Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country located on the eastern edge of the Indochina Peninsula, bordering China, Laos, and Cambodia, with a long coastline along the South China Sea. With a total land area of around 331,000 square kilometers, the country has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, deltas, and over 3,000 kilometers of coastline. The capital is Hanoi, while Ho Chi Minh City is the largest economic center.
As of 2025, Vietnam had a population of approximately 101,598,527 people, making it the 15th most populous country in the world and one of the most densely populated in the region. The population is relatively young, and urbanization is rapidly increasing. The majority of Vietnamese people identify as Mahayana Buddhists or follow a mix of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, although a significant portion is non-religious.
Vietnam is a socialist republic led by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), which maintains a one-party system. The country has seen significant political stability since the 1980s, accompanying rapid economic reforms under the Đổi Mới (Renovation) policy. These reforms transformed Vietnam from a centrally planned economy into a socialist-oriented market economy.
Vietnam’s economy has grown rapidly over the past two decades, driven by export-oriented manufacturing, foreign investment, and a dynamic private sector. In 2024, Vietnam was among the fastest-growing economies in Asia, with strong performance in electronics, textiles, and agriculture. Despite challenges such as income inequality and environmental pressures, Vietnam is increasingly recognized as a key player in regional supply chains and global trade.
Socialist Republic of Vietnam