The Norwegian and Vietnamese trade and industry relationship is on the rise. Although total trade figures are still modest, the growth in the two way trade in 2007 increased with approximately 15%. This growth and the Norwegian participation on Vietship 2008 demonstrate that both our nations have a mutual interest of a continued trade and industry relationship.
20/03/2008 :: Norway and Vietnam have a territory stretching along two separate, but important world oceans, the North Atlantic and the Pacific. Both have a national history closely related to one’s coastline and for centuries it has been the source of natural resources and food supply. At present time fishery, aquaculture and maritime life still are important parts of our national identity. This is why Norway wants to be a partner for a continued sustainable and equitable use of Vietnam’s resources and a contributor in further development of marine technology.
Some Norwegian Industries in Vietnam:
Fishery and Aquaculture:
Sintef Fishery and Aquaculture is working in Vietnam with rearing technology and marine research related activities. Furthermore is NTNU; the Norwegian Technical and Natural Science University participating in an international university cooperation in Vietnam Fisheries Network (ViFiNet). In addition, Norwegian companies such as Trace Tracker, Marine Farm, Pharmaq, Fishery Research and Mundal Boat are all investing in fishery and aquaculture.
Maritime:
DNV (services for managing risks) has established administrative offices in Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang and Hai Phong and is in collaboration with the ship building company Vinashin establishing a NORAD (The Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation) funded educational program for capacity building within the Vietnamese shipbuilding industry. Another industry involved in the maritime sector is Aker Yards which is together with Amanda cooperation Singapore planning to build a shipyard in Vung Tau aimed at producing vessels for offshore activity and technology. Aker is scheduling to deliver their first vessel in 2009. Finally, there is also a NORAD funded project between the Foreign Trade University and BI Shipping course (Norwegian School of Management) with a curriculum in transport and logistic.
Oil and Gas:
Roxar has with its office in Vung Tau established contract for reservoir interpretation, modelling and simulators. Another industry involved is Oddfjell Tankers which is interested in oil refinery. Written below are further companies involved in different aspects of the oil and gas industry: Epcon Offshore, FMC Kongsberg, Stolt Offshore, Aker Kvaerner and GEOLAB NOR.
Norway is in addition to these areas interested in a greater presence in Hydro Power and Environmental Protection and Conservation sectors. At present time SN Power Invest, Sintef and more are developing cooperation projects with Vietnamese companies. Norway is both enthusiastic and optimistic about the growing trade and industrial relationship that is being built with Vietnam. Hopefully our two countries will continue to increase the cooperation and partnership as we move towards the future.