lines, giving it a facelift in the coming years


FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Ms. Quyen Hoang

Managing Partner

[email protected]

Ho Chi Minh City Head Office

Unit 03, Level 21, Bitexco Financial Tower

No.02 Hai Trieu Street, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM

Tel: +84 8 3821 2357

Fax: +84 8 3910 3733

Hanoi Office

Unit 08A, Level 2, International Centre

17 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District

Hanoi, VIETNAM

Tel: +84 4 3824 8522

Fax: +84 4 3824 8580

Mr. Huy Do

Partner

[email protected]

San Francisco Office

101 California Street

Suite 2710

San Francisco, CA 94111 USA

Tel: +1 415 633 8831

Fax: +1 415 689 6821

Hong Kong Office (affiliate)

Two International Finance Centre

Level 19, 8 Finance Street

Central, Hong Kong, CHINA

Tel: +85 2 3125 7639

Fax +85 2 3125 7629

www.LNTpartners.com

Japan Investments Profile in Vietnam - LNT & Partnerslntpartners.com/documents/Japan_Investment...

Documents

Transcript of Japan Investments Profile in Vietnam - LNT & Partnerslntpartners.com/documents/Japan_Investment...