Business · Vietnam Bureau
Malaysia economist bullish on Vietnam's economic momentum amid regional growth
A leading Malaysian economist has highlighted Vietnam's strong growth trajectory, citing robust investment flows and industrial capacity as key drivers positioning the nation ahead among Southeast Asia's major economies.
LSN Vietnam ·
Vietnam's economic performance stands out among ASEAN's largest economies, according to prominent Malaysian economist Shan Saeed, who points to the country's ability to leverage industrial depth and strategic investment to sustain rapid expansion.
Vietnam's economy expanded 9.95% in the third quarter, underpinned by surging foreign direct investment that reached a five-year high during the first nine months of the year. The nation's agricultural, forestry and fishery exports also expanded 7.8% over the same period, demonstrating broad-based growth across sectors.
Saeed's assessment places Vietnam among ASEAN's "Fabulous Five"—a grouping that includes Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines—yet distinguishes the Southeast Asian nation for its capacity to attract sustained investment inflows while building deeper industrial capabilities.
The economist's positive outlook reflects Vietnam's track record of converting foreign capital into productive capacity, a factor analysts credit with supporting the country's resilience amid regional economic uncertainties. Investment momentum has remained particularly strong, suggesting continued confidence in Vietnam's medium-term growth prospects.