Vietnam launch: �koda Auto celebrates key internationalisation milestone

– koda Auto celebrated its market entry in Vietnam with a special event, co-hosted with local distribution and production partner Thanh Cong Group (TC Group)
– Sales of imported vehicles will begin on 25th September in Hanoi at kodas first dealership in the nation; local CKD production will start in 2024
– Vietnam has the highest growth potential in the region and is the companys strategic gateway to ASEAN and the broader Indo-Pacific region

Mlad Boleslav/Hanoi – WEBWIRE

koda Auto has taken an important step in its internationalisation strategy today with its entry into the Vietnamese market. A celebratory event took place with representatives of the Vietnamese and Czech governments alongside kodas local distribution and production partner, TC Group. koda Auto projects a rapid expansion of the dealer network to as many as 30 partners and an annual sales potential of over 40,000 units beyond 2030. The first models, starting with the Karoq and Kodiaq, will be imported from Europe. Local CKD production, planned to start next year, aims to leverage synergies due to the countrys proximity to India. koda views Vietnam as a gateway to the promising ASEAN region.

We are excited to engage with Vietnams dynamic economy and a new group of customers in this fast-growing market. This is also the next step in our accelerating internationalisation strategy, strengthening our brand in the ASEAN region and intensifying the synergies between our two key markets of India and Europe. During the preparations, it has been clear that in TC Group we have an excellent partner for the production and sale of our attractive model portfolio. I look forward to starting a successful future together.

Klaus Zellmer, koda Auto CEO

Today marks an important milestone in the history of Skoda Auto. By entering the Vietnamese market, we are further strengthening our position in the global automotive industry. We have a clear strategy, ambitious targets, and a strong local partner in TC Motor. Our medium-term plan is to engage around 30 local contractual partners, assemble around 30,000 cars from CKD kits, and realise a sales potential of more over 40,000 vehicles annually beyond 2030. This move solidifies kodas commitment to serving our Vietnamese customers and becoming an important presence in the local market.

Martin Jahn, koda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing

koda Auto celebrates market launch with celebratory event, plans to expand dealer network
The Czech car manufacturer presented the Kvasiny-produced SUV model series Karoq and Kodiaq, which will be the first models available on the local market. Customers can purchase these at the first koda showroom in Hanoi from 25 September onwards. Additional showrooms in central and south Vietnam are in the pipeline. The goal is to expand the dealer network to 20 koda dealerships by 2025 and 30 by 2028.

First models imported from Europe in 2023, start of local CKD production in 2024
koda has a well-defined roadmap for the Vietnamese market, with plans to expand its model portfolio in response to customer preferences. The Octavia and Superb models are slated for importation to Vietnam in the medium term. Additionally, the all-electric Enyaq family is being introduced to cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles among Vietnamese consumers.
Starting in the second half of 2024, koda will be tapping into significant regional synergies. By then, the first Kushaq vehicles will have been exported from the Pune facility in India to Vietnam for assembly from CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits, with the Slavia set to follow in 2025. Construction of a production line at the Viet Hung Industrial Park in Quang Ninh province by kodas local partner TC Group is already underway. Based on market trends, there are ambitions to ramp up production, potentially assembling as many as 27,000 vehicles annually after 2027.

High growth potential and projected annual deliveries of over 40,000 units beyond 2030
The automotive market in Vietnam is exceptionally dynamic. At present, Vietnam is the fourth strongest automotive market in Southeast Asia. Moreover, with only 38 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants in a population of roughly 100 million people and given the anticipated national economic growth, Vietnam is emerging as the country with the highest growth potential in the region. The brand foresees annual sales of 30,000 units in the medium term, with that figure rising to more than 40,000 units after 2030. The capacity at the Viet Hung Industrial Park, where the TC Group-owned plant is located, could be used in the future to expand production with a view to potentially exporting koda models across the entire ASEAN region.

EPI and USDC Technology Pave Way for Vietnam Data Centers to Meet Global Standards

 EPI has appointed USDC Technology as its Vietnam partner for the TIA-942 audit and certification program. This strategic partnership represents a significant leap forward for the Vietnam data center industry. USDC Technology will take advantage of EPI’s international expertise to help Vietnam data centers design and build facilities that meet the highest quality based on the TIA-942 standard.

TIA-942 is the most complete data center standard in the world. TIA-942 covers the nine essential elements for a 24/7 mission-critical infrastructure. It’s unique for having an official accreditation certification scheme, where EPI is the prestigious Gold Leader and a trusted Global Certification Authority.

The EPI-USDC partnership will nurture and accelerate the growth of the Vietnam data center industry. It will enable data centers to meet the international standard requirements from the very beginning – at the design stage. This proactive approach guarantees the highest quality and reliability of a data center infrastructure, right from the outset.

The implications of this partnership are profound and far-reaching. First and foremost, it positions Vietnam as a competitive player in the global data center landscape.

With data centers designed to meet international standards, Vietnam becomes an attractive destination for global customers, knowing that the data centers meet the same rigorous standards they expect in leading world-class data centers.

Vietnam’s data center industry will become appealing to global investors who demand high-quality, reliable infrastructure. This partnership sends a clear signal to the investment community that Vietnam is not just open for business, but it is dedicated to providing world-class data center facilities.

It also ensures that Vietnam’s data center industry is well-prepared for the future. As data processing requirements continue to grow, conformance to international standards becomes a competitive advantage. Vietnam’s data centers will not only meet the needs of today but will remain adaptable and scalable to accommodate the ever-evolving demands of the digital age.

Edward van Leent, Chairman and CEO of EPI Group of companies commented, “Our partnership with USDC Technology marks a significant milestone in advancing the standards of data centers in Vietnam. By ensuring that data centers in Vietnam are designed and built to meet the TIA-942 standard, the partnership guarantees alignment with international standards. This will not only attract global customers and investors but also position Vietnam as a hub for cutting-edge, world-class data infrastructure. With this collaboration, Vietnam’s data center industry is not just looking to meet standards; it’s building a reputation for excellence and reliability in the digital era.”

USDC Technology will facilitate the introduction of EPI’s comprehensive data center certification portfolio, encompassing certifications for facilities (TIA-942, ISO 22237, EN50600) and data center operations (DCOS), within Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar. This strategic alliance is poised to equip data center operators with the requisite tools and knowledge to ensure optimal performance, security, and efficiency.

Mr. Hai Nguyen, CEO of USDC Technology, emphasized, “We are excited to partner with EPI and introduce their world-class data center certifications to clients from Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to deliver cutting-edge Data Center consulting services and sets new benchmarks for quality and excellence in our industry and country.”

About EPI
EPI is the world-leading Certification Body and Authority for data centers. It is a global company of European-origin offering data center expert services. With over 36 years of experience, EPI operates worldwide in over 60 countries and 130 cities through direct operations and a large partner network. EPI’s extensive range of data center services includes accredited data center and IT training; data center audit and certification on design, facility and operations; DCOS® (Data Center Operations Standard), and CRUR® (Computer Room Utilization Ratio).

EPI’s reputation has been built on delivering high-quality technical expertise with a continuous drive for excellence and innovation. Always on the leading edge, EPI has released many world-first innovations including the IT and Data Center Framework®, DCCF® (Data Center Competence Framework®), Data Center and IT Career Planning Tools, Data Center and IT Training Frameworks, DCOS®, and CRUR®.

EPI is the world’s largest provider of accredited data center training, and the leading Certification Body for data centers for ANSI/TIA-942 and DCOS® conformity audit and certification services.

More information visit our website- epi-ap.com

About USDC
As a leading technology construction company specializing in Data Center consulting services in Vietnam and the region, USDC Technology is committed to excellence. Our vision is to become a prominent Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) leader. With a proficient team of experts skilled in mechanical, electrical, technology, commissioning, and construction services, we offer comprehensive solutions.

Our core services including Data Center Consultant/Design, we offer end-to-end services, from consultancy to implementation, deployment, maintenance, and operation, ensuring cutting-edge data center solutions; Data Center as a Service (DCaaS); Cloud Computing; and ICT Trading.

At USDC Tech, we prioritize keeping your data secure and your applications running smoothly. Join us in shaping the future of technology in Vietnam and beyond.
More information visit our website- usdc.vn

EPI
Paige Fong
+65 – 6733 5900
www.epi-ap.com

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Japan – JCB and Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam launch the BIDV JCB Ultimate Credit Card in Vietnam

JCB International Co., Ltd., (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, and Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), the oldest financial institution in Vietnam, announced the launch of the BIDV JCB Ultimate Credit Card in Vietnam.

On the occasion of BIDV’s 66th anniversary, BIDV and JCB launch their first credit card with the Ultimate grade which is the JCB’s highest grade. The artwork design of this card is inspired by Mt. Fuji – a sacred symbol of Japan with the rising sun depicted by BIDV’s new logo. This card is exclusively for the BIDV royal customers, who can enjoy special experiences and privileges. Cardholders of the BIDV JCB Ultimate Credit Card have access to JCB’s acceptance network of approximately 43 million merchants worldwide.

With the collaboration of JCB and BIDV, BIDV customers can enjoy numerous attractive features and exclusive benefits for dining out. The cardholders are entitled to up to VND 800,000/month via the BIDV SmartBanking application at the rate of 20% cashback when dining out in Vietnam in the cardholder’s birthday month, 10% cashback when dining out in Vietnam on other months, 15% cashback when experiencing fine dining in Japan and 0.15% cashback for other transactions. In addition, BIDV customers are entitled to a 100% refund of the foreign currency conversion fee (1%) when cardholders make transactions in Japan. The BIDV JCB Ultimate Credit Card also offers premium services in and outside Vietnam such as golf, business lounges, dining, hotels and resorts.

About BIDV

The Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) was established on April 26th 1957 and is the longest established financial institution with the most valuable brand in Vietnam. BIDV is listed in the Top 2000 world’s largest companies; Top 300 world’s largest banks (Brand Finance); Top 10 largest enterprises in Vietnam for 4 consecutive years.

With the mission to deliver the best interests and conveniences to customers, shareholders, employees and society, BIDV is determined to invest in developing the brand comprehensively, professionalizing the corporate governance in line with the bank’s business scale and make BIDV brand international. In the bank’s restructuring plan towards 2020 with vision to 2030, BIDV aims to become a leading financial institution in Southeast Asia, have the best digital platform in Vietnam, and be among Top 100 largest banks in Asia. For more information, please visit www.bidv.com.vn.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 43 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 154 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Ayaka Nakajima
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
E-Mail: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

Copyright ©2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Japan – JCB and Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam launch VCB JCB Platinum Credit Card in Vietnam

JCB International Co., Ltd., (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, and Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank) announced the launch of the Vietcombank JCB Platinum Credit Card.

The new Vietcombank JCB Platinum card is launched to celebrate Vietcombank’s 60th anniversary. The cardholders have access the JCB acceptance network of approximately 41 million merchants around the world.

From the launch date, Vietcombank implements many promotion programs and benefits for cardholders to meet the needs of this special target segment. The cardholders could enjoy the attractive cashback feature including 5% cashback for spending in F&B and supermarkets, and 0.2% for other spending. The total cashback amount is up to VND 7.2 million/year.

Besides, the Vietcombank JCB Platinum cardholder is entitled to a number of special privileges for JCB Platinum cardholders such as the access to over 70 airport lounges in Japan, China, Singapore, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam; and other premium privileges for golf service, hotels and resorts and Diamond dinning in Vietnam.

About Vietcombank

Vietcombank is the first and the leading bank in providing card products and services in Vietnam, contributing significantly to the development of the Vietnam card industry. For more than 20 years Vietcombank has continuously maintained its market leading position in the Vietnamese card industry through products and services diversification, quality of service improvement, new technology applications, as well as ATM and merchant network expansion across the country. The Bank has achieved many awards for outstanding performance in card industry from the international card schemes and other prestigious institutions. For more information, please visit www.vietcombank.com.vn

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 41 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 150 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Ayaka Nakajima
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
E-Mail: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

Copyright ©2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Consulus Vietnam Releases the White Paper on Vietnam’s Readiness for Industry 4.0 and the Post-Pandemic Age, Proposing a Roadmap Toward a Hi-Tech Economy

 The white paper was launched today in both English and Vietnamese by Consulus Vietnam, RMIT Vietnam, and Hanoi Association for Women Entrepreneurs in the presence of government agencies, business associations, and international development organisations convened at the Vietnam-Singapore Cooperation Center.

The paper gives an overall view of Vietnam’s economy through eight industry groups, including Education, Banking and Finance, IT-Technology, Manufacturing, Medical/Healthcare, Real Estate, Hospitality/Tourism, and international business, then deep dives into each industry group. 

“The white paper affirms that Vietnamese companies possess inherent strengths for innovation that can transform their business models and gain a competitive edge in Industry 4.0. Consulus Vietnam is dedicated to supporting Vietnamese business leaders in developing intellectual properties and proprietary ‘made in Vietnam’ technologies,” Ms Helena Pham, Managing Director of Consulus Vietnam, co-author of the white paper highlighted.

The paper concludes with practical recommendations and suggestions for Vietnam to be more ready for Industry 4.0 towards becoming a hi-tech economy, while consciously creating a systemic basis to tackle the challenges of Industry 5.0.​​

Professor Robert McClelland, Dean of The Business School, RMIT Vietnam said: “The Business School collaborates closely with industry through our Industry Advisory Board to ensure that our courses are aligned with industry demand and that our graduates are positioned to meet the needs of the business.”

“Our Academics at RMIT and Industry Advisory Board members have collaborated strongly and further, members of our Industry Advisory Board have worked hard to contribute to the Smart 4.0 Vietnam White paper launch, identifying how Vietnam could seize the vast opportunities given by Industry 4.0 as a shortcut to develop its digital economy.”

As 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam-Singapore Strategic Partnership, the esteemed Singaporean Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Jaya Ratnam, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor, noted that the collaborative partnership between Singapore and Vietnam is forward-looking and has recently expanded to encompass a wide range of domains, including energy, carbon credits, and innovation.

“In this connection, Singapore and Vietnam signed an MOU on a Green and Digital Economic Partnership last month, which provides an umbrella framework to bring our cooperation to the next level in energy, sustainability, infrastructure, digital economy and innovation, and connectivity. I am therefore very pleased to be here for the launch of Smart 4.0 Vietnam White Paper. For us, it will be a valuable tool to shape our engagement to be more effective and impactful; especially as we accelerate cooperation in the digital economy, covering areas such as cybersecurity, cross-border data flows, smart cities, innovation, artificial intelligence and digital payments,” he added.

Following this official launch, a series of industry-specific workshops will be organized to transfer know-how, capabilities, and tools for companies in each industry group to address current challenges and tap on inherent strengths and opportunities to drive innovation and growth for themselves, the industry, and Vietnam as a whole.

To download the report, please visit here:
https://consulus.com/smart-4-0-vietnam-white-paper/

About Consulus Vietnam

Consulus Vietnam is part of the network of Consulus Global – a global innovation consultancy with multidisciplinary business and design capabilities. Since 2004, their UNIFY methodology has helped companies gain new capabilities and competitive advantage by redesigning their business models, organisational cultures and brand experiences. This enables them to sharpen their capacity to innovate and meet the challenges of Industry 4.0.

The custom-built solutions that Consulus offers have allowed their clients to increase revenue by over 138%, expand to overseas markets, develop new products and intellectual property, and prepare the next generation of leaders to drive and sustain high growth. Today, Consulus is present in Singapore (World Centre), Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, India, Italy, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United States of America, and Vietnam.

Consulus is a member of the Economy of Communion business network.

About RMIT Vietnam

Founded in 1887, RMIT is a multi-sector university of technology, design and enterprise with more than 96,000 students and 9,000 staff globally. RMIT provides students with a high-quality education preparing them for life and work in a global economy. As the largest offshore campus in Asia, RMIT Vietnam has three locations: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Danang. With over 12,000 students and 1,000 staff, the University has produced 17,000 alumni since 2000.

Media contact

Blair Nguyen
Strategy Consultant
vietnam@consulus.com

Consulus Pte. Ltd.
Blair Nguyen
+6562939495
www.consulus.com

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