Vietnam’s Market Entry & Offshoring Boom: What Investors Need to Know

Vietnam is a top destination for market entry & offshoring, offering low labor costs, a strategic location & strong FDI. With a young, skilled workforce, a booming manufacturing sector, and government-backed incentives, Vietnam is drawing interest from multinational corporations and startups alike. The country’s strategic location in ASEAN, coupled with a favorable regulatory environment, makes it a compelling destination for businesses seeking to establish a foothold in Asia.

 

Vietnam supply chain: A Gateway to Asia

Vietnam’s prime location in Southeast Asia offers unparalleled advantages for businesses looking to enter regional and global markets. Situated along major international shipping routes, Vietnam boasts a coastline stretching over 3,200 kilometers, providing access to some of the busiest trade corridors in the world. The country’s proximity to China, combined with extensive port infrastructure in Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, and Da Nang, makes it a strategic alternative for companies seeking to diversify their supply chains.

Additionally, Vietnam’s well-developed transportation network, including highways, railways, and expanding international airports, facilitates seamless connectivity for logistics and trade. With strong integration into regional trade agreements such as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Vietnam is an ideal base for businesses aiming to leverage Asia’s fast-growing markets.

 

 

Vietnam’s Demographics: A Young and Dynamic Workforce

One of Vietnam’s most compelling advantages is its population. As of 2025, the country boasts a population of over 100 million people, making it one of the largest labor markets in Southeast Asia. Nearly 70 percent of the population belongs to the 15-64 age group, providing a dynamic and tech-savvy labor pool that is increasingly well-educated and adaptable to emerging industries.

Urbanization is also accelerating, with approximately 38 percent of the population living in major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. These urban centers are hubs for economic activity, fostering innovation and creating new opportunities for businesses. Additionally, Vietnam’s middle class is projected to double by 2030, significantly increasing consumer spending power and fueling demand across multiple sectors.

The Vietnamese workforce is also benefiting from a strong emphasis on education, particularly in STEM fields. The government has prioritized vocational training and partnerships with international institutions to ensure that the country’s labor force is equipped to meet the demands of high-tech industries.

 

Vietnam’s Competitive Labor Costs Compared to Regional Competitors

Vietnam offers some of the lowest labor costs in ASEAN, making it highly attractive for manufacturers. Here’s a comparison of average manufacturing wages in the region:

Country

Average Wages (USD)

Key Advantage

 

Cambodia

 

$200 – $250

 

Low labor costs, but limited skilled labor, weak infrastructure, reliance on garment exports

 

Indonesia

 

$230


Large labor force, growing manufacturing sector, competitive wages

 

Laos

 

$235


Low labor costs but small labor market, developing infrastructure

 

Vietnam

 

$250 – $350

 

Low labor costs, strong work ethic, skilled workforce, benefits from trade agreements (CPTPP, RCEP)

 

Myanmar

 

$295


Low labor costs, growing manufacturing sector.

 

Thailand

 

$400 – $500

 

Well-developed logistics, skilled workforce, strong FDI incentives

 

Philippines

 

$331 to $697

 

English-speaking workforce, strong BPO industry, but higher labor costs than neighbors

 

Malaysia

 

$500 – $700

 

  High-quality workforce, advanced technology industries, stable economy

 

Brunei

 

$1,837

 

High-income economy, small but highly skilled workforce

 

Singapore

 

$5,783

 

Highly developed economy, advanced infrastructure, strong legal and business environment

Overall, Vietnam offers some of the lowest labor costs in ASEAN, making it highly attractive for manufacturers. Here’s a comparison of average manufacturing wages in the region:Vietnam’s relatively lower wages, combined with its improving workforce productivity and strong work ethic, make it a preferred destination for businesses in electronics, textiles, and other labor-intensive industries. Furthermore, the Vietnamese government has been investing in upskilling workers to ensure that they remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global market.

 

FDI in Vietnam: A Growing Hub for Foreign Investment

Vietnam’s robust FDI growth presents a wealth of opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As multinational corporations (MNCs) continue to invest in Vietnam’s manufacturing, technology, and service sectors, SMEs can integrate into global value chains by serving as local suppliers, logistics providers, and service partners.

The influx of foreign investment also enhances Vietnam’s infrastructure, workforce skills, and technological capabilities, creating a more conducive business environment for SMEs. Additionally, government incentives and pro-business policies provide SMEs with better access to capital, innovation, and international markets.

By leveraging these advantages, SMEs can expand their operations, boost competitiveness, and tap into new revenue streams fueled by Vietnam’s growing FDI ecosystem.

 

Vietnam’s Top Foreign Investors

Vietnam’s biggest sources of FDI include South Korea, Japan, China, Singapore, and the United States.These countries view Vietnam as a strategic location within the global supply chain, leveraging its cost advantages and trade agreements to enhance their regional presence.

Key FDI Sectors

  • Manufacturing and Processing: Vietnam is a top choice for multinational corporations in electronics, automotive, and industrial goods production. Competitive labor costs and strong supply chain networks make it a preferred investment destination.
  • Real Estate and Infrastructure: Rapid urbanization and infrastructure development projects drive demand for commercial and residential properties, attracting global investors.
  • Technology and Digital Economy: The rise of Vietnam’s digital economy has spurred investments in IT, fintech, and software development, supported by a growing tech-savvy workforce.
  • Textiles and Apparel: Vietnam is a leading exporter of textiles and garments, with major global brands leveraging its skilled workforce and cost-effective production facilities.

Top Industries Driving Market Entry and Offshoring

Vietnam’s favorable business environment, competitive costs, and strategic location make it a prime destination for businesses across multiple industries. Below are the sectors experiencing the most significant growth and investment.

Manufacturing and Electronics

  • Vietnam is a major global manufacturing hub.
  • Competitive labor, strong supply chain, and prime location.
  • Booming electronics sector

Textile and Apparel Industry Growth

  • Leading global producer for fashion brands.
  • Extensive textile factory network.
  • Low costs, strong trade deals (CPTPP, EVFTA).

Technology and Software Development

  • Fast-growing IT sector in Southeast Asia.
  • High investment in startups and digital transformation.
  • Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang emerging as tech hubs.

Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a premier destination for businesses seeking expansion, investment, and offshoring opportunities. With a dynamic young workforce, a business-friendly environment, and a thriving industrial sector, the country offers unparalleled potential for companies looking to scale efficiently and competitively.