The event was co-hosted by RMIT University and the Southern Investment Promotion, Information, and Support Center (SIPISC), in partnership with the Foreign Investment Agency and the Ministry of Finance. With the theme "Attracting FDI to Vietnam in the era of transformation: A multidimensional dialogue for breakthroughs," the forum spotlighted Vietnam’s evolution from a low-cost investment destination to a hub of innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.

Vietnam’s impressive FDI journey

Vietnam is steadily emerging as a regional leader in high-tech, green, and digital industries, no longer relying solely on low-cost labor to attract investment.

Professor Robert McClelland, Dean of the School of Business, opened the forum by highlighting Vietnam’s remarkable FDI achievements. “Vietnam’s FDI story is nothing short of transformational. In the first half of 2025 alone, the country attracted over $21.51 billion in FDI, up 32.6% from the same period in 2024. This growth, driven by sectors such as manufacturing, real estate, green technology, and scientific research, confirms Vietnam’s rising role as an innovation and sustainable development hub in the region,” he said.

SIPISC Director Tran Thi Hai Yen emphasized the government's commitment to creating a transparent and competitive investment environment. Despite global economic uncertainties, Vietnam’s realized FDI in 2024 reached $25.35 billion - up 9.4% from the previous year and the highest in six years. This trend runs counter to global FDI flows, which declined by 11% to $1.5 trillion in 2024, according to UNCTAD.

Yen cited this as clear evidence of Vietnam’s growing resilience and appeal to international investors.

Multilateral dialogue fosters breakthroughs

In a key panel discussion featuring perspectives from international and domestic business associations, Sam Conroy, Chairman of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, highlighted Australia’s growing interest in infrastructure and supply chain investments in Vietnam.

“Recent policy reforms have significantly reduced risks for Australian investors, making Vietnam a far more attractive destination,” said Conroy.

J.P. Shriram, Chairman of the Indian Business Association in Vietnam, emphasized the untapped potential of Indian FDI. He advocated for a collaborative approach between the two countries, noting their dynamic consumer markets and mutual appeal as investment destinations. He pointed to the development of international financial centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang as a key draw for Indian investors.

From the Vietnamese business side, Huynh Thanh Van, Chairman of the Southern National Startup Advisory and Support Council and Chairman of S Furniture, shared how FDI partnerships are helping local firms move up the value chain and encouraging young entrepreneurs to innovate.

Associate Professor Abel Alonso, senior lecturer in International Business, spoke about the importance of cultivating a "high-quality FDI culture" in Vietnam. He noted that beyond incentives and infrastructure, transparent regulations, ease of doing business, and diversified investment sectors are crucial for investor confidence.

Dr. Dang Thao Quyen, Acting Deputy Head of the Management Department and Senior Lecturer in International Business at the School of Business, expanded on this view, stressing the importance of multilateral collaboration in driving high-quality FDI.

“FDI breakthroughs cannot come from one side alone. They require a collective effort from the government, domestic and foreign businesses, academia, and the next generation of professionals. Open dialogue, mutual listening, and joint problem-solving are the keys to delivering win-win outcomes. The future of FDI is no longer just about attracting capital - it’s about commitment, creativity, and shared goals,” Quyen stated.

As Vietnam continues to redefine its investment narrative, the 2025 Global Business Forum affirms the country’s readiness to lead in a new era of sustainable, strategic, and cooperative growth.

Tien Phong