English news in Vietnam comes in a range of forms including a number of English-language news publications.
There are, however, limitations on what can and cannot be reported in Vietnam with one of the strictest media censorship regimes in the world.
Vietnam’s media industry is also relatively small which can mean that coverage of key events and developments is sometimes limited.
That said, with few alternative sources of Vietnamese news media, this guide outlines the key sources of English news in Vietnam and how the information they convey should be considered with respect to their ownership structure.
When engaging with Vietnamese news media, foreign audiences should keep in mind that:
- By law, all news media in Vietnam must be associated with an agency approved by the government. For example, a government ministry, a trade union, or a university will take ultimate responsibility for the publication;
- That the role of the media in Vietnam is to support the state, as opposed to hold the the state to account as is common in Western media; and
- Journalists who offend or upset persons in positions of power can often find themselves in prison and therefore self-censorship is common.
Key English-language news websites in Vietnam (2025)
English language news in Vietnam tends to focus on travel, business, and investment. It is often skewed toward expats living in the country.
Often the English language news in Vietnam is reframed to ensure that Vietnam appears in a positive light–in many ways it is a promotional tool rather that a source of good quality, relevant information.
Baring this in mind, these are the key news media outlets in English.
Vietnam News Agency
Website: https://vnanet.vn/
Vietnam News Agency (VNA) is the official state news agency of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. It is the country’s primary provider of official information, operating under the direct authority of the Vietnamese government and managed by the Government Office. VNA plays a central role in disseminating domestic and international news to both state-run and private media outlets.
Ownership: A fully state-owned entity operating under the Government Office, making it one of the most authoritative and formal sources of official information in Vietnam.
Language: Publishes in multiple languages including Vietnamese, English, French, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian. Its English-language platform is known as VietnamPlus.
Audience: Caters to policymakers, government agencies, foreign embassies, state media outlets, and international readers seeking official perspectives on Vietnam’s domestic and foreign affairs.
Topics: Provides extensive coverage of politics, diplomacy, economics, social policy, legal developments, Party affairs, international relations, and ASEAN cooperation. It also issues official announcements and state statistics.
As Vietnam’s national wire service, VNA content is widely syndicated across the country’s newspapers, radio, and television, and is considered the state’s most authoritative media organ.
Vietnam News
Website: https://vietnamnews.vn/
Vietnam News is the national English-language daily newspaper of Vietnam, published by Viet Nam News Agency (VNA). It serves as the official English-language voice of the Vietnamese government, delivering authoritative coverage of the country’s political, economic, social, and international affairs to both domestic and foreign readers.
Ownership: Operated by Vietnam News Agency (VNA), under the direct management of the Government Office. It is one of the state’s principal English-language news publications.
Language: Published in English, both in print and online, with a formal and diplomatic tone designed for international audiences.
Audience: Aimed at foreign diplomats, international organisations, businesspeople, scholars, expatriates, and anyone seeking official news from Vietnam in English.
Topics: Covers government policy, legislation, national development, foreign relations, trade and investment, culture, education, and ASEAN/global cooperation. Includes translations of key state documents and speeches.
Vietnam News is considered a primary source of state-sanctioned English-language information and is often used as a reference by embassies, multilateral agencies, and international media tracking Vietnam’s official positions.
VN Express International
Website: https://e.vnexpress.net/
VnExpress International is the English-language edition of VnExpress, Vietnam’s most-read online newspaper. It offers curated and original news coverage aimed at foreign readers, with a focus on national developments, business, travel, and society.
Ownership: Operated by FPT Group, one of Vietnam’s largest technology and telecommunications corporations. Although privately run, it is subject to state media regulations and oversight by the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Language: Published in English, with independent editorial teams producing content tailored to international audiences.
Audience: Serves expatriates, diplomats, tourists, business professionals, and global readers seeking accessible, real-time coverage of Vietnamese affairs.
Topics: Covers breaking news, business, politics, society, culture, travel, health, and international relations. Also features opinion columns, data visualisations, and English-language reporting on domestic legal and economic changes.
VnExpress International is widely regarded for its timely reporting, clean digital design, and balanced editorial tone, making it a go-to source for non-Vietnamese readers tracking Vietnam’s development.
Tuoi Tre News
Website: http://tuoitrenews.vn/
Tuoi Tre News is the English-language arm of Tuoi Tre (Youth), one of Vietnam’s most widely read daily newspapers. It is operated by the Ho Chi Minh City Communist Youth Union and is known for its broad national reach, modern tone, and appeal to younger audiences.
Ownership: Operated by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, giving it semi-official status with relative editorial independence on social and cultural issues.
Language: Tuoi Tre News is published in English, providing translated and original content aimed at foreign readers, while the main Tuoi Tre newspaper is in Vietnamese.
Audience: Targets both domestic and international readers, including expatriates, diplomats, business professionals, and younger Vietnamese fluent in English.
Topics: Covers a wide range of subjects including politics, society, education, health, lifestyle, technology, sports, and major breaking news in Vietnam and around the world.
Tuoi Tre News is recognised for its timely reporting and human-interest stories, and is often cited by international media for developments in Vietnam.
Vietnam Investment Review: Overview
Website: https://vir.com.vn/
Vietnam Investment Review (VIR) is one of Vietnam’s leading English-language business publications, operating under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). It serves as a key source of economic, policy, and investment-related news, catering primarily to foreign investors and international business readers.
Ownership: Published by the Ministry of Planning and Investment, giving it access to official policy developments, economic data, and investment directives.
Language: Published in English, making it one of the few government-affiliated outlets targeting foreign readers directly.
Audience: Serves foreign investors, embassies, international organisations, business executives, and consultants with interests in Vietnam’s regulatory and economic landscape.
Topics: Covers foreign direct investment (FDI), business climate reforms, infrastructure projects, real estate, banking, energy, trade, legal updates, and macroeconomic trends.
Vietnam Investment Review is often cited in market research, investment reports, and policy briefings, and is considered an authoritative voice on Vietnam’s business environment.
VietNamNet: Overview
Website: https://vietnamnet.vn/
VietNamNet is one of Vietnam’s leading online news portals, operated under the Ministry of Information and Communications. It provides daily coverage of political, economic, cultural, and social developments in Vietnam, as well as international news.
Ownership: It was formerly run by the Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) and is now part of the Vietnam Communications Corporation (VCCorp).
Language: Primarily in Vietnamese, with an English-language section offering select articles for foreign readers.
Audience: Reaches a wide domestic readership and is considered one of the more formal, state-aligned media sources in Vietnam.
Topics: Covers news, politics, economy, science & tech, health, education, entertainment, and public policy.
VietNamNet is often cited alongside other major outlets like Tuoi Tre, VnExpress, and Thanh Nien.
The Investor
Website: https://theinvestor.vn/
The Investor is an English-language online publication focused on Vietnam’s investment environment, financial markets, and business developments. It is published by the Vietnam’s Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE), an organisation that promotes and supports foreign-invested businesses in Vietnam.
Ownership: Operated by the Vietnam Economic Association via VnEconomy, a long-established Vietnamese business media group.
Language: Published entirely in English, with a professional tone aimed at international business readers.
Audience: Targets foreign investors, policymakers, financial institutions, business leaders, and consulting firms interested in Vietnam’s macroeconomic policies, investment trends, and corporate developments.
Topics: Focuses on finance, foreign direct investment (FDI), startups, energy, banking, green economy, digital transformation, and corporate governance. It also features interviews with executives, regulators, and market experts.
The Investor aims to bridge Vietnam’s economic developments with global investment audiences, offering in-depth features and policy analyses tailored to a professional readership.
Independent news sources in Vietnam
With the mainstream media in Vietnam heavily controlled by the state, a number of alternative sources of news and information have emerged. These sources can often provide better, higher-quality information and are more often than not far more objective that local news media.
the-shiv
Website: https://the-shiv.com/
the‑shiv is a specialised English-language digital publication offering a Western perspective on Vietnam’s economy, business, and policy landscape. It delivers concise, well‑analysed content aimed at foreign decision‑makers and investors.
Ownership: Privately operated by Mark Barnes a roaming, freelance business journalist.
Language: Published exclusively in English for international and expatriate audiences.
Audience: Primarily foreign investors, corporate executives, policy analysts, and diplomats seeking clarity on Vietnam’s business environment.
Topics: Focuses on FDI trends, trade (notably Vietnam‑US relations), energy and infrastructure (e.g., LNG, power development), macroeconomic policy, and real‑time customs data (exports, imports, prices).
The Vietnam Weekly
Website: https://thevietnamweekly.substack.com/
The Vietnam Weekly is an independent, subscription-based English-language newsletter and digital publication offering in-depth reporting, commentary, and analysis on politics, business, society, and culture in Vietnam. It distinguishes itself through longform journalism and direct reader engagement rather than traditional media distribution.
Ownership: Privately operated by Michael Tatarski, a journalist and editor based in Ho Chi Minh City. The publication is independent and not affiliated with any government body or state media organisation.
Language: Published entirely in English, distributed via email newsletter and hosted on Substack.
Audience: Appeals to expatriates, diplomats, foreign correspondents, researchers, and Vietnam-watchers seeking nuanced and critical insights not always covered by mainstream or state-affiliated outlets.
Topics: Covers a wide range of subjects including politics, policy, urban development, civil society, media freedom, business trends, and international affairs. Often includes curated links to other news sources, interviews, and opinion pieces.
The Vietnam Weekly fills a niche in the media landscape by providing well-contextualised, independent journalism on Vietnamese current affairs, especially valuable to readers looking for analysis outside official narratives.
Vietnam Decoded
Website: https://vietnamdecoded.substack.com
Vietnam Decoded is an independent, English-language publication that offers insightful analysis of Vietnam’s socio-political landscape. It explores the forces shaping the country’s governance, economy, and reform path.
Ownership: Privately operated and editorially independent.
Language: Published in English, catering to an international audience.
Audience: Targets foreign investors, policy analysts, academics, and readers interested in nuanced perspectives on Vietnam’s internal dynamics.
Topics: Focuses on governance, economic reforms, political developments, and societal issues within Vietnam.
Vietnam Decoded serves as a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth understanding of Vietnam’s complex socio-political environment.
International news organisations with local offices
These outlets are accessible in Vietnam and maintain local correspondents or bureaus, providing professional reporting on economic, political, and regional affairs. Note that these are blocked at the DNS level and can be circumvented by changed DNS settings or using a VPN.
Reuters – Operates a bureau in Hanoi with on-the-ground reporting on business, diplomacy, and domestic developments. Widely cited and considered neutral in tone.
Bloomberg – Focuses on financial markets, macroeconomics, and Vietnam’s role in global supply chains. Features both breaking news and in-depth analysis.
New York Times – Has an office in Ho Chi Minh City. Coverage often centres on geopolitics, culture, and major economic or environmental stories.
Financial Times – Offers in-depth reporting on trade, finance, and regional investment trends with its Vietnam office located in Hanoi.
Blocked international new sites in Vietnam
These international outlets are blocked by most Vietnamese internet service providers. Access typically requires a VPN.
BBC – The British Broadcasting Corporation provides wide-ranging global news, including regular coverage of Vietnam’s politics, human rights, and business issues. The Vietnamese-language site is also blocked.
Radio Free Asia (RFA) – A US-funded broadcaster reporting heavily on human rights, corruption, and social unrest in Vietnam. Its content is critical of the government and widely censored.
Voice of America (VOA) – Another US-funded media outlet offering Vietnamese and English-language news on politics, civil society, and international relations, often from a pro-democracy perspective.
Other news sources
These sources can also be useful for finding information.
Data and statistics
These official and private data sources are widely used by business, finance, and media professionals in Vietnam. Many government sites are only partially translated into English, and some private platforms require paid subscriptions or registration.
Government sources
- National Statistics Office (NSO) – Vietnam’s primary source for GDP, inflation, labour market, and household statistics. Monthly and quarterly updates are published online.
- General Department of Customs – Tracks Vietnam’s import and export data, with detailed monthly reports by commodity and trading partner.
- State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) – Official data on exchange rates, interest rates, credit growth, and monetary policy. Also monitors banking sector performance.
- Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) – Provides data on industrial production, domestic trade, and foreign trade policy. Key source for manufacturing trends.
- Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) – Publishes investment statistics, FDI data, and business registration trends.
- Ministry of Finance (MoF) – Vietnam’s main authority for state budget, fiscal policy, debt, and insurance market data. Regular updates on public finance and sectoral performance are published online.
International institutions
- World Bank Vietnam – Comprehensive macroeconomic indicators, poverty and development data, and in-depth country reports.
- IMF Vietnam – Independent macroeconomic assessments, Article IV consultations, policy recommendations, and analysis of trade, fiscal, and financial stability issues.
Private research and financial data providers
- FiinGroup – The leading domestic provider of company financials, sector reports, and market analysis. Known for detailed coverage of listed companies and key industries.
- Dragon Capital – One of Vietnam’s top fund managers, publishing regular macroeconomic reports and investment insights.
- Research and Markets – Extensive commercial market reports covering Vietnam’s industries, consumer trends, and business sectors. Paid access required.
- IMARC Group – Publishes detailed industry reports and market forecasts for Vietnam and Asia-Pacific. A key source for commercial research on emerging sectors.
- Mordor Intelligence – A global market intelligence and advisory firm providing detailed industry analysis, market forecasts, and competitive insights across sectors. Covers Vietnam’s consumer goods, manufacturing, and technology landscapes, with paid reports and custom research options.
Market and business platforms
- Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE) – Provides live stock market data and company disclosures.
- Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) – Hosts bond and derivative markets along with listed equities.
- Vietnam Securities Depository (VSD) – Official clearing and settlement data for listed securities.
Social media
For professionals in Vietnam, Linkedin has become crucial for connecting with other professionals, finding support, and acquiring leads.
As an English language site, and attracting far fewer users that Facebook or TikTok, Linkedin often flies quietly under the radar.
From 2020 to 2022, Linkedin reported that there were no removal requests made by the Vietnamese authorities.
In this light, Linkedin users in Vietnam are often more frank and earnest than they might be on other platforms.
Industry groups
Industry groups in Vietnam, particular foreign chambers of commerce, usually have a direct line to the government.
They are often involved in high level discussions and as such often have unique insights into Vietnam’s development.
Furthermore, as representative bodies commanding memberships that represent huge amounts of foreign investment, they also have some cover to be more open an honest than they might otherwise be able to be. Most of these bodies put out there own regular newsletters.
American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam
Offers a wealth of resources, events, and networking opportunities for foreign businesses operating in Vietnam.
From industry-specific committees and events to business development programs and policy advocacy, the American Chamber of Commerce provides a platform for companies to connect with like-minded businesses, government officials, and industry experts.
British Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam
Provides a range of support services and networking opportunities for British businesses in Vietnam.
The British Chamber of Commerce offers guidance on market entry, regulatory compliance, and business development, as well as organizing events and conferences to foster connections between British and Vietnamese businesses.
European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam
Offers a variety of services and resources for European businesses operating in Vietnam.
The European Chamber of Commerce provides information on market trends, regulatory updates, and investment opportunities, as well as organizing events and networking opportunities to connect European businesses with their Vietnamese counterparts.
Law firms and consultancies
Most law firms and consultancies in Vietnam distribute updates or some form of newsletter discussing the implications of policy, legislation, and regulation.
These are often infrequent and many use third party platforms like Mondaq.
They do, however, often contain nuggets of wisdom and insight that address the specific implications for foreign firms.
FAQ: English news in Vietnam
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about English news in Vietnam?
What are the best English-language news outlets in Vietnam?
The most well-known English-language news outlets in Vietnam include Vietnam News (the English arm of Vietnam News Agency), VN Express International, Tuoi Tre News, Vietnam Investment Review, and The Investor. These are state-affiliated sources and often focus on travel, business, and investment topics.
Is the media in Vietnam censored?
Yes. Vietnam has one of the most tightly controlled media environments in Southeast Asia.
All news organisations must be associated with a government-approved agency, and the media’s role is generally seen as supporting the state rather than scrutinising it.
Journalists who violate content rules risk penalties, including imprisonment, which encourages widespread self-censorship.
Where can I find more objective or independent news about Vietnam?
Alternative sources of news include professional networks on LinkedIn, newsletters from foreign chambers of commerce like AmCham and EuroCham, and legal or consulting firm updates.
These sources tend to offer more candid analysis, especially on business, investment, and regulatory changes.
Why is English-language news in Vietnam often promotional in tone?
English-language media in Vietnam often functions as a tool to promote the country to tourists, investors, and expats.
Articles typically highlight positive stories about Vietnam’s culture, economy, and society, reflecting state oversight and editorial guidelines focused on preserving national unity.
How do expats in Vietnam stay informed?
Expats often rely on a combination of VN Express International, Tuoi Tre News, and local social media groups.
However, many turn to LinkedIn, chamber events, and newsletters from consultancies or law firms for more practical, business-relevant, or unfiltered information.
What’s next?
Whereas there are a lot of Vietnam news sites out there, the quality is not always the best and it can be challenging trying to find clear and accurate information.
With this in mind, foreign firms doing business in Vietnam can best get a balanced assessment of what is happening in Vietnam’s business environment by subscribing to the-shiv.
First published May 24, 2024 this article was last updated March 20, 2025.