Vietnam – ASEAN Economic Cooperation Forum 2026

Vietnam – ASEAN Economic Cooperation Forum 2026 is an annual event held on April 18, 2026, at Marina Bay Sands (Singapore). The event is organized by the Asia Enterprise Business Centre in collaboration with the Vietnam–Singapore International Entrepreneurs Federation, the Vietnam Business Association in Singapore (VBAS), and the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore.

The event attracted strong participation from businesses from Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Laos, along with distinguished guests representing agencies and associations across the ASEAN region, including:

• Representative of the Singapore Trade Counselor
• Chairman of the Vietnam Advertising Association
• Representative of the Malaysia Trade Counselor
• Representative of the Laos Trade Counselor

Speaking at the forum, Mr. Cao Xuan Thang, Vietnam’s Trade Counselor in Singapore– noted that ASEAN is demonstrating strong resilience amid global economic fluctuations. Vietnam, in particular, is emerging as a dynamic and promising destination for investment and trade, thanks to its stable growth, young workforce, and increasingly competitive business environment.

The Vietnam–Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is considered a key driver, opening a new phase of deeper cooperation between the two countries. Vietnam currently has a population of over 100 million, with total trade turnover reaching approximately USD 930 billion. Its GDP in 2025 reached USD 514 billion, growing by 8.02%. Total registered FDI amounted to USD 38.42 billion, with Singapore being the largest investor at USD 4.84 billion, accounting for 27.9%.

Singapore continues to expand investment in key sectors such as industrial parks, high technology, logistics, renewable energy, and the digital economy. The success of VSIP industrial parks stands as a clear example of effective bilateral cooperation, contributing to job creation and sustainable development.

In addition, participation in free trade agreements (FTAs) has helped Vietnam expand access to major markets while positioning itself as a gateway to the nearly 700-million-strong ASEAN market. Vietnam is also strongly promoting digital transformation, innovation, and green growth, creating many opportunities in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, renewable energy, and high-tech agriculture.
Mr. Cao Xuan Thang emphasized that Vietnam is not only open for business but also ready for collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity. The Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore is committed to supporting international businesses in exploring the market, building connections, and investing in Vietnam.

Beyond panel discussions, the program also featured valuable insights shared by delegates, experts, and entrepreneurs from across the region. Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony took place between Arobid and IBF Vietnam Singapore. This is considered an important step in developing digital trade and investment promotion infrastructure, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to help Vietnamese businesses expand into international markets.