•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
On the afternoon of April 16, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung met and held talks with a delegation of 52 leading U.S. companies led by Brian McFeeters, as part of the activities of the US-ASEAN Business Council. The meeting involved major groups across energy, technology, finance, logistics, life sciences, agriculture, and consumer sectors. The two sides discussed issues of interest to business such as administrative procedures, taxes, the capital market, large-project implementation, and visa policies. U.S. companies assessed Vietnam's investment climate and growth prospects positively, and stated their intention to expand operations in this market. Many also affirmed their long-term commitment. Prime Minister Hung said Vietnam is shifting its growth model toward technology, innovation, and digital transformation, rather than relying on resources or low-cost labor. In this framework, the private sector is identified as one of the most important drivers of the economy. To support this process, the government is accelerating institutional reforms and the business environment. In Q2, ministries must cut in half the time and cost of administrative procedures, and will process at most 30% of procedures within their remit. The obstacles raised by businesses will be addressed promptly where possible; more complex issues will continue to be discussed to find appropriate solutions. The Prime Minister affirmed that Vietnam always regards the United States as one of its top partners and hopes the relationship will continue to grow in a stable and substantive manner. In 2025, two-way trade between Vietnam and the United States reached 209.5 billion USD. The United States remains Vietnam's largest export market, while Vietnamese companies have signed contracts to purchase aircraft and equipment from the United States totaling more than 37 billion USD. The PM also asked the U.S. side to support advancing major goals, such as early recognition of Vietnam as a full market economy, expanding technology cooperation, and accompanying Vietnam in international events such as APEC 2027. At a concrete level, Vietnam is ready to facilitate U.S. investment in key sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and high technology, including 5G infrastructure and submarine cables, while ensuring security and legal compliance.
Premium gym chains are entering a “golden era” that is ending or already in decline, as rising operating costs collide with shifting consumer preferences toward more flexible, community-based ways to exercise. Long-term memberships are shrinking, margins are pressured by higher rents and facility expenses, and competition from smaller, more personalized…
