AusCham Representatives Attend the Launch of Vietnam’s First FTA Index
Hanoi, April 8, 2025 – Representatives from the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (AusCham), Mrs. Natalie Fairlie - Vice President, Mr. David Whitehead - AusCham Director and Ms. Huong Tran - Advocacy Officer, proudly participated in the announcement ceremony of Vietnam's inaugural Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Index. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, saw the presence of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, senior government officials, and key stakeholders from across the country.
Vietnam’s First FTA Index
The FTA Index evaluates the implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) across Vietnam’s localities, providing a comprehensive framework for economic integration. Developed in coordination with various ministries and agencies, the Index focuses on four key pillars:
FTA Dissemination and Advocacy
Implementation of Legal Regulations on FTAs
Support Policies to Enhance Competitiveness
Implementation of Commitments on Sustainable Development
The top 10 localities leading the FTA Index in 2024 are Ca Mau, Thanh Hoa, Binh Duong, Khanh Hoa, Tra Vinh, Long An, Ha Giang, Bac Lieu, Ninh Binh, and Dien Bien.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s Address
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh highlighted the significance of the FTA Index in guiding Vietnam’s economic strategy. He remarked:
"The FTA Index is a new, quantitative, and systematic tool... providing a transparent and objective database for the Government, as well as central and local agencies, in directing, supervising, and operating integration work."
The Prime Minister further emphasized that FTAs are essential for driving domestic reform, expanding markets, and enhancing economic competitiveness. He stated:
"FTAs are engines for domestic reform, market expansion, and increased economic competitiveness. Effectively leveraging these agreements is essential to sustaining growth and elevating Vietnam’s global stature."
Looking Ahead
Vietnam’s 17 FTAs with more than 60 partners worldwide provide a strong foundation for future growth. The FTA Index will play a critical role in monitoring and optimizing these agreements to ensure sustainable economic development.
AusCham remains dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local businesses, and enhancing trade relations between Vietnam and Australia.
DOWNLOAD FTA INDEX HERE