UOB Vietnam outlines strategic priorities for FDI and sustainable development

As global capital flows undergo profound realignment, Vietnam must rethink its foreign direct investment (FDI) strategy, not only based on cost and scale, but on the ability to create long-term value.

At two high-level dialogues, Vietnam Connect Forum 2025 and the P4G Business Dialogue, UOB Vietnam reaffirmed its role as a strategic financial partner to both the Government and the business community in building an FDI ecosystem that is sustainable, innovation-driven, and deeply integrated into global value chains. 

Vietnam’s shift toward the next generation of FDI 

Mr. Lim Dyi Chang, Country Head of Commercial Banking, UOB Vietnam, speaking at the 5th Vietnam Connect Forum 2025.

Speaking at Vietnam Connect Forum 2025, Mr. Lim Dyi Chang, Country Head of Commercial Banking, UOB Vietnam, emphasized: "In an era of fragmented supply chains and increasingly selective capital flows, Vietnam must transition from a traditional capital destination into a strategic partner in the global FDI ecosystem, one defined by adaptability and long-term vision".

Critical enablers are key to sustaining Vietnam’s long-term FDI competitiveness:

• Infrastructure readiness, particularly in logistics, energy, and digital connectivity
• A stable and transparent legal and regulatory environment
• Strong public-private collaboration focused on talent development, compliance, and innovation.
• An open, efficient capital market and financial ecosystem.
• Steady growth of the middle class, powering both production and consumption.
• A strong commitment to sustainability and ESG standards
• An adaptive regulatory approach to the digital economy

To support our long-term growth, we are in the process of raising our charter capital to VND10 trillion and investing in a new headquarters building in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, marking a strategic investment that reflects our strong commitment to Vietnam.

ESG and Digitalization - From drivers to execution

At the P4G Business Dialogue, held on the sidelines of the P4G Vietnam Summit 2025, UOB Vietnam shared perspectives on the convergence of ESG and digital innovation.

According to the UOB Business Outlook Study 2025, nearly 60% of Vietnamese businesses have started pursuing ESG goals, yet many, particularly mid-sized firms, continue to face challenges related to transition costs, technical capabilities, and regulatory alignment. Meanwhile, almost 30% of businesses now list digital transformation among their top strategic priorities, with expectations to boost productivity, transparency, and competitiveness.

These dual shifts, towards ESG and digitalization, are closely interlinked. Realizing both requires capital, and capability to deploy it effectively. That is why we aim to allocate at least 30% of our new loan disbursements in 2025 to mid-sized enterprises committed to sustainable development. At the same time, we continue expanding green finance solutions across strategic sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, and exports.

Two recent examples:

• An MOU with the Investment and Trade Promotion Centre (ITPC) to attract high-quality FDI into Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor sectors.
• A Green Trade Finance Agreement with Nam Viet Corporation (NAVICO), supporting its Net Zero roadmap and raising ESG standards across Vietnam’s aquaculture industry.

Recognition for long-term commitment

Mr. Lim Dyi Chang representing UOB Vietnam in receiving the "Top 10 Sustainable development FIEs in Vietnam 2024-2025" award at the 24th Golden Dragon Awards ceremony.

As part of the Vietnam Connect Forum 2025, UOB Vietnam was recognized as ‘Top 10 Sustainable development FIEs in Vietnam 2024-2025’ and ‘Best Bank for FIEs in Vietnam’ at the Golden Dragon Awards 2025, marking the second consecutive year we have received this distinction.

This award reflects not only market trust, but also affirms UOB Vietnam’s positioning as a strategic partner, working alongside the Government and businesses to enhance Vietnam’s long-term competitiveness.