Investing in Vietnam in 2026
East Asia & Pacific
54
Score
Moderate Investment Destination
Growing economy with manageable risks - suitable for diversified portfolios
Vietnam earns an investment score of 54/100, placing it in the moderate category for global investors. Growing economy with manageable risks - suitable for diversified portfolios. The country's standout dimensions are growth potential (80/100) and economic health (62/100), with overall GDP of $430B and per-capita output of $4,300. Growth is running at 6.5% with 4.5% of GDP arriving as foreign direct investment. Inflation is contained at 3.5%. The sovereign holds a BB+ credit rating, generally considered below investment-grade but still serviceable for diversified portfolios. Investment opportunities cluster around Manufacturing (sector score 85/100, currently growing), which represents 33% of GDP. Trade openness sits at 200% of GDP, a useful proxy for how integrated Vietnam is with the global economy.
How Vietnam's investment score has evolved over time
Manufacturing
33% of GDP, growing
Electronics
18% of GDP, growing
Tourism
7% of GDP, growing
Agriculture
12% of GDP, stable
World Bank Governance Indicators (-2.5 to +2.5, higher is better)
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Is Vietnam a safe country to invest in?
Vietnam carries a moderate risk rating with an overall investment score of 54/100. Growing economy with manageable risks - suitable for diversified portfolios. Sub-scores: economic health 62/100, political stability 42/100, business climate 52/100, financial strength 52/100, growth potential 80/100.
What is Vietnam's sovereign credit rating?
Vietnam holds a credit rating of BB+, reflecting its ability to meet sovereign debt obligations. Credit ratings are a key signal of macro-financial health and a prerequisite many institutional investors require before allocating capital.
What are the strongest sectors for investment in Vietnam?
The top investment sectors in Vietnam are Manufacturing, Electronics, Tourism. Manufacturing leads with a sector score of 85/100 and represents 33% of GDP. Its current trend is growing.
What is Vietnam's GDP growth rate?
Vietnam's most recent GDP growth was 6.5%, with total GDP of $430B and GDP per capita of $4,300. Inflation is running at 3.5% and the current account balance is 2.0% of GDP.
How does Vietnam score on governance and rule of law?
On the World Bank Governance Indicators (scale -2.5 to +2.5, higher is better), Vietnam scores: political stability 0.2, rule of law -0.1, corruption control -0.3, and regulatory quality -0.2.
Can foreigners invest in Vietnam?
Most industries in Vietnam are open to foreign direct investment, though specific sectors may require a local partner, government approval, or special licensing. Consult a qualified local advisor for restrictions that apply to your sector.
What is foreign direct investment (FDI) like in Vietnam?
Foreign Direct Investment in Vietnam runs at 4.5% of GDP, while the trade openness ratio (exports + imports as a share of GDP) stands at 200%. These figures show how integrated Vietnam is with the global economy and how welcoming it has been to international capital.
What is the public debt level in Vietnam?
Vietnam's government debt stands at 38% of GDP. This is a relatively conservative debt load, supporting fiscal flexibility.