Introduction
Over the past decades, Vietnam has transformed into one of the most dynamic and attractive investment destinations in Southeast Asia. Since the launch of the Đổi Mới (economic renovation) policy in 1986, the country has steadily transitioned from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented system, actively promoting foreign investment and deepening its integration into the global economy. Vietnam is now a member of key international and regional frameworks, including ASEAN, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and a wide network of free trade agreements (FTAs).
Vietnam’s investment environment continues to be supported by a young and competitive labour force, expanding infrastructure, an increasingly diversified manufacturing and services base, and a broad network of free trade agreements. At the same time, Vietnam’s legal framework for foreign investment continues to evolve, with recent reforms aimed at improving market access, simplifying investment and enterprise procedures, strengthening transparency, and providing more targeted investment incentives for priority sectors such as high technology, digital technology, semiconductor industry, renewable energy, innovation, infrastructure, education, healthcare and sustainable development.
This Vietnam Market Entry Guide provides a practical overview of key legal and regulatory considerations for foreign investors seeking to establish or expand their presence in Vietnam. In particular, it addresses common market entry structures, including the establishment of new entities, mergers and acquisitions, and business cooperation arrangements. The Guide also covers key topics such as foreign ownership restrictions, licensing requirements, investment capital accounts, profit repatriation, investment incentives, and ongoing compliance obligations, together with practical insights into navigating the establishment of a foreign-invested enterprise in Vietnam.
This Guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific advice should be obtained in light of the particular circumstances of each investment or transaction.
