Vietnam business opportunities remain exciting, but very challenging. Enterprise in Vietnam continues to face tribulations of an undercapitalized banking sector, high borrowing costs, and the rigidities of a centrally-planned economy. (Vietnam remains dominated by state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which produce roughly 40% of its GDP). In order to encourage economic growth, Vietnamese authorities have affirmed their commitment to economic liberalization and international integration. Through increased private ownership in industry, commerce and agriculture, they are moving towards a modern economy with more competitive, export-driven industries. Agriculture, while it remains a vital part of Vietnam’s economy, has shrunk on a relative basis. Manufacturing, information technology and high-tech industries now form a large and fast-growing part of the national economy.