Last year, FDI activities achieved significant results reaching a total capital of US$21.628 billion from newly licensed projects, a 54.5% increase against the previous year and much higher than the target of US$13-14 billion.

FDI projects also disbursed approximately US$11.5 billion last year, demonstrating an annual increase of nearly 10%.

Seven FDI projects have investment capital of a billion US dollars, namely Japan-invested Nghi Son Oil Refinery Project which has raised capital by US$2.8 billion.

Samsung is considered the success story of the year. It has implemented two new projects in Thai Nguyen and Bac Ninh with a combined capitalisation of more than US$4 billion and is committed to long-term investment in Vietnam.

In addition to leading world brand names, such as Samsung, Dutch Lady, Heniken, and Honda, domestic trademarks like Vinamilk, Traphaco, Hoa Sen and Truong Hai were also honoured.

The organising board said awardees are chosen based on criteria, such as the quality of products and services, environmentally friendly operation, and their contributions to the local community and the country in general through tax obligations for the State, employment generation, and their social responsibility

The Gold Dragon and Strong Brand Names Awards were initiated by Vietnam Economic Times in 2001 and has become an annual event for both FDI and domestic businesses.