Vietnam FDI 2026 Hanoi data confirms one of the most impressive investment performances in the country’s history. As of 31 July 2026, Vietnam attracted $38.06 billion in registered foreign direct investment. This represents a 58% increase year-on-year, according to the National Statistics Office. Moreover, Hanoi alone attracted nearly $3 billion in FDI in the first five months of 2026. Therefore, for businesses evaluating Southeast Asia as their next market, the numbers are impossible to ignore.
Vietnam FDI 2026 Hanoi: from capital city to investment powerhouse
Hanoi has long been Vietnam’s political and administrative centre. However, in 2026 it is increasingly recognised as a leading hub for high-quality foreign investment. Capital is now flowing in from over 110 countries and territories. Furthermore, major investing nations include Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the European Union. This signals strong international confidence in Hanoi’s business environment.
Additionally, the composition of investment is shifting toward higher-value sectors. Consequently, capital is concentrating in high technology, financial services, green energy and industrial real estate. For more on how overseas businesses are entering Asian markets, read our article on the Philippines Luzon Economic Corridor.
Record new projects licensed across the country
Vietnam licensed 2,429 new projects in the first seven months of 2026. Combined registered capital reached $21.05 billion. Furthermore, manufacturing and engineering posted the strongest recruitment growth of any sector. Hiring demand surged 70% year-on-year. This reflects production expansion, supply chain restructuring and sustained investment inflows in high-tech manufacturing.
Additionally, seafood exports reached $6.78 billion in the first seven months of 2026. This represents an increase of 11.5% compared to the same period last year. As a result, the agri-food sector is growing alongside technology and manufacturing.
Hanoi’s century-long development vision
In June 2026, Hanoi unveiled an ambitious century-long development master plan. Specifically, the plan outlines a strategic transformation of the city’s economic profile. The focus is shifting away from labour-intensive manufacturing. Instead, the city is targeting innovation-driven industries, digital infrastructure and green economy projects.
Furthermore, the Vietnamese government approved the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2026-2030 in July 2026. This sets out ambitious targets to build a prosperous, secure and AI-powered digital economy. As a result, Hanoi is positioning itself as Vietnam’s primary hub for technology investment and smart city development.
According to Vietnam Report CEO Vu Dang Vinh, stable macroeconomic fundamentals have created favourable conditions for businesses. Improving manufacturing, exports and investment are all contributing to this momentum. For further context, see the official data published by Vietnam Investment Review.
A strong M&A market is emerging
Alongside greenfield investment, Vietnam’s M&A market is entering a new phase. Specifically, capital flows are increasingly directed toward AI infrastructure and quality businesses. Investors are prioritising companies with strong foundations, powerful brands and long-term growth potential. Consequently, this creates opportunities not only for new market entrants but also for those seeking acquisitions or local partnerships.
Opportunities for foreign businesses in Hanoi
The combination of $38 billion in FDI, a clear digital strategy and a rapidly expanding manufacturing base creates multiple entry points. Therefore, the most relevant sectors for overseas businesses include the following.
High technology and digital services
Hanoi’s digital transformation agenda is accelerating. Moreover, it creates strong demand for expertise in industrial software, automation, cybersecurity and smart manufacturing solutions.
Green energy and sustainability
Vietnam’s energy transition targets are ambitious. Furthermore, they create opportunities in solar, wind, energy storage and smart grid technology. These are all priority areas under the country’s current investment framework.
Agri-food and food processing
Seafood exports are accelerating. Additionally, the government is focused on upgrading the agri-food supply chain. Therefore, companies in food processing equipment, packaging and quality systems have significant market access opportunities.
Financial and professional services
Hanoi’s business ecosystem is maturing rapidly. As a result, demand for international-standard accounting, tax advisory and legal services is growing. This creates a natural opportunity for professional services firms to establish a local presence.
Manufacturing and industrial supply chains
Manufacturing hiring demand is up 70% year-on-year. This is a direct signal that production capacity is expanding. Consequently, suppliers, equipment manufacturers and logistics providers are increasingly needed across the value chain.
How Kelmer Group can help
Entering Vietnam successfully requires the right corporate structure. Furthermore, it means understanding local compliance requirements and the regulatory framework that applies to foreign-owned entities. Kelmer Group has been supporting overseas businesses in Hanoi and across Vietnam for years. Our services include company incorporation, tax advisory, accounting, HR services and business matching with trusted local partners.
Contact our Hanoi team directly:
Kelmer Vietnam CO. LTD.
8th Floor, Anh Minh Building, 36 Hoang Cau Str. Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam
📞 +84 24 2282 7262
✉️ hanoi@kelmer.com
Source: Vietnam Plus — Registered foreign investment in Vietnam rises 58% in first seven months of 2026