BRITCHAM MONTHLY NEWSLETTER_NOVEMBER 2026

• Dear BritCham members, partners and friends,
• October took us from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. In both cities, leaders from government, business and education joined us to discuss what the next stage of growth looks like for Vietnam and how the UK’s expertise and experience can support this. Here is a look back, plus what’s coming up this month.

On 29 October, on the sideline of UK-Viet Nam Business Forum, BritCham held a high-level meeting with Mr. Nguyen Cong Vinh, Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. The delegation was led by Mr. Warrick Cleine OBE, Chairman of BritCham’s British Corporate Advocacy Council (BCAC), and Ms Alexandra Smith, British Consul-General in Ho Chi Minh City. The discussion covered investment opportunities and priorities for future cooperation. The Vice Chairman welcomed proposals from HSBC, Unilever and Dragon Capital on support with bond issuance, global supply chains and the development of Viet Nam’s capital market and VIFC, and called for further meetings to discuss these areas of cooperation in details.

• Following this high-level meeting, business leaders, experts and senior officials from both countries joined the UK – Viet Nam Business Forum 2026 and engaged on one central question: what will it take for Vietnam to become a high income, high value economy by 2045?
• The forum opened with a keynote by Ms. Mariam Sherman, World Bank’s Country Director on Vision to 2045, followed by further keynote presentations and panel discussions covering economic growth, capital markets, and urban development. In the afternoon, interactive workshops explored these themes in detail.

UK Companies’ Potential to Help Realise Resolution 10

Capital Markets, preceded by a keynote on the launchpad for growth

A City Built for Growth: HCMC’s Road to 2045

• Discussions continued at the accompanying exhibition and over lunch, providing valuable networking opportunities for delegates.
• The day concluded with our signature Gala Dinner, bringing together business, government, and diplomatic leaders. Guests enjoyed British flavor food alongside fine drinks, accompanied by an impressive performance that made for a memorable evening.

• The Forum was supported by the British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and HCMC Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR). Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors BUV, Prudential Vietnam and Unilever; Gold Sponsors Arup, HSBC and KPMG; Silver Sponsor Dragon Capital; and all our in-kind sponsors.

• BritCham at the Autumn Economic Forum 2026
• This year, the UK–Vietnam Business Forum 2026 was recognised as an official side event of the City’s Autumn Economic Forum (AEF), held in Ho Chi Minh City on 26–29 October. BritCham-nominated speakers participated in various discussions at AEF, including:
• Mr Warrick Cleine OBE, Chairman of BCAC; Chairman & CEO, KPMG
• Mr Dominic Scriven, BCAC Member; Founder & Chairman, Dragon Capital
• Dr Le Anh Tuan, CEO, Dragon Capital
• Mr Nick Chong, Investor Advisory Leader for Southeast Asia, Arup
• See more details here.

• | VIETNAM EDUCATION FORUM 2026
• The Vietnam Education Forum returned to Hanoi on 6 October for its second edition, centered on the theme Quality & the Future of Education. Bringing together policymakers, academics, and industry leaders from the UK and Vietnam, the forum explored strategies to elevate educational standards and prepare students for an evolving global landscape.
• Highlights of the day included the launch of the landmark Vietnam Education Market Report and inspiring keynotes from UNICEF Viet Nam’s Chief of Education, Ms Tara O’Connell and University of London’s Professor Mary Stiasny. Morning panels examined key priorities around quality assurance, internationalisation, and graduate employability, while afternoon breakout sessions delved into career readiness and foundational skills in the age of AI.
• Thank you to the British Embassy and to all speakers, panellists, sponsors (British University Vietnam, City St George’s, University of London, Decision Lab, Uniadmissions) partners and every delegate who joined us. We look forward to seeing you next year.

[EXPLORE THE FORUM MOMENTS]

	The conversation continued over the following days. BritCham supported the British Embassy with the organisation of a reception at the British Ambassador’s Residence to welcome the UK Education Delegation, led by Baroness Smith of Malvern, UK Minister of State for Skills, and Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s International Education Champion.
On 8–9 October, BritCham and the delegation took part in the International Conference on Education Cooperation in the Digital Era and the Education & EdTech Exhibition (IECEE 2026). The event brought two days of panels and networking on the future of education. Our thanks go to BUV, British International School Ho Chi Minh City and City St George’s, University of London.

• As part of the conference, a high-level luncheon was held, at which BritCham Executive Director Matt Ryland presented the newly launched Vietnam Education Market Report to Baroness Smith.
• See more photos here: IECEE 2026; Welcome Reception

———————ADVOCACY———————

• BCAC at the Vietnam Entrepreneurs’ Day meeting
• On 12 October, Unilever and AstraZeneca Việt Nam represented BritCham’s British Corporate Advocacy Council (BCAC) at a high-level meeting with General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm. Only 20 foreign-invested enterprises working in innovative areas were invited alongside 120 domestic enterprises. The Minister of Finance expects FDI partners to accelerate digital and green transition and support domestic enterprises. 👉Explore the highlights

Welcoming the UK FCDO Minister for the Indo-Pacific

The BCAC delegation, including Warrick Cleine OBE, Dominic Scriven OBE, Nirukt Sapru, Christopher Jeffery, Jingfeng Xu, and BritCham’s Executive Director, attended a luncheon hosted at the residence of Consul-General Alexandra Smith to welcome The Rt Hon Baroness Winterton of Doncaster DBE, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Indo-Pacific at the FCDO UK, to Vietnam, with the participation of UK Ambassador Iain Frew and other distinguished guests.

———————UPCOMING EVENTS———————

• 
• BritCham’s Charity Football Tournament returns on Sunday, 15 November 2026 for a day of fast-paced football, friendly rivalry and fundraising for the BritCham Charity Fund. Supporters and spectators are warmly welcome.
• 
• 17/11/2026
• 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM (VN) – 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (UK)
• ONLINE VIA ZOOM
• SIGN UP NOW

• 26/11/2026 | 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM THE SHED SAIGON 178 Pasteur, Sai Gon Ward, HCMC Network with HCMC’s international business community over drinks and canapés. Win exciting prizes and enjoy an exclusive 20% off your Be ride. SIGN UP NOW

———————BRITCHAM WORKING GROUP———————

• Throughout October, BritCham’s Working Groups continued to bring members together to discuss key developments and priorities across their respective sectors.
• The Energy Working Group explored Vietnam’s evolving offshore wind landscape through a session introducing the Offshore Wind Investment Guide and discussing key considerations for the sector’s development. The Professional Services Working Group continued discussions around financial products and developments related to VIFC, while the Trade Working Group focused on practical challenges around customs procedures and CO requirements under the UKVFTA and CPTPP. Read more HERE.
• The Education Working Group also progressed its new structure with 3 streams covering K-12, Higher Education, and Vocational/Professional Education & English. The streams aim to create more focused platforms for members to discuss the specific priorities and challenges within each area and develop relevant activities going forward.
• BritCham’s Working Groups will continue to provide a platform for members to exchange insights and engage on issues relevant to their sectors.
• ——
• Upcoming WG Meetings
• PSWG: 25 November 2026, 17:30-19:00 – Monthly Member Meeting.
• Energy WG: 8 December 2026, 17:30-19:00 – MM#27, “Energy Asset Reliability: Preventive Maintenance”

———————WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBERS IN SEPTEMBER———————

	BluKonzept | Strategic Advisory & Ecosystem Transformation BluKonzept is a UK-based strategic advisory and ecosystem transformation organisation, connecting strategy, technology, people and partnerships to help organisations navigate complexity, accelerate innovation and create lasting value.
	POTENSO designs and organizes real-world projects for high-school & university students and businesses with the leading experts, counselors, and companies to provide interactive opportunities and practical experiences for career selection and building practical working skills.
	Éire Eatery & Bar is a modern Irish pub and gastro bar in the heart of Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City. We bring together the warmth of Irish hospitality, great food, great drinks, live music, and good company.
	Nestled in Mui Ne’s premier travel destination, The Cliff Resort & Residences warmly invites you to experience the ultimate coastal escape. From our 24/7 front desk and poolside bar to tailored tours and curated dining at Vista restaurant, every service is crafted with your utmost comfort in mind.

• Did you know your BritCham membership gives you access to exclusive privileges and special offers from our trusted partners? From business services to dining, wellness, and lifestyle experiences, there is a wealth of benefits awaiting you.

EXPLORE MORE

———————OTHER ACTIVITIES HAPPENDED IN OCTOBER———————

The Power of Access: Opening Doors for Women in Business, held on 20 October at Sofitel Saigon Plaza, marked Vietnamese Women’s Day and the launch of Open Doors, a 12-month programme pairing Vietnamese women founders with senior business leaders as sponsors.  Explore the moments [here]. Applications are open from 20 October to 27 November 2026. [APPLY NOW]
Business & Beyond: How Leaders Navigate Career Pivots in a Transformed World, held on 22 October at Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi and powered by BUV, brought professionals together to discuss career transitions, leadership and navigating change. Thank you to BUV, our panellists, Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre and Be.  Explore the moments [here].

———————LEGAL UPDATES———————

Vietnam’s evolving regulatory landscape presents both opportunities and compliance considerations for foreign investors. New rules strengthen close-out netting protections for qualifying interest rate derivatives and overhaul domestic and international corporate bond offerings, affecting financing structures, investor eligibility and disclosure obligations. Meanwhile, Frasers Law Company’s updated Power Investment Guide outlines investment opportunities, regulatory approvals, financing options and evolving policies in Vietnam’s power sector, including renewable energy and direct power purchase agreements.

See more at our website.

———————MEMBERS’ NEWS———————

University of St Andrews named the UK’s best university for 2027  The University of St Andrews has been named the UK’s best university in The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027, marking the third time in six years it has secured the top spot.   This achievement reinforces St Andrews’ international reputation for academic excellence, research and graduate success. Founded in 1413, Scotland’s first university brings together a global community of students and scholars, equipping graduates with the knowledge, critical thinking and perspectives to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Read more HERE.

Join us for the W’International Festival, BIS Hanoi’s largest annual community celebration and a special part of our 15 Years of Excellence milestone year. Bringing together students, families, staff, and partners, the festival showcases the diverse cultures and traditions that make our community unique. Enjoy live student performances and explore more than 70 stalls featuring parent-led cultural showcases, student-led projects, teacher-run games and activities, community partners, international cuisine, and festive Christmas shopping.  📅 Saturday, 28 November ⏰ 9:00 am–1:00 pm 📍 Hoa Lan Road, Vinhomes Riverside 🎟️ Free Entry

Symphonie de Cristal The festive season is drawing near, bringing the anticipation of joyful reunions and cherished moments yet to unfold. Inspired by the unique beauty of each snow crystal, Hôtel des Arts Saigon invites you to embrace “Symphonie de Cristal”, where French artistry meets Vietnamese heritage. – Festive Afternoon Tea at Café des Beaux-Arts. – Festive, Christmas, and New Year seafood buffets at Saigon Kitchen. – Fine dining Christmas and New Year set menus at The Albion. – Countdown Party at Social Club Rooftop. [EXPLORE MORE]

• YOUR FESTIVE RETREAT AT SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY AWAITS!
• Preferred rates for BritCham members starting from VND 48,400,000 for a 2-night stay
• Booking period: From now until December 22, 2027
• Staying period: From December 23, 2026 to January 7, 2027 inclusive
• Celebrate this festive season on the peninsula at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. Rooted in a sense of place, every stay takes shape around what matters most, from wellness and discovery to locally inspired dining and mindful living