The Far East Economy
Building the Future
a
A Glimpse into Progress
Explore the dynamic and rapidly evolving nations of the Far East. Over the past few decades, this region has seen remarkable transformations in economic development, technological breakthroughs, and the evolution of its rich cultural heritage. Discover how innovation, resilience, and vision are shaping the modern Far East.
Countries of the Far East
Important Note
When exploring the Far East's economy, culture, science, and technology, we will focus on key sectors and highlights from selected countries in the region. Our goal is to showcase the most important industries, cultural aspects, and technological advancements that shape the Far East today.
We won't cover every sector in each country. Instead, we’ll select the most significant examples to give you a clear and concise overview.
China
China: Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
The Belt and Road Initiative is a major global project led by China. It connects Asia, Africa, and Europe through roads, railways, and ports. This network helps countries trade goods more easily. By building these connections, China is creating stronger ties with other nations. The BRI also includes investments in energy, technology, and infrastructure projects, which aim to promote economic growth in participating countries. Launched in 2013, the initiative involves over 140 countries, making it one of the largest development programs in modern history.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) also focuses on fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding among participating countries. Through programs like student scholarships, tourism, and shared research projects, the BRI aims to strengthen not just economic, but also social and cultural ties. These efforts contribute to building trust and cooperation on a global scale, complementing the initiative’s infrastructure and trade goals
China: Green Energy
Green energy is energy that comes from natural sources like the sun, wind, and water, which are good for the environment. Unlike burning fossil fuels, green energy doesn’t create harmful gases that damage the planet. China is leading the way by creating more solar panels and wind turbines, which can turn sunlight and wind into energy. This helps reduce pollution and creates cleaner air for everyone. In the future, China hopes to use even more clean energy to help fight climate change and build a sustainable world for young people like you.
In the dry region of Xinjiang in northwestern China, a huge new solar farm has started working. It covers 2,000 hectares of land, which is about the same size as 2,800 football fields! This big project shows how advanced China is in using new technology and its commitment to producing clean energy in a large way.
Also, in the dry region of Xinjiang, northwestern China, large wind farms are helping to produce clean energy. For example, the Dabancheng area, known as "China's Wind Valley," is home to over 60 wind farms that generate all the electricity for the region from renewable sources. These wind farms use huge turbines, some of which are 118 meters tall, and together they generate millions of kilowatt-hours of clean energy every year, reducing carbon emissions significantly. The wind power potential in Xinjiang is immense, and it's becoming a key area for China’s renewable energy development
China: Technology Exports
China is home to famous tech companies like Huawei, Xiaomi, and Tencent. Thee companies create smartphones, apps, and gadgets used worldwide. Their success shows how advanced China’s technology has become. By exporting these innovations, China shares its technology with the world.
China’s tech companies also play a key role in advancing fields like artificial intelligence (AI), 5G networks, and e-commerce. For example, Huawei is a leader in 5G technology, helping to build faster and more efficient communication networks globally. Meanwhile, Tencent has revolutionized social media and online gaming with platforms like WeChat, which integrates messaging, payments, and shopping. TikTok is a leading platform for short-form videos, driving global trends and entertainment.
In addition to their global influence, these companies invest heavily in research & development to create cutting-edge innovations. Xiaomi, known for its affordable smartphones, also designs smart home products & wearable technology. By focusing on both domestic & international markets, these tech giants help China maintain its position as a leader in the global tech industry.
China: Automotive Revolution
BYD became a key player in the transition from gas powered vehicles to electric vehicles by developing
the cutting edge Blade Battery and dual-mode hybrid power technology.
BYD
About BYD
Founded in 1995, BYD is a leading technology company devoted to leveraging innovations for a better life. With more than 27 years of expertise, BYD has established itself as an industry leader in electronics, automotives, renewable energy, and rail transit. As a global leader with more than 30 industrial parks across 6 continents, BYD's zero-emission solutions, focused on energy generation and storage, are expansive and widely applicable
BYD: A Model of Diversification
BYD (Build Your Dreams) is a globally recognized Chinese company that has demonstrated the power of diversification. Established in 1995, BYD began as a manufacturer of rechargeable batteries and quickly expanded into multiple industries. Today, it leads in electronics, automotive innovation, renewable energy, and rail transit systems.
The company’s automotive division is renowned for its electric vehicles (EVs), making BYD a key player in the global shift to sustainable transportation. Its renewable energy solutions, including solar panels and battery storage systems, contribute significantly to reducing carbon footprints.
BYD's foray into rail transit has seen the creation of efficient and eco-friendly monorail systems, meeting the growing demand for smart urban mobility. This diversification strategy has not only ensured stability across market fluctuations but also positioned BYD as a pioneer in sustainable development and technological innovation.
Vietnam
Vietnam's Economy and Its Main Sectors
Vietnam's Digital Economy Set to Skyrocket with 20% Annual Growth
According to a new report from Alphabet, the parent company of Google, the digital economy of Vietnam is projected to grow at a rate of 20% per year from 2023 to 2025, reaching a total value of USD 45 billion. This growth is expected to be driven by the country's strong economic growth.
Introduction
Vietnam is a fast-growing country located in Southeast Asia, with a population of around 100 million people. Over the last few decades, its economy has transformed from being primarily agricultural to a more industrialized and service-based economy. In this report, we will explore the key sectors of Vietnam's economy and give examples to help you understand how these industries contribute to the country's growth.
Agriculture (Left to Right: Rice Farming, Terraced Rice Fields, Coffee Harvest, Rubber Tree Tapping, Cashew Harvest)
1. Agriculture: The Heart of Vietnam’s Economy
Vietnam has a long history of farming, and agriculture remains an important part of its economy, especially in rural areas. About 14% of the country's workforce is still involved in farming. The country’s warm climate and fertile land make it an ideal place for growing crops like rice, coffee, tea, and rubber.
The export turnover of the whole industry was over US$53.22 billion. Vietnam currently exports a broad range of agricultural products all over the world. Its main exports are walnuts, coffee, and rice accounting for just over US$5.7 billion worth of agricultural exports in 2021
Rice: Vietnam is one of the world's largest exporters of rice. It is grown mostly in the Mekong Delta, located in the south.
Coffee: Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter in the world, after Brazil. The central highlands are known for producing Robusta coffee beans.
Other Products: Other major agricultural exports include rubber, cashews, and seafood like shrimp and fish.
Manufacturing (Left to Right: Electronics, Textiles, Shoes, Furniture, Automobiles)
2. Manufacturing: The Backbone of Vietnam’s Industrial Growth
Over the past 30 years, Vietnam has become a global hub for manufacturing. The country has attracted foreign companies to set up factories, thanks to its lower labor costs and skilled workers. Manufacturing accounts for about 16% of Vietnam’s GDP.
Textiles and Garments: Vietnam is one of the top exporters of clothing in the world. The country manufactures clothing for major international brands like Nike, Adidas, and H&M.
Electronics: Companies like Samsung and Intel have set up large factories in Vietnam to produce smartphones, computers, and other electronic goods.
Automobiles: Vietnam also has a growing automobile industry. Companies like VinFast are developing and manufacturing cars within the country.
Services (Left to Right: Cu Chi guerrilla's underground tunnels, Popular Hanoi Tourist Area, Ho Chi Minh, Bitexco Financial Tower, Saigon Centre Mall)
3. Services: An Expanding Sector
In recent years, the service sector in Vietnam has grown rapidly. Services now make up about 40% of the country's GDP. This sector includes various industries such as tourism, retail, and banking.
Tourism: Vietnam is a popular destination for tourists. Beautiful landscapes like Ha Long Bay, ancient cities like Hoi An, and vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City attract millions of visitors every year.
Retail: With the growing middle class, more people are shopping in malls and online. Vietnamese companies are expanding their retail businesses both domestically and internationally.
Finance: The banking and financial sectors are also growing. Vietnam's financial markets are becoming more developed, attracting both local and foreign investors.
Technology (Left to Right: Digital Transformation, Fintech - Financial Technology, AI Artificial Technology)
4. Technology: The New Frontier
Technology is becoming one of the most important and fastest-growing sectors in Vietnam. The country is increasingly focusing on digital transformation, with companies and the government investing in tech-related projects.
Software and App Development: Many Vietnamese tech companies, like VNG Corporation and Tiki, are creating software, games, and apps that are popular in the region.
Startups: Vietnam’s startup scene is booming. There are many young entrepreneurs creating new businesses in fields like e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and fintech (financial technology).
Trade & Global Relation
5. Trade and Global Relations
Vietnam is an open economy, meaning it trades a lot with other countries. It has signed several free trade agreements with countries around the world, making it easier to export goods like electronics, clothing, and agricultural products. China, the United States, Japan, and South Korea are some of Vietnam’s main trading partners.
Vietnam is also becoming a key part of global supply chains. Many companies around the world are setting up manufacturing operations in Vietnam, as it offers competitive prices and skilled workers.
Vietnam's economy is diverse and rapidly growing. The main sectors—agriculture, manufacturing, services, technology, and trade—each play a crucial role in the country’s development. As the economy continues to expand, Vietnam will become an even more important player in the global market, providing opportunities for young people like you to work and grow in a variety of industries.