AusCham Joins Launch of Vietnam’s FTA Index 2025
Hanoi, 18 August 2026 - AusCham Vietnam representatives attended the official announcement ceremony for Vietnam’s Free Trade Agreement Implementation Index 2025 (FTA Index 2025) at the International Convention Centre in Hanoi.
Hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the event brought together Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc, senior representatives of ministries and local authorities, diplomatic missions, international organisations, business associations and the private sector.
Vietnam currently has 17 free trade agreements in force, connecting the country with markets representing more than 80 per cent of global GDP. The FTA Index was introduced to assess how effectively these agreements are implemented at the provincial level and how well local authorities support businesses in accessing their benefits.
The 2025 Index evaluated all 34 provinces and cities across four areas: access to FTA information; implementation of FTA-related regulations; policies and programmes supporting businesses; and implementation of sustainable development commitments.
(Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc delivered his keynote speech)
In his remarks, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc emphasised that the FTA Index should not be viewed simply as a ranking, but as a practical tool for strengthening the governance of international economic integration. He called on local authorities to translate the results into concrete action, address implementation bottlenecks and link FTA delivery more closely with investment attraction, digital transformation, green transition and workforce development.
The FTA Index 2025 results placed Hai Phong first nationwide with 35.62 out of 40 points, followed by Tuyen Quang, Thanh Hoa, Vinh Long and Ca Mau. The results provide authorities with a clearer picture of local implementation while helping businesses and investors better understand the support and operating conditions available across different provinces.
The ceremony also marked the launch of the FTA Index online platform, developed with support from the Australian Government. The platform enables businesses to access provincial results and information more easily, while supporting government agencies in monitoring reforms and the implementation of Vietnam’s trade commitments.
For Australian companies, consistent and effective implementation at the local level is essential to translating the opportunities available under agreements such as AANZFTA and CPTPP into practical trade and investment outcomes. Transparent procedures, accessible guidance and constructive engagement with the business community can reduce compliance costs and provide greater certainty for long-term investment.
AusCham welcomes the continued development of the FTA Index as a transparent, business-focused mechanism. The Chamber remains committed to engaging with the Vietnamese and Australian Governments, relevant stakeholders and the wider business community to support effective FTA implementation and a more open, predictable and competitive trade and investment environment.