Size of Vietnam’s economy expands by 1.3 folds in three years: PM

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on October 22 highlighted the improvements in all aspects of Vietnam since 2016 while reporting on the country’s socio-economic situation this year and the development plan for 2019 to the National Assembly (NA) during its ongoing 6th session.

Addressing the opening of the session in Hanoi, the Government leader said the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 6.98% in the first nine months of 2018, and the whole year’s figure is expected to be higher than the NA’s target of 6.7%. 

The average GDP growth rate between 2016 and 2018 is estimated at 6.57%, compared to the target of 6.5 – 7% for 2016 – 2021. The expansion of consumer price index (CPI) can be kept below 4%, making 2018 the third straight year the CPI is under 4%.

size of vietnam’s economy expands by 1.3 folds in three years: pm hinh 0

He expressed his belief that basing on those attainments, all the 12 targets set for this year by the parliament will be fulfilled, and eight of them will be surpassed.

The Government leader said from 2016 to 2018, clear improvements have been recorded in economy, culture, society, environment, defence, security and external relations.

During the period, the size of Vietnam’s economy has increased by 1.3 folds while the per capita GDP has risen by US$440, and people’s living standards continually improved, he noted.

He stressed the achievements in all fields have reflected the right and drastic leadership and directions of the Party, the State and authorities at all levels. Efforts by the entire Party, people and army have greatly helped with enhancing the trust in society.

However, PM Phuc also admitted certain shortcomings, with subjective factors being the main cause.

Emphasising that there is no room for complacency in the remaining time of 2018, he affirmed the resolve to push on with the set tasks and solutions, keep a close watch on the international and domestic situation to make timely response, and strongly reform administrative procedures to further facilitate production and business activities.

The PM also pledged continued efforts to cope with natural disasters as well as climate change, fight corruption and wastefulness, ensure political security and social order and safety, enhance public consensus, and successfully realise the development plan for 2018 so as to create better momentum for the next years.

VNA

Other News

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

More than a year after the Politburo's Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development came into effect, expectations now extend beyond increasing the number of enterprises. The goal is to build a stronger business community with greater resilience, larger ambitions and the capacity to compete in global supply chains.

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam is expected to remain one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies in 2026, supported by resilient exports, strong investment inflows and an ambitious reform agenda, despite mounting global uncertainties, according to the World Bank’s latest Vietnam Economic Update released on May 15.

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Under a new circular, the exchange of greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits is conducted on the domestic carbon credit exchange through the carbon trading system, which is interconnected with the national registration system.

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

For biofuels, particularly E10, to develop successfully, stronger and more coordinated policies are needed, especially pricing mechanisms capable of creating a sufficiently attractive gap between E10 and mineral-based petrol, an expert has said.

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

The 12th Africa Forum for Investment & Commerce (AFIC 12) opened in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on May 9, drawing around 2,000 participants, including officials, economists, businesses, financial and development organizagtions from 43 African countries and international partners, including Vietnam.

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

The exhibition, which runs until May 9 at the Hanoi International Centre for Exhibition, showcases advanced products and technologies across a range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, drug manufacturing machinery and equipment, medical devices, hospital and clinic services and dental equipment.

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Leading the charge in this massive building spree is the new central city square in the core of the Thu Thiem new urban area. Spanning more than 20 ha, it’s the crown jewel of the Central Square and new administrative center complex.

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

The country’s stable political and economic environment provides a critical foundation for long-term sourcing strategies. At the same time, Vietnam has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up manufacturing, supported by a continuously expanding industrial base capable of meeting both high-volume demand and increasingly complex technical and quality requirements.

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

The update by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to its Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) on April 10, officially setting out import conditions for Vietnamese pomelos, is regarded as a major milestone in market access efforts.

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

The circular economy is no longer just a policy choice. It has become an inevitable trend for delivering sustainable and green growth, sharpening competitiveness at home and abroad, and meeting Vietnam’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. It is now a prerequisite to sustain long-term economic expansion, particularly in industrial production and supporting industries.

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Vietnamese fresh produce and processed foods are increasingly recognised for their quality, with items such as cashew nuts, coffee and spices gaining popularity among Middle East consumers. In 2025, Vietnam’s farm produce exports to the UAE exceeded 445 million USD, up nearly 24% year-on-year.