WHAT HAS HAPPENED
Vietnam is confidently moving towards the implementation of an ambitious sustainable urban development program, with Ho Chi Minh City at its heart. According to recent statements by representatives of leading development companies, such as Vinhomes, massive state investments in the country's infrastructure will exceed a colossal 1 quadrillion Vietnamese dong (equivalent to $37.94 billion USD) by 2030. These injections are aimed not only at modernizing existing transport networks and utility systems but also at forming entirely new urban centers.
Such an unprecedented capital inflow is set to transform the face of Ho Chi Minh City, reorienting its development towards sustainability and long-term value. The construction of new highways, bridges, improvements to public transport, and the creation of integrated residential areas do not just facilitate movement; they also lay the groundwork for new economic growth points, expanding the metropolis's boundaries and attracting residents to previously less developed suburban areas.
As a result, Ho Chi Minh City's real estate market is undergoing a profound restructuring. Demand is shifting towards projects that offer more than just housing – these are integrated ecosystems with developed infrastructure, green spaces, and access to modern amenities. It is precisely these comprehensive projects, like those implemented by Vinhomes, that are becoming the drivers of a new urban landscape focused on improving the quality of life and economic efficiency.
WHAT THIS MEANS
For Russian e-commerce businesses, these changes in Vietnam open a window of unique strategic opportunities. The massive infrastructure investments in Ho Chi Minh City are not just improving roads; they are fundamentally altering the consumer landscape and logistics capabilities, creating fertile ground for growth and scaling.
Firstly, the transformation of urban development directly impacts the consumer landscape. The creation of new, well-planned urban districts means the emergence of hundreds of thousands of potential consumers with growing income levels and access to modern amenities. These residents, especially in new developments, are often younger, more tech-savvy, and open to online shopping. Infrastructure development increases their purchasing power by reducing travel time and freeing up resources that can be spent on goods and services, including offerings from international e-commerce players. Enhanced accessibility and connectivity of these areas to the city center foster urbanization and the unification of consumer preferences, creating a broader and more homogeneous audience for online retailers.
Secondly, improvements in transport and logistics infrastructure are critical for optimizing supply chains. New highways, improved ports, and logistics hubs around Ho Chi Minh City will significantly reduce the time and cost of goods delivery. This will lower operational expenses for Russian e-commerce companies, enabling them to offer more competitive prices and faster delivery. The ability to build efficient "last-mile" solutions even in remote areas, which are becoming new growth centers, provides a strategic advantage. Russian companies can view Vietnam not only as a sales market but also as a potential regional logistics hub for Southeast Asia, leveraging its geographical location and developing infrastructure for broader expansion.
Thirdly, this infrastructure boom stimulates Vietnam's overall digital transformation. With improved broadband internet access and increased smartphone usage in new urban areas, the population is becoming more integrated into the digital economy. This creates ideal conditions for the growth of mobile e-commerce and social commerce – channels that are already demonstrating high effectiveness in Vietnam. Russian companies offering innovative solutions, digital products, or goods targeted at young, tech-active consumers will find themselves in an advantageous position.
VIETSMART EXPERT COMMENTARY
Looking at these grand changes, we at VietSmart see not just Vietnam's growth, but clear, tangible opportunities for Russian entrepreneurs. Now is not the time for a wait-and-see approach. Those who can swiftly adapt their strategies and enter the Vietnamese market, leveraging the evolving infrastructure, will gain significant competitive advantages. This is not only about selling goods but also about building long-term relationships with a rapidly growing consumer base that values quality, convenience, and innovation.
For Russian e-commerce companies, this means a need to rethink traditional approaches. Instead of viewing Vietnam as just another export market, it should be perceived as a dynamically developing economy with unique regional characteristics and emerging demand. This requires not just website translation, but a deep adaptation of product, marketing strategy, logistics, and even payment solutions to local realities and preferences.
CONCLUSIONS AND WHAT TO DO
Given the colossal changes occurring in Ho Chi Minh City, Russian e-commerce entrepreneurs need to act strategically and decisively:
- In-depth Market Research and Consumer Preferences: Conduct a detailed analysis of Ho Chi Minh City's emerging urban districts. Which product categories are most in demand among the new, urbanized audience? Consider niches related to sustainable development, technology, consumer electronics, children's goods, food products, and apparel that may appeal to the Vietnamese middle class. Understanding cultural nuances and preferences in design/branding will be key to success.
- Optimizing Logistics Chains: Study Ho Chi Minh City's new infrastructure projects, especially those related to transport corridors and logistics hubs. Evaluate the possibility of using these facilities to create more efficient delivery routes, open local warehouses, or pickup points. Consider partnerships with local logistics operators who already have experience working with new areas and a developed "last-mile" system.
- Finding Strategic Local Partners: Success in the Vietnamese market often depends on strong local connections. Look for partners among local distributors, e-commerce platforms, marketing agencies, and even developers (e.g., Vinhomes for placing pickup points in their complexes) who can assist with product adaptation, marketing, legal aspects, and logistics. Joint ventures or franchising models can minimize risks and accelerate market entry.
- Adapting Payment Solutions and User Experience: The Vietnamese e-commerce market is characterized by a preference for Cash-on-Delivery (COD), but mobile payment systems (e-wallets) are also actively developing. Ensure payment convenience and security by offering local payment options. Localize your website/app, considering linguistic and cultural specifics, as well as mobile-oriented design.
- Integration into Local E-commerce Ecosystems: Consider entering leading Vietnamese e-commerce platforms such as Shopee Vietnam, Lazada Vietnam, or Tiki. This will provide quick access to a huge audience and allow you to leverage their developed infrastructure and logistics networks. Establishing your own brand and website can become a second step after initial market entrenchment through major platforms.
Source: VnExpress International — Business as of May 26, 2026