What Sets Vietnam Apart in the Eyes of Swiss Investors: Beyond Growth Alone

After three editions in Switzerland, the Swiss-Vietnamese Economic Forum 2025 (SVEF 2025) will be held in Vietnam for the first time, co-organized by the People’s Committee of Da Nang City and the Swiss Embassy in Vietnam. The forum brings stories of capital, high technology, and long-term trust from European businesses into Vietnam. According to Dr. Philipp Rösler, Chairman of SVEF, Vietnam is at a pivotal moment in its integration journey.

A Bridge Connecting Vietnam to European Business Communities

How did the idea for the Swiss-Vietnamese Economic Forum come about?

About four years ago, Ambassador Ivo Sieber and I received a proposal from the Vietnamese community in Switzerland to create a platform for dialogue between the two nations. This proposal showcased the strong entrepreneurial spirit of the Vietnamese diaspora.

Despite differences in landscapes and cuisine, Switzerland and Vietnam share core values: diligence, discipline, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. These shared values laid the foundation for the Swiss-Vietnamese Economic Forum.

How does SVEF bridge Vietnam and European investors, especially as bilateral economic cooperation enters a new phase?

SVEF serves as a direct dialogue platform for businesses and economies of both nations. Beyond economics, it fosters connections among academics, scientists, youth, and media. Our goal is to build long-term trust and mutual understanding, especially as Switzerland and Vietnam near a Free Trade Agreement.

The current geopolitical and macroeconomic context favors bilateral cooperation. FTSE Russell’s recent upgrade of Vietnam from “frontier” to “emerging market” reflects the country’s successful reforms. SVEF aims to act as a bridge, helping European investors understand Vietnam’s long-term opportunities.

Why was Da Nang chosen for this year’s forum, and what role does it play in Swiss-Vietnamese cooperation?

Da Nang’s proactive engagement with us, including meetings at the World Economic Forum, built trust and cooperation. The city’s vision to become an International Financial Center (IFC) aligns with our goals. We’re proud to bring Swiss financial experts to support Da Nang’s IFC ambitions.

What key outcomes did SVEF 2025 achieve, especially for Da Nang’s financial and tech hub ambitions?

SVEF 2025 was highly successful, showcasing Swiss-Vietnamese cooperation. Over 300 delegates discussed practical topics like the Free Trade Agreement, Da Nang’s IFC development, AI, and startups. The forum highlighted the contributions of young entrepreneurs, fostering stronger bilateral partnerships.

What Sets Vietnam Apart in the Region

What do European investors value most in Vietnam’s business environment for long-term investments?

European investors seek stability: a clear legal framework and skilled labor. Vietnam offers these, along with a large market for growth. Da Nang’s commitment to FDI stability reassures investors.

What makes Vietnam more attractive than regional peers like Thailand or Malaysia?

Vietnam’s fast-growing economy and its people—diligent, disciplined, and creative—set it apart. These shared values with Switzerland build trust for long-term partnerships.

What are the key investment focus areas for Swiss-Vietnamese cooperation?

The focus has shifted to high technology: pharmaceuticals, AI in manufacturing, and deep tech. These advanced fields offer immediate collaboration opportunities.

How can Vietnam become a strategic destination for Swiss and European corporations?

Vietnam should leverage its skilled workforce and pursue a Free Trade Agreement with Switzerland. Investing in human capital and maintaining a rules-based order will enhance its appeal.

What institutional reforms should Vietnam prioritize to attract European capital?

Signing a Free Trade Agreement with Switzerland and maximizing existing agreements like EVFTA will position Vietnam as a stable, attractive market for long-term European investments.

Thank you!