The economic relationship between Vietnam and France has deep historical roots, evolving from colonial times to a modern partnership characterized by mutual economic interests.
As of 2024, France stands as Vietnam's fifth-largest European trading partner, reflecting a robust and enduring economic connection. In the first half of 2024, bilateral trade reached approximately US$2.5 billion, with Vietnam exporting goods worth US$1.58 billion to France and importing US$883 million in return, resulting in a trade surplus of nearly US$700 million for Vietnam.
This dynamic trade relationship underscores the significance of the partnership, which was further elevated in October 2024 to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a pivotal milestone in bilateral relations.
This enhancement not only signifies mutual trust but also opens new avenues for collaboration across various sectors, reinforcing Vietnam's strategic position as a hub for European economic expansion in Southeast Asia.
In today’s article, Remote Resources will cover the recent news of strengthening bonds between the two countries of France & Vietnam.
Vietnam-France Relations Reached a New Milestone in 2024
According to Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang, 2024 represents a historic breakthrough in Vietnam-France relations.
Party General Secretary and State President To Lam’s visit to France in October 2024 solidified France as the first EU nation to establish a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam.
This upgraded status underscores mutual trust and opens the door for extensive cooperation across several key sectors, including:
- Economic Growth: France remains a critical trade and investment partner for Vietnam, with French companies investing in high technology, renewable energy, and digital transformation.
- Defense Collaboration: Increased military exchanges and commitments in peacekeeping, mine clearance, and defense exhibitions illustrate the nations' deepening security ties.
- Cultural and Scientific Cooperation: Educational and research collaborations have fostered innovation, particularly in high-tech industries and scientific advancement.
- Long-term Strategic Cooperation: Vietnam is leveraging France’s leadership in the EU to expand its influence in European markets and global initiatives.
French Investments in Vietnam’s Infrastructure and Transport
Recent developments highlight Vietnam’s efforts to attract more French investment in critical infrastructure. On March 21, 2025, Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính urged French companies to expand their presence in Vietnam’s transport sector.
The Vietnamese PM made a particular focus on large-scale infrastructure projects, during his meeting in Hà Nội with Philippe Tabarot, French Delegate for Transport under the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion.
With the Nhổn – Hà Nội metro line already in operation and Airbus as the leading supplier of aircraft to Vietnamese airlines, new opportunities for partnership with France include:
- Establishing an Airbus maintenance and repair hub at local airports.
- Developing underground transport infrastructure, railways, and seaports.
- Expanding direct transport routes between Vietnam and France.
- Enhancing technology transfer and workforce training in transport management.
- Providing concessional loans for infrastructure development.
These initiatives align with Vietnam’s broader goal of reducing logistics costs—currently at 17-18% of GDP—to enhance national economic competitiveness.
Vietnam’s Growing Collaboration with Airbus in High-Tech Sectors
Beyond transport, Vietnam is fostering deeper ties with Airbus in high-tech industries and human resource development. During a meeting on March 14, 2025, between Vietnam’s Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyễn Minh Vũ and Airbus Executive Vice President International Wouter van Wersch, both sides recognized the potential for collaboration in:
- Satellite technology and aerospace advancements.
- AI-driven digital transformation and emerging technologies.
- Security, defense, and rescue operations.
- Science, technology, and educational partnerships.
Airbus’s 40-year presence in Vietnam demonstrates its long-term commitment, and its expansion plans reinforce Vietnam’s growing role as a key player in Southeast Asia’s technological and industrial evolution.
Remote Resources: A Strategic Partner for French Companies in Vietnam
As French businesses seek to expand into Vietnam, Remote Resources positions itself as an ideal partner for facilitating market entry and workforce integration.
Established in Vietnam since 2012 and managed by French team members, Remote Resources offers deep local expertise and international operational experience.
With an office in Bordeaux, France, the company provides seamless support for French enterprises looking to:
- Set up operations in Vietnam efficiently and compliantly.
- Leverage Vietnam’s skilled workforce for IT, engineering, and digital transformation projects.
- Ensure quality control and project management across offshore operations.
- Navigate regulatory and cultural landscapes to optimize business success.
With Vietnam and France entering a new era of economic cooperation, Remote Resources stands ready to help French companies unlock the full potential of Vietnam’s growing market, fostering successful and sustainable partnerships for the future.
Contact us today to learn more.
