Vietnamese Women Now Lead 20% of Nation's Businesses

Women in Vietnam are no longer just participating in the economy. They're leading it.

A 2024 report reveals that 63% of Vietnamese women work, surpassing the global average. But the real story isn't just participation. It's transformation.

Women now hold 30% of management positions in Vietnamese companies, one of the highest rates in Southeast Asia. They own more than 100,000 small and medium businesses, representing 20% of all enterprises nationwide.

In textiles and footwear, where women make up 75% of workers, their skilled labor has helped Vietnamese brands compete internationally. In agriculture, they form 70% of the workforce in rice, coffee, and pepper production, driving food security and exports.

The digital revolution is opening new doors. Women are launching e-commerce ventures, fintech startups, and green economy businesses with remarkable speed and adaptability.

But women aren't just climbing the ladder. They're changing how business works.

Female entrepreneurs are pioneering ESG standards and circular economy models. Thai Huong founded TH true MILK with sustainability at its core. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao created Vietjet Air to democratize travel, making flights affordable for millions.

These leaders prioritize people and communities alongside profits. Their businesses create jobs, generate tax revenue, and tackle social challenges simultaneously.

The Ripple Effect

The impact reaches far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. When women lead businesses, they bring governance styles that balance decisiveness with humanity.

Women-led enterprises are more likely to invest in their workers and communities. They're adopting green technologies faster and building circular economy models that reduce waste while creating value.

Since 2005, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce has honored outstanding businesswomen through the "Golden Rose" award. The recognition celebrates not just commercial success but the broader transformation these leaders inspire.

In 2026, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh launched a decade-long project supporting women's entrepreneurship. The government recognizes that investing in female business leaders accelerates economic growth and social progress together.

From rice paddies to tech startups, Vietnamese women are proving that economic participation and leadership aren't separate goals. Vietnam's economy is stronger because women aren't just invited to the table anymore.