On July 7, 2026, CEO Club hosted an exclusive networking dinner in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing together business leaders from Vietnam and Japan. Held in a warm yet elegant setting, the event served not only as an opportunity for members to connect and exchange ideas, but also as a platform for CEO Club members and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ho Chi Minh City (JCCH) to strengthen relationships and explore new avenues for collaboration.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Johan Nyvene, Vice Chairman of CEO Club, emphasized that the event was more than an annual gathering – it represented an important bridge connecting the Vietnamese and Japanese business communities to build trust, expand partnerships, and promote long-term cooperation.

He also highlighted that Japan remains one of Vietnam’s most important strategic partners in both trade and investment, with more than 5,600 investment projects and approximately USD 80 billion in registered capital. Over the past decades, Japanese foreign direct investment has not only served as a strong driver of Vietnam’s economic growth but has also introduced advanced technologies, enhanced the development of high-quality human resources, and strengthened the country’s manufacturing capabilities.

Mr. Nyvene expressed his appreciation to Mr. Kume Kunihide, Chairman of JCCH, and all JCCH members for their continuous efforts in fostering business connections between the two countries.

“Japan brings strengths in technology, manufacturing, and corporate management, while Vietnam offers a dynamic economy, a highly capable workforce, and significant market potential. The combination of these complementary advantages will create new opportunities for collaboration as global supply chains continue to evolve and businesses place greater emphasis on building sustainable partnerships” he added.

Mr. Johan Nyvene, Vice Chairman of CEO Club, delivers the opening remarks.

The evening became even more meaningful with the attendance and keynote address of Mr. ONO Masuo, Consul General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City. Reflecting on his years of service in Vietnam, he noted that the relationship between the two countries has evolved remarkably – from one centered on development assistance to a truly equal partnership where both nations complement each other’s strengths and create shared value.

According to Mr. Ono, Japan’s expertise in technology, experience, and management is well complemented by Vietnam’s innovative spirit, dynamic market, and strong aspirations for growth. This synergy, he noted, is creating new opportunities for businesses from both countries. He also expressed his hope that networking initiatives such as this event would continue to contribute to the prosperity and sustainable development of the Vietnamese and Japanese business communities.

Mr. ONO Masuo, Consul General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City, addresses the event.

The program continued with remarks from Mr. Kume Kunihide, Chairman of JCCH, who expressed his sincere appreciation to CEO Club for consistently organizing this annual networking event for the Vietnamese and Japanese business communities. He commended CEO Club’s efforts in creating an environment where initial introductions can grow into lasting friendships and long-term business partnerships.

Mr. Kume also noted that Vietnam continues to be one of the region’s most dynamic and fastest-growing economies, supported by a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and an increasingly attractive business environment. He affirmed that JCCH will continue supporting Japanese companies seeking opportunities and expanding their presence in Vietnam. He also expressed his expectation that future networking activities between JCCH and CEO Club would generate even more opportunities for cooperation, further strengthening the economic relationship between Vietnam and Japan.

Mr. Kume Kunihide, Chairman of JCCH, shares his remarks during the event.

The evening concluded in a warm and engaging atmosphere, leaving participants with stronger connections and promising prospects for future collaboration. Beyond a single evening of networking, the strategic handshakes and newly established partnerships reflected the event’s success in further strengthening business ties between Vietnam and Japan.