BritCham Vietnam participates in the 6th Vietnam Connect Forum and Strategic Dialogues in Hanoi

HANOI, 13 May 2026 – BritCham Vietnam was pleased to participate in a series of events and strategic dialogues in Hanoi yesterday, focusing on the continued development of the investment environment and sustainable growth in Vietnam. 

Joining the working session with Central Policy & Strategy Commission 

The day commenced with a high-level working session between BritCham Chairman, Mr Denzel Eades, and Mr Nguyen Thanh Nghi, Head of the Central Policy and Strategy Commission. During this session, which included representatives from various international business associations, BritCham provided critical recommendations aimed at refining Vietnam’s investment landscape. 

Mr Eades emphasised that “unlocking” international capital is the vital catalyst for Vietnam to achieve its ambition of double-digit growth and reach high-income status by 2045. He noted that as domestic capital markets cannot fully meet these targets, the seamless integration of local and international funding is paramount. To ensure Vietnam remains a premier destination for high-quality capital, Mr Eades highlighted the necessity of policy predictability, transparency, and robust legal enforcement to foster long-term investor commitment. 

Shaping “New Generation FDI” at the Vietnam Connect Forum 2026 

In the afternoon, BritCham joined the 6th Vietnam Connect Forum (VCF 2026), a prestigious event presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang. Under the theme “Foreign-Invested and Domestic Economic Sectors Joining Forces for Breakthrough Sustainable Growth”, the forum brought together over 300 leaders from government ministries, local authorities, and global corporations. 

Representing the British business community on the panel, BritCham Board Member Mr Chris Jeffery shared insights on Vietnam’s shift towards “New Generation FDI”. He observed that Vietnam is at a strategic inflection point, moving beyond traditional manufacturing towards a sophisticated financial ecosystem. 

Mr Jeffery outlined six pillars for sustainable growth: 

– Regulatory Reform: Accelerating administrative streamlining. 

– Global Standards: Harmonising local practices with international benchmarks. 

– Human Capital: Developing high-skilled talent for the financial sector. 

– Green Finance: Deepening ESG integration. 

– Capital Markets: Strengthening domestic financial structures. 

– Ecosystem Approach: Fostering a complete professional services network (legal, audit, and advisory). 

Chris shared key recommendations for Vietnam to attract next-generation FDI alongside the development of an International Financial Centre (IFC), highlighting the importance of regulatory reform, talent development, and, most importantly, strong and consistent commitment from both the public and private sectors. 

Celebrating Excellence: The 25th Golden Dragon Awards 

Within the framework of the forum, BritCham was delighted to witness several of its member companies being honoured at the 25th Golden Dragon Awards. These awards, organised by VnEconomy and the Vietnam Economic Times, recognise outstanding FDI enterprises for their contributions to Vietnam’s development. 

We extend our warmest congratulations to the following BritCham members: 

– Standard Chartered Bank (Vietnam) and Ascott International Management (Vietnam): Top 10 Impressive Growth Enterprises 2025–2026 

– HSBC Bank (Vietnam) & Swire Coca-Cola Vietnam: Top 10 Sustainable Development Enterprises 2025–2026 

– United Overseas Bank (UOB) Vietnam: Top 10 Outstanding FDI Enterprises 2025–2026 

BritCham also extends its gratitude to Vietnam Economic Times for featuring the Chamber’s voice in their special issue published on Monday, 11 May. In the feature article titled “Growing in Significance”, Chairman Denzel Eades shared key insights regarding the surge in British investor confidence following the upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the strategic benefits of the UKVFTA and CPTPP. 

BritCham remains a steadfast bridge, bringing high-quality British investment and expertise to support Vietnam’s continued prosperity. 

Read the full feature in the Vietnam Economic Times, please visit: VnEconomy