As part of the JETRO DX project that aims to connect Japanese and Vietnamese businesses in the startup ecosystem, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is organizing a pitch-and-meet in Ho Chi Minh City. This event, the JETRO Startups Connecting Hub, will be a place for companies from both countries to showcase ideas and foster partnership opportunities.
Japan has always been one of Vietnam’s largest investors, endowing billions of dollars annually. According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, in the first ten months of 2022, Japanese investors funded 166 new projects in Vietnam, totaling US$2.95 billion of registered capital. The percentage of Japanese enterprises expanding their businesses in Vietnam is the highest in Asia.
It goes to show that the two countries are bilateral strategic business partners, bringing to the table unique strengths and value propositions. While Japanese companies offer technology expertise, overseas distribution channels, and abundant capital, Vietnamese partners provide a dynamic workforce and local know-how for a rapidly growing market.
Especially for the startup ecosystem, the synergy is strong. After signing an MoU with the Vietnam National Innovation Centre (NIC) for innovation cooperation, JETRO has been actively promoting partnerships among firms in both countries. This November in Ho Chi Minh city, the JETRO Startups Connecting Hub event is the next step in this effort – an intimate gathering of Japanese corporates, early-stage investors, and Vietnamese entrepreneurs.
In the center of the country’s most energetic metropolitan, this event aspires to bridge the gap between Japanese and Vietnamese stakeholders. Representatives from 12 promising Viet companies will pitch their business ideas to receive input and potential funding from investors. These are tech startups operating across multiple industries, including logistics, finance, e-commerce, energy, and education. On the other hand, Japanese companies will gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial movement to seek expansion opportunities or investments.
- Time: 1 PM – 4:30 PM, Tuesday, November 22, 2022
- Language of discussion: English
- Free entrance for representatives of Japanese companies – RSVP required
This event is even more significant as 2022 marks 50 years of Vietnam-Japanese diplomatic relations. With support from Vietnamese co-organizer JobHopin, JETRO is setting up a meaningful forum to increase business connectivity and exchange relevant knowledge. Going forward, the Startups Connecting Hub is expected to catalyze the next generation of collaboration and cooperation.
>> Read more: “Hiring the wrong people is like shooting yourself in the feet” – CEO of JobHopin shared in an interview with JETRO
The JobHopin team