Establishing an F&B or Retail Business in Vietnam for Foreign Investors

Vietnam’s food and beverage market exceeds USD 30 billion per year, growing 8–10% annually, supported by a young population (median age 31) and rapid urbanisation.

Legal: Foreign investors may own 100% of restaurants, cafés and food-manufacturing operations in most cases. However, multi-location retail distribution requires an Economic Necessity Test (ENT). Requirements include food-safety certification, fire-safety certificates and appropriate commercial zoning; alcohol service requires a licence.

Capital & timeline: Around USD 50,000–200,000 for restaurants or USD 100,000–500,000 for retail chains; 45–60 days per location. The common structure is a 100% foreign-owned LLC.