European firms positive, optimistic about Vietnam's trade, investment

The index reached the highest point following the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, with positive sentiment reaching 61 points, a jump of 42 points since the third quarter of 2021 after the end of lockdowns and the re-opening of normal commercial operations.

The index remains below its pre-pandemic peak. However, it is clearly evident that confidence is returning to the market, according to a news agency report.

As many as 58 per cent of European business leaders are now anticipating economic stabilisation and growth in the first quarter of 2022, while only 17 per cent of those predict a deterioration.

European companies are also more confident about the prospects of their development in the ‘new normal’. Up to 43 per cent of such businesses surveyed plan to raise investment in the first quarter of 2022 compared to just 17 per cent three months ago.

Likewise, 38.5 per cent intend to increase their staff, while 51.5 per cent are predicting a rise in orders and revenue.

Close to nine-tenth of EuroCham member firms reported that previous restrictions had an impact on their commercial operations. So, this new regulation will help to improve the business environment and increase the confidence of business leaders still further.

EuroCham encourages the Vietnamese government to go further and faster in re-opening, at least in areas with high vaccination rates.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)