European businesses pledge to accompany Vietnam

Join hands for Vietnam's development

The European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam’s White Book 2025 comes at a pivotal time. With the US’s constant changes in reciprocal tax policies and the increasingly complex geopolitical situation, Vietnam’s export-oriented economy is under greater pressure than ever. While most businesses have yet to change their investment strategies, the need for bold reforms to boost confidence and enhance national competitiveness is becoming increasingly urgent.

Mr. Bruno Jaspaert, Chairman of EuroCham, shared that the European business community - represented by EuroCham - has always been a stable partner, focusing on sustainable values ​​and committed to long-term companionship with Vietnam.

EuroCham's White Paper 2025 introduces a cross-sectoral framework of initiatives, revolving around five "strategic priorities" that Vietnam needs to focus on reforming. Photo: QL

“ We are not simply sending policy recommendations, but working together to create positive change ,” said Jean-Jacques Bouflet, EuroCham Vice President in charge of policy advocacy, adding, “ EuroCham’s industry subcommittees are committed to accompanying Vietnam on its long-term development journey .”

Mr. Julien Guerrier, EU Ambassador to Vietnam, expressed optimism and called on both sides to seize the opportunity.

“ The EU and Vietnam can absolutely work together to turn current challenges into new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment ,” said Ambassador Guerrier.

European businesses need to take advantage of Vietnam's strategic position

In its 16th edition of the White Paper 2025, EuroCham recommends that policymakers accelerate key reforms while making the most of Vietnam’s strategic position as a gateway between the European Union and the ASEAN region.

With practical, sector-specific recommendations, this publication focuses on the core question: How can Vietnam continue to attract and retain foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in 2025, while promoting sustainable growth with a long-term vision?

For the first time, the White Paper introduces a cross-sectoral framework of initiatives, revolving around five “strategic priorities” – key areas that need to be improved to enhance the transparency, efficiency and attractiveness of the business environment in Vietnam. Specifically, the priorities include: Visa policy; immigration procedures and airport infrastructure; work permits; value-added tax refunds; customs procedures.

These are systemic bottlenecks that have long been identified by the European business community as barriers to operations and investment expansion. Improving these areas would significantly reduce cumbersome administrative procedures, strengthen the confidence of international investors, and enhance the long-term competitiveness of the Vietnamese economy.

According to EuroCham representatives, the decisions made today will shape Vietnam’s development trajectory for decades to come. By accelerating reforms and adopting advanced policies in line with international practices, Vietnam can take shortcuts, get ahead of the curve, accelerate the economic transformation process, and ensure that all development achievements bring practical benefits to the people.

The upcoming visits to Vietnam by EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, together with plans to upgrade EU-Vietnam diplomatic relations, will be important milestones on the road to a shared prosperous future.

Quang Loc

Source: https://congthuong.vn/doanh-nghiep-chau-au-cam-ket-dong-hanh-voi-viet-nam-382569.html