Following the questioning session of the ministers of Finance and Education, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh appeared before the National Assembly to clarify a number of issues of deputies’ concern.

Binh stated that the socio-economic situation in the first six months showed positive signals, with growth promoted, macroeconomic stability maintained, inflation controlled, and major economic balances ensured. Many indicators outperformed the same period last year.

He noted that Q2 GDP is expected to reach about 7.6 percent compared to the same period, with the first half of the year projected at around 7.3 percent (against a target of 7.58 percent), placing Vietnam among the highest-growing economies regionally and globally. All three sectors - agriculture, industry, and services - maintained strong growth momentum.

FDI attraction remains a highlight, with total registered capital estimated at over $20 billion and implemented capital at about $12 billion, reinforcing Vietnam’s appeal to foreign investors.

Binh affirmed that international organizations continue to view Vietnam’s economic prospects positively. However, he admitted there are still limitations, shortcomings, and numerous challenges, as pointed out by National Assembly deputies.

He described the 8 percent growth target for 2025 as a significant challenge.

In terms of investment, Vietnam strives for the 100 percent disbursement of public investment capital, particularly accelerating the progress of key national projects. Binh emphasized the need to promote harmonious, sustainable trade with the US, China, and major partners.

On consumption, mechanisms and policies on taxes and credit will be refined to boost purchasing power and stimulate demand. The fight against smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit, and substandard goods will be intensified.

He proposed establishing free trade zones in certain localities and studying the "duty-free port" model. Additionally, policies to exploit outer space, marine space, and underground resources should be explored.

Timely appointment of new provincial leadership

To ensure the smooth operation of two-tier local government from July 1, the Government will manage the 2025 staffing quota, and streamline personnel while restructuring officials and public employees. Policies for officials, public employees, workers, and armed forces affected by organizational restructuring will be addressed.

Arrangements of offices, vehicles, and working conditions for new provincial and communal agencies will be made. Surplus public assets and offices post-restructuring will be reviewed and managed efficiently. Decisions to appoint chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of People’s Committees in new provinces and cities will be made promptly.

Regarding law-making and enforcement, Binh said the Party, National Assembly and Government have devoted significant time and resources on this work, viewing this as a "breakthrough of breakthroughs" to create new growth drivers and unlock resources for rapid, sustainable development. The task of drafting regulations to guide newly enacted laws is substantial.

As for key national projects, by year-end, the Government aims to open the expressway from Cao Bang to Ca Mau, substantially complete Long Thanh International Airport, and start construction on the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway, the Vinh - Thanh Thuy section of the Hanoi-Vientiane expressway, the Ca Mau – Dat Mui expressway, the Tan Phu – Bao Loc – Lien Khuong expressway, and Hon Khoai port.

To mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2, the Government is preparing to inaugurate or commence at least 80 significant new projects.

In the first five months, the Ministry of Public Security uncovered and dismantled numerous rings producing and trading counterfeit milk, food, medicines, and health supplements, as well as goods infringing intellectual property rights on a large scale. Over 40,000 cases of smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeit goods were handled, generating VND6,583 billion in state revenue, with 1,737 cases and 3,043 individuals prosecuted.

During a high-intensity crackdown campaign (May 15–June 15), over 10,400 cases were detected and handled, with seized goods valued at over VND4,000 billion, state revenue of over VND1,200 billion collected, and 204 cases with 378 suspects prosecuted.

Binh noted, however, that smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit goods, and intellectual property violations remain complex.

The Government will continue to effectively combat smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeit goods, resolutely curbing crime with a "no leniency, no no-enter zones" approach. He stressed the need to address shortcomings in inspection, supervision, and post-clearance audits, and to strictly deal with corrupt or complicit officials.

Efforts will be intensified to encourage businesses and citizens to actively participate in early detection, prevention, and grassroots-level action against violations.

Tran Thuong