Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of attracting USD 11 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2026. With a series of billion-dollar projects, streamlined investment procedures, and a growing reputation as a regional innovation hub, the city continues to strengthen its position as one of Asia’s most attractive destinations for international investors.
Ho Chi Minh City Approaches Its USD 11 Billion FDI Target
According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Finance, the city attracted nearly USD 2.9 billion in FDI during the first quarter of 2026, representing an impressive 220% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
By the end of April 2026, total registered FDI had reached approximately USD 3.3 billion. In the second quarter alone, the city is expected to attract an additional USD 8.9 billion, bringing total FDI inflows close to the annual target of USD 11 billion.
If achieved, this would mark one of the strongest years for foreign investment attraction in the city’s history.
For the second half of 2026, Ho Chi Minh City aims to secure an additional USD 2 billion through new projects and capital expansion from existing foreign investors.
A Wave of Mega Projects Fuels FDI Growth
One of the key drivers behind the surge in foreign investment is the arrival of several large-scale projects across infrastructure, logistics, technology, artificial intelligence, and urban development sectors.
Can Gio International Transshipment Port – USD 4.9 Billion Project
Among the most significant projects is the Can Gio International Transshipment Port, with a total investment of USD 4.9 billion.
The project is being developed by a consortium comprising:
- Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC)
- Saigon Port Joint Stock Company
- Terminal Investment Limited Holding S.A., a member of MSC Group, the world’s largest container shipping company headquartered in Switzerland
The project is expected to become one of Southeast Asia’s most important logistics and maritime infrastructure developments over the next decade.
Once operational, the port will significantly enhance Vietnam’s logistics capacity and position Ho Chi Minh City as a major international shipping hub.
Nha Be Metrocity GS Increases Investment by USD 2.2 Billion
Another notable project is Nha Be Metrocity GS, which recently increased its investment capital by approximately USD 2.2 billion.
The project is expected to contribute to the development of a modern urban area in southern Ho Chi Minh City while supporting regional infrastructure and real estate growth.
Thu Thiem Smart Complex Receives Additional USD 1.2 Billion
Within the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, the Smart Complex Project in Functional Zone 2A has received an additional USD 1.2 billion in investment capital.
The development aims to create an integrated ecosystem featuring:
- Financial services
- Technology and innovation centers
- Commercial facilities
- International-standard business services
The project forms part of the city’s broader strategy to establish Thu Thiem as a future international financial center.
AI Data Center Project Worth USD 2.1 Billion
Another major investment is the Artificial Intelligence Data Center located in Tan Phu Trung Industrial Park, with a registered investment value of approximately USD 2.1 billion.
The project highlights Ho Chi Minh City’s growing appeal as a destination for:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cloud computing
- Big data analytics
- Digital transformation infrastructure
The investment reflects the increasing interest of global technology companies in Vietnam’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Japanese Investors Continue to View HCMC as a Strategic Market
Foreign investors continue to express confidence in Ho Chi Minh City’s investment environment.
Mr. Kume Kunihide, Chairman of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ho Chi Minh City (JCCH), stated that Japanese businesses consistently regard Vietnam, particularly Ho Chi Minh City, as a top investment destination.
According to Japanese investors, the city offers several competitive advantages:
- A large consumer market
- Abundant and skilled workforce
- Well-developed industrial ecosystem
- Improving logistics infrastructure
- Stable business environment
These factors continue to support long-term investor confidence.
Positive Results Driven by Proactive Investment Policies
According to Mr. Hoang Vu Thanh, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Finance, the city’s success is largely attributed to proactive investment attraction policies.
A comprehensive FDI attraction plan was launched as early as March 2026, providing clear objectives and implementation strategies for key sectors and priority projects.
Strong coordination among government agencies has significantly accelerated administrative procedures.
Several large-scale investment projects have reportedly completed approval processes within just one month.
This represents a major step forward in improving administrative efficiency and enhancing the city’s competitiveness.
Prioritizing High-Quality Foreign Investment
Rather than focusing solely on the volume of FDI, Ho Chi Minh City is prioritizing investment quality.
The city aims to attract:
- Multinational corporations
- Strategic investors
- Companies with core technologies
- Research and development (R&D) centers
- Innovation-driven enterprises
- Data center operators
- Supporting industries
- Smart logistics providers
- International financial institutions
- Green technology and sustainable development projects
This strategy aligns with the city’s vision of building a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
Saigon Hi-Tech Park Remains a Magnet for FDI
According to the Management Board of Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP), foreign investment inflows into the park continue to grow strongly.
One of the key advantages is the implementation of a special investment approval mechanism designed to shorten licensing procedures and facilitate project deployment.
Today, SHTP hosts manufacturing plants and R&D centers of numerous global technology leaders operating in:
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Electronics
- Robotics
- Automation
- Artificial intelligence
- Biotechnology
The park remains one of Vietnam’s most important high-tech investment destinations.
Competitive Advantages Supporting Long-Term Growth
The Ho Chi Minh City Investment and Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) identifies several core strengths that continue to attract foreign investors:
Large Market Size
Ho Chi Minh City remains Vietnam’s largest economic center with strong consumer demand and purchasing power.
Dynamic Business Ecosystem
Hundreds of thousands of enterprises contribute to a vibrant and interconnected business environment.
Advanced Logistics Infrastructure
The city benefits from:
- International seaports
- International airports
- Regional expressways
- Modern logistics centers
Strong International Connectivity
As Vietnam’s leading commercial gateway, Ho Chi Minh City plays a critical role in connecting the country with ASEAN and global markets.
Moving Toward an International Financial and Innovation Hub
Alongside FDI attraction efforts, the city is implementing several long-term strategic initiatives, including:
- Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center
- Eastern Innovation City
- Thu Thiem New Urban Area
- Artificial Intelligence Data Centers
- National Innovation Centers
These projects are expected to support the transition from a traditional growth model toward a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.
FDI Outlook for 2026–2030
Experts believe that continued improvements in the investment environment, combined with strategic infrastructure development and administrative reforms, will help Ho Chi Minh City maintain its position as Vietnam’s leading destination for foreign direct investment.
As global supply chains continue to diversify, the city is well-positioned to attract investments in:
- Semiconductors
- Artificial intelligence
- Data centers
- High technology manufacturing
- Logistics
- Green industries
These sectors are expected to become key drivers of future economic growth.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City’s progress toward achieving its USD 11 billion FDI target in 2026 demonstrates the city’s growing attractiveness to international investors. Supported by billion-dollar projects, investor-friendly policies, modern infrastructure, and a strong commitment to innovation, the city is steadily reinforcing its position as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic investment destinations.
Looking ahead, continued efforts to improve the business environment, develop strategic infrastructure, and attract high-quality investment will play a crucial role in sustaining economic growth and strengthening Ho Chi Minh City’s role as Vietnam’s economic powerhouse.
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