EuroCham launches White Book 2025, outlining 5 strategic priorities for Vietnam's economy

With the theme “Administrative procedure reform and dual transformation: Realizing a green and sustainable economy ”, the White Paper introduces for the first time a cross-sectoral initiative framework, 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 (VAT) refunds and 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.

Delegates attending the Launching Ceremony of the White Book 2025 with the theme "Administrative procedure reform and dual transformation: Realizing a green and sustainable economy"

In addition, EuroCham’s 19 Sector Committees have made focused recommendations in key areas – from the semiconductor supply chain and green finance to sustainable agriculture and electric vehicle infrastructure.

With clear proposals, built on practical perspectives from the member business community, including dynamic SMEs and multinational corporations. These contributions are aimed at a common goal: creating a dynamic, modern Vietnamese economy that is ready to take the lead in global transformation trends.

Golden opportunity for Vietnam's economy to transform

The 228-page White Paper 2025 is published at a crucial time in the face of constant changes in the US's reciprocal tax policy and increasingly complex geopolitical situation. Vietnam, with its export-oriented economy, is under greater pressure than ever. Especially when neighboring countries can enjoy more attractive tariff incentives, Vietnam is facing an important turning point.

Mr. Bruno Jaspaert, Chairman of EuroCham, emphasized that under the leadership of General Secretary To Lam, Vietnam is striving to enter a new era, with an ambitious goal: to become a high-income country by 2045.

Despite facing many global obstacles, the Vietnamese Government's GDP growth target of 8% in 2025 remains unchanged, demonstrating its determination and strong desire for development. To realize this goal, Vietnam is promoting innovation, increasing investment in education, and effectively exploiting new strategic infrastructure to promote economic growth and develop a skilled workforce.

The 2025 White Book consists of 228 pages with practical recommendations and proposals aimed at sustainable development of Vietnam's economy.

EuroCham Chairman commented: "Although the current period is challenging – with rapid changes and increasing global uncertainty – it is also a golden opportunity for transformation."

Mr. Bruno Jaspaert, Chairman of EuroCham, said that in the context of a volatile world, Vietnam's "bamboo diplomacy" needs to be placed on a solid foundation with long-term and balanced economic alliances.

Vietnam needs to focus on strengthening its internal strength while effectively leveraging the advantages of its international cooperation network. EuroCham recommends that policymakers accelerate important reforms, continue to improve the legal framework; expand sustainable and trustworthy trade relationships, and effectively leverage the network of free trade agreements to attract more high-quality foreign investment flows; take decisive and timely actions to maintain its position as an ideal destination for high-quality capital flows, and make the most of Vietnam's strategic position as a gateway connecting the European Union and the ASEAN region.

Speaking at the event, EU Ambassador to Vietnam Julien Guerrier reaffirmed Europe's long-standing commitment to free and fair trade: "Free and fair trade is part of Europe's DNA – it is the foundation of our prosperity and competitiveness. The EU is determined to work with partners, including Vietnam, to respond to the new realities of the global economy."

Ambassador Guerrier also highlighted the upcoming milestone – the fifth anniversary of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) – as an important occasion to reflect on progress and renew shared goals: “The EVFTA has clearly shown that trade and investment flows can thrive when we build on a solid foundation. We need to make the most of this agreement to unlock its full potential.”

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/eurocham-ra-mat-sach-trang-2025-chi-ro-5-uu-tien-chien-luoc-voi-kinh-te-viet-nam-20250411185050775.htm