Vietnam and Japan prepare to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during To Lam’s November visit, with priorities spanning regional security, AI, semiconductors, energy, trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.
Vietnam and Japan look to advance their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through stronger regional cooperation, economic security and people-to-people exchanges during Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam’s official visit to Japan from November 8 to 11, 2026. Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki outlines three major expectations for the visit in an interview ahead of the diplomatic engagement.
The first priority involves strengthening cooperation to maintain regional peace and stability amid growing international uncertainties. Japan considers closer coordination with Vietnam important for addressing regional challenges and supporting stability across the Indo-Pacific. The visit also provides an opportunity for both countries to reinforce political trust and discuss their shared interests in regional and international affairs.
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The second priority focuses on economic security, supply-chain resilience and technological innovation. Both countries seek to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital transformation, green transformation, critical minerals, food security and agriculture. These areas gain importance as Vietnam strengthens its manufacturing capabilities and Japan explores opportunities to diversify and reinforce regional supply chains.
Semiconductor development and advanced technology training feature prominently in the partnership. Japan and Vietnam are implementing joint research and academic programmes involving five pairs of universities, including doctoral training for Vietnamese students in Japan. During To Lam’s visit, the two sides expect to announce six additional joint research projects. Japan also aims to train 250 Vietnamese semiconductor professionals through doctoral programmes. Cooperation in AI research and specialised workforce development is also under consideration.
Energy cooperation represents another important opportunity. Japan seeks to support Vietnam in meeting its increasing energy requirements through government and private-sector partnerships. Under the Asia Zero Emission Community initiative, Japanese companies are considering investments in liquefied natural gas-fired power plants in Vietnam. The two countries also explore broader collaboration in green transformation and energy infrastructure.
The third priority centres on expanding cultural engagement, tourism and people-to-people connections. Both countries record increasing visitor numbers, with Vietnamese arrivals in Japan expected to exceed 700,000 in 2026 and Japanese visitors to Vietnam approaching 900,000. Japan also seeks stronger cooperation between local governments and institutions to encourage cultural exchanges and long-term partnerships.
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Trade and investment prospects further strengthen the relationship. Bilateral trade reaches US$43.7 billion during the first nine months of 2026, registering 15% growth. Based on the current expansion, Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki expects annual trade to approach US$58 billion, with the potential to reach US$75 billion by 2030. Electrical equipment, electronic components, automotive parts and agricultural products offer additional opportunities for commercial engagement.
The November visit follows Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s visit to Vietnam in May 2026. The reciprocal high-level engagements provide an opportunity to advance cooperation in strategic technologies, energy, trade and regional security while strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.