Vietnam’s foreign direct investment (FDI) landscape in the first six months of 2025 shows strong growth and a noticeable geographical shift in capital inflows. Among the standout investors, Sweden has emerged as one of the top FDI sources, marking a clear trend of Nordic nations increasing their footprint in Vietnam. Notably, Denmark is also rising as a strategic investor in green energy and sustainable industry, continuing the region’s focus on responsible investment in Southeast Asia.
FDI Growth Accelerates — Sweden Rises to the Top
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According to the Foreign Investment Agency (Ministry of Finance), by June 30, 2025, Vietnam’s total registered FDI reached USD 21.52 billion, up 32.6% year-on-year. Newly registered capital accounted for USD 9.29 billion from 1,988 projects, marking a 21.7% increase in the number of new licenses. The manufacturing and processing sector remained the most attractive, absorbing more than 54% of total new investment.
Out of 72 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, Sweden ranked third with USD 1 billion, representing 10.8% of newly registered FDI — behind only Singapore and China. This rise underscores the Nordic region’s growing strategic shift toward Southeast Asia, where Vietnam is viewed as a stable, high-potential hub with improving infrastructure and a dynamic market.
Denmark: A Strategic Partner in Green and Clean Energy
Alongside Sweden, Denmark has become a key partner in renewable energy and green industry. Danish giants such as Ørsted, Vestas, and COWI have strengthened their presence in Vietnam through offshore wind projects, logistics, and sustainable engineering.
The most prominent case is LEGO Group’s USD 1–1.3 billion project in Binh Duong, inaugurated in April 2025. This is LEGO’s first carbon-neutral factory and the company’s sixth globally, operating entirely on renewable energy from solar and battery systems by early 2026.
Beyond job creation (about 4,000 local positions), the project establishes a clean and circular supply chain, with plans to open a regional distribution center in Dong Nai to serve the broader Asian market.
Nordic Investment Momentum: A Positive Signal
The surge in Swedish and Danish capital signals a long-term strategic commitment to Vietnam. Nordic investors are focusing on key sectors such as:
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High-tech manufacturing
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Renewable energy
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Green logistics and infrastructure
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Finance, insurance, and digital transformation solutions
Both Sweden and Denmark are global leaders in innovation, environmental protection, and sustainable development— areas that align with Vietnam’s goal of attracting high-quality FDI.
Policy Recommendations for Vietnam
To capitalize on the growing Nordic investment wave, Vietnam should:
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Accelerate administrative and regulatory reforms, particularly in green energy and infrastructure.
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Develop specialized industrial zones for “green” and “digital” industries.
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Enhance targeted investment promotion in Nordic markets through embassies, trade offices, and business chambers.
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Strengthen ESG frameworks and carbon tax policies to attract responsible investors.
Conclusion
Vietnam is entering a crucial phase to position itself as the strategic investment hub for Northern Europe in Asia. The increasing presence of Swedish and Danish investors in 2025 marks a significant step forward in deepening sustainable and innovative cooperation between Vietnam and the Nordic region — paving the way for a greener, smarter, and more resilient future.