Vietnam records 8.2% GDP growth in first half of 2026 amid Hanoi's new development plan

Vietnam's economy expanded by 8.18% year‑on‑year in the first six months of 2026, outpacing the 7.63% growth recorded in the same period of 2025. The government launched an action programme to transform Hanoi into a science‑technology hub, emphasizing innovation, green and digital transformation, and a circular economy. A 100‑year master plan, approved by the Hanoi People's Committee, sets phased targets for 2035, 2045, 2065 and 2085.

From 6 July 2026, Hanoi opened registration for free chip‑enabled bus cards for eligible passengers, especially seniors, to improve public transport. The national elderly‑care programme also guarantees at least one free annual health check‑up or screening for seniors starting in 2026. A nationwide DNA‑sample campaign was launched to identify the remains of unidentified martyrs, with 1,255 sets of remains recovered and 25 soldiers identified so far.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam called on Vietnamese youth to broaden their ambitions, enhance skills and contribute to national development, while travel publication Lonely Planet named Quy Nhon among its 2026 top‑25 beach destinations.