Foreign direct investment (FDI) into Ho Chi Minh City in the first quarter of 2026 is estimated to reach nearly US$2.9 billion, an increase of over 200% compared to the same period last year.
This information was released by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Finance at a press conference providing information on prominent socio-economic issues in the city, held on the afternoon of March 26th.
According to Nguyen Hoang Anh, Deputy Head of the General Policy Department (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Finance), in the context of complex global geopolitical developments, especially conflicts in the Middle East, Ho Chi Minh City, with its high degree of economic openness, has been significantly affected, particularly in the areas of import-export, logistics, and manufacturing.
Specifically, export turnover in the first quarter is estimated at over 22 billion USD, a slight increase of only 1.12% compared to the same period last year. The main reason is the high increase in international transportation costs and longer shipping times, which increases risks for goods, especially perishable goods.
Conversely, import turnover increased by 4.2%, putting pressure on input costs as the raw material supply chain showed signs of disruption.
However, the city's economy still recorded some bright spots. Total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue reached over 476,000 billion VND, an increase of 13.7%; the tourism sector continued its strong recovery with revenue of approximately 150,000 billion VND.
Notably, the city's resilience was positively assessed as foreign direct investment (FDI) reached nearly $2.9 billion, an increase of over 200% compared to the same period last year.
The driving force behind economic growth also comes from businesses. The number of newly established businesses increased sharply by 47%, with total registered and additional capital reaching VND 253,958 billion .
Ho Chi Minh City has also resolved obstacles for 738 out of 838 projects, with a total investment of over 166,000 billion VND processed , creating real resources injected into the economy.
In the face of unpredictable fluctuations in the global economy, Ho Chi Minh City has proactively developed many response solutions such as accelerating the disbursement of public investment, ensuring energy security, reforming administrative procedures, supporting businesses in accessing credit, and stimulating domestic consumption.
Regarding future direction, the city aims to maintain a GRDP growth rate above 10% in 2026, while committing to supporting businesses, resolving difficulties, and unlocking resources to maintain its role as the leading economic hub of the country.
Source: Cafeland
