The entry of Chinese e-commerce platforms Temu and Shein into Vietnam has intensified competition with existing platforms like Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada. Vietnamese authorities are considering regulatory measures, similar to actions taken by Indonesia and Thailand, to protect domestic vendors. The rapid growth of Vietnam's e-commerce market, coupled with legal and environmental concerns, underscores the significant financial stakes involved. Despite the competitive landscape, issues such as packaging waste and allegations of labor violations remain under-discussed in Vietnam.

Vietnam's third-quarter GDP growth exceeded expectations at 7.4% year-on-year, marking the highest quarterly growth in two years despite Typhoon Yagi's significant damages. Exports surged by 15.8% quarter-on-quarter, reaching nearly US$109 billion, while foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 11.6% year-on-year, with manufacturing and processing sectors leading. Singapore, China, and South Korea are the top FDI sources, with China leading in new projects. Vietnam's economy remains heavily reliant on exports and FDI, both currently performing well.

The article features an interview with Jason Lusk, Managing Partner at Clickable Impact, discussing the Vietnam Climate Tech Funding Ecosystem Report 2024. The report, created in collaboration with New Energy Nexus, explores the definition of 'climate tech' in Vietnam, reasons for its slower funding growth compared to other tech sectors, and potential areas for expansion. It emphasizes the importance of stakeholder involvement to drive further growth in Vietnam's climate tech sector.

Vietnam is considering a high-speed rail project connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, estimated to cost $67 billion. The Ministry of Planning and Investment is reviewing a pre-feasibility study, with plans to start construction in 2027. The project aims to be completed by 2035, a decade earlier than initially planned, without foreign loans or technology. Concerns arise over the project's feasibility, given its cost and Vietnam's lack of experience in high-speed rail construction. Meanwhile, tensions between Vietnam and China have resurfaced following an incident involving Vietnamese fishermen and the Chinese Coast Guard in the Hoàng Sa Archipelago. Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City's public investment spending remains low, with only 20% of the budget spent by the end of Q3.

The Asia Power Index, compiled annually by the Lowy Institute since 2018, evaluates the power dynamics of 27 countries and territories in Asia, including Vietnam. The 2024 edition introduces Timor-Leste and assesses international power through 131 indicators across eight thematic measures. Vietnam is recognized as one of the more powerful countries in Southeast Asia, though its standing is challenged when compared to superpowers and strong middle powers.

The discussion with Greg Poling, director of the Southeast Asia Program, centers on the escalating tensions in the East Sea, particularly between China and the Philippines. Vietnam's strategic expansion of its controlled islands and China's muted response are highlighted, alongside the U.S.'s current stance in this crucial maritime region. The dynamics between smaller regional claimants and the dominant presence of China are also explored.

Trang Nguyen, Southeast Asia Lead at the Climateworks Centre, discusses Vietnam's energy transition, focusing on the country's net-zero commitment and the Just Energy Transition Partnership. The conversation highlights the importance of project bankability, currency-based investment risks, and the potential for Vietnam to become a clean energy manufacturing hub. The discussion also touches on the supply chain of decarbonization technologies and enabling investment for Vietnam's energy transition.

Thailand's lower house of parliament has passed a marriage equality bill, potentially making Thailand the first country in South-East Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill received overwhelming support with 400 of 415 lawmakers voting in favor. It now awaits approval by the senate and endorsement by the Thai king. If enacted, Thailand will join Taiwan and Nepal as the only countries in Asia with legalized same-sex marriage. The bill has been in discussion for over a decade, and recent consolidation of four draft bills into one has been a significant step forward. Human rights groups, while celebrating the progress, have called for the elimination of gendered language in the draft to ensure full rights for LGBTI+ persons.

Thailand's lower house of parliament has passed a marriage equality bill, potentially making it the first country in South-East Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill received overwhelming support with 400 of 415 lawmakers voting in favor. It now awaits approval by the senate and endorsement by the Thai king. The Pheu Thai Party, which is overseeing the bill, expressed that this marks the beginning of equality in Thailand. Human rights group Fortify Rights acknowledged the progress but noted the need to address shortcomings in the draft to ensure full rights for LGBTI+ individuals. The legislation has been in discussion for over a decade, and the recent development places Thailand ahead of other South-East Asian countries on same-sex marriage rights.

Mai Nguyen, a civil engineer and sustainability advisor based in Vietnam, discusses the importance of generational local knowledge for resilience, the challenges of inclusive urban planning, Vietnam's struggle with affordable housing, and her vision of using urban art to foster discussions on resilience and climate.