I. ECONOMIC GROWTH
1. Growth of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP)
1.1. Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Sector
In the first nine months of the year, despite the impact of Typhoon No. 3, which caused heavy rain and widespread flooding, agricultural, forestry, and fishery production remained stable with a slight increase. The added value of the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sector rose by 2.16% compared to the same period, contributing 0.13 percentage points to the overall growth. Specifically, the added value of agriculture increased by 2.09%, contributing 0.11 percentage points, with livestock continuing to be the main driver of agricultural growth. The forestry sector maintained stable production, growing by 3.29%, while the fishery sector saw a 2.67% increase compared to the same period last year.
In agriculture, livestock experienced minor, insignificant damage, and the price of live pigs remained high, yielding economic benefits for livestock farmers, with estimated growth in the third quarter and nine months of 6.31% and 5.22%, respectively. Crop production was the most affected by the storms, with many rice and vegetable areas flooded and completely lost. It is estimated that the storms resulted in a loss of 17.5 thousand tons of summer-autumn crop production, leading to a 9% decrease in the added value of crop production in the third quarter, and a cumulative decline of 2.01% over the first nine months compared to the same period last year.
Due to the effects of storms and flooding, aquaculture production is estimated to have suffered a loss of over 1,000 tons, leading to a modest increase in the added value of the fisheries sector by just 0.71% in the third quarter compared to the same period last year.
1.2. Industry and Construction Sector
The industry and construction sector grew by 11.69%, contributing 5.71 percentage points to the overall economic growth of the province.
- Industry: In the first nine months, the industrial sector is estimated to grow by 12.24%, contributing 5.37 percentage points to the province’s growth. All three key industrial sectors in the province's industrial structure achieved notable growth. In particular, the automotive manufacturing sector saw significant recovery and recorded positive growth again, contributing to the GRDP growth. The performance of the leading industrial sectors is as follows:
+ Electronic components manufacturing increased by 16.60%, contributing 3.67 percentage points. This sector remained the primary growth driver for both the industrial sector and the provincial economy. Some leading companies have deeply integrated into the global supply chain and secured stable orders from large corporations like Apple, Samsung, Google, and Dell, etc.
+ Metal manufacturing and non-metallic mineral production increased by 7.53% and 12.32%, respectively, contributing 0.09 and 0.2 percentage points. The increasing demand for construction and repairs, along with positive investment disbursement, supported the recovery of these two industries.
+ Automotive manufacturing showed positive signs, with car production and related components increasing across the quarters. As a result, the added value of the automotive sector grew by 0.08% in the first nine months, contributing positively to the province's growth.
+ Motorcycle manufacturing saw steady increases in production and orders from companies throughout the year. Some factories have ramped up production, leading to higher output during this period. The added value of the motorcycle manufacturing sector is estimated to grow by 8.03% (6.58% in Q2 and 22.88% in Q3), contributing 0.64 percentage points.
- Construction: Despite the general economic challenges, the construction sector maintained stability and growth in the first nine months of 2024. The added value of the construction sector grew by 6.80% compared to the same period last year, contributing 0.34 percentage points to the province's GRDP growth.
1.3. Service Sector
In the third quarter, consumer trends improved, with a growing inclination towards purchasing high-value items such as cars and motorcycles. Retail and service activities in the region experienced growth, contributing to the expansion of the service sector, which is estimated to increase by 8.40%. For the first nine months of the year, the service sector grew by 7.21% compared to the same period last year, contributing 1.54 percentage points to overall economic growth. Contributions from specific service industries to the total added value of the economy in the first nine months are as follows: the transportation and warehousing sector grew by 18.51%, contributing 0.30 percentage points; wholesale and retail trade increased by 9.54%, contributing 0.58 percentage points; financial, banking, and insurance activities rose by 6.12%, contributing 0.13 percentage points; the information and communication sector grew by 4.46%, contributing 0.09 percentage points; activities of the Communist Party, political-social organizations, state management, national defense, public security, and mandatory social security increased by 6.50%, contributing 0.11 percentage points.
2. Agricultural, Forestry, and Fisheries Production
2.1. Agricultural Production
a. Crop Production:
- Annual crops: The total planted area for the 2024 summer-autumn rice crop is estimated at 23,434.2 hectares, a decrease of 0.46% compared to the same period last year. This reduction is due to land conversion for project use and the impact of Typhoon No. 3, which caused heavy rain and strong winds, severely damaging many crop areas in Vĩnh Phúc province. As a result, yields and output have decreased compared to last year. So far, nearly 56% of the summer-autumn rice area has been harvested, with an estimated yield of 50.69 quintals/ha, down 5.88 quintals/ha compared to the previous year. The estimated output is 118,778.9 tons, a decrease of 14,393.8 tons.
Additionally, the yields and output of other crops were also significantly affected: corn yields are estimated at 39.15 quintals/ha, down 6.24 quintals/ha, with an output of 6,570 tons, a decrease of 645.6 tons; peanut yields are estimated at 19.59 quintals/ha, down 1.13 quintals/ha, with an output of 1,052.4 tons, down 31.8 tons; vegetable yields are estimated at 193.93 quintals/ha, down 10.28 quintals/ha, with an output of 48,070.5 tons, down 1,851.5 tons. Farmers are currently working hard to quickly harvest crops to minimize losses in case of further flooding.
- Perennial crops: The production of perennial crops in the first nine months of 2024 continued to develop in Vĩnh Phúc, with an estimated area of 8,220.9 hectares, a slight decrease of 0.25% compared to the same period last year. Fruit trees remain the dominant group, accounting for 93.93% of the total perennial crop area in the province. The estimated output of some key fruit trees is as follows: bananas at 46,076.7 tons (-1,242.5 tons); dragon fruit at 2,459.3 tons (+140.63 tons); pineapples at 2,315.1 tons (+65 tons); pomelos at 4,221.2 tons (+91.2 tons); longans at 6,059.8 tons (-267.5 tons); and lychees at 9,629.4 tons (-802 tons).
b. Livestock Production:
Despite facing challenges from the market and diseases, livestock production in Vĩnh Phúc province achieved positive results in the first nine months of the year, thanks to effective disease control measures and production support. The total live meat output for the first nine months reached 102,848 tons, up 4.45% (pork increased by 8.35%; poultry decreased by 2.27%). Egg production increased by 9.87% compared to the same period last year.
- The number of buffaloes and cows continued to decrease due to high feeding costs and the shrinking area for natural grazing. The total number of buffaloes decreased by 5.03%, and cows by 3.94%. The live buffalo meat output reached 993.1 tons (down 2.68%), and beef output reached 3,941.0 tons (down 3.45%). In contrast, thanks to a stable market, fresh cow's milk production increased by 3.0%, reaching 45,830.0 tons.
- The pig population grew positively due to the high price of live pigs (68,000 - 70,000 VND/kg) and lower feed costs, allowing farmers to earn a profit of 2.2 - 2.5 million VND per pig. The total pig population reached 516,400, up 3.63%. The output of live pork increased by 8.35%, reaching 68,012.1 tons (+5,241.5 tons).
- Poultry farming faced difficulties in the first half of the year as selling prices were lower than production costs, but conditions stabilized in the following months. The total poultry population reached 11.993 million, a slight increase of 0.47%. The output of live poultry meat decreased by 2.27%, reaching 29,901.3 tons (-694.7 tons), mainly due to a decline in chicken meat production. However, poultry egg production saw a sharp increase of 9.87%, reaching 602.836 million eggs, thanks to stable egg prices and rising consumption demand.
2.2. Forestry Production
In the first nine months of 2024, Vinh Phuc province planted 600 hectares of concentrated forest, achieving 100% of the planned target, a 9.31% decrease from the previous year due to reduced harvested forest area. Scattered planting reached 712.2 thousand trees, meeting 94.59% of the plan, down 1.27% compared to the same period. Timber production reached 35,941.1 m³, up 3.19%, and firewood production reached 36,433.4 ste, an increase of 0.71% compared to the same period. Forest protection and fire prevention efforts were ensured, with three fire outbreaks handled promptly, preventing large-scale fires.
2.3. Aquaculture Production
Due to the impact of storms and heavy rainfall, many aquaculture areas were flooded, affecting aquaculture production outcomes. The total aquatic harvest in September 2024 was 2,520.2 tons, a decrease of 7.40% compared to the same period last year. In the first nine months of 2024, aquaculture production was estimated at 18,846 tons, up 1.75% from the same period. Of this, inland fishing production was estimated at 1,428.7 tons, up 1.00%, and aquaculture farming production was estimated at 17,417 tons, up 1.81% year-over-year. The production of aquatic seedlings was estimated at 3,027 million units, an increase of 1.83% from the same period.
3. Industrial Production
In September 2024, the Industrial Production Index (IIP) is estimated to decrease by 0.97% compared to the previous month but increase by 16.56% compared to the same period last year. Specifically, the mining industry decreased by 28.79% compared to the previous month and by 65.47% compared to the same period last year. The manufacturing and processing industry decreased by 0.92% but increased by 16.81%. The electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning production and distribution sector decreased by 7.06% but increased by 12.12%. The water supply, waste management, and wastewater treatment sector decreased by 2.42% and by 14.58%. Among the level II industries, most showed growth, with 21 out of 25 industries having an IIP increase compared to the same period last year, while 4 industries saw decreases. Over the first nine months of the year, 22 out of 25 industries achieved growth, while only 3 industries experienced decreases.
The performance of some key industries is as follows:
- The electronic components industry continues to be the main growth driver for the province's industrial sector, with the production index in September 2024 increasing by 23.18% compared to the same period last year. Many foreign-invested enterprises participate in the global supply chains of major corporations like Samsung, Apple, and Dell. Since the beginning of the year, orders have stabilized and increased, helping the industry continue to grow strongly. The IIP for the electronic components sector over the first nine months of 2024 increased by 15.35% compared to the same period last year.
- The automobile industry saw its IIP decrease by 5.7% in September, with only a 0.37% increase over the first nine months of the year. Economic difficulties have led consumers to limit their purchases of high-value items, including automobiles. However, thanks to promotional programs from major companies like Toyota and Honda, along with the government's reduction of registration fees, automobile production in Q3 is estimated to reach 11,396 units, an increase of 7.87% compared to the same period last year.
- The motorcycle industry experienced a slight IIP increase of 0.23% in September and an 8.28% increase over the first nine months of the year. Q3 production reached 469,441 units, a 22.22% increase, thanks to consumer stimulus programs that boosted market demand.
- The metal production industry and non-metal mineral products industry both showed positive growth. The IIP for metal production in September increased by 4.34% compared to the same period last year and by 7.89% over the first nine months of the year. The IIP for non-metal mineral products surged by 38.70% in September and by 17.84% over the first nine months.
Production of some key products: In September 2024, aside from the decrease in automobile and motorcycle production, other major products showed increases, with the highest growth seen in sports shoes, which increased by 54.63%. Over the first nine months, the production of products such as animal feed, sports shoes, ceramic tiles, motorcycles, and revenue from the production of electronic components all increased compared to the same period last year, while automobile production declined.
Labor utilization index of industrial enterprises: In September 2024, the labor market in the industrial sector remained stable and showed slight growth, particularly in foreign-invested enterprises. The labor utilization index of industrial enterprises increased by 4.93% month-over-month and 4.71% year-over-year. State-owned enterprises grew by 0.62%, non-state enterprises by 0.07%, and foreign-invested enterprises by 5.42%.
Consumption index: The consumption of goods in the manufacturing and processing industries continued to improve, although certain sectors, such as metals and electrical equipment, experienced declines. In September 2024, the consumption index for manufacturing and processing industries increased by 3.92% month-over-month and 7.51% year-over-year. The chemical manufacturing sector rose by 7.72%, machinery by 15.28%, motor vehicles by 36.15%, and furniture by 25.17%. Conversely, metal production fell by 19.72%, and electrical equipment by 17.69%.
Inventory index: In September 2024, the inventory index for manufacturing and processing industries decreased by 6.55% month-over-month and 11.75% year-over-year, indicating improved consumption. However, some sectors reported high inventory levels, such as paper production (up 42.28%), pharmaceuticals and medicinal products (up 33.42%), rubber and plastics (up 12.75%), and metals (up 13.84%). On the other hand, the textile sector saw a 29.29% decrease in inventory, machinery and equipment not elsewhere classified fell by 39.25%, other transport vehicles by 21.35%, and furniture by 11.41%.
4. Business Operations
4.1. Business Registration Status
In the first nine months of 2024, the decrease in newly registered businesses and the increase in businesses temporarily suspending operations compared to the same period indicate that the business environment is facing challenges. However, the rise in registered capital shows that businesses are recovering and adapting to difficulties. As of September 15, 2024, the province saw 1,093 newly registered businesses with a total registered capital of VND 9,482 billion, a 1.53% decrease in the number of businesses but a 7.80% increase in registered capital compared to the same period last year. Some sectors experienced significant growth in the number of businesses, registered capital, and labor, such as wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles, which saw an 11.67% increase in the number of businesses, a 12.26% increase in registered capital, and a 12.74% increase in labor. The accommodation and food services sector saw a 34.48% increase in businesses, a 103.80% rise in registered capital, and a 48.63% increase in labor. The information and communications sector grew by 38.46% in the number of businesses, 745.89% in registered capital, and 18.37% in labor, while real estate activities increased by 37.50% in businesses, 49.82% in registered capital, and 2.33% in labor.
During the period, 288 businesses resumed operations, down 2.70% compared to the same period, while the number of businesses suspending operations was 794, up 25.04%. Additionally, 144 businesses completed dissolution procedures, a 35.85% increase, indicating that the business environment still faces many challenges and difficulties.
4.2. Business Trends in the Manufacturing and Processing Industry
According to evaluations from enterprises in the manufacturing and processing industry, business activities in the third quarter of 2024 showed improvement compared to the second quarter of 2024, with 76.7% of businesses indicating that their operations were either improving or stable (38.4% improving and 38.3% stable). On the other hand, 23.3% of businesses felt that they faced more difficulties. The forecast for the fourth quarter of 2024 is positive, with 39.2% predicting that the situation will improve, 41.2% expecting it to remain stable, and 19.6% concerned about upcoming difficulties in business operations.
In the third quarter of 2024, the two main factors affecting business operations were "low domestic market demand" and "high competition from domestic goods," with 52.9% and 49.0% of businesses citing these reasons, respectively. Notably, the factor of "financial difficulties" increased by 5.1 percentage points compared to the second quarter of 2024, reaching 26.5%, indicating that financial issues are becoming a significant obstacle for businesses in the industry.
5. Commerce and Services
5.1. Retail and Consumer Service Revenue
In September 2024, total retail sales and consumer service revenue in the area reached VND 6,919.7 billion, a slight increase of 1.84% from the previous month and up 12.36% year-on-year. In Q3/2024, total revenue was estimated at VND 20,609.3 billion, up 7.23% from the previous quarter and 13.23% year-on-year. For the first nine months of 2024, total revenue was estimated at VND 58,288.5 billion, an increase of 9.01% compared to the same period last year.
Retail Sales: In September 2024, retail sales were estimated at VND 5,647.1 billion, up 2.02% from the previous month and 11.93% year-on-year, driven by increased shopping demand during major holidays such as National Day, the new school year, and Mid-Autumn Festival. Accumulated retail sales for the first nine months reached VND 47,307 billion, up 8.11% year-on-year. Consumer demand for products like automobiles, electronics, and essential goods continued to rise, contributing to the growth of the retail market.
Accommodation and Food Service Revenue: In September 2024, accommodation and food service revenue was estimated at VND 590.6 billion, up 1.96% from the previous month and 12.74% year-on-year. For the first nine months, total revenue reached VND 5,094.4 billion, an increase of 9.08% year-on-year. The expansion of restaurants, food services, and accommodation, along with a growing trend of dining out, contributed to this sector's revenue growth.
Tourism Revenue: In September 2024, tourism revenue was estimated at VND 55.4 billion, down 15.39% from the previous month but still up 125.08% year-on-year. Accumulated tourism revenue for the first nine months reached VND 447.7 billion, a 124.84% increase year-on-year, driven by lively tourism activities, festivals, and entertainment events that attracted a large number of visitors to the province's popular tourist destinations.
Other Service Revenue: In September 2024, other service revenue was estimated at VND 626.6 billion, up 1.87% from the previous month and 10.93% year-on-year. Accumulated revenue for the first nine months reached VND 5,439.4 billion, an increase of 12.35% year-on-year. Sectors such as education, healthcare, arts, entertainment, and other support services experienced positive growth, fueled by increased consumer demand and the development of convenient services in daily life.
5.2. Passenger and Freight Transport
Passenger Transport: In the first nine months of 2024, passenger transport revenue was estimated at VND 1,113 billion, up 60.97% year-on-year. The number of passengers transported reached 30.69 million, with passenger turnover at 1,569.1 million passenger.km. Despite strong growth compared to the same period, September saw a decline due to the impact of storms and reduced demand for buses, tourist vehicles, and taxis after the peak travel season.
Freight Transport: Freight transport revenue for the first nine months was estimated at VND 4,402 billion, up 16.95% year-on-year. The volume of goods transported reached 32.6 million tons, with freight turnover at over 4,042.2 million tons.km. However, in September, freight transport was affected by weather conditions, reducing the demand for transporting high-value items such as cars, motorcycles, and construction materials, leading to a 2.23% decrease in revenue compared to the previous month and a 12.32% decrease year-on-year.
Warehousing, Transport Support Services, Postal and Delivery Services: Revenue for the first nine months was estimated at VND 641.5 billion, a strong increase of 62.29% year-on-year, driven by rising online shopping demand and upgrades in logistics infrastructure in the province. The operation of Vinh Phuc's ICD Logistics Center contributed to improving the efficiency of goods circulation, helping revenue from transport support and postal services continue its growth momentum.
II. MACROECONOMIC STABILITY
1. State Budget Revenue and Expenditure
The management and collection of state budget revenues continued to be implemented decisively. Personal income tax collection in the region increased due to the rise in basic salaries, contributing to a notable increase in state budget revenues during the period. According to the State Treasury, as of September 15, 2024, the total state budget revenue in the province reached VND 19,950.6 billion, an increase of 9.67% compared to the same period last year, achieving 62.81% of the year's target. Of this, domestic revenue reached VND 16,312.6 billion, up 10.76%, with significant increases in collections from land and property (VND 2,121.5 billion, up 103.67%), non-state enterprises (VND 1,509.8 billion, up 42.34%), and personal income tax (VND 1,275 billion, up 25.21% year-over-year). Import-export activities in the province also saw growth, positively contributing to customs revenue (VND 3,624 billion), an increase of 5.52% compared to the same period last year.
As of September 15, 2024, total state budget spending reached VND 16,987.5 billion, a decrease of 5.88% compared to the same period, accounting for 81.92% of the annual forecast allocated at the beginning of the year. The reduction is mainly in development investment spending, including advances, which reached VND 8,433 billion, down 18.57%. Regular expenditures reached VND 8,484.1 billion, an increase of 11.21% compared to the same period.
2. Banking and Credit Activities
Credit growth improved in the third quarter, with measures implemented to boost credit growth, such as increasing deposit interest rates, reducing lending interest rates, and commercial banks narrowing the gap between input and output rates, accepting lower profits this year to support customers. Currently, the VND deposit interest rates range from 0.2% to 6% per year depending on the term. The interest rates for new deposits have been trending upward, averaging 3.84% per year, up 0.23% compared to the end of 2023. Lending interest rates in the region range from 3.5% to 10.5% per year depending on the term and customer.
The total capital mobilized by September 30, 2024, is estimated to reach VND 130.2 trillion, an increase of 3.15% compared to the end of 2023. This is primarily driven by residential deposits, estimated at VND 89 trillion, up 6.08%, compensating for the shortfall from economic organizations' deposits (estimated at VND 41.2 trillion, down 2.64%) as businesses do not have idle funds, focusing on production and business activities, and some foreign enterprises repatriate profits.
Total outstanding loans as of September 30, 2024, reached VND 136.5 trillion, up 6.51% compared to the end of 2023. Lending interest rates have decreased significantly. Short-term loans are the majority, estimated at VND 100 trillion, up 7.71% compared to the end of 2023, accounting for 73.26% of total outstanding loans. The structure of outstanding loans is concentrated in production, services, and development investment activities. Loans to households, private individuals, and small businesses account for 57.88% of total outstanding loans, while loans to enterprises account for 41.03% of total outstanding loans.
Outstanding loans for policy credit programs are estimated at VND 4.5 trillion by September 30, 2024, a decrease of 0.11% compared to the end of 2023, with more than 108,000 customers currently borrowing. Specifically: loans to poor households, near-poor households, and households escaping poverty amounted to VND 971 billion; student loans were VND 87 billion; loans for clean water and environmental sanitation reached VND 1,020 billion; and job creation loans totaled VND 1,975 billion.
Non-performing loan (NPL) ratio: Although it is controlled at a safe level of less than 2%, as of September 30, 2024, NPLs are estimated at VND 1.450 trillion, accounting for 1.06%.
3. Insurance
In the first nine months of 2024, the provincial Social Security Agency actively promoted and encouraged people to participate in voluntary social insurance. It intensified the communication about social insurance and health insurance policies, spreading awareness widely, especially among farmers and freelance workers.
As of September 30, 2024, the entire province had 1,187,845 participants in various types of insurance. Of these, 260,554 people participated in social insurance, accounting for 43% of the labor force, an increase of 5.69% compared to the same period last year (including 236,515 people in compulsory social insurance and 24,039 people in voluntary social insurance). There were 227,944 participants in unemployment insurance and 1,163,806 participants in health insurance, with the health insurance coverage rate reaching 96.08% of the population.
The total amount collected from all types of insurance by the end of September 2024 is estimated at VND 5,166.2 billion, achieving 72.9% of the assigned plan and increasing by 19.56% compared to the same period in 2023. Payment operations, especially for pensions and social insurance benefits, were carried out comprehensively, quickly, and safely, ensuring delivery directly to the beneficiaries. In the first nine months of the year, the provincial Social Security agency processed monthly social insurance benefits for 557 people, lump-sum social insurance benefits for 11,368 people, and sickness, maternity, and convalescence benefits for 95,939 cases. It also compiled a list to pay unemployment insurance benefits to 8,430 cases.
4. Investment Activities
In the first nine months of 2024, the total development investment capital is estimated to reach VND 37,344.8 billion, an increase of 5.02% compared to the same period last year, with growth across all three sectors. Specifically:
+ State Sector: Investment is estimated at VND 7,086.2 billion, an increase of 1.93% compared to the same period. Most of the increase comes from procurement activities and investment in fixed assets (estimated at VND 1,019.9 billion, up 40.80%). Investment capital from the state budget is estimated at VND 5,581 billion, down 9.82% compared to the same period, with construction progress slowing due to weather conditions.
+ Non-State Sector: Investment is estimated at VND 17,696.3 billion, up 8.33% compared to the same period. Of this, the investment realized by non-state enterprises is estimated at VND 3,200.9 billion, an increase of 8.89%, and the investment by households is estimated at VND 14,495.4 billion, up 8.20% compared to the same period. Business activities and household living conditions remain stable and have developed, driving the demand for investment and expansion of physical infrastructure by enterprises and households.
+ Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Sector: Investment is estimated at VND 12,562.3 billion, up 2.37% compared to the same period. FDI continued to grow strongly in the third quarter (Q1: VND 3,149.9 billion; Q2: VND 4,286.3 billion; Q3: VND 5,126.1 billion), an increase of 19.59% compared to Q2 and 8.19% compared to the same period last year. Many projects related to factory construction, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, and production line improvements were actively implemented during the period, which is a positive sign showing that foreign investors still have confidence and are committed to investing in the province.
- Investment Attraction: In the first nine months of 2024, Vinh Phuc province continued to record positive signals in investment attraction. According to data from the Vinh Phuc Department of Planning and Investment, by September 15, 2024, the province had granted investment registration certificates to 58 FDI projects (28 new projects and 30 capital adjustment projects), with a total registered capital of USD 507.94 million, up 3.44% compared to the same period and exceeding 26.99% of the initial annual target (USD 400 million). The registered capital is mainly concentrated in the processing and manufacturing industries, with USD 417.95 million for 55 projects. Traditional investment partners such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China continue to be maintained, with South Korea being the largest investor, contributing USD 269.78 million, accounting for 53.11% of the total registered capital.
In total, for the first nine months, the province has attracted 20 DDI (Domestic Direct Investment) projects (13 new projects and 7 capital adjustments), with a total registered capital of VND 4,640.18 billion, achieving 84.37% of the annual target (VND 5,500 billion).
5. Export and Import Activities
According to the report from Vinh Phuc Customs Department, as of September 15, 2024, export turnover is estimated at USD 13.049 billion, an increase of 12.58% compared to the same period last year. Of this, the electronics and electronic components group, which accounts for the largest share (56.47%), saw a 27.92% increase, while the machinery, equipment, and spare parts group (19.75%) grew by 7.46%. The group of complete motorcycles, motorcycle parts, and components increased by 3.97%. Import turnover is estimated at USD 13.551 billion, an increase of 26.37% compared to the same period. In particular, the electronics and electronic components group increased by 41.07%, accounting for 60.58% of total import turnover, while the machinery, equipment, and spare parts group increased by 31.11% (accounting for 15.68%).
6. Price index
6.1. Consumer Price Index (CPI): In September 2024, the CPI in Vinh Phuc province increased by 0.45% compared to the previous month and by 2.93% compared to the same period last year. The main reasons for this increase were rising food prices and tuition fees at some private preschools, which were adjusted for the 2024-2025 school year. On average, in the first nine months of 2024, the CPI rose by 2.66% compared to the same period last year.
Compared to the previous month, the CPI for September 2024 increased by 0.45%. Of the 11 main groups of consumer goods and services, 6 groups saw price increases and 5 groups saw decreases. The food and catering services group increased by 1.62%, contributing 0.54 percentage points to the overall CPI rise, making it the largest contributor. Within this group, the price index for food rose by 4.74%, mainly due to supply disruptions caused by storms and people's tendency to stockpile food. Food prices increased by 1.57%, with significant increases in pork, fresh seafood, and green vegetables due to supply and demand factors.
The education group increased by 0.91%, mainly due to tuition fee adjustments at some private preschools and increased demand for school supplies. Meanwhile, the housing, electricity, water, fuel, and construction materials group decreased by 0.04%, with residential electricity prices down by 0.57% due to lower demand for electricity during the month and a 7.23% drop in kerosene prices.
Compared to the same period last year, the CPI for September 2024 increased by 2.93%. Of the 11 main consumer goods and services groups, 9 groups saw price increases and 2 groups saw decreases. The food and catering services group rose by 5.31%, contributing 1.77 percentage points to the overall CPI, with food prices surging by 12.22%, particularly rice, which increased by 17.41% due to higher export prices and reduced domestic supply. The housing, electricity, water, fuel, and construction materials group increased by 4.06%, contributing 0.60 percentage points, driven by a rise in residential electricity and gas prices.
On average, for the first nine months of 2024, CPI increased by 2.66% compared to the same period last year. Key factors contributing to the CPI rise include a 4.16% increase in the food and catering services group, with food prices up 15.61% due to a reduction in rice supply. Education services rose by 6.85%, due to tuition adjustments and a 2.57% increase in the price of school supplies. The pharmaceuticals and healthcare services group increased by 6.07%, mainly due to adjustments in medical service prices under Circular No. 22/2023/TT-BYT, further pushing up the overall CPI.
- Gold and USD Price Index: In September 2024, the gold price index increased by 1.76% compared to the previous month and by 37.06% compared to the same period last year. The USD price index decreased by 1.59% from the previous month but increased by 3.12% year-on-year. On average, for the first nine months of 2024, the gold price index rose by 30.42%, while the USD price index increased by 6.19%.
6.2. Producer Price Index (PPI)
- The PPI for agriculture, forestry, and fisheries in Q3 2024 increased by 6.26% compared to the previous quarter and by 10.97% compared to the same period in 2023. On average, for the first nine months of the year, the PPI for this sector increased by 11.98%. Annual crops saw a 4.97% increase, with vegetables, beans, and flowers rising sharply by 12.83%, primarily due to supply shortages caused by Typhoon Yagi. The livestock product index also rose significantly, reaching 8.96%, with piglet prices increasing by 12.27% due to high restocking demand following disease outbreaks. However, some categories, such as sugarcane and products from perennial crops, experienced slight decreases.
- The PPI for the industrial sector in Q3 2024 decreased by 1.54% compared to the previous quarter, and for the first nine months, it declined by 0.82% year-on-year. The manufacturing and processing industry saw a 1.58% decline in Q3 2024, particularly in products such as rubber, metals, and automobiles, as decreased consumer demand prompted businesses to lower prices to stimulate sales, while lower input material costs improved competitiveness. However, certain industries saw price increases, including beverages (+1.27%), apparel (+1.58%), and repair services (+3.43%) due to strong consumer demand.
6.3. Price Index for Raw Materials, Fuel, and Production Inputs
In Q3 and the first nine months of 2024, the market for goods and services used in production continued to be affected by global price fluctuations. The agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sector recorded a strong increase, with the price index rising by 4.52% in Q3, including a significant 22.38% rise in piglet prices. Over the first nine months of the year, the price index for this sector increased by 10.34%, reflecting the recovery of the livestock industry after disease outbreaks were brought under control.
The manufacturing and processing sector showed stability, with the price index declining by 0.25% in Q3 due to a drop in prices for petroleum and raw materials for animal feed production. However, over the nine-month period, the price index rose by 0.84%.
The construction sector was impacted by adverse weather and a decrease in new project starts, leading to a 1.08% drop in the price index in Q3. Despite this, over the first nine months, the sector's price index still increased by 1.62%, driven by strong demand for electric wires and electrical equipment.
III. SOCIAL ISSUES
1. Labor, Employment, and Social Security Assurance
Labor Force and Employment: In the third quarter of 2024, the labor force aged 15 and over in the province is estimated at 600.6 thousand people, an increase of 0.05% compared to the previous quarter but a decrease of 1.6% compared to the same period in 2023. The labor structure saw a slight shift, with the urban sector accounting for 32.9% (197.6 thousand people), an increase of 0.1% compared to the previous quarter, while the rural sector accounted for 67.1% (403 thousand people), a decrease of 0.1%. The number of employed workers reached 582.6 thousand people, an increase of 0.05% compared to the previous quarter, making up 97% of the labor force. Of these, urban workers totaled 190.1 thousand, an increase of 0.1%, while rural workers totaled 392.5 thousand, a decrease of 0.1%. The unemployment rate among the working-age population is estimated at 1.74%, a decrease of 0.02% compared to the same period last year. According to a survey of industrial manufacturing enterprises, labor utilization in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the second quarter of 2024 remained stable, with 17.5% of enterprises planning to increase their workforce, 73.8% maintaining stability, and 8.7% planning to reduce their labor force.
Job Creation: In the first nine months of the year, the province created jobs for 18,660 workers, an increase of 18.4% compared to the same period in 2023, exceeding the 2024 plan by 9.8%. Of these, 17,901 workers found employment within the country, an increase of 19.3% compared to the same period in 2023. New jobs were created for 3,812 workers in the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors; 8,475 workers in the industry and construction sectors; and 5,614 workers in the trade and services sectors. Additionally, 759 workers were sent abroad under contract-based employment (achieving 75.9% of the 2024 plan).
Poverty Reduction and Social Welfare: The province has effectively implemented support for people with meritorious service, social protection beneficiaries, and disadvantaged individuals. Currently, 17,140 people with meritorious service and their relatives receive allowances, with a total amount of VND 407,068 million, including monthly and one-time allowances. Social protection efforts have also yielded positive results, with 44,364 people receiving support, totaling VND 250,050.57 million. Regarding support for poor and near-poor households and those in difficult circumstances, the province has disbursed VND 50,357.1 million, including both monthly and one-time allowances. The province also provided loan support to 107,697 policy beneficiaries with a total outstanding loan balance of VND 4,499,870.02 million. Additionally, 363,744 free health insurance cards were issued, a significant increase compared to the previous year. During the Lunar New Year, the province mobilized 34.2 tons of rice for poor households. After Typhoon No. 3, provincial agencies, organizations, and individuals donated over VND 17 billion to support affected residents.
Support for People with Meritorious Service and Their Families: The province has effectively implemented policies for people with meritorious service and their families in accordance with administrative procedures. Currently, 17,140 individuals are receiving monthly preferential allowances across the province. The total amount of allowances disbursed over nine months for people with meritorious service and their families amounts to VND 407.068 billion, including VND 357.2705 billion for monthly allowances and VND 49.7975 billion for one-time allowances.
2. Education and Training:
In the 2023-2024 school year, the Education and Training sector of Vinh Phuc province achieved significant accomplishments. In the national competition for outstanding students, 89 out of 98 students from the province won prizes, ranking 5th nationwide in terms of the number of prize winners and the number of first prizes. Notably, nine students advanced to the second round of selection for the national team to compete in international contests, an increase of six students compared to the previous year. The entrance exam for Grade 10 in high schools was successfully held with the participation of 19,096 students. The province also made thorough preparations for the high school graduation exam, with 30 testing sites and 15,563 candidates. As a result, Vinh Phuc led the nation for the second consecutive year in average test scores, with a score of 7.464, and achieved the highest average scores nationwide in 4 out of 9 subjects.
Additionally, the Provincial People's Council issued Resolution No. 08/NQ-HDND, which sets the tuition fee levels for public educational institutions in the province starting from the 2024-2025 school year. This resolution, effective from August 1, 2024, reduces tuition fees by up to 50% compared to the 2023-2024 school year, aiming to support students from poor and near-poor households, as well as other disadvantaged groups. In preparation for the new school year, the province has focused on investing in repairs, upgrading facilities, and providing adequate teaching equipment to ensure optimal conditions for teaching and learning.
Vocational training efforts have seen positive changes, meeting the training demands of local residents and the recruitment needs of businesses in the province. The quality of vocational training has continuously improved, with a focus on high-quality programs and diversification of training fields. As of early September, a total of 19,953 new enrollments in vocational education have been recorded, achieving 88.7% of the 2024 target (including 1,585 for college-level, 4,104 for intermediate-level, and 14,264 for short-term courses and programs under three months). The province has effectively implemented vocational training for rural laborers and recruitment-based vocational training orders, creating stable employment opportunities for many local residents.
3. Healthcare
The healthcare sector in Vinh Phuc province has actively promoted disease prevention campaigns, especially focusing on common rainy season diseases like dengue fever, cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. Additionally, there has been an emphasis on monitoring disease outbreaks and ensuring hospitals follow proper medical examination and treatment protocols. Reproductive health care and nutrition for children under five years old are regularly conducted, with 100% of pregnant women receiving appropriate prenatal care.
Regarding Food Safety, the Health Department has intensified efforts to promote food safety and prevent food poisoning through various media campaigns, monitoring, and inspections. Since the beginning of the year, the province has recorded four cases of food poisoning, affecting a total of 456 people, but with no fatalities. The main causes were microorganisms in food and toxins from toad meat. Inspection and enforcement activities have helped raise awareness among food producers and vendors.
4. Culture and Sports
Cultural and artistic activities celebrating anniversaries and major holidays have been solemnly organized by the province with diverse and rich content. Additionally, the grassroots cultural and artistic movement in the province has flourished, attracting widespread participation from people of all ages, meeting the needs for entertainment, improving health, and enhancing the cultural and spiritual life of the population. In the first nine months of 2024, the province organized 68 mobile film screenings in rural areas, 110 screenings in mountainous regions, and 15 screenings in industrial zones, along with 202 art performances serving political tasks and the community. Moreover, Vinh Phuc earned notable achievements at national cultural events, winning two Gold Medals and two Silver Medals at the propaganda contest celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory, and one Gold Medal and two Silver Medals at the contest commemorating the 65th anniversary of the opening of the Ho Chi Minh Road.
The movement for physical training and sports competitions has been growing extensively, attracting a large number of people to participate in sports activities, which help improve public health and contribute to enhancing the quality of the workforce, meeting the country's development needs in the current period. Since the beginning of the year, Vinh Phuc province has sent athletes to compete in 37 national and international sports tournaments, winning a total of 228 medals, including 84 Gold Medals, 54 Silver Medals, and 90 Bronze Medals. Additionally, Vinh Phuc successfully hosted the 2024 Southeast Asian Women's Volleyball Tournament.
5. Social Order, Public Safety, and Traffic Accidents
Public Security and Social Order: Since the beginning of the year, the province has recorded 506 violations of social order and safety, resulting in 15 deaths, 64 injuries, and property damage amounting to VND 77.2 billion. Authorities have successfully investigated and resolved 443 cases (achieving an 87.54% success rate), involving 1,082 individuals, and recovered assets valued at VND 5.9 billion.
Traffic Accidents: As of September 15, 2024, the province has experienced 230 traffic accidents (228 road accidents and 3 railway accidents), leading to 103 deaths, 180 injuries, and property damage estimated at VND 3.1347 billion. Compared to the same period last year, there was an increase of 51 accidents, a decrease of 4 fatalities, and an increase of 46 injuries.
Fires and Explosions: As of September 15, 2024, the province has reported 103 fire and explosion incidents (102 fires and 1 explosion), resulting in 3 deaths, 10 injuries, and property damage exceeding VND 2.2999 billion.
6. Natural Disaster Damage and Environmental Protection
Natural Disaster Situation: In the first nine months of 2024, the province experienced seven natural disasters, resulting in the deaths of six people and injuries to three others. Additionally, 25 houses collapsed, and 460 houses were damaged by 30% or more. Flooding affected 2,188.92 hectares of rice fields and 1,017.26 hectares of crops. Furthermore, 600 livestock and 25,559 poultry died or were swept away by floods. The estimated total damage is approximately VND 322.43962 billion. Among these, Typhoon No. 3 (Yagi) caused an estimated VND 170.2887 billion in damage, resulting in 2 deaths and 2 injuries, with 11 houses collapsing and 96 others damaged. Flooding affected 1,782.04 hectares of rice fields and 657.72 hectares of crops, while 600 livestock and 17,917 poultry were lost.
Environmental Protection: As of September 15, 2024, a total of 768 environmental violations were detected in the province, of which 705 cases have been addressed, with fines amounting to VND 6.3275 billion./.
Source: Report No. 561/CTK dated October 2, 2024, by the Provincial Statistics Office