Below is the full text of the Prime Minister's article, as introduced by VietNamNet. The title was provided by VietNamNet.

The significant, comprehensive, and outstanding achievements across various fields in 2024, despite facing more challenges and difficulties than opportunities and advantages, reaffirm the extraordinary efforts, resilience, and unwavering determination of the entire Party, people, and military to continue advancing the comprehensive reform of the country.

These accomplishments lay a solid foundation and generate strong momentum to successfully implement the socio-economic development plan for 2025. They also contribute to achieving the highest possible goals and tasks of the 2021–2025 period, propelling the nation steadily into a new era - an era of growth, prosperity, and cultural advancement for the Vietnamese people.

I

In 2024, the global situation continued to evolve rapidly and unpredictably, with unprecedented and unforeseen issues. Strategic competition among major powers intensified, military conflicts escalated in various regions, political instability plagued several countries, and global economic, trade, and investment recovery remained slow, uneven, and fragile. Non-traditional security issues, climate change, energy security, food security, and cybersecurity became increasingly severe.

Domestically, opportunities and challenges intertwined, but challenges outweighed opportunities. The economy continued to face "dual impacts" from adverse external factors and longstanding internal weaknesses. Meanwhile, natural disasters and floods inflicted significant damage on production activities and people's livelihoods.

In this context, driven by extraordinary efforts to “turn risk into opportunity” and “change the status quo, shift the situation,” and guided by the principles of “discipline and responsibility, proactiveness and timeliness, acceleration and creativity, sustainable effectiveness” - along with the determination to “only discuss solutions, never retreat” - the Government and the Prime Minister, from the very outset of 2024, directed all levels, sectors, and localities to focus on implementing the resolutions of the 13th Party Congress as well as the resolutions and conclusions of the Central Committee, the Politburo, the Secretariat, and the National Assembly.

The approach emphasized proactivity, flexibility, and practicality, ensuring synchronized, effective, and prioritized implementation of tasks and solutions across all fields. The Government prioritized fostering economic growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability, controlling inflation, and ensuring the economy's major balances. Efforts were directed at addressing institutional and legal obstacles, removing bottlenecks, and accelerating progress on critical infrastructure projects. Cultural and social development, disaster prevention, and environmental protection also received significant attention.

Moreover, combating corruption, negativity, and wastefulness was strengthened alongside efforts to consolidate national defense and security. Diplomacy and international integration were actively promoted to enhance Vietnam's standing globally. Simultaneously, the Government closely monitored developments to ensure timely and effective policy adjustments in response to external fluctuations, demonstrating a comprehensive and determined commitment to overcoming challenges and driving sustainable progress.

Thanks to the high determination, significant efforts, and decisive actions of the entire political system, the people, and the business community under the leadership of the Party - directly and consistently guided by the Politburo, the Secretariat, and headed by the General Secretary - Vietnam's socio-economic situation continued to recover positively in 2024, showing steady improvement month by month and quarter by quarter. By the end of the year, the country achieved or exceeded all 15 key targets, with notable accomplishments across multiple sectors that earned high praise from the people nationwide and the international community.  

Vietnam remained a bright spot for economic growth and ranked among the high-growth countries in the region and the world. Annual GDP growth was estimated at approximately 7%, with the economy's total size reaching around $470 billion. Economic restructuring continued to progress positively, with the agriculture sector's contribution declining to about 11%. Growth quality improved, with labor productivity increasing by an estimated 5.7%, surpassing the set target. Additionally, Vietnam's Economic Freedom Index rose by 13 places to rank 59 out of 176 countries and territories.

Vietnam has been highly praised for its ability to control inflation and maintain macroeconomic stability amidst significant global volatility and challenges. The average consumer price index (CPI) in 2024 increased by approximately 3.6%, even as wages were raised and prices of certain state-regulated goods were adjusted. The country successfully maintained major economic balances, achieving a record total trade turnover, including agricultural exports exceeding $62 billion. The trade surplus was estimated at around $24 billion, contributing to an improved international balance of payments.  

Thanks to the positive economic recovery and enhanced efficiency in tax management, total state budget revenue exceeded projections by over 19%, amounting to approximately 320 trillion VND. This provided additional resources for development investment. Public debt, government debt, external debt, and the state budget deficit remained below prescribed limits.  

Vietnam continued to be a safe and attractive destination for businesses, partners, and international investors. It ranked among the top 15 developing countries attracting the highest foreign investment globally, with a total of approximately $40 billion, including $25 billion in realized FDI. The country is also among the world’s top 20 largest trading economies, supported by 17 free trade agreements (FTAs), making it a key link in regional and global supply chains.  

Vietnam is undergoing a robust transformation toward a digital economy, green economy, high technology, and environmentally friendly practices. Notably, it has established a significant position in the global semiconductor supply chain, attracting numerous major technology corporations. The national brand value in 2024 reached $507 billion, ranking 32nd out of 193 countries, a one-place improvement from 2023.

Strategic breakthroughs were decisively prioritized, yielding significant and clear outcomes. Efforts focused on reviewing and refining institutional and legal frameworks, with the National Assembly passing numerous laws and resolutions to address difficulties, obstacles, and bottlenecks across various fields. Comprehensive development of strategic infrastructure systems was accelerated, including the operation of over 2,000 km of expressways and the completion of the 500 kV Quang Binh-Hung Yen transmission line in a record six months. Preparations and implementation of national railway projects were expedited. Human resource development saw positive progress, while science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship were vigorously promoted. The Global Innovation Index in 2024 ranked Vietnam 44th out of 132 countries and territories, up two places from 2023.  

Planning efforts were intensified, with the approval and implementation of 111 sectoral, regional, and national plans. Simultaneously, the government focused on resolving long-standing, inefficient projects to unlock resources, combat waste, and create new momentum for development.  

Cultural and social development received significant attention, with social welfare ensured and citizens’ living standards further improved. The multidimensional poverty rate dropped to approximately 1.9%, and average worker income rose by about 7.4%. Vietnam's happiness index climbed 11 places to rank 54th out of 143 countries, while the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) index improved to 54th out of 166 nations, up one spot from 2023. Prompt recovery efforts for victims of Typhoon No. 3 highlighted touching displays of solidarity and compassion across the country.  

Administrative reforms and anti-corruption efforts continued to gain momentum. Administrative procedures were streamlined, decentralization strengthened, and the restructuring and downsizing of government agencies were carried out effectively. Inspection and complaint resolution mechanisms were enhanced, while corruption and negative behaviors were tackled with greater effectiveness, ensuring socio-economic development and bolstering public trust.  

National independence and sovereignty were firmly safeguarded, with defense and security capabilities significantly strengthened. Diplomatic efforts and international integration advanced further, enhancing the country’s reputation and standing globally. The all-people defense posture and the people's security posture were solidified, and the defense industry achieved positive results. Political security and public safety were maintained, while international cooperation expanded, and economic diplomacy took precedence, fostering a favorable external environment for peace, stability, and development.

II

While we take pride and joy in the significant achievements and outstanding results of 2024, it is essential to candidly acknowledge the limitations, shortcomings, difficulties, and challenges that require continued focus and timely, effective resolution moving forward. Macroeconomic stability remains vulnerable to risks, with substantial pressure on exchange rates, interest rates, and inflation - especially amid adverse external impacts. Certain sectors of production and business still face difficulties, and market demand recovery has been slow and not yet robust. Obstacles persist in implementing some infrastructure projects, and the disbursement of public investment funds has not met expectations.

Institutional and legal frameworks remain a “bottleneck of bottlenecks,” with a legal drafting mindset still heavily oriented toward management rather than fostering development. Some procedures and regulations remain inadequate, while the amendment and supplementation of certain laws, mechanisms, and policies lag behind practical needs. Issues in decentralization and delegation of authority persist, with many tasks still concentrated at the central level. Administrative procedures and business conditions in some areas remain cumbersome and obstructive. Wastefulness continues in various sectors, causing significant consequences, depleting resources, increasing costs, creating barriers, and missing opportunities for national development.

The development of human resources, particularly high-quality personnel, has not yet met the demands of modern development. This shortfall has hindered breakthroughs in productivity, quality, efficiency, and the competitiveness of the economy. Disparities in development among regions, areas, and social groups remain significant, with the living standards of some segments of the population still facing challenges.  

Efforts to address serious environmental pollution, traffic congestion, and urban flooding in major cities have been slow. Unpredictable climate change, along with natural disasters such as typhoons, floods, landslides, subsidence, and droughts, has caused severe consequences. Additionally, the situation with high-tech crime, online fraud, and ensuring security and order in certain areas has become increasingly complex and difficult to manage.

The aforementioned limitations, shortcomings, difficulties, and challenges stem from both objective and subjective causes.  

Objectively, the global situation has been complex and unpredictable, presenting numerous difficulties and challenges. The lingering negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact various sectors. Additionally, natural disasters, particularly Typhoon No. 3 (Yagi), have caused severe consequences.  

Subjectively, lapses in discipline and enforcement have occurred in some areas. Issues with decentralization and delegation remain unresolved in certain sectors. A segment of officials has displayed a tendency to avoid responsibility, pass blame, or exhibit fear of accountability. In some cases, the monitoring of developments, policymaking, and policy responses have been untimely or ineffective, missing opportunities for growth. Furthermore, the resilience, self-reliance, and proactive efforts of some agencies, units, and officials have not been as strong as required to address the challenges effectively.

Based on an analysis of the situation across various sectors and practical experience in leadership and governance, several profound lessons have emerged, offering valuable insights for refining thought processes, methodologies, policy directions, and implementation strategies in the future.  

The strength of national unity, under the leadership of the Party, remains an invincible force and the fundamental foundation for sustainable development. It serves as a critical pillar for overcoming all challenges. This requires fostering a spirit of self-reliance, resilience, and innovation across the nation while always prioritizing the interests of the country, the nation, and the people above all else.  

Development must be guided by breakthrough thinking, strategic vision, and the ability to anticipate and address future challenges with depth and scale. Tasks should be undertaken decisively and completed thoroughly. Valuing time, intellect, creativity, and decisiveness is essential, as is the ability to respond flexibly and effectively to emerging situations. Proactivity, innovation, and adaptability are critical in implementing the Party's and State's policies.  

Maximizing, mobilizing, and effectively utilizing all resources is a top priority. Internal resources must be the core, providing a long-term and decisive foundation, while external resources play a complementary and strategic role. Harnessing the full potential, strengths, intellect, and determination of the Vietnamese people is crucial for achieving sustainable progress and lasting development.

Ensuring social welfare and improving the material and spiritual well-being of the people must remain a top priority. People should be placed at the center, as the subjects, objectives, resources, and driving force of development. Progress, social equity, and environmental protection must not be sacrificed for mere economic growth. The principle of "leaving no one behind" must guide all policies and actions, ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable.  

Discipline and governance must be strengthened, with enhanced decentralization and delegation of authority linked to effective resource allocation. Rigorous inspection, supervision, and control of power are essential to maintain accountability. Administrative reforms must be pursued decisively to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and abolish outdated "ask-give" mechanisms. A relentless and consistent fight against corruption, wastefulness, and negative behaviors is necessary to reinforce public trust and strengthen confidence across society, creating a solid foundation for continued progress and stability.

III

In the coming period, the global and regional situation is expected to remain complex and unpredictable. The global economy is recovering slowly, with increasing risks and a growing trend of fragmentation and polarization. Domestically, while there are favorable factors, including a continued economic recovery and the positive impact of new policies and mechanisms, significant challenges persist. These challenges arise from adverse external factors and longstanding internal limitations and inefficiencies.  

Non-traditional security issues, natural disasters, climate change, resource depletion, and an aging population are having increasingly severe impacts. At the same time, Vietnam remains a developing country with a transitioning economy. Its economic scale is still modest, its high degree of openness exposes it to external shocks, and its resilience and competitiveness remain limited.  

These dynamics underscore the need for proactive, flexible, and strategic approaches to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities for sustainable development.

The year 2025 holds exceptional significance as a pivotal year for accelerating and breaking through to achieve the goals set in the 2021–2025 Five-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan. It will also mark several historic milestones for the nation, including the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Party, the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification, the 135th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh’s birth, the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, and the Party Congresses at all levels leading to the 14th National Party Congress. These events herald a new era of progress, strength, civilization, and prosperity, as envisioned by General Secretary To Lam.  

To realize the strategic objective of becoming a modern, industrialized, upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income developed country by 2045, Vietnam must exert maximum effort starting in 2025. This includes creating breakthroughs to attract investment, vigorously promoting production and business, and striving for a growth rate of at least 8%, with aspirations for higher growth under favorable conditions. Achieving these goals will establish a solid foundation for double-digit growth rates beginning in 2026, propelling Vietnam toward a future of sustainable and inclusive development.

In historic moments, the nation requires historic decisions. Achieving the strategic objectives of commemorating the 100th anniversaries of the founding of the Party and the establishment of the State is a mission that is both challenging and immensely honorable for today's and future generations. This mission serves as a vital connection between the past, present, and future and is a prerequisite for lifting the country out of the middle-income trap and advancing toward becoming a developed nation.

This goal is entirely achievable through innovative thinking, unwavering determination, substantial effort, decisive action, breakthrough solutions, effective methods, and timely, flexible, and efficient implementation. The focus must be on realizing the country’s unique potentials, outstanding opportunities, and competitive advantages. Every level, sector, agency, organization, enterprise, and individual must embody the highest spirit of unity, cooperation, and commitment to the common good, embracing the ethos of “daring to think, daring to act, daring to innovate for the greater good.”

Commitment must translate into action, with a clear principle: “What is said must be done, what is committed must be fulfilled; actions and implementation must deliver measurable, tangible results.” Guided by the philosophy that “the Party leads, the Government unites, the National Assembly supports, the people endorse, and the nation expects,” the approach is simple yet profound: focus on doing, not retreating; ensure tasks are completed thoroughly, decisively, and effectively.

The Resolutions of the 13th Party Congress, along with the Resolutions and Conclusions of the Central Committee, the Politburo, the Secretariat, the National Assembly, the Government, and the directives of the Prime Minister, have clearly outlined tasks and solutions across all sectors. These need to be implemented comprehensively, synchronously, and effectively by all levels, sectors, and localities under the principle of “clear accountability, clear tasks, clear responsibilities, clear deadlines, and clear results.”

Implementation should focus on several key priorities, ensuring resources and efforts are directed toward achieving substantial and measurable outcomes.

1. The focus remains on completing the institutional and legal framework to serve as the “breakthrough of breakthroughs,” creating a driving force for national development under the principles of “open policies, seamless infrastructure, and intelligent governance.” Priority will be given to fostering innovative thinking and development-oriented strategies to create new growth spaces. Efforts will emphasize modernization, digitization, transparency, and enhancing the efficiency of various markets. This includes implementing comprehensive measures to restore and ensure the healthy development of the real estate market and expediting the upgrade of the stock market’s status.

A decisive reorganization of governmental structures will align with the principles of “Streamlined – Compact – Strong – Functional – Effective – Efficient,” ensuring the restructuring and quality enhancement of public officials and civil servants, in line with Resolution 18-NQ/TW. Specific policies will encourage and facilitate officials and civil servants to “dare to think, dare to act, and dare to take responsibility” for the common good.

Administrative reforms and simplification of procedures will be further advanced alongside the development of e-government and the effective implementation of Project 06. Efforts to improve the investment and business environment will continue to ensure competitiveness at both regional and international levels.

2. Priority will continue to be given to vigorously promoting economic growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability, controlling inflation, and ensuring major economic balances. The capacity for analysis and forecasting will be enhanced, allowing for proactive, timely, flexible, and balanced policy management. Fiscal and monetary policies will be harmonized to unlock, mobilize, and use resources effectively, particularly from within the population.  

Efforts will focus on revitalizing traditional growth drivers, including investment, consumption, and exports, through targeted demand-stimulation measures. Simultaneously, breakthroughs will be made to foster new growth drivers, particularly in digital transformation, green transition, and the development of emerging sectors such as semiconductors, big data, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud computing. These initiatives aim to position Vietnam as a leader in future-focused industries, ensuring sustainable and innovative economic development.

3. The focus will be on developing a modern, synchronized system of strategic infrastructure. Priority will be given to accelerating key projects, ensuring the seamless connection of expressway networks with airports and seaports, and urgently implementing high-speed rail and urban railway projects. The goal is to complete 3,000 kilometers of expressways and over 1,000 kilometers of coastal roads by the end of 2025.  

Significant efforts will also be made to advance digital infrastructure, alongside urban, cultural, social, educational, healthcare, and sports infrastructure. Additionally, research and effective utilization of underground spaces, marine resources, and outer space will be emphasized to support sustainable and forward-thinking development.

4. Efforts will be intensified to drive industrialization and modernization, restructuring the economy while innovating the growth model toward greater application of science and technology. This approach aims to improve productivity, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness. Key sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services, will be developed with a focus on leveraging potential and advantages, applying advanced technologies, and transitioning toward green, efficient, and sustainable practices. Logistics costs will be reduced, and the untapped potential in various forms of tourism will be unlocked to drive growth.  

State-owned enterprises, including large corporations and conglomerates, will be made more efficient, while policies will be established to strongly encourage private sector development. Selective foreign investment attraction will be enhanced, aiming for deeper integration into regional and global value chains. This comprehensive strategy seeks to ensure balanced, sustainable, and innovation-driven economic growth.

5. Clear mechanisms, policies, and breakthrough solutions must be defined at both strategic and tactical levels to position high-quality human resources, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation as top national priorities, in line with Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW. These efforts aim to achieve significant breakthroughs, propelling Vietnam into a trajectory of rapid and sustainable development characterized by “catching up, keeping pace, accelerating, and surpassing.”

A comprehensive review of policies will focus on enhancing the quality of education and training while boosting labor productivity. The national digital transformation agenda will be accelerated, fostering the development of an innovation ecosystem that inspires and empowers the business community, entrepreneurs, and all Vietnamese people, both domestically and abroad. Special emphasis will be placed on mobilizing the energy and leadership of Vietnam's youth, encouraging them to lead boldly in driving the nation’s progress and aspirations to new heights.

6. Priority will be given to fostering cultural development in harmony with economic and social progress. Mechanisms and policies will be established to promote cultural industries and the entertainment sector while building a comprehensive value system for the Vietnamese people. Strong implementation of policies for those who have contributed to the nation, social welfare programs, and sustainable poverty reduction initiatives will ensure social security. Policies addressing ethnic and religious communities will be emphasized, promoting the spirit of “Dharma and the nation,” and encouraging a life that is “good in religion and virtuous in life.”

National target programs for building new rural areas, sustainable poverty reduction, socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous regions, cultural advancement, and combating drug abuse will be implemented effectively. The movement “Joining hands to eliminate temporary and dilapidated houses nationwide by 2025” will be intensified, with a target of completing over 100,000 social housing units, contributing to improved living standards and social equity.

7. Efforts to combat corruption, wastefulness, and negative behaviors will be intensified. Institutional frameworks will be further refined to address gaps and shortcomings in mechanisms, policies, and legal regulations. Transparency, accountability, and public disclosure will be strengthened to ensure effective oversight of assets and incomes of individuals in positions of authority.  

Inspections and audits will continue to be enhanced, with strict and decisive action taken against acts of corruption, waste, and other negative behaviors. These measures aim to reinforce integrity, strengthen public trust, and uphold fairness and efficiency in governance.

8. National defense and security will continue to be consolidated and strengthened to safeguard independence, sovereignty, and national interests. Development of dual-use defense and security industries will be accelerated, ensuring political security and maintaining social order and safety.  

Comprehensive measures will be implemented to curb crime, with a goal of reducing the number of social order-related crimes by 5%. Efforts to ensure traffic safety and improve the effectiveness of fire and explosion prevention and response will also be prioritized. These actions aim to create a secure, stable environment conducive to national development and public well-being.

9. Efforts will focus on enhancing the effectiveness of foreign affairs and international integration, deepening relations with partners to ensure substantive, efficient, and mutually beneficial cooperation. Strategic advisory and forecasting capabilities will be strengthened to proactively respond to challenges and safeguard national sovereignty and interests early, from a distance, and before crises arise.  

Economic diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and people-to-people exchanges will be vigorously promoted to support national development. These initiatives aim to elevate Vietnam's global standing and foster international partnerships that contribute to the country’s progress and prosperity.

10. Efforts to enhance information and communication work will be intensified, with a focus on policy communication. Campaigns will be strengthened to promote and replicate successful models, innovative practices, and examples of good people doing good deeds.  

The effectiveness of propaganda, public relations, and civic engagement will be improved through close coordination with the Vietnam Fatherland Front, political-social organizations, and community groups. These initiatives aim to foster social consensus, strengthen national solidarity, and contribute to the comprehensive achievement of socio-economic development goals and tasks.

*

The tasks set for 2025 and the years ahead are undoubtedly challenging. Building on nearly 40 years of achievements since the Đổi mới reforms, and with the spirit of solidarity, unity, high responsibility, and the self-reliance and resilience of the entire political system, the people, and the business community, under the leadership of the glorious Communist Party of Vietnam, our nation will undoubtedly overcome all difficulties and challenges. Together, we will strive to successfully achieve the socio-economic development goals and tasks of 2025, contributing to the highest possible fulfillment of the 2021–2025 Five-Year Development Plan.

We have unwavering confidence that the intelligence and strength of Vietnam, forged through our nation's proud history of struggle to build and defend the country over millennia, will continue to shine brightly. This enduring spirit will propel Vietnam to new heights, achieving even greater accomplishments in this era of growth, strength, civilization, and prosperity. As envisioned by our beloved President Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam will stand shoulder to shoulder with the great powers of the world.

Pham Minh Chinh
Member of the Politburo, Prime Minister