Choosing the Right Market Entry Vehicle in Vietnam
Vietnam enters 2025 with strong investment momentum, with registered foreign direct investment reaching about US$24.09 billion in the first seven months, up roughly 27 percent year over year, and climbing to about US$28.54 billion by September, up just over 15 percent from 2024.
Vietnam offers three primary vehicles for market entry, each serving a distinct investment purpose depending on the scale of operations, ownership goals, and risk tolerance.
- The limited liability company (LLC) gives investors full control and direct operating rights.
- The joint stock company (JSC) enables equity participation and large-scale capital raising.
- A representative office is also an option, providing a presence in the market without full operational control.
Entity choice is not merely procedural but strategic, defining control, regulatory exposure, and scalability from the first day of operation.
Author's summary: Choosing the right market entry vehicle is crucial for investment strategy in Vietnam.