Celebrating 50 Years of New Zealand and Vietnam: Exploring Untapped Potential

This year marks the golden anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and Vietnam—a significant milestone that highlights the robust and adaptable partnership between the two nations. As Prime Minister Christopher Luxon prepares for his official visit to Vietnam from February 25-28, this anniversary serves as a perfect backdrop for exploring new avenues of cooperation beyond the traditional economic hubs of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Luxon’s Vision: Broadening Trade Relationships

Since taking office, Prime Minister Luxon has placed a strong emphasis on diversifying New Zealand’s trade relationships, particularly within Southeast Asia. Accompanied by a delegation of senior business leaders, his upcoming visit aims to solidify bilateral cooperation while also shedding light on promising but often overlooked regions of Vietnam, which could offer fresh opportunities for collaboration.

Quảng Ninh: An Economic Gateway

Nestled in Northeast Vietnam, Quảng Ninh province serves as an essential economic linchpin. Renowned for its burgeoning tourism, anchored by the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, Quảng Ninh has developed modern infrastructure, including a new airport and an industrial zone tailored for foreign direct investment (FDI). With its strategic border adjacent to China, the province plays a pivotal role in coal mining, electricity generation, and international trade.

Quảng Ninh has successfully attracted 130 FDI projects from 20 countries, amounting to nearly $14 billion in registered capital. Notably, partnerships between local academic institutions and New Zealand universities are blossoming, opening avenues for collaboration in education, energy, and tourism. The province’s industrial strength and strategic position make it a prime target for New Zealand businesses eager to tap into new markets.

Nam Định: A Textile and Garment Powerhouse

Situated in the heart of the Red River Delta, Nam Định is a cornerstone of Vietnam’s textile and garment sector. This province was the first to establish a textile hub after Vietnam’s independence and continues to play a significant role in the nation’s manufacturing landscape.

According to the Asia New Zealand Foundation, Vietnam contributes NZD 1.67 billion to New Zealand’s imports, primarily in footwear and apparel. With its skilled labour force, efficient production capabilities, and high-quality materials, Nam Định offers an enticing prospect for New Zealand fashion brands seeking manufacturing partnerships.

Đà Lạt: A Coffee and Adventure Tourism Hub

Đà Lạt, located in the Central Highlands, is one of Vietnam’s top coffee-producing areas and owes much of its charm to its picturesque landscapes adorned with lush pine forests. As the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnam has cemented its place in the global coffee market, and Đà Lạt is at the forefront of this industry.

The city’s mild climate and rich outdoor culture mirror that of New Zealand, creating opportunities for collaboration in adventure tourism, such as trekking and mountain biking. Moreover, New Zealand’s strengths in agribusiness could lead to fruitful partnerships in sustainable farming practices and specialty agriculture.

Bình Dương: A Rising Industrial Hub

Just a stone’s throw away from Ho Chi Minh City lies Bình Dương, a province that has swiftly emerged as an industrial heavyweight. With over 30 industrial parks and state-of-the-art infrastructure, Bình Dương provides a compelling case for investors seeking cost-effective manufacturing setups.

This province hosts thriving industries such as electronics, textiles, furniture, and automotive parts, making it an attractive alternative for New Zealand businesses. Additionally, Bình Dương’s strong logistics network enhances its prospects as a trade and investment destination, further broadening the options available to New Zealand enterprises.

Beyond the Major Hubs: Opportunities Across Vietnam

While Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are vital to New Zealand-Vietnam relations, numerous other locations in Vietnam hold significant promise. Cities like Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An, and Sapa offer diverse opportunities for tourism, trade, and educational connections.

The Asia New Zealand Foundation emphasizes Vietnam as a rapidly growing economy brimming with potential. As both countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties, the call to explore these emerging regions is more pressing than ever. By broadening cooperation to these areas, New Zealand can enhance economic resilience and deepen its partnership with Vietnam, setting the stage for future growth and success.