Jetro: Vietnam Becoming a Key Supply Chain Partner for Japanese Firms
Jetro’s representative in Ho Chi Minh City says Vietnam’s role in Japanese companies’ supply chains is growing, with cooperation set to expand into AI, digital technology and green growth. Japanese businesses are also focused on administrative procedures, policy implementation, talent and infrastructure.
Okabe Mitsutoshi, the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) representative in Ho Chi Minh City, said Vietnam has gradually evolved from a primary production base for Japanese companies into an important partner in their supply chains. Cooperation between the two sides is also expanding into technological innovation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
In the first nine months of 2026, bilateral trade between Vietnam and Japan reached $43.7 billion, up 15% year on year. Japan is Vietnam’s third-largest source of foreign investment, with cumulative registered investment exceeding $81.2 billion. Okabe Mitsutoshi said global economic uncertainty, changes in countries’ trade and industrial policies, and supply chain restructuring have made some Japanese companies more cautious about new investments, but many still regard Vietnam as an important investment destination.
During Tô Lâm’s official visit to Japan from November 8 to 11, the two countries issued a joint vision statement identifying four pillars for strengthening economic ties: science, technology and innovation; education and talent development; production and supply chain linkages; and finance and investment. A Vietnam–Japan public-private cooperation forum co-organized by Jetro was held on November 9.
Okabe Mitsutoshi said Japanese companies are exploring new opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital technology, green transformation and services. He said Vietnam needs to simplify administrative procedures, make regulatory enforcement more transparent and predictable, and strengthen the development of skilled workers and infrastructure to continue attracting high-quality investment.
Okabe Mitsutoshi, Jetro’s representative in Ho Chi Minh City.（VietVance）
Source: VietVance
