Expanding into a neighbouring country can look straightforward on paper. The markets may be geographically close, consumers may share some similarities, and a business model that works at home can appear easy to replicate. Central Group’s experience in Vietnam tells a more interesting story. The Thai retail giant entered Vietnam in 2012 and has spent more than a decade building a business that combines elements of its Thai model with a strong focus on local consumers. Today,

Located in Vinhome Central Park, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most sought-after residential developments, this 3-bedroom apartment offers a comfortable and spacious living environment in a well-connected area of the city. The residence provides easy access to restaurants, shops, green spaces and everyday amenities, while remaining close to the city centre. The apartment features 3 bedrooms and 115 sqm of living space, making it a great option for families or professionals lookin

Immigration rules across Southeast Asia continue to evolve, with September 2026 bringing important changes for foreign residents, business travellers and companies managing international employees. This month, Vietnam is moving further towards digital immigration management, while Thailand is tightening its visa-exemption framework. Here is what expatriates and employers need to know. Vietnam: New Immigration Rules and Digital ID Access New rules for foreign nationals from Se

Southeast Asia is no longer simply the next destination considered by international companies looking for growth. For many of them, the region is now an integral part of their strategy. Fast-growing consumer markets, expanding industrial capabilities, a young workforce, and an increasingly connected economic environment: the arguments are numerous. But establishing a presence in Southeast Asia is not simply about choosing the country with the lowest costs or the one with the

With nearly 102 million inhabitants, a growing middle class, and an international population concentrated in its major cities, Vietnam offers a particularly attractive environment for restaurant entrepreneurs. In Ho Chi Minh City, the culinary scene has expanded considerably in recent years, driven by both Vietnamese consumers and an increasingly international population. But behind this apparent ease lies a much less obvious reality: opening a restaurant in Vietnam is not si

Located on the 12th floor of Q2 in Thao Dien, this spacious and stylish apartment offers 166 sqm of comfortable living space, making it an ideal home for families or professionals looking for a premium residence in one of Ho Chi Minh City's most desirable expat areas. The apartment features 4 bedrooms and is fully furnished, offering a comfortable and ready-to-move-in living environment. Residents have access to a shared swimming pool and gym, providing convenient facilities

Immigration regulations are evolving rapidly across Southeast Asia. In 2026, Vietnam, Thailand, and, to a lesser extent, Laos have updated their procedures to better regulate international travel, strengthen border security, and modernize administrative processes. For companies, investors, expatriates, and business travelers, these changes require more thorough preparation to ensure compliance and avoid any travel disruptions. Vietnam: Increasingly Digitalized Procedures Sinc

When people think of Vietnam, its gastronomy is almost always one of the first things that comes to mind. Pho, banh mi, bun cha, and Vietnamese coffee are now known far beyond the country's borders. But behind this reputation lies a broader reality: gastronomy has become a genuine economic driver, supported by the country's growth, the expansion of tourism, urbanization, and the increasing arrival of international investors and talent. The restaurant industry is now undergoin

Vietnam is attracting an increasing number of expatriates and international professionals, making it one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic destinations. The immigration reform that came into effect on July 1, 2026, introducing new visa categories for highly skilled professionals, is the latest example of this trend. However, a successful relocation involves much more than finding a home in Hanoi or negotiating an employment contract. Settling into a new country also means unde

Discover this beautiful colonial-style villa located in a peaceful and secure residential compound of around 30 exclusive villas in the Tran Nao area. The property features 4 spacious bedrooms, offering plenty of space for families or professionals looking for comfort and privacy. Residents enjoy access to a shared swimming pool and gym, creating the perfect balance between relaxation and convenience. Ideally located next to the local market, the villa provides easy access to

Vietnamese sport is becoming an industry For a long time, sport in Vietnam was seen mainly as a matter of public policy, education, or entertainment. Yet a quieter transformation is underway: sport in Vietnam is gradually becoming a standalone economic sector. Today, Vietnam’s sports economy is worth between $1.5 and $2.5 billion. That size remains modest compared with Asia’s largest markets, but it conceals a particularly dynamic momentum. Manufacturing, media, sponsorship,

From July 1, 2026, Vietnam will implement a new set of immigration measures. Behind this reform lies a clear objective: to attract more international talent, investors, and highly qualified experts while continuing to modernize its administrative procedures. This development marks a new stage in the country's strategy. Long perceived primarily as a tourist or industrial destination, Vietnam is now openly pursuing its ambition to become a major regional hub for technology, inn

Vietnam is attracting attention. In 2025, the country recorded GDP growth of 8.02%, driven by exports, public investment, and domestic consumption. Disbursed foreign direct investment also increased, reaching $27.6 billion. Although the World Bank forecasts a slowdown to 6.8% in 2026, the country remains one of the most dynamic markets in Southeast Asia. This momentum creates a strong impression: in Vietnam, some markets still appear open to those who arrive early, take the t

Vietnam’s art market is attracting growing attention. Artists are gaining visibility, foreign collectors are showing increasing interest, and some works are now reaching notable prices on the international stage. But behind this momentum, the market remains unevenly structured. It is within this environment that Donovan and Marine, two French art dealers based in Ho Chi Minh City, have built their activity. Their role is not limited to selling artworks. It also involves verif

Located on the 8th floor of SEM Residence, this nearly 400 sqm penthouse offers large living spaces, open city views, and direct outlooks towards Landmark. The apartment includes 3 spacious bedrooms, each with its own private balcony, as well as 4 bathrooms. The living area connects to a modern open kitchen with a central island, fully equipped with a side-by-side refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and wine cabinet. A separate service kitchen completes the main kitchen area. The

A reform approved, but not yet implemented For now, travelers from 93 countries and territories can still enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. But this measure, introduced in 2024 to support tourism and strengthen the country’s attractiveness, is likely coming to an end. The Thai government has approved the reduction of the visa-exemption period from 60 to 30 days. Politically, the decision has been made. However, it is not yet in force. For the reform to become legall

Vietnam’s art market is attracting growing attention. In March 2024, a painting by Mai-Thu sold for €828,000 at Aguttes in Paris, setting the third global record for an artist from the École des Beaux-Arts de l’Indochine. That same year, the auction house Millon opened an office in Hanoi, becoming one of the first major Western auction houses to establish a direct presence in Vietnam. These events are not just isolated milestones. They reflect a growing interest in Vietnamese

Phú Quốc is accelerating its transformation. Among the projects currently under consideration: the development of artificial islands designed to host new tourism, leisure, and service infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position the island as a major international destination, particularly in the lead-up to APEC 2027. Addressing the Limits of Current Development With tourism growing rapidly — nearly 8 million visitors in 2025, including around 1.8

Located in the sought-after Lumière Riverside residence, this elegant 2-bedroom apartment offers a refined living environment combining comfort, design, and panoramic views. The unit features a bright and well-balanced layout, with a fully furnished living area opening onto a private balcony overlooking the river and surrounding greenery. The contemporary interior design blends warm tones, high-quality materials, and carefully curated décor, creating a welcoming yet sophistic

As regional mobility patterns continue to evolve, Thailand is confirming its position as one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive destinations for both international assignees and global travellers. In 2025 alone, the country welcomed more than 32.9 million international visitors and generated €41.3 billion in tourism revenue, highlighting its strong international appeal and long-term attractiveness. Thailand’s appeal also extends well beyond tourism. In the 2025 Expat Insider