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The 3rd Annual Conference of the Vietnam Leasing Association on the morning of March 20 was marked by heightened discussion following a sharp increase in fuel prices late the previous night.

Mr. Nguyễn Thiều Sơn, Chairman of the Vietnam Leasing Association, at the Association’s 3rd Annual Conference on the morning of March 20.

The 3rd Annual Conference of the Vietnam Leasing Association, held on the morning of March 20, was marked by heightened discussion following the decision to sharply increase fuel prices at 11 p.m. on March 19.

“Fuel prices went up last night. We lease a large number of vehicles, so we are directly affected, as our customers face considerable pressure from higher fuel and operating costs,” said Mr. Lưu Huỳnh, General Director of Sacombank Leasing Company Limited.

Although he did not elaborate, business plans involving many existing customers are likely to face greater challenges than before. This could also affect efforts to acquire new customers.

“However, this is precisely the time when businesses need to seek out new opportunities,” Mr. Huỳnh shared.

It is worth noting that 2025 was considered a relatively favorable year for businesses in the financial leasing sector. A strong economic recovery, high GDP growth of 8.02%, and a favorable business environment were among the key factors supporting the development of financial leasing companies.

According to the Association’s report, the sector recorded solid growth in total assets, capital mobilization and credit activities in 2025 compared with the previous year.

The total assets of member companies exceeded VND 51 trillion, up 14.83% from 2024. Their total mobilized capital reached VND 28.89 trillion, representing an increase of 23.37% year-on-year.

In 2025, the total outstanding credit balance of member companies exceeded VND 45.7 trillion, of which outstanding financial leasing receivables accounted for VND 45.3 trillion, up 12.38% compared with 2024.

Notably, Mr. Phạm Xuân Hòe, Secretary General of the Association, stated that 100% of financial leasing credit facilities had undergone environmental risk assessments. Several financial leasing transactions aimed at greening the textile and garment industry had also received particular attention, potentially positioning them as early examples of green credit being implemented comprehensively in the financial leasing sector.

Nevertheless, 2026 is expected to bring significant challenges, Mr. Hòe emphasized, noting that these challenges would not stem solely from conflicts in the Middle East. At the same time, he stressed that Vietnam’s economic potential and growth opportunities for the financial leasing sector remained substantial.

“Businesses have identified the need to proactively conduct in-depth research into markets and industries, while innovating their business activities to grow financial leasing portfolios and lending operations in a safe and effective manner. This will also be a priority for the Association this year,” Mr. Hòe said.

Financial leasing companies are already targeting a range of potential products and customer segments. The Vietnam Leasing Association’s 2026 work plan includes numerous engagements with industry associations whose sectors are closely linked to financial leasing, such as the Vietnam Logistics Business Association, the Vietnam Association of Private Hospitals and the Vietnam Automobile Transportation Association.

Providing a more specific example, Mr. Lưu Huỳnh pointed to the strong momentum in public investment expected over the next five to ten years.

“There could be many new opportunities for financial leasing companies, such as in the construction equipment leasing segment. We believe this segment will experience rapid and sustainable growth in the coming period,” Mr. Huỳnh explained.

In addition, businesses are awaiting detailed guidance on the implementation of Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development.

Although the issue was mentioned under only one item, businesses indicated that they were eagerly anticipating a legal framework for financial leasing companies that would expand the range of eligible leased assets. A broader range of non-traditional assets, including software, exploitation rights, intellectual property and data, is expected to create new growth opportunities for the sector.

In particular, alongside strengthening connections with associations and businesses across other industries, Mr. Nguyễn Thiều Sơn, Chairman of the Vietnam Leasing Association, identified 2026 as a year in which financial leasing companies should deepen cooperation with one another.

Specifically, Mr. Sơn emphasized that the Association would continue to foster connections, build a healthy business environment and promote information sharing to provide support for and stand alongside businesses.

Source: Báo Đầu tư (Investment Review)