The central coastal region continues to face challenges in tourism development even though the area is rich and diverse in natural and cultural resources. A corner of Hoi An, a popular tourism city in the central coastal region. — VNS Photo Xuan Dang In recent years, the number of tourists to the region has exploded but has accounted for only 12.4 per cent of the country's total tourism income. The central coastal region has a coastline of nearly 1,400 km with many islands, including the Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelagos. In addition, there are ecotourism sites, including three national parks and 14 nature reserves. It also has four out of eight of the country's World Heritage sites, almost 300 cultural and historical relics and revolutionary relics, including 12 special national monuments. This area is also home to ethnic communities with diverse cultures. According to the Coordinating Committee for the central coastal region, tourist numbers have … [Read more...] about Vietnam’s central coastal region to collaborate on tourism development
Digital developments
Ministry, Siemens pilot business digitizing program
Tran Viet Hoa, director of the Department of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said the introduction of SIRI is essential for manufacturing businesses in the process of digitizing their operations. Following initial evaluation in November and December, seven businesses will be selected to receive in-depth consultancy on digital transformation solutions and options for their firms. Digital factories are the focus of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) and also a major priority of the industry and trade sector in developing modern manufacturing. With strong development and integration of modern science and technology achievements at an advanced level, Industry 4.0 is expected to significantly change the world’s manufacturing industries. Smart factories will help businesses increase productivity, flexibility and efficiency, while reducing the time needed to bring products to the market and improving competitiveness. To concretize the tasks … [Read more...] about Ministry, Siemens pilot business digitizing program
US social-ecologist reflects on destruction of world’s oceans at Saigon film screening, panel discussion
An American social-ecologist offered her insights into the effects of ocean pollution on fishing communities around the world, including Vietnam, during a panel discussion following a screening of environmental documentary ‘Trashed’ in Ho Chi Minh City on Monday afternoon. The American Center, run by the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, hosted a screening of the feature-length documentary followed by a panel discussion on December 9 as part of an effort to address the global challenge of saving the ailing oceans. First released in May 2012, ‘Trashed’ follows Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons around the world as he explores several destinations that have been hit particularly hard by ocean pollution, including Sidon - the third-largest city in Lebanon, the Gulf of California, and Plymouth - a port city situated on the south coast of Devon in England. In Sidon, a mountain of household garbage towering 40 meters high is wreaking havoc on the Eastern … [Read more...] about US social-ecologist reflects on destruction of world’s oceans at Saigon film screening, panel discussion
Fintech firms concerned about foreign ownership cap
Virgina Foote, a representative of AmCham Vietnam (Photo: danviet) Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - A draft regulation put forward by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) that would limit the foreign ownership rate in the payment intermediary service sector to 49 percent was discussed at a workshop in Hanoi on December 12. Legal experts, fintech and e-payment firms attended the workshop held by the Vietnam Chambers of Commerce and Industry (VCCI). The draft decree includes new policies on the legal synchronisation of cryptocurrencies, managing cross-border payment activities, providing non-account payment services, payment management, perfecting regulations for payment intermediary services, and foreign investment in payment intermediaries. Article 29 sets out the maximum percentage foreign investors can hold, including direct and indirect ownership, at 49 percent of charter capital of an intermediary payment service provider licensed by the State Bank of Vietnam. This article drew the most comments … [Read more...] about Fintech firms concerned about foreign ownership cap
Universities adjust courses to meet Industry 4.0 requirements
Students of Vietnam National University, Hanoi conduct a physical experiement. (Photo: Vietnam+) Hanoi (VNA) – The university entrance examination for 2019 will mark a new milestone in training orientations as many facilities announced new training programmes to serve the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, many of which are being introduced for the first time. Alongside, many universities have made changes in training activities to meet the requirements of the market. New academic programmes In 2019, the National Economic University (NEU) will open seven new programmes - business analysis, data science in economy and business, financial investment, finance technology, business management in smart operation, quality control and reform, and management of international hotels. All the programmes will be taught in English. The university plans to recruit just 50 students for each programme. The courses require students to have basic English skills. NEU Principal Prof. … [Read more...] about Universities adjust courses to meet Industry 4.0 requirements