The Prime Minister showed particular interest in electric cars of VinFast, an affiliate company of Vingroup and the leading electric vehicle manufacturer in Vietnam, noting that with a switch to right-hand drive, they could perform well in the New Zealand market.

Luxon expressed his confidence that Vietnam would play an increasingly significant role in the global supply chain, with Vingroup being a key player. He encouraged New Zealand businesses to explore partnership opportunities with Vingroup to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Vingroup Vice Chairman and CEO Nguyen Viet Quang welcomed Luxon’s visit, hoping it would open doors for future cooperation between Vingroup and New Zealand businesses.

Before departing, Luxon and other New Zealand officials sang a traditional Maori song as a token of appreciation for Vingroup’s warm hospitality and Vietnam’s reception.

Luxon made an official visit to Vietnam from February 24 to 28 at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

During the visit, the two countries decided to upgrade their ties to a level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Luxon also spent time taking part in the second ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi.

VinFast’s sales up 51.4% in September

Automaker VinFast, a subsidiary of conglomerate Vingroup, sold 3,497 vehicles in September, posting a month-on-month surge of 51.4% despite the COVID-19 pandemic.