Shaping policies to promote domestic trade

Formulating policies to foster domestic trade is a long-term journey that requires concerted effort and consensus at all levels, from central to local authorities, from state management agencies to the business community, industry associations, and the public.

A major transformation

The new context is bringing about numerous shifts in trade development. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and blockchain are transforming production, distribution and consumption. The rapid growth of e-commerce is reshaping consumer behaviour. Meanwhile, new-generation free trade agreements not only create export opportunities but also pose challenges through fierce competition from imported goods.

At the same time, consumers are increasingly concerned about product quality and origin, while the requirements for green production, sustainable consumption, and the circular economy are becoming ever more pressing.

“In this context, the domestic market must undergo a strong transformation. It should not merely be a place for product consumption but also a key driver to stimulate production, create jobs, and ensure social welfare,” emphasised Bui Nguyen Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of the Domestic Market Management and Development Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

In December last year, the Politburo issued Resolution 57/NQ-TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation, ushering in a new era for the domestic market. The adoption of technology and digital transformation will make the market more transparent and efficient, with a variety of distribution channels ranging from traditional to digital platforms. Enterprises will have greater access to larger markets, optimise their operations, cut costs, and enhance competitiveness.

Resolution 59 issued by the Politburo in April 2025 on international integration in the new context affirms that integration involves not only exports but also opening up to new flows of goods, services and technologies. This creates healthy competition and drives domestic enterprises to strengthen their capacity. Viet Nam must fully capitalise on the free trade agreements it has signed to expand market space while reasonably protecting domestic production and consumers’ rights.

The Politburo’s Resolution 66 issued in April 2025 on reforming lawmaking and enforcement to meet national development requirements in the new era is a key factor in building a stable, transparent, and fair business environment. A well-structured, accessible, and enforceable legal system will be a firm foundation for the development of the domestic market.

Furthermore, Resolution 68 issued by the Politburo in May 2025 on private sector development reaffirms the private sector’s crucial role as a driving force. The private sector is the lifeblood of the domestic market, generating the majority of jobs, products and services. Removing all barriers, ensuring property rights, and safeguarding business freedom will unlock the vast potential of the private sector, making the domestic market more dynamic and diverse.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has identified the effective implementation of these four key resolutions as the guiding principle for all activities related to domestic market development in the coming period.

Market oversight and regulation

According to economic experts, Viet Nam’s retail market is currently in a growth phase and making a strong recovery after the pandemic. Between 2025 and 2030, the market is expected to achieve robust growth, on par with leading economies in the region.

However, Tran Thi Phuong Lan, Vice Chairwoman of the Viet Nam Retailers Association, noted that businesses continue to face a challenging market as consumer demand remains weak and people are increasingly price-sensitive.

Additionally, fierce competition among domestic and foreign brands is intensifying, with many new players, including foreign enterprises, entering the market as commitments to liberalise the retail sector are implemented, particularly through major e-commerce platforms.

To enable stronger breakthroughs in the domestic retail sector, regulatory authorities should continue to improve the policy framework, enhance the investment and business environment, and streamline administrative procedures.

It is also necessary to strengthen law enforcement related to domestic trade development, ensure fair competition and sustainable growth, and enhance the competitiveness of Vietnamese retailers through financial and human resource support policies.

Moreover, there should be specific mechanisms to assist enterprises in developing commercial infrastructure in remote, mountainous, and island areas.

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