Japan is the biggest foreign direct investor in Vietnam with a combined investment capitalisation of US$35.4 billion. Two-way trade turnover between the two countries hit a staggering US$25.3 billion in 2013, of which Vietnam’s trade surplus was US$2 billion.
Many Japanese businesses have been operating in Vietnam since Vietnam implemented its open-door policy in the late 1980s.
According to the 2014 survey conducted by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), around 60% of Japanese businesses based in Vietnam gained profits and 70% of them plan to expand their operation because of the country’s high growth potential.
Fujitsu Group entered in Vietnam in 1993 as a pioneer in information and communications technology (ICT).
The Japanese delegation included representatives of 24 businesses in IT, banking, transport, production and distribution. They are particularly interested in ICT development in Vietnam.
Upon their arrival in Hanoi, they visited the Thang Long Data Centre (TLDC) of the global distribution system (GDS) company at Thang Long Industrial Zone to inquire into its operation. They said they are satisfied with the services and ICT infrastructure supplied by GDS.
ICT has made significant progress in Vietnam in recent years. Vietnam ranked fourth in Southeast Asia in the ICT Development Index, creating a firm foundation for the country to expand cooperation with foreign businesses, including Japanese.
During their stay in Vietnam until June 14, the Japanese delegation will also visit some domestic businesses and ICT centres.