Flemish Minister-President Jan Jambon embarked on a trade mission to Vietnam, emphasizing the potential for collaboration and support in addressing the challenges posed

by the Southeast Asian nation's rapid economic growth.

Jambon's visit to Vietnam coincided with US President Joe Biden's recent visit to the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. Leading a delegation of 29 Flemish companies, the Flemish head of government aims to explore the opportunities presented by Vietnam's thriving economy.

Over the past few decades, Vietnam has experienced a remarkable economic transformation, evolving from one of the world's poorest countries in 1990 to one of the most dynamic economies in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The country's per capita income has surged from approximately $100 in the mid-1980s to exceed $4,000 today. Projections indicate that Vietnam could be among the top 20 global economies by 2050.

However, the impressive annual economic growth rate of 6-7% has brought forth a unique set of challenges, spanning infrastructure, environmental pollution, and energy sustainability. Flemish Minister-President Jambon acknowledged these challenges, remarking, "The challenges are substantial, but they are challenges where Flanders has something to offer. These include climate technology, the circular economy, and digitalization."

Jambon highlighted Vietnam's ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, despite the current use of coal as an energy source. He underscored the potential for collaboration, particularly in the field of offshore wind energy. With Vietnam boasting over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, there is substantial room for growth in offshore wind projects. Jambon stated, "We are already generating 2.5 gigawatts (GW) with our modest 65-kilometer coastline. We possess the technology and expertise to assist Vietnam in this sector."

Flanders aims to contribute to Vietnam's sustainable development and assist in addressing the multifaceted challenges that accompany its rapid economic expansion. Photo by Hieucd, Wikimedia commons.