Nordic FDI surges into Vietnam in first half of 2025

Sweden has surged to become the third-largest source of new foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam in the first half of 2025, signaling a strong and growing shift of capital from the Nordic region into the Vietnamese market, according to a report from the Government News.

According to data from the Foreign Investment Agency (under the Ministry of Finance), Sweden registered $1 billion, accounting for 10.8% of all newly registered FDI capital. This performance places it just behind Singapore and China among the 72 countries and territories that launched new projects in Vietnam during the period.

This comes as Vietnam enjoys a robust period of investment attraction. This year,  by June 30, total registered FDI capital to pour into the country had reached $21.52 billion, a sharp 32.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Of this, newly registered capital from 1,988 new projects amounted to $9.29 billion, with the manufacturing and processing industry continuing to be the primary recipient, capturing over 54% of the new capital.

The Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden, which also covers Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and Latvia, described the trend as a "clear signal" of the Nordic bloc's intention to strengthen its investment presence in Vietnam.

Experts believe the move highlights a growing commitment from Northern Europe to diversify into Southeast Asia, with Vietnam seen as a strategic destination thanks to its political stability, vast market potential, and steadily improving manufacturing infrastructure.

Denmark has also recently emerged as a noteworthy investment partner, particularly in the green transition sector. Leading Danish corporations such as Ørsted, Vestas, and COWI are actively expanding their footprint in Vietnam through major projects in offshore wind power, logistics infrastructure, engineering consulting, and sustainable development.

According to experts, this capital shift from traditional European industrial centers to Southeast Asia—particularly from the Nordic region to Vietnam—reflects a strategic post-COVID-19 supply chain restructuring. It also aligns with the strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments that are a key priority for Nordic investors.