Vietnam Roundup: 6G technology, Miss National Vietnam, coal exports
Electronic invoices
Gold businesses in Vietnam must implement electronic invoices connected to the tax authorities by June 15 or face licence revocation. According to Hanoi Times, the government is cracking down on small-scale transactions involving precious metals lacking proper documentation. Additionally, the CEO of SJC suggests removing the gold monopoly provision from Decree No. 24/2022 to facilitate gold trading businesses producing their gold bars.
6G technology
Vietnam is focusing on shifting from traditional telecommunications infrastructure to advanced digital technology. The country is investing in digital innovation, including research into 6G technology and establishing a 6G Steering Committee, Vietnam News reported. Telecoms carriers are also receiving licenses to deploy 5G nationwide. The government is committed to actively participating in the global development of 6G technology to pave the way for a new industry in the country.
Former Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long
Former Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long received a reduced sentence of 17 years for accepting bribes in the Viet A case appeal. The General Director of Viet A Company, Phan Quoc Viet, had his 29-year prison sentence upheld for violating bidding regulations and offering bribes. Viet A company leaders admitted to inflating the prices of COVID-19 test kits and bribing health officials. According to Vietnam Plus, the company sold over 4.5 million test kits, losing 1,235 billion VND (48.35 million USD). The Ministry of Public Security’s Investigation Agency froze transactions and deposits linked with the case.
Miss National Vietnam
The Miss National Vietnam 2024 competition invited unmarried women aged 18-27 to compete. The event aims to showcase Vietnamese culture and lifestyle while promoting confidence and talent among young women. The competition will be broadcast on television and radio, with preliminary and semi-final rounds leading up to the final event in December, Vietnam News reported. The judging panel includes former beauty pageant winners, who will also support the contestants during the competition.
Coal exports
In April, Vietnam's coal exports reached a record $29.4 million, with 109,219 tonnes, Connect Vietnam reports. This is a significant increase from the previous month. Japan is the largest importer, with Vietnam also exporting to the Netherlands, South Africa, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Vietnam has significant coal reserves, especially in Quảng Ninh Province. The Ministry of Industry and Trade projects an increase in demand for coal until 2030 before it gradually decreases. It is expected that Vietnam will need to import coal to meet demand.
