EU–Vietnam Global Gateway Business and Investment Forum: A New Chapter in Collaboration
The EU–Vietnam Global Gateway Business and Investment Forum kicked off in Hanoi on March 24, uniting a diverse group of policymakers, financiers, and business leaders. This significant event serves to strengthen cooperation and explore new investment avenues in sustainable development under the theme “Investing together in a sustainable future.”
A Gathering of Key Figures
The Forum attracted around 500 delegates, including prominent Vietnamese officials like Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, representatives from the European Union, and leaders from various financial institutions and corporations. This high-profile gathering reflects the upgraded relationship between Vietnam and the EU, now officially a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership—an important milestone marking a deeper economic and political engagement.
Co-Organizers Focused on Practical Collaboration
Co-organized by the EU Delegation to Vietnam, the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance, and the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham), the Forum emphasizes bridging policy dialogue with tangible business collaboration. The focus areas include energy transition, sustainable transport, and green-digital transformation, which are critical for both regions’ futures.
From Commitment to Implementation
European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, emphasized the transition from commitments to actionable investments during his speech. “Earlier this year, we upgraded the relationship between Vietnam and the European Union to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Today, we are turning this into concrete investments that support Vietnam’s growth,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of practical outcomes.
A Landmark Investment Package
A standout feature of the Forum was the announcement of a €560 million investment package from the EU aimed at supporting Vietnam’s energy transition and overall economic development. This investment hinges on the acknowledgment that Vietnam’s future growth hinges on both a reliable energy supply and the generation of quality jobs.
Focus on Renewable Energy
At the heart of this investment package is the Bac Ai pumped-storage hydropower plant, a significant 1,200-megawatt project valued at about €900 million. This facility is designed to stabilize the energy grid, ensuring that renewable sources of energy can be efficiently harnessed and utilized, storing electricity during surplus periods and releasing it when needed.
Advancements in Sustainable Transport
Additionally, the EU introduced a €40 million Sustainable Transport Facility aimed at mobilizing over €1 billion in investments in rail and urban transport. This initiative is particularly promising, with plans to support major infrastructure projects such as the Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City high-speed railway. Commissioner Síkela asserted, “Europe has the experience, technology, and companies to support this. This facility will help turn these plans into concrete projects.”
Access to Sustainable Finance
The Forum brought forward significant developments in the realm of sustainable finance. A notable agreement was established between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Techcombank for €200 million to accelerate Vietnamese investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transport.
EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer highlighted the significance of these financial commitments. “These investments will deliver tangible benefits for citizens—cleaner air, more efficient energy use, better access to sustainable energy, and new opportunities for jobs and growth,” she stated.
Thematic Discussions on Sustainable Growth
The Forum included a variety of thematic discussions focused on sectors deemed essential for Vietnam’s sustainable growth, such as energy transition and transport infrastructure. A special emphasis was placed on integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards into investment and business practices.
Vietnam’s Commitment to Partnership
Emphasizing the importance of the EU as a long-term economic partner, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc highlighted the solid foundations built over three decades of collaboration, especially through the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). He reiterated the EU’s crucial role as one of Vietnam’s leading economic partners, underlining the increasing trade and investment flows that support innovation, green transition, and climate action.
Looking Ahead: Expansion of Cooperation
Phoc called for enhanced teamwork in several areas, particularly green finance, technology transfer, and high-quality investment, while urging EU member states to accelerate the ratification of the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). This step is vital in reinforcing investor confidence and fortifying the legal framework for bilateral investments.
Business Opportunities and New Deals
The Forum wasn’t merely a platform for dialogue; it also heralded new business and investment deals between European and Vietnamese partners in sectors such as transport, logistics, digital health, and industrial development. Additionally, the launch of EuroCham’s 2026 Whitebook provided crucial policy recommendations aimed at refining Vietnam’s business climate and facilitating effective implementation of major investment commitments.
A Broader Strategy for Sustainable Infrastructure
Taking place within the context of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, the Forum symbolizes a broader effort to mobilize capital—both public and private—for sustainable infrastructure and digital initiatives. This strategy is poised to play a pivotal role in assisting Vietnam’s transition towards a low-carbon and resilient economy.
Overall, this event highlights a pivotal moment for EU-Vietnam relations, marked by a commitment to shared growth, sustainable practices, and transformative projects that aim to benefit both regions significantly.