The forum provided a platform for representatives of regulatory bodies, international financial institutions, and investors to engage in direct dialogue with city leaders on the legal framework governing financial activities at VIFC-DN, its priority sectors, and the workforce demands of an international financial ecosystem.
In his opening remarks, Standing Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee, Ho Ky Minh, emphasised that the city viewed VIFC-DN not merely as a hub for financial institutions but as a platform connecting international capital flows with investment opportunities in Viet Nam; a space for developing new financial products; and an ecosystem linking finance, technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
Delegates at the forum discussed the legal framework for financial activities and priority sectors at VIFC-DN. They also explored green finance, the carbon-credit market, and opportunities to develop sustainable financial products at the centre.
Helen Brand, OBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), noted that a long-term commitment to sustainable development, together with the ESG agenda, has increasingly become a powerful draw for international investors. She praised Viet Nam for playing a significant role in this field and demonstrating a long-term vision.
Kevin Bruce Iwanaga, Senior Adviser for Strategy at the Executive Agency of VIFC-DN, described the centre as having the potential to become “a laboratory for Viet Nam’s financial future.”
He stressed that VIFC-DN needed a clear roadmap from innovation and experimentation to commercial-scale implementation. This, he argued, required a fast and transparent legal environment; close coordination between state agencies and the business community; access to banks, investors and technology partners; and a robust digital infrastructure.
As part of the forum, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Executive Agency of VIFC-DN and the ACCA.
