Vietnam Takes Major Steps Towards Equal Treatment of Investors

Strategic Insights -

Vietnam has made significant strides towards providing equal treatment for investors in the country, a move welcomed by the European Commerce Chamber (Eurocham). In a recent statement made at the Vietnam Business Forum in Hanoi, a Eurocham representative praised the government's efforts to improve the business environment ahead of Vietnam's World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession. Eurocham has been a strong advocate for Vietnam's swift accession to the WTO and has been instrumental in facilitating negotiations with the European Union (EU), which is Vietnam's first major trading partner to complete bilateral talks.

Key Takeaways:

  • Eurocham has commended Vietnam's efforts to improve the business environment in anticipation of WTO accession, particularly through the Unified Enterprise Law and Common Investment Law.
  • Foreign and Vietnamese investors are seeking equal legal treatment, a level playing field for entities, and incorporation of principles of non-discrimination and free movement of people, goods, services, and investment capital into new laws.
  • Eurocham recommends incorporating the principles of non-discrimination and free movement into the Unified Enterprise Law and Common Investment Law.
  • Vietnam Business Forum attracted nearly 400 representatives from international organizations, donors, and Vietnamese and foreign businessmen.
  • Eurocham has been an active advocate for Vietnam's accession to the WTO and has facilitated negotiations with the EU.

Statistics:

  • Nearly 400 representatives attended the Vietnam Business Forum.
  • Eurocham has been working towards facilitating WTO accession for Vietnam.
  • Vietnam is anticipating WTO accession, with the European Union being the first major trading partner to complete bilateral negotiations.
  • European Union is Vietnam's first major trading partner to complete bilateral negotiations with the country.

Sources:

  • Vietnam News Agency (VNA) - "Vietnam takes major steps towards equal treatment of investors" (30 November)
  • European Commerce Chamber (Eurocham) - official statement at the Vietnam Business Forum (Monday)