When comparing the business environments of Hanoi, Vietnam, and Thailand, both markets offer distinct advantages for investors, shaped by their unique economic landscapes and regulatory frameworks. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is increasingly recognized as a strategic hub for manufacturing and industrial investment, driven by its robust economic stability, competitive labor costs, and attractive government incentives. In contrast, Thailand presents a mature market with well-established infrastructure and a reputation for ease of doing business.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the economic environments, business incorporation procedures, government support mechanisms, and taxation policies in Hanoi and Thailand. It highlights the factors contributing to Hanoi’s rise as a promising destination for foreign investment while drawing comparisons with Thailand’s established business ecosystem.
Business Environment of Hanoi, Vietnam vs. Thailand
Hanoi presents a compelling landscape for businesses and investors, driven by strong economic growth, a skilled yet cost-effective workforce, and strategic geographic positioning. The city’s favorable tax regulations, streamlined administrative processes, and significant consumer market further enhance its attractiveness. In the first half of 2022, Hanoi’s GDP grew by 7.79%, supported by a 9.05% expansion in the services sector, contributing 5.91% to overall GDP growth. With approximately 3,530 tech businesses generating US$10.44 billion in annual income, Hanoi’s technology sector is thriving, while tourism and hospitality have benefitted from 16.7 million visitors and notable foreign investments, such as Lotte Group’s US$300 million project.
In 2023, Hanoi’s economy continued its upward trajectory with a 6.27% increase in gross regional domestic product (GRDP), showing steady growth throughout each quarter. The service sector was a key contributor, expanding by 7.26%, with standout performances in administrative and support services (16.33%), entertainment (15.39%), and finance (7.77%). The industry and construction sector also saw positive growth, with processing and manufacturing industries increasing by 2.6%. This balanced growth across multiple sectors underlines Hanoi’s resilience and long-term investment potential.
When compared to Thailand, Hanoi offers a cost-effective alternative, especially in terms of labor costs and business setup. While Thailand has a more mature investment environment, Hanoi’s strategic location, competitive workforce, and government support make it increasingly favorable for investors seeking expansion in Southeast Asia.
Business Hubs in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and second-largest city, is emerging as a prime location for foreign manufacturers and tech companies. Contributing nearly 20% of the national GDP, it boasts strong infrastructure, a growing consumer market, and is home to 80% of the country’s universities and research institutes. Major investments, like Samsung’s largest R&D center in Southeast Asia and the upcoming National Innovation Center, position Hanoi as a key destination for high-tech industries and manufacturing.
Vietnam’s manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of its economy, contributing 25.1% to GDP and employing 23.1% of the workforce in 2021. The country’s balanced mix of high-value manufacturing, such as electronics and smartphones, alongside lower-value sectors like textiles and food, makes it an attractive destination for manufacturers. Vietnam’s strategic location, competitive labor costs, and extensive free trade agreements have strengthened its appeal amid global supply chain disruptions.
With plans to increase manufacturing’s share of the economy to 30% by 2030, Vietnam is focusing on high-tech, value-added industries. Foreign direct investment continues to flow into the country, with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Foxconn expanding operations. This creates opportunities for manufacturers to diversify supply chains and for firms providing advanced manufacturing solutions like automation, robotics, and industrial IoT.
Ease of Doing Business in Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam ranks highly in the Emerging Asia Manufacturing Index 2024, securing third place overall, driven by its strong economic stability and impressive 8% growth in the manufacturing sector in 2022. The country excels in political risk and stability (rank 2), business environment (rank 3), international trade (rank 1), and tax policy (rank 2), underscoring its attractiveness for foreign investors. Vietnam’s strategic location, coupled with competitive corporate tax rates and a favorable regulatory framework, continues to position it as a manufacturing powerhouse in Southeast Asia.
In comparison, Vietnam’s infrastructure (rank 4) and workforce (rank 6) show room for improvement, though ongoing investments and policies are addressing these challenges. The government’s commitment to infrastructure development and its vision of becoming an innovation hub strengthen its appeal for foreign direct investment.
Meanwhile, Thailand, despite its economic competitiveness, faces challenges such as restrictions on fully foreign-owned entities, making Vietnam a more accessible destination for international businesses seeking 100% foreign ownership.
Rising Middle-Class Demographics
By 2030, Vietnam’s middle class is expected to grow by 10 million, reaching 36 million, with urban dwellers comprising 44% of the population. This urbanization, primarily in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, will extend to smaller cities like Can Tho, Da Nang, and Hai Phong, significantly boosting consumption and income growth nationwide.
Setting up a Company in Hanoi vs. Thailand
Incorporation
When starting a business in Hanoi, Vietnam, there are four main types of legal entities to consider: Joint-Stock Company, Limited Liability Company, Representative Office, and Branch Office, an extension of the parent company from its home country.
The process of setting up a company in Hanoi is straightforward and efficient. You begin by registering and obtaining investment certificate (IRC), enterprise certificate (ERC), applying for tax registration, and ordering a company stamp. Following this, you’ll open a bank account, apply for e-invoices, pay your business license tax, and register with local authorities. If you have employees, you will also need to register with the local social insurance agency. Hanoi’s business-friendly policies, lower costs, and clear regulations make it a highly attractive destination for foreign investors seeking a smooth and cost-effective setup.
In comparison, setting up a Thai Limited Company involves multiple steps, including reserving a company name, identifying at least two promoters and shareholders, filing a Memorandum of Association, and holding a statutory meeting to elect directors. The registration must be completed within three months, and businesses need to register for Corporate Income Tax and Value Added Tax before opening a corporate bank account. While both countries have procedural requirements, Hanoi offers a more streamlined and less complex path to business formation, making it the better alternative for investors prioritizing efficiency and cost.
Directors and Shareholders
Incorporating a company in Hanoi, Vietnam, requires at least one director and one shareholder for limited liability companies, while joint stock companies need a minimum of three shareholders. In Thailand, the process mandates at least one director and two shareholders. Both countries do not require directors to be residents, but a local address is necessary for the company.
Government Support in Hanoi vs. Thailand
In 2023, Hanoi’s socio-economic landscape demonstrated strong growth, meeting 18 out of 23 targets, including a remarkable 62% rise in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), totaling nearly US$2.9 billion. With a 9% increase in social investment, the city saw the establishment of 26,500 new businesses, along with over 10% growth in retail sales and consumer services. Hanoi’s state budget revenues exceeded VND 400 trillion, surpassing the planned target by 113.5%, while exports reached US$17.3 billion.
Hanoi’s infrastructure and urban planning initiatives, including housing and clean water projects, are transforming the city into a more connected and livable space. Alongside urban development, cultural investments are flourishing with ongoing projects in education, healthcare, and monument renovation. The city plans to complete over 1,000 socio-cultural projects by the year’s end.
The Hanoi government continues to embrace technological advancements under the “Industrial Revolution 4.0,” aligning administrative reforms with OECD standards. These efforts aim to boost economic growth while narrowing the rural-urban income gap and enhancing social welfare.
In Thailand, the government offers multiple startup programs through agencies like DEPA and BOI, providing grants and direct investments for early and growth-stage Thai-based startups. These programs focus on sectors such as healthcare, education, financial technology, and smart cities, offering up to USD 132,100 in grants to boost competitiveness and innovation in key industries.
Taxation in Vietnam (Hanoi) vs. Thailand
When starting a business in Vietnam, you need to be aware of four main taxes: Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at 20% on profits, Personal Income Tax (PIT) ranging from 5% to 35% for residents and 20% for non-residents, Value Added Tax (VAT) at rates of 0%, 5%, and 10%, and Foreign Contractor Tax (FCT) with varying rates based on the business sector. Vietnam offers several tax incentives, such as preferential CIT rates, PIT deductions for insurance contributions and charitable donations, VAT exemptions for specific businesses, and no withholding tax on dividends for overseas corporate shareholders.
In Thailand, businesses must register for VAT if annual sales exceed THB 1.8 million, with a nominal rate of 10%, temporarily reduced to 7%. Withholding tax applies to payments like rent, royalties, and dividends, with rates from 1% to 15%, depending on the service and recipient’s tax status. The standard corporate tax rate is 20%, with SMEs enjoying progressive rates from 0% to 20%. Thailand requires both annual and half-year corporate tax returns, with the latter serving as a prepayment. Operating losses can be carried forward for up to 5 years, but there is no provision for loss carry-back or group relief.
Premia TNC’s Industry-Leading Incorporation Services
| Aspect | Hanoi (Vietnam) | Thailand |
| Political Stability | Stable, focused on reforms, ranked 98 (World Bank) | Less stable, ranked 127 (World Bank) |
| Economic Growth | 6-7% GDP growth, manufacturing-driven in Hanoi, ranked 41 (World Bank) | Competitive, diverse markets, ranked 119 (World Bank) |
| Industries | Manufacturing, electronics, IT, and finance | Automotive, electronics, tourism, and agriculture |
| Top Export Destinations | U.S., China, Japan, South Korea, and EU | U.S., China, Japan, EU, and ASEAN countries |
| Labor Force | Young, skilled, ranked 13 (World Bank) | Mix of skilled, semi-skilled workers, ranked 16 (World Bank) |
| Labor Cost | Competitive, lower than developed countries | Higher minimum wage than Vietnam |
| Foreign Ownership | Up to 100%, some restrictions in certain sectors | Generally capped at 49%, licenses and exemptions required |
| Company Registration | Up to 1 and a half months for setup | 1 to 2 weeks for setup, 6+ months for foreign business licenses |
| Types of Companies | LLCs (single and multi-member), JSCs | Private Ltd., Public Ltd., Partnership |
| Corporate Tax | 20%, with incentives for certain sector and regions | 20%, lower rates for SMEs, various incentives |
| Global Trade Cooperation | Member of ASEAN, EVFTA, CPTPP, and WTO | 14 FTAs, close to ASEAN, Australia, China, and South Korea |
| Foreign Investment Incentives | Tax holidays, reduced rates, especially in industrial zones | Tax exemptions, land ownership, investment privileges |
| Infrastructure | Developing roads, industrial zones, and urban areas | Well-developed highways, airports, ports |
| Connectivity | Noi Bai Airport connects to major Asian cities | Bangkok is a regional hub, with Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports |
Premia TNC’s Industry-Leading Incorporation Services
At Premia TNC, we simplify your business establishment in Vietnam by offering comprehensive incorporation services. We handle everything from the preparation and filing of registration documents with the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) to lease agreement reviews and coordination with lessors. Our dedicated team will also assist in opening both capital and current bank accounts, ensuring a smooth start for your operations. Additionally, our Authorized Person Service acts as your representative for essential communications with government authorities, streamlining the compliance process.
To ensure your business thrives, we provide robust compliance consulting services that help you navigate Vietnam’s legal landscape. Our accounting and taxation services guarantee adherence to local regulations, minimize tax burdens, and ensure timely filings. Furthermore, our payroll services safeguard employee rights while maintaining compliance with labor laws, allowing you to focus on growing your business with confidence.
