At the 8th Indian Ocean Conference held in Muscat, Oman, on Feb. 16-17, Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu met with representatives from the Oman Investment Authority (OIA). He highlighted the strengthening of economic ties between Vietnam and Oman, particularly the significant growth in trade and VOI’s success over its 17 years of operation.
During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral trade cooperation, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, food security, technology, and maritime transport. OIA and the State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) of Vietnam, which co-founded VOI, also agreed to enhance the fund’s operational efficiency and work on attracting more investments from other Gulf countries.
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SCIC delegation meets with Oman Investment Authority (OIA). Photo courtesy of VOI |
Founded in 2008, VOI has concentrated on strategic investments in key sectors critical to Vietnam’s sustainable development, including infrastructure, energy, industry, finance, education, healthcare, and real estate. Starting with an initial committed capital of $100 million, the fund has since disbursed over $384 million, making it a leading source of Gulf-region investment in Vietnam.
To date, VOI has made over 20 investments across these key sectors, helping drive long-term economic growth in Vietnam. Notable companies such as AIKYA Pharmaceutical Group, Van Phu Invest (VPI), Van Lang University, and F88 have benefited from VOI’s strategic investments, which have helped to strengthen the country’s business landscape.
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VOI invests in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, education, and healthcare to drive sustainable economic growth. Photo courtesy of VOI |
Dr. Nguyen Xuan Giao, CEO of VOI, pointed out CME Solar, a rooftop renewable energy company, as one of the fund’s key investments. VOI and its investees share a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Additionally, VOI acquired nearly 10% of CII, a leading publicly listed company specializing in urban infrastructure development, including projects such as Rach Chiec Bridge and Hanoi Highway.
“Our investments have reshaped the national economy and improved the quality of life for local communities,” said Giao.
He further emphasized that VOI remains committed to channeling Gulf-region capital into Vietnam through strategic investments that promote sustainable growth and generate long-term value for all stakeholders. The fund operates based on three core values—sustainability, cooperation, and integrity—aiming to maximize investment efficiency and impact.
VOI has played a crucial role in reinforcing the economic relationship between Vietnam and Oman. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, trade between the two nations reached approximately $250 million last year, doubling pre-pandemic levels and growing nearly fivefold since the fund’s establishment.
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VOI’s success serves as a foundation for unlocking further collaboration opportunities between Vietnam and Gulf nations in the future. Photo courtesy of VOI |
Looking to the future, Giao highlighted Vietnam’s strong investment potential, especially as the government accelerates public investment and modern infrastructure development.
“VOI is committed not only to making strategic and effective investments but also to serving as a vital bridge between Vietnam and the Gulf—one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions, known for its abundant oil reserves, major financial centers, and pioneering advancements in digital transformation,” he said.
