Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has received recognition from FTSE Russell for its recent reforms, particularly the issuance of Circulars 68 and 18, which eliminate the pre-deposit mechanism and bring the country closer to international standards.
Additionally, the implementation of the KRX information technology system, the introduction of new circulars on registration, depository, clearing, and payment, along with the legal framework accommodating new trading mechanisms, have been commended.
Significant measures have been implemented to meet the criteria for an upgraded stock market status.
In August, the Ministry of Finance introduced additional solutions to meet the criteria for an upgrade and facilitate foreign investment. They presented a draft decree to the government, proposing amendments to Decree 155. The amendments include a provision requiring public companies to complete foreign ownership ratio notifications within 12 months of the decree coming into force.
The Ministry of Finance is also collaborating with relevant ministries and sectors to revise the Investment Law and its guiding documents. The goal is to increase foreign ownership limits in sectors unrelated to national security and defense, thereby raising the cap for public companies.
Simultaneously, the State Bank of Vietnam is working on revising Circular 17 to create a more favorable environment for foreign investors. Notable changes include allowing authorization for financial institutions to open, close, and use payment accounts; eliminating consular legalization requirements for account opening; removing mandatory biometrics for electronic account opening and withdrawals; enabling the use of the SWIFT system; and reducing documentation and signature requirements.
The annual market classification results by FTSE Russell are expected to be announced on October 7.
Regarding the development of international financial centers, the Ministry of Finance is drafting two important decrees. One is about establishing international financial centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, and the other provides financial policy guidance on taxes, investment incentives, securities, insurance, and capital markets.
These drafts have been circulated for feedback from various ministries, sectors, localities, and relevant organizations. The Ministry of Finance has forwarded the drafts to the Ministry of Justice for appraisal and is currently finalizing them for submission to the government.
“A Surging Foreign Investment Tide: Vietnam Attracts $26.14 Billion FDI in Eight Months, Up 27.3% Year-on-Year”
As per the latest figures released by the Statistics Bureau, foreign investment registered in Vietnam as of August 31, 2025, including newly registered capital, additional capital, and capital contributions and share purchases by foreign investors, totaled $26.14 billion, a surge of 27.3% compared to the same period last year.
The Ultimate Capital Magnet: Unveiling Vietnam’s Top FDI Destination of 2025
As of August 31, 2025, foreign investment in Vietnam has reached impressive new heights. The latest figures from the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance reveal a total registered foreign investment of 26.14 billion USD. This encompasses new registrations, adjusted capital investments, and the value of capital contributions and share purchases by foreign investors. This significant figure marks a notable 27.3% increase compared to the same period last year, showcasing Vietnam’s growing appeal as a global investment destination.








































