At the Vietnam-Bulgaria Business Forum held on November 27 in Ho Chi Minh City, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev called for cooperation between the two countries in fields such as data technology, electric vehicles, transportation, and agriculture. The event attracted 250 businesses from both countries, providing an opportunity for both sides to meet, exchange information, and explore potential collaboration opportunities.
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev speaks at the Vietnam – Bulgaria Business Forum in Ho Ch Minh City on November 27.
Strong Potential for Cooperation
President Radev emphasized that Bulgaria is currently leading Europe in terms of the number of IT experts per capita and has achieved significant success in the field of data storage and protection. He stated that data is “the commodity of the future,” and with Vietnam’s advancements in information technology, the two countries can collaborate closely in this field. In addition to information technology, President Radev pointed out other sectors with high potential for collaboration, such as electronics, automation, chemicals, transportation, and agriculture. He also mentioned that both countries’ strategic geographic locations provide an opportunity for cooperation in maritime and logistics sectors. On the issue of climate change, Bulgaria is actively addressing challenges, particularly in food security and climate adaptation, and is willing to support Vietnam in related projects. President Radev also highlighted Ho Chi Minh City’s importance in the food processing industry, providing a solid foundation for developing cooperation in this sector.
The Importance of Cooperation with Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City’s Vice Chairman, Mr. Vo Van Hoan, shared that Bulgaria is a strong potential partner in information technology, organic agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy – sectors that the city aims to develop. Ho Chi Minh City is currently focusing on sustainable development, with four key industries: information technology, electronics, machinery, and food processing. The city is also prioritizing the development of high-tech agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, education, and fintech, while positioning itself as a creative startup hub and international financial center.
Võ Văn Hoan, deputy chairman of HCM City’s People’s Committee, makes a speech at the Việt Nam – Bulgaria Business Forum in HCM City on Wednesday
Expanding Cooperation Opportunities
President Radev also stated that Bulgaria does not only view Vietnam as a trade partner but also seeks to collaborate on developing production projects aimed at third-country markets. This forum is a vital opportunity for businesses from both nations to meet, exchange information, and explore potential cooperation. SPN Marketing Agency played an important role in connecting businesses from Vietnam and Bulgaria. With over 20 years of experience in investment consulting, market research, and business strategy development, SPN views this as a golden opportunity that Vietnamese investors should not miss. Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union (EU), offers Vietnamese businesses the chance to access the vast EU market, with over 450 million consumers. Through Bulgaria, Vietnamese businesses can take advantage of free trade agreements between the EU and other countries, such as the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). Since the EVFTA came into effect in August 2020, Vietnam’s exports to the EU have seen significant growth, with total exports reaching approximately USD 41.5 billion in 2022, up 14% compared to the previous year. Moreover, Bulgaria could serve as a gateway for Vietnamese businesses to enter markets in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, where there is a growing demand for high-tech products, agricultural products, processed foods, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, with its expertise in IT and data security, Bulgaria offers opportunities for collaboration in FinTech, AI, and Blockchain sectors. Furthermore, cooperation in education and human resources training will be an essential area, helping Vietnamese businesses enhance their competitiveness and open up long-term collaboration opportunities with Bulgarian partners.
Representatives of SPN Marketing Agency participated in the Vietnam – Bulgaria Business Forum on November 27, 2024.
Participants at the Vietnam-Bulgaria Business Forum.