politicsliberal
Japan’s Leader Visits Hanoi to Revive Business Ties
Hanoi, VietnamSaturday, May 2, 2026
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to travel to Hanoi on Saturday for a high‑level meeting with Vietnamese President To Lam. The two leaders will focus on deepening their 2023 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which spans energy, technology, minerals and regional peace.
Japan remains one of Vietnam’s top foreign investors, with numerous Japanese firms operating large factories across the country.
Investment Outlook
- New Japanese investment in Vietnam fell sharply last quarter:
- First‑quarter figure dropped ~75 % YoY, to $233 million.
- Indicates a tougher business climate for Japanese firms.
Agenda Highlights
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Business Environment | Takaichi will push for a friendlier climate, addressing: • Delayed payments on completed projects • Difficulty securing bids for major infrastructure works |
| Nuclear Project | Japan withdrew from a nuclear power project last year due to tight construction deadlines. |
| Motorcycle Ban | Hanoi is reconsidering its ban on petrol‑powered motorcycles in the city centre, a move that has drawn criticism from Honda and could open new opportunities for Japanese automotive companies. |
| Trade Performance | First‑quarter imports and exports grew 12.3 % to $13.7 billion (Vietnamese customs data). |
Additional Meetings
- Deputy Prime Minister: Le Minh Hung
- Academic Engagement: Speech at Vietnam National University on Japan’s “Free and Open Indo‑Pacific” strategy
- Next Stop: Australia
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