Population Policy Shift: Vietnam’s new population law kicks in, extending maternity leave for second-child births from six to seven months and adding prenatal/newborn screening support plus one-off cash bonuses—an explicit move to counter rapid ageing. Hanoi Urban Upgrade: Hanoi is clearing major areas along key corridors near the Red River to make way for transport and infrastructure projects, aiming to ease congestion and modernize the capital’s urban fabric. FDI Quality Push: The Politburo’s Resolution 10-NQ/TW signals a new FDI phase—bigger inflows, but also higher technological value and stronger national capability building. Banking & Markets: The State Bank proposes tighter credit-rating rules for foreign investors buying bank shares, while VN-Index extends gains as investors favor bank stocks. Regulatory Update: A July 1 package reshapes Vietnam’s compliance landscape for investors, covering tax, digital business, e-commerce, cybersecurity and customs. Foreign Media Rules: Decree 262/2026/ND-CP requires foreign media activities in Vietnam to get approval and follow local press and cybersecurity rules. Business & Trade: Agro-forestry-fishery exports hit $35.88bn in H1 (+6%), and steelmakers face tariff and carbon-pressure headwinds even as manufacturing holds up. Culture & Commemoration: Ho Chi Minh City marks 50 years since Saigon–Gia Dinh was renamed with 3D mapping and major public events.