The Vietnam Logistics Forum (VLF) has been an annual event hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade since 2013. This year, the forum is set to take place on December 1–2 in Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Province, co-organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the People’s Committee of Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu, under the theme: “Free trade zone – A Breakthrough to Shape Logistics Growth”. The event is expected to attract over 500 participants, including leaders of government agencies, provinces, and municipalities; international organizations in Vietnam; associations; logistics service providers; domestic and international manufacturers and exporters; and experts across the country.
Opportunities to attract investment and boost Vietnam’s logistics industry
Vietnam is currently well-positioned to advance its logistics sector due to its expanding infrastructure, including roads, airports, seaports, warehouses, trade centers, and logistics hubs across the nation. Supporting services have rapidly evolved to meet the diverse needs of the market, with significant improvements in export clearance procedures and timelines.
In addition, the rapid growth of e-commerce and its associated logistics has been a standout factor. In 2023, Vietnam’s retail e-commerce market reached $20.5 billion, marking a $4 billion (25%) increase from 2022. According to Statista, this impressive growth positions Vietnam among the top 10 fastest-growing e-commerce markets globally. This shift has driven the logistics sector to become more efficient and professional in its service delivery.
Logistics is a cross-functional service industry that demands high levels of technological application. Digital transformation is becoming a critical trend, empowering logistics businesses to improve productivity, service quality, and competitiveness both domestically and internationally. Achieving this requires commitment and effort from leadership and human resources across the sector.
According to the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA), Vietnam’s logistics industry has grown at a rate of 14–16% annually, with a market size of $40–42 billion per year. Ranked 43rd out of 155 countries by the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index - LPI, Vietnam is also among the top five ASEAN countries (following Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, and tied with the Philippines). This steady growth makes logistics one of Vietnam’s most dynamic and sustainable service industries.
Standard Chartered forecasts that Vietnam will play a pivotal role in global trade growth, with export revenue expected to reach $618 billion by 2030, growing at an average rate of 7% annually. Import revenue is also projected to rise to $578 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth of 6.9%.
Given this context, the Vietnam Logistics Forum 2024 has selected the theme: “Free trade zone – A Breakthrough to Shape Logistics Growth”. This theme will also be the focus of the Vietnam Logistics Report 2024, set to be unveiled during the event. It aims to guide logistics development in connection with free trade zones while encouraging digital transformation and boosting competitiveness in global supply chains.
Event objectives
Raise awareness of the logistics’ role in agriculture and digital transformation in this industry.
Encourage logistics businesses to adopt advanced technology in supply chain operations.
Identify strategies to enhance the competitiveness of Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu and the Southeast region.
Promote collaboration among logistics companies, investors, and regulators.
Event highlights
The forum will feature a variety of activities over two days, held at The Grand Hồ Tràm Hotel (Phước Thuận Commune, Xuyên Mộc District, Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Province).
DAY 1 | December 1, 2024: Specialized Seminar Session: FREE TRADE ZONES
Opening remarks by the representative from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Presentations and panel discussions led by leaders from Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu, industry associations, and enterprises.
DAY 2 | December 2, 2024: Plenary Session: FREE TRADE ZONES – A BREAKTHROUGH TO SHAPE LOGISTICS GROWTH
Thematic discussions, including the launch of the Vietnam Logistics Report 2024 and the inauguration of the Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Logistics and Port Association.
Closing remarks by Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính.
DAY 2 | December 2, 2024: Field Trip
Delegates will visit Gemalink International Port.
Benefits of participation
For Logistics Businesses: Explore partnerships and gain insights into technology trends and policies to optimize operations.
For Experts and Researchers: An ideal platform to discuss and propose innovative solutions for the industry.
For Regulators: Assess industry needs to craft policies aligned with dual transformation goals: green and digital transitions.
For Interested Individuals: Gain a deeper understanding of the logistics sector’s strategic role in Vietnam’s economic growth.
For further information and to register, kindly find HERE.
***Note: Each organization may register only one representative to attend the event, per the organizing committee.