Central and Eastern European groups offer collaborative spirit

Could you share the presence of Central and Eastern European (CEE) companies in Vietnam, as well as economic ties between the region and Vietnam over the past 10 years?

The past decade has witnessed a remarkable expansion of CEE businesses in Vietnam, transforming our region into one of Vietnam’s most dynamic European partners. From manufacturing and energy to pharmaceuticals and infrastructure, CEE companies have entered, thrived, innovated, and scaled.

Today, over many CEE companies operate in Vietnam, with investments exceeding €2.25 billion ($2.43 billion) across strategic sectors. Poland’s Adamed Pharma acquired and expanded production facilities, bringing European-quality healthcare solutions to Vietnam. The Czech Republic’s Sev.en Global Investments made history with its landmark energy-sector investment – the largest Czech investment in Vietnam and a benchmark for European energy collaboration.

Meanwhile, Skoda’s new manufacturing plant underscores our region’s commitment to Vietnam’s industrial growth. Austrian giants like Swarovski and ALPLA Packaging have strategically positioned their regional supply chains here, while logistics firms bridge Vietnam to global markets.

Notably, Doppelmayr, a world leader in cable transport, has reshaped Vietnam’s tourism infrastructure with iconic projects like Fansipan, Phu Quoc, Ba Na Hills, and many others.

Trade between CEE and Vietnam has surged, fuelled by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), high-level trade missions, and celebrations like the 75th anniversaries of diplomatic relations with key CEE nations.

While Vietnam maintains a trade surplus, we see untapped potential in renewable energy, agri-tech, and smart manufacturing – sectors where CEE innovation aligns perfectly with Vietnam’s future ambitions.

How do CEE companies take advantage of the EVFTA and Vietnam’s strong fundamentals to scale up their operation in the country?

The EVFTA has opened up exciting opportunities for CEE companies by significantly reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, allowing for smoother and more cost-effective access to Vietnam’s dynamic and fast-growing market. Many CEE firms are actively leveraging these advantages to expand exports, and also to build long-term partnerships, establish local operations, and integrate into Vietnam’s supply chains.

Vietnam’s strong economic fundamentals make it a natural destination for CEE companies seeking sustainable growth in Asia. We’ve seen particular momentum in sectors like green energy, smart agriculture, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing, where CEE expertise aligns closely with Vietnam’s national priorities. By bringing innovative solutions, technical know-how, and a collaborative spirit, CEE companies are not just doing business in Vietnam – they are becoming trusted partners in the country’s development journey.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Central and Eastern European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (CEEC). What has been its growth story to accompany companies in Vietnam?

The CEEC Vietnam’s journey began with a shared vision: to serve as a meaningful bridge between the CEE region and Vietnam. What started as a small group of passionate professionals has since evolved into a dynamic platform that fosters business collaboration and strengthens personal ties and cultural understanding.

Over the past decade, CEEC has become a trusted partner in Vietnam’s dynamic business landscape. We’ve worked closely with public and private stakeholders to ensure that the voice of CEE companies is heard and supported, while also contributing to Vietnam’s broader socioeconomic development.

Whether through facilitating investment dialogues, supporting sustainable initiatives, or building connections in sectors aligned with Vietnam’s national priorities, our efforts have always gone beyond commerce. What sets us apart is the depth of our engagement. We’ve supported the entry and growth of CEE companies in Vietnam, helped local partners discover opportunities in Europe, and continuously promoted mutual trust, shared innovation, and long-term cooperation.

As we mark 10 years in Vietnam, we look ahead with renewed commitment to deepening this partnership, championing shared values, and contributing to a prosperous future for both Vietnam and the CEE region.

What is the outlook of CEE companies to enhance business and investment activities in Vietnam?

CEE companies increasingly see Vietnam not just as a growing market, but as a strategic gateway to the broader ASEAN region. Vietnam’s continued economic resilience, commitment to international integration, and focus on key transformation areas – such as renewable energy, digital infrastructure, education, and supply chain diversification – create fertile ground for deeper and more meaningful CEE engagement.

The momentum is especially strong in sectors where CEE strengths align with Vietnam’s development priorities: clean energy, smart agriculture, ICT, advanced manufacturing, and food security. These are not only investment areas – they are avenues for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and sustainable partnership.

CEE companies are bringing with them innovation, reliability, and a long-term view, qualities that resonate well with Vietnamese partners. At the same time, they increasingly understand and respect Vietnam’s cultural dynamics, and evolving consumer needs.

We remain dedicated to nurturing this promising trajectory. We are expanding our role through facilitating dialogue, providing insights, and promoting cross-sector cooperation that goes beyond transactional business.

As we look ahead, we are confident that the next chapter of CEE-Vietnam relations will be marked by shared growth, sustainability, and deepening mutual trust.