VIETNAM
Date of establishment: September 2, 1945
Brief history:
10th – 15th century: Independent Vietnamese dynasties such as the Lý (1009-1225) and Trần (1225-1400) dynasties emerge. During this period, Vietnam develops its culture, traditional values, and political institutions. The Lý dynasty is known for establishing the capital at Thăng Long (modern-day Hanoi), and the Trần dynasty is noted for repelling multiple Mongol invasions.
15th century: The Lê dynasty (1428-1789) begins after Lê Lợi leads a successful rebellion against the Ming Dynasty of China, ending 20 years of Chinese occupation. The Lê dynasty oversees significant cultural and administrative development, solidifying Vietnamese independence and territorial expansion.
19th century: The Nguyễn dynasty (1802-1945) consolidates power, unifying Vietnam. However, during this period, Vietnam gradually falls under French influence and control. By 1887, Vietnam is fully integrated into French Indochina, a colonial federation of French territories in Southeast Asia.
1945: After World War II, Hồ Chí Minh declares Vietnam’s independence from France on September 2, 1945, following the Japanese occupation of Vietnam during the war. However, France attempts to restore its colonial control, leading to the First Indochina War.
1954: The First Indochina War ends with the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, after which France signs the Geneva Accords. These accords temporarily divide Vietnam at the 17th parallel into North Vietnam (under communist rule led by Hồ Chí Minh) and South Vietnam (under a non-communist government supported by the United States).
1955-1975: The Vietnam War occurs between North Vietnam, supported by communist allies, and South Vietnam, backed by the United States and other anti-communist nations. The war is part of the larger context of the Cold War. It ends in 1975 with the fall of Saigon and the unification of Vietnam under communist control.
1976: The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is officially established on July 2, 1976, following the unification of North and South Vietnam.
1978-1989: Vietnam invades Cambodia in 1978, leading to a prolonged occupation and conflict, which ends in 1989 when Vietnamese troops withdraw.
1986: The Đổi Mới (Renovation) policy is initiated, introducing significant economic reforms aimed at transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy. These reforms open Vietnam to foreign trade and investment, leading to substantial economic growth.
1990-1991: Vietnam normalizes relations with many countries, including the withdrawal from Cambodia and improving relations with China and the United States.
21st century: Vietnam experiences rapid economic growth and becomes increasingly integrated into the global economy. The country maintains a one-party socialist political system but adopts market-oriented economic policies. Vietnam joins the World Trade Organization in 2007, further boosting its international trade and investment profile.
International abbreviation: VN
Currency: Vietnamese đồng (VND)
The Vietnamese đồng is the official currency of Vietnam. While it has experienced periods of instability in the past, it has become more stable in recent years due to improved economic conditions and government efforts to stabilize the economy. However, like many currencies, its value can still fluctuate due to various factors such as changes in global markets, domestic economic performance, and international political developments.
The đồng is issued by the State Bank of Vietnam and is available in both coins and banknotes. Coins are less commonly used but exist in denominations of 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 đồng. Banknotes are more widely circulated and come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 500,000 đồng. The higher denomination banknotes are printed on polymer, making them more durable and harder to counterfeit.
Internet domain: vn
Dialing code: +84
Time zone: GMT +7
Geography:
Vietnam has a long coastline along the South China Sea, which includes several bays and inlets such as the Gulf of Tonkin to the north and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The coastline provides the country with significant resources in the form of fishing and seafood, contributing to its economy and food security.
The northern part of Vietnam is characterized by mountainous terrain, especially the Annamite Range (Annamese Mountains), which runs along the border with Laos. This region includes notable highlands and mountain peaks, such as Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam.
Vietnam is crossed by many rivers, the most important of which are the Red River (Sông Hồng) in the north and the Mekong River in the south. The Mekong River creates a vast delta, known as the Mekong Delta, which is one of the most fertile agricultural regions in the world, renowned for its extensive rice fields, fruit orchards, and dense network of waterways.
In the northern mountainous region, there are several notable lakes, including Ba Bể Lake, which is the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam. The area around Sa Pa is known for its terraced rice fields and picturesque landscapes rather than a specific lake called Lake Sapa.
Vietnam has several significant islands, with Phú Quốc Island in the southwest being the largest and most well-known. Other important islands include the Côn Đảo archipelago and the Cát Bà Island near Ha Long Bay, which is famous for its stunning karst landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Highest peak: Fansipan 3 143 m (10 312 feet)
Fansipan is located in the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range, near the border with China, and is part of the Hoàng Liên National Park. This peak is the highest mountain in Indochina (a region of Southeast Asia that includes Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia).
Climate:
Southern Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta and the area around Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), has a tropical monsoon climate. It features two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). During the rainy season, it can be very humid with regular showers and thunderstorms. Average temperatures in the dry season range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while in the rainy season, they range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F).
The northern part of Vietnam, including the capital Hanoi, has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Summers (May to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 26°C and 33°C (79°F to 91°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) are milder, with temperatures averaging around 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F).
The central region around Danang has a tropical monsoon climate. Summers (May to August) are hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The rainy season occurs from September to December, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. Winter (January to March) temperatures are milder, ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).
Fauna and flora:
Vietnam is one of the few countries in the world where wild populations of Asian elephants still live. These elephants are protected, and efforts are being made to restore their population, which has declined due to habitat loss and poaching.
The Indochinese tiger is an endangered species and is primarily found in the forests of central and southern Vietnam. Their numbers have significantly dwindled, and they are now critically endangered in the country.
Vietnam has a rich population of primates, including critically endangered gibbons, such as the northern white-cheeked gibbon, and rare langurs, like the Delacour’s langur and the Cat Ba langur. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these species from extinction.
The Siamese crocodile is one of the most endangered crocodile species in the world. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, rivers, and lakes. Efforts are ongoing to conserve their remaining populations.
The country is home to many species of birds, including several endemic species. Beautiful birds found in Vietnam include the Vietnamese pheasant (Lophura hatinhensis), the red-collared woodpecker, and the great hornbill.
Vietnam’s vast areas of tropical jungle and rainforest are home to many rare plant species, including a rich diversity of orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. These forests provide crucial habitats for many unique flora and fauna.
The lotus flower holds cultural and religious significance in Vietnam and is often used as a national symbol. It represents purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in Vietnamese culture.
Bamboo is abundant in Vietnamese forests and has many uses in traditional crafts and cuisine. It is used to make a variety of products, from household items to construction materials, and is an integral part of Vietnamese daily life.
In addition to these, Vietnam’s biodiversity includes other notable species such as the Saola, also known as the “Asian unicorn,” and the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey, both of which are critically endangered and the focus of intense conservation efforts. The country’s rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems make it a critical area for global conservation initiatives.
Agriculture:
Vietnam is one of the largest rice producers in the world. Rice is a staple of the country’s diet and is grown primarily in the Red River Delta in the north and the Mekong Delta in the south. These regions are particularly fertile and suitable for rice cultivation, with the peak growing seasons aligned with the rainy periods.
The country is a major producer of coffee, ranking among the top producers globally, particularly known for its robusta coffee. Coffee plantations are mainly located in the Central Highlands, where the climate and altitude are ideal for coffee cultivation.
Vietnam also produces tea, which is exported to various countries. Major tea-growing regions include the northern provinces like Thái Nguyên and the Central Highlands.
Vietnam is known for its rich variety of exotic fruits, including dragon fruit, lychee, durian, mango, rambutan, longan, and mangosteen. These fruits are grown in different regions across the country and are both consumed domestically and exported.
Cattle, pig, and poultry farming are significant components of Vietnam’s agriculture and food industry. Livestock farming supports the domestic market, providing meat, eggs, and dairy products.
Vietnam has a rich fishing tradition, and fishing is an important source of food and livelihood for many residents. The Mekong Delta is particularly renowned for its aquaculture and fishery production, contributing significantly to both the local diet and export economy. The country is a leading exporter of seafood, including shrimp, catfish, and various types of fish.
In addition to these, Vietnam’s agricultural sector includes the cultivation of spices such as pepper, which is another major export product.
Extraction of natural resources:
Vietnam has significant reserves of coal, which is an important source of energy for the country. Coal mining primarily takes place in the Quang Ninh province, home to the country’s largest coal deposits. The coal extracted is used mainly to generate electricity and for industrial heating processes.
The country also mines various other minerals, including manganese ore, titanium ore, bauxite (a raw material for aluminum), and iron ore. Bauxite mining is particularly notable in the Central Highlands region, with the government promoting the development of aluminum production facilities.
Vietnam possesses reserves of oil and natural gas, primarily located offshore in the South China Sea. Major oil fields include Bach Ho (White Tiger), Rong (Dragon), and Dai Hung (Big Bear). The extraction and processing of crude oil are carried out in refineries such as the Dung Quat refinery, producing fuels and various chemical products. Natural gas is used for electricity generation and as a raw material in the chemical industry.
The country has some deposits of precious stones such as sapphires and rubies, particularly in the Luc Yen district of Yen Bai province and the Quy Chau district of Nghe An province. The mining and trade of precious stones are regulated by the government to prevent illegal exploitation and ensure sustainable practices.
Gravel and sand mining is an important industry in Vietnam, extracting these materials for construction and infrastructure projects. However, this industry faces challenges related to environmental impact and regulation.
Forestry is another vital sector, with wood being an important raw material for the furniture industry, construction, and various wood-based industries. However, logging is controversial due to issues with illegal logging and deforestation. The government has implemented policies to combat illegal logging and promote sustainable forest management.
Industry:
Vietnam is one of the world’s leading producers of textile goods and clothing. The textile and garment industry is a major contributor to the country’s export economy, supplying products to markets worldwide.
Vietnam has become a center for the production of electronic devices, including mobile phones, computers, and electronic components. Major global companies like Samsung, LG, and Intel have significant manufacturing operations in Vietnam, making electronics one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country.
The manufacture and assembly of cars, motorcycles, and vehicles is also a significant and growing area of industry. Companies such as VinFast, a domestic automobile manufacturer, and foreign brands like Honda, Toyota, and Yamaha have established production facilities in Vietnam, contributing to the rapid growth of the automotive industry.
The food industry in Vietnam produces a wide variety of food products, including canned food, beverages, confectionery, seafood, and processed agricultural goods. This sector is essential for both domestic consumption and export, with Vietnam being a leading exporter of products like coffee, rice, and seafood.
The development of construction and infrastructure has been very significant in recent years. Major projects are underway across the country, including the construction of roads, bridges, airports, and ports. Notable projects include the expansion of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, the construction of Long Thanh International Airport, and numerous highway and urban infrastructure developments.
Producing chemicals and plastic products is another important branch of Vietnamese industry. This sector includes the production of fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other chemical products, serving both domestic needs and export markets.
Additionally, Vietnam has seen growth in the renewable energy sector, with investments in solar and wind power projects. This development is part of the country’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and promote sustainable industrial growth.
Services and other sectors of the economy: tourism, maritime transport, banking, science and research, the IT sector, and telecommunications
Natural and historical attractions: Ha Long Bay, Hue City and Tranglong, the Trang An area, Ho Dynasty Fortress, and the My Son Temple
Vietnam is home to many historical and cultural monuments, including ancient temples, fortresses, imperial tombs, and ancient cities. Among the most famous are the Imperial City in Huế, which was the former capital of the Nguyễn Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient town of Hội An is another UNESCO site, known for its well-preserved architecture and unique blend of different cultural influences. The Mỹ Sơn temple complex, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consists of a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa civilization.
The country offers stunning natural scenery, including national parks, mountains, lakes, and beaches. Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts and isles, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. The Mekong Delta, known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, features a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands, and is famous for its floating markets, rice paddies, and diverse ecosystems. Other notable natural attractions include Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, home to some of the world’s largest caves, and the terraced rice fields of Sapa in the northern highlands.
Vietnam is also renowned for its rich and varied cuisine. Tourists can enjoy traditional dishes such as phở (noodle soup with beef or chicken), bánh mì (baguette sandwiches), and many other specialties like gỏi cuốn (spring rolls), bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), and cao lầu (a noodle dish from Hội An).
Markets and shops offer a wide variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Vietnamese goods, including silks, ceramics, and jewelry. Places like the Bến Thành Market in Ho Chi Minh City and the Night Market in Hanoi are popular spots for tourists to buy local products and experience the bustling market atmosphere.
Form of government: socialist republic
The only permitted political grouping in Vietnam is the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), which rules the country. The state establishment of Vietnam is built on Marxism-Leninism and communist ideology.
The highest body of power is the National Assembly, which is responsible for approving laws, political directives, and key decisions. The National Assembly also elects the president, who is the head of state. However, the president holds a largely ceremonial role, and real power rests in the hands of the General Secretary of the Communist Party, who is considered the de facto leader of the country.
The prime minister is another key figure, responsible for the government’s day-to-day administration and the implementation of policies. The Communist Party of Vietnam has a dominant role in the state establishment and influences all aspects of life in the country, including politics, the economy, media, and social life. Any opposition to the party is banned and suppressed, ensuring the CPV maintains strict control over the nation.
The judicial system in Vietnam is comprised of various levels of courts, with the Supreme People’s Court being the highest judicial authority. This court oversees the application and interpretation of Vietnamese law and ensures uniformity in judicial decisions. Below the Supreme People’s Court are provincial and district courts. The judiciary is intended to function independently of the executive and legislative branches, but in practice, it is often influenced by the Communist Party, which can impact its impartiality and effectiveness. The legal system also includes the Supreme People’s Procuracy, responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and overseeing judicial activities. Efforts are ongoing to reform the judiciary to enhance its independence and efficiency, although significant challenges remain.
Capital city: Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is located in the northern part of the country. It has a history that spans over a thousand years and has been the political and cultural center of Vietnam for much of that time. Throughout its history, Hanoi has been influenced by Chinese, French, and other cultures, which is reflected in its unique architecture and vibrant culture.
Key sights in Hanoi include Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, located in the heart of the city. Hoan Kiem Lake is a scenic spot popular with both locals and tourists, and the Ngoc Son Temple, situated on an island in the lake, is accessible by a charming red bridge. The Old Quarter is another historic area of Hanoi, famous for its narrow streets, traditional shop houses, and vibrant atmosphere. Each street in the Old Quarter is named after the goods historically sold there, offering a glimpse into Hanoi’s mercantile past.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. The mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site and a symbol of Vietnamese independence. The Temple of Literature, founded in 1070, is dedicated to Confucius and was the site of Vietnam’s first university. It features beautiful traditional Vietnamese architecture and well-preserved courtyards.
The One Pillar Pagoda, originally built in 1049, is designed to resemble a lotus blossom. It is an important symbol of Hanoi and a popular tourist attraction. The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the political center of Vietnam for more than a thousand years and includes ancient palaces, ruins, and archaeological treasures.
The Hanoi Opera House, built in the early 20th century by the French, is a prime example of French colonial architecture and hosts a variety of cultural performances, including opera, ballet, and classical music. Hoa Lo Prison, known colloquially as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War, now serves as a museum offering insights into its use as a prison for political prisoners during French colonial rule and American POWs during the war. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse cultures and ethnic groups in Vietnam, featuring traditional costumes, artifacts, and reconstructed village homes.
The city has a population of about 5 432 000.
Area: 331 690 km2 (128 066 square miles)
Population: 98 187 000 (2022)
Vietnam is home to many ethnic groups, with the largest group being the Kinh (Vietnamese), who make up around 86% of the population. In addition to the Kinh, there are 53 recognized minority ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Tay, Thai, Muong, Khmer, and Nung, among others. These groups are distributed throughout the country, particularly in the mountainous and rural areas.
Buddhism is the most widespread religion in Vietnam, particularly among the Kinh population, but it often incorporates elements of Taoism and Confucianism, reflecting the country’s syncretic religious traditions. In addition to Buddhism, there are significant communities practicing Christianity (mainly Roman Catholicism and Protestantism), as well as Cao Dai and Hoa Hao, which are indigenous religious traditions. There are also smaller groups practicing Islam and other indigenous faiths, particularly among the Cham ethnic group.
Vietnam places a strong emphasis on education, resulting in a relatively high literacy rate. The country has an extensive education system that includes primary, secondary, and higher education. The government has made significant efforts to improve education quality and access, although challenges remain, particularly in rural and remote areas.
The official language is Vietnamese. While Vietnamese is the primary language used in education, government, and daily communication, many Vietnamese, particularly in urban and tourist areas, are also fluent in English. Other languages, such as French, Chinese, Russian, and Japanese, are also spoken by some segments of the population due to historical ties and economic relations.
Vietnam is experiencing demographic changes, including a gradually aging population. This trend is putting pressure on the country’s healthcare and social systems. The government is working to address these challenges through various reforms and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services and social support for the elderly.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 8
- Complex of Huế Monuments (1993) – The former political, religious, and cultural center of Vietnam, featuring the Imperial City, royal palaces, and tombs of the Nguyễn dynasty.
- Ha Long Bay (1994) – A bay in the Gulf of Tonkin known for its thousands of limestone karsts and islands.
- Hoi An Ancient Town (1999) – A well-preserved trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, known for its unique architecture and cultural influences.
- My Son Sanctuary (1999) – A cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa civilization, serving as their main religious center.
- Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park (2003) – A national park in a karst region, known for its extensive cave systems, including some of the world’s largest caves.
- Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi (2010) – An 11th-century structure built during the Lý dynasty, showcasing the history of Vietnamese imperial architecture and culture.
- Citadel of the Ho Dynasty (2011) – A 14th-century fortress built according to the principles of feng shui, representing the development of royal architecture and military strategies in Vietnam.
- Trang An Landscape Complex (2014) – A scenic area featuring limestone karst peaks, valleys, and caves with archaeological sites, reflecting the interaction between human activities and the environment over thousands of years.
National parks: 32
- Hoàng Liên National Park
- Ba Bể National Park
- Bai Tu Long National Park
- Xuân Sơn National Park
- Tam Đảo National Park
- Du Già National Park
- Phia Oắc – Phia Đén National Park
- Ba Vì National Park
- Cát Bà National Park
- Cúc Phương National Park
- Xuân Thủy National Park
- Bến En National Park
- Pù Mát National Park
- Vũ Quang National Park
- Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park
- Bạch Mã National Park
- Phước Bình National Park
- Núi Chúa National Park
- Chư Mom Ray National Park
- Kon Ka Kinh National Park
- Yok Đôn National Park
- Chư Yang Sin National Park
- Bidoup Núi Bà National Park
- Cát Tiên National Park
- Bù Gia Mập National Park
- Côn Đảo National Park
- Lò Gò-Xa Mát National Park
- Tràm Chim National Park
- U Minh Thượng National Park
- Mũi Cà Mau National Park
- U Minh Hạ National Park
- Phú Quốc National Park