Ho Chi Minh City's Ambitious Trade Boost Drives Dutch Investment
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's southern economic hub, is transforming its administrative system and infrastructure to boost trade and investment. The city's exports to the Netherlands reached nearly $13 billion in 2024, with bilateral trade surging by 43% since 2020. Dutch businesses are taking notice, with Royal De Heus considering relocating its Asia regional headquarters to the city.
HCMC Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc revealed plans to streamline the city's administrative system and accelerate digitalization to reduce bureaucracy. He also outlined projects for metro lines and industrial transport corridors to tackle congestion and lower logistics costs by 2035. These moves aim to position Ho Chi Minh City as an international financial center.
Meanwhile, Dutch businesses are eyeing opportunities in Vietnam. Royal De Heus, a global animal nutrition company, is considering relocating its Asia regional headquarters to Ho Chi Minh City. The move, expected to close in the first half of 2026, follows De Heus' recent acquisition of CJ Feed & Care's operations in several Asian markets, including Vietnam. This acquisition includes 17 feed mills in the country. De Heus CEO Gabor Fluit sees the relocation as a chance to strengthen Dutch-Vietnamese business ties.
However, Fleur Goote, executive director of the Dutch Business Association in Vietnam (DBAV), highlighted persistent challenges for foreign investors. These include lengthy and inconsistent procedures for licensing, customs, and regulatory approvals.
Ho Chi Minh City's transformation and growing trade with the Netherlands are attracting Dutch businesses like Royal De Heus. The city's plans to ease congestion and reduce logistics costs, coupled with its ambition to become an international financial center, present promising opportunities for investors. Despite challenges, the city's potential is driving interest from foreign businesses.
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