Cabinet convenes first meeting in 2026

The Government chief made the request while addressing the first Cabinet meeting in 2026, held in Ha Noi on February 4.

At the meeting, the Cabinet discussed the socio-economic performance in January, the allocation and disbursement of public investment capital, the implementation of national target programs, and tasks and solutions for the time ahead.

Pham said that the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam, which took place in January, was a great success, adopting viewpoints, goals and breakthrough tasks for a new phase of development as the country enters a new era.

In January, macro-economic indicators remained basically stable, inflation was kept under control, growth was promoted, and major balances of the economy were ensured. Cultural and social sectors received due attention; people's living standards continued to improve; and active preparations were made for the people to enjoy the Spring Festival and the Lunar New Year, ensuring that no one is left behind without Tet.

Political and social stability was maintained; national defense and security were safeguarded and strengthened; and external relations were actively advanced.

Beside the above positive results, the country still faces limitations and shortcomings and continues to encounter numerous difficulties and challenges.

Given the backdop, the Prime Minister urged the Cabinet members to scrutinize the socio-economic situation in January, as well as key directions for the time ahead, in order to achieve materialize the double-digit growth goal for 2026 and subsequent years.

Pham also underlined the importance of ensuring social security and social order and safety; safeguarding security and public safety; maintaining social stability; and preparing for and taking care of the people as they enjoy the Spring Festival and welcome the Lunar New Year of the Horse.

The Prime Minister also called for promoting production and business activities, doubling efforts to combat smuggling, counterfeit and fake goods.

FDI inflows near US$1.5 billion in January

Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang said that total foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to Viet Nam reached nearly US$1.5 billion in January.

Meanwhile, the disbursed volume of FDI was estimated to at approximately US$1.7 billion in the first month of this year, an increase of 11.3 percent against the same period last year, he said.

The index of industrial production grew at about 21 percent year on year, with all 34 localities reporting growth.

Foreign arrivals to Viet Nam soared by 18 percent year-on-year to more than two million, said the minister.

He went on to say that January's export turnover increased by 29.5 percent while import value soared by 49 percent compared to the same period last year./.