Dezan Shira & Associates Introduces Vietnam Business Fundamentals for Singaporean SMEs

Ho Chi Minh City, March 5, 2024 – On invitation from the Singapore Management University, International Business Advisor Patricia Aranguren Moliner had the pleasure to introduce the basics of doing business in Vietnam to a Singaporean business delegation consisting of 13 firms from different sectors.

The event, held at Compass office at one of Ho Chi Minh City’s landmarks, Bitexco Tower, provided invaluable insights into the dynamic Vietnamese market landscape, key sectors and, most importantly, the market entry routes available for foreign SMEs that intend to start their investment journey in Vietnam. With her experience in facilitating the set-up of successful business ventures across different industries in Vietnam, Patricia Aranguren Moliner addressed the major considerations for navigating the complexities of the Vietnamese market.

Patricia’s presentation delved into market trends, consumer behavior, regulatory frameworks, and emerging opportunities, equipping attendees with actionable strategies to thrive in Vietnam’s fast-growing economy, which after a slight slowdown in 2023 is expected to grow by 6.5% in 2024.

“The Vietnamese market presents immense opportunities for international expansion, but its unique characteristics also pose challenges to foreign investors who did not do their homework,” remarked Patricia during her presentation. “Understanding the local culture, regulatory environment, and consumer preferences is paramount for sustainable growth and fully bringing out the competitive advantage.”

The questions asked by the participants led to an engaging dialogue among the participants – the majority of whom had never been to Vietnam before this market immersion event organized by Ivan Chang, Eugene Tan, and Li Wenting on behalf of the Singapore Management University (SMU), a premier institution for business and entrepreneurship. Such events are an integral component of SMU’s Post-Graduate Course in Venturing Overseas. The Singapore SME delegation comprised 17 business executives from sectors like logistics, construction, real estate, and education. After joining our seminar, the participants continued to engage with companies and ecosystem stakeholders in Ho Chi Minh City, alongside government officials, to gain deeper insights into conducting business in Vietnam.

Attendees expressed appreciation for the practical strategies shared, emphasizing the value of informed decision-making and strategic partnerships in achieving long-term success in Vietnam. Patricia’s presentation underscores her commitment to fostering cross-border collaborations and empowering businesses to thrive in dynamic international markets.

As Singaporean firms continue to explore expansion opportunities in Vietnam, Dezan Shira & Associates is proud to provide guidance and support decision-making in the Vietnamese market. We support clients from our 29 offices throughout China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Dubai, Germany, Italy, the United States, and the UK, as well as from our 14 Asian Alliance partner offices in Australia, Bangladesh, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, and South Korea. Together, we make up one of the largest integrated providers of corporate services in the entire Asian region, including more than 600 professionals in Asia. We are confident and proud to be a first choice for all steps along the way – from pre-investment activities such as market exploration and conducting studies for firms to establishing businesses and offering comprehensive support throughout operations.

For more information on Patricia Aranguren Moliner and her insights into international business expansion, please contact vietnam@dezshira.com.

If you are interested in working together with us on organizing seminars or presentations on behalf of a trade office, embassy, consulate, or business association, we are happy to receive your proposal. In this regard, please get in touch with julia.goeb@dezshira.com.