Vietnam has recorded a significant surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first five months of 2025, with total registered capital reaching nearly USD 18.4 billion, up 51.1% year-on-year. This robust growth reflects growing international confidence in Vietnam’s dynamic and resilient investment climate.
According to the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the sharp rise includes newly registered capital, adjustments to existing projects, and capital contributions or share purchases by foreign investors.
Key highlights include 1,549 newly registered projects (up 14.1%), totaling over USD 7.02 billion in capital. 672 projects adjusted capital upward, with an additional USD 8.51 billion—3.4 times higher than the same period last year. 1,358 share purchases and capital contributions totaling USD 2.85 billion, nearly 1.8 times higher than the same period in 2024.
The manufacturing and processing sector continues to lead in attracting FDI, drawing in USD 10.39 billion or 56.5%of total registered investment, followed by real estate with USD 4.99 billion, more than double the amount in the same period last year.
In terms of source countries, Singapore maintained its top position with over USD 4.38 billion (up 30.1%). South Korea followed with USD 2.93 billion, 2.47 times higher year-on-year. Other major investors included China, Japan, and Malaysia.
Hanoi attracted the most FDI among localities, registering USD 3.2 billion (up nearly 2.8 times), followed by Bac Ninhand Ho Chi Minh City, both seeing investments surge over 2.5 times compared to last year.
Commenting on the trend, Sophie Dao, Lawyer and Senior Partner at GBS – Global Business Services, a leading advisory firm for foreign investors in Vietnam, said:
“Vietnam’s FDI growth is not only impressive in scale but also in diversification across sectors and regions. Investors are not just entering the market—they’re expanding their presence, which is a strong vote of confidence. With ongoing regulatory improvements, strategic free trade agreements, and a young, tech-savvy workforce, Vietnam remains a standout destination in Asia for sustainable investment.”
The Foreign Investment Agency emphasized that the continued rise in both new projects and capital expansion shows a deepening of trust in Vietnam’s economic stability and business environment, despite global headwinds.
As of May 31, 2025, Vietnam hosts 43,346 valid FDI projects, with total registered capital of USD 517.14 billion, and accumulated disbursed capital nearing USD 331.46 billion, or 64.6% of total commitments.
Meanwhile, outbound investment by Vietnamese businesses also increased significantly, with USD 317.3 million invested in overseas ventures, more than 2.3 times the amount in the same period last year. Key destinations included Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
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Source: Vietnam Insider