Vietnam

Doanh nghiệp điện tử lo thiếu nguyên vật liệu

VTV News | Local Language | News | April 25, 2025 | Supply Chain Issues

Electronics businesses in Vietnam are grappling with challenges stemming from a shortage of rare earth materials, which are crucial for the production of various products like cars, phones, and televisions. Current regulations require Chinese rare earth mining and processing companies to obtain export licenses from the Ministry of Commerce, a process that can extend from 45 days to several months. As a result, many electronics firms in Vietnam report their rare earth reserves are only sufficient for one month of production.

Mr. Lee Jong Young, General Director of Haesung Vina Company, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that a prolonged export restriction could leave companies without the necessary semiconductor materials, impacting various sectors, including automobiles and home appliances. Mr. Kim In Woo, Vice President of the Korean Business Association in Vietnam, noted that over 70% of input materials for the electronics industry are imported, emphasizing that any disruption in the supply chain could lead to production delays and increased costs for businesses.

In response to these challenges, Korean businesses are taking steps to diversify their supply chains and enhance technological independence. The Korean government has introduced the "Basic Law on Supply Chains," aiming to reduce reliance on foreign raw materials to below 50% by 2030. This strategy includes diversifying import sources and localizing essential technologies. Businesses are also advised to stockpile essential raw materials and seek alternative supply sources. Additionally, there are calls for the Vietnamese government to implement policies that foster the development of a supportive industrial ecosystem and attract investment to boost localization and lessen dependency on imports.

Nắng nóng gay gắt, Thủ tướng có chỉ đạo mới về cung ứng điện

Dantri | Local Language | News | April 25, 2025 | Climate Change

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has signed Official Dispatch No. 49, outlining urgent measures to ensure electricity supply during the peak hot season. The electricity load is projected to grow by 12.2% this year, reaching a national maximum capacity of 54,510 MW, an increase of 11.3% compared to 2024. In response, the Prime Minister has directed relevant ministries and energy corporations to approve this year's electricity supply and operational plans, enhance management oversight, and expedite the operation of power projects.

The Minister of Industry and Trade has been tasked with implementing the revised Power Plan 8 and must deliver a comprehensive plan by May 10. This minister is accountable for ensuring adequate electricity supply for economic activities and daily life. Additionally, the Ministry is to strengthen its supervision of power projects, promote electricity-saving measures, and support the development of self-generated rooftop solar power.

The Minister of Agriculture and Environment will oversee hydropower reservoir management, ensuring maximum water reserves for power generation during peak periods. Furthermore, the Minister of Finance will monitor the coordination among key energy companies to manage electricity contracts and resource supplies effectively. All involved entities are instructed to prevent corruption and waste, provide stable operations, and address issues promptly to maintain the operational efficiency of power generation during high-demand months.

IMF hạ dự báo tăng trưởng toàn cầu

VN Express | Local Language | News | April 25, 2025 | UndeterminedEconomic Growth

On April 22, 2025, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its updated Economic Outlook Report, revealing a reduction in its global economic growth forecast for the year from 3.3% to 2.8%, marking the lowest projection since the onset of the pandemic. The decline is attributed to policy instability and escalating trade tensions worldwide. Last year, the global GDP grew by 3.3%. The growth forecasts for the world's two largest economies, the US and China, have also been revised downward.

For the US, the new GDP growth forecast is 1.8%, a drop from last year's 2.8%. Concurrently, inflation has been adjusted upward due to rising import costs. In China, the IMF lowered its growth projection to 4% for both this year and next, down from 4.6% in the January report. The Chinese government has set a growth target of around 5% for the year, contrasting with the IMF's outlook.

In the eurozone, economic growth projections are similarly bleak, with Germany facing potential stagnation and France and Italy expected to see GDP growth of less than 1%. Japan's growth forecast has also decreased to 0.6%, down from 1.1% earlier in the year. The IMF identified the newly announced import tariffs from the US and other nations as a significant shock to global growth, while policy unpredictability further complicates economic forecasting.

Earlier in April, the US President introduced import tariffs of 10% on most trading partners, with higher reciprocal tariffs suspended for 90 days to facilitate negotiations. Positive developments include rapid negotiation progress, as indicated by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, with meetings scheduled between the US trade negotiating team and 34 countries. The President expressed hope that a trade deal with China could lead to a substantial reduction in tariffs imposed on Chinese goods.