According to the latest report from the Foreign Investment Agency (Ministry of Planning and Investment), as of March 31, 2025, total registered foreign direct investment (FDI) into Vietnam reached USD 10.98 billion, marking a sharp increase of 34.7% compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive growth demonstrates that Vietnam continues to maintain its appeal as an investment destination, despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.
More new projects, but average capital size declines
In the first quarter of 2025, 850 new projects were granted investment registration certificates, with a total registered capital of USD 4.33 billion. While the number of projects rose by 11.5%, the total registered capital declined by 31.5% year-on-year, reflecting a trend of more cautious and diversified investment strategies by international investors.
The manufacturing and processing sector remained the top recipient of FDI, attracting USD 2.62 billion — accounting for 60.5% of total newly registered capital. Real estate came in second with USD 1.13 billion (26.1%), while other sectors drew a combined USD 581.5 million, or 13.4%.
FDI spread across 18 out of 21 economic sectors, manufacturing still leads
A notable highlight was the surge in additional registered capital. There were 401 existing projects that increased their investment capital, with the total adjusted capital reaching USD 5.16 billion — five times higher than in Q1 2024. This signals growing investor confidence in the Vietnamese market.
In the first quarter of 2025, foreign direct investment (FDI) made its presence felt across 18 out of Vietnam’s 21 national economic sectors, reflecting an increasingly diverse and comprehensive investment landscape. The manufacturing and processing industry continued to play a key role, attracting over USD 6.7 billion — nearly 61% of total registered capital — up 26% compared to the same period in 2024. The real estate sector ranked second, with over USD 2.3 billion in investment, accounting for around 21% and marking a strong growth of 44% year-on-year.
FDI disbursement in Vietnam in Q1 2025 is estimated to have reached USD 4.96 billion, a 7.2% increase over the same period last year. This is the highest Q1 disbursement since 2020, signaling a strong recovery and long-term commitment from foreign investors.
Among the 73 countries and territories with investment projects in Vietnam during Q1 2025, Singapore maintained its lead with over USD 3 billion in total investment. It was followed by South Korea, China, and Japan.
In terms of localities, Bac Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi emerged as the top three destinations for FDI inflows, reflecting a trend of capital shifting toward provinces and cities with well-developed industrial infrastructure, skilled labor, and dynamic investment policies.
The impressive figures in the first three months affirm Vietnam’s continued appeal to foreign investors, despite ongoing global economic fluctuations. With positive momentum, ongoing efforts to improve the investment climate, and accelerated administrative reforms, Vietnam is increasingly positioning itself as a strategic hub for production and investment in Southeast Asia.