Good afternoon welcome to ABE PodCast — the show where we bring you insights from
Asia, connecting the world. I’m Mia Liu, and today we’re diving into the topic of two trade
agreements that are changing how businesses in Vietnam work and grow — Respectively
CPTPP, which is The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific
Partnership and the EVFTA, which is EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.
These agreements both came into force around 2019, 2020, and witnessed both
opportunities and challaneges. And the debate comes that: Are Vietnamese companies
ready for this? What do foreign investors think? And how is the Vietnamese government
helping businesses make the most of these opportunities?
To help us answer these questions, we have three distinguished guests on board with us today.
ᐋᐌᐍᐎ Guest Introductions
First, we have Dr. Bianca Palici, a leading economist and expert in international trade and
development policy. Great to have you on board with us Dr.
Next, joining us from Gernmany, we have Mr. Lukas Traeger, the CEO of EU based
aotumotive supplier and seeking for investment in ASEAN regions. Welcome Lukas.
And finally, we’re honored to have Vice Minister Prakya Nyugen from Vietnam’s Ministry
of Planning and Investment.
“Dr. Bianca, let’s start with you. Could you first brief our audience on the background of the two
agreements? What are they about, from what you’ve seen so far, how much have these
agreements actually helped Vietnamese businesses? Are we seeing real benefits yet, or is it still
too early to tell?”
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To Vice Minister:
“Vice Minister, from the government’s side, what is Vietnam doing to help local businesses
adapting to these new trade rules and compete with foreign companies?”
To Mr. Lukas:
“Lukas, I believe you’ve already done some duel diligence in Vietnam, from an investor’s
perspective, do you think what they said convincing to you? Do you think Vietnam is an
attractive market comparing to other Southeast Asian countries?
ၳၴၵ Crossfire / Debate Questions (for all 3 guests)
Thank you all for sharing, next let’s move on to discuss the challenges and concerns regarding
the compliance and application. For example, some say these agreements mostly help big
companies, while small businesses struggle. Do you agree? What can be done to make sure all
players benefits?”
Closing Wrap-Up (Host Speaking)
Thank you for sharing such valuable insights with us today. As Vietnam becomes more
connected to the world, how we balance growth, fairness, and sustainability will shape the
country’s future. We hope today’s discussion helps business owners, investors, and
policymakers think about how to work together to make the most of these opportunities. This
balance between openness and resilience, global integration and domestic strength, will be
key to Vietnam’s long-term success.
Thank you for joining us on ABE PodCast — from Vietnam, connecting the world. I’m Mia
Liu, and we look forward to bringing you more conversations that matter. See you next time.