Vietnam’s labour market continues to expand, now encompassing over 52.7 million workers. This growth comes with opportunities in key industries but also highlights persistent challenges, particularly for employees and employers navigating an evolving landscape.
However, gender pay gaps remain a concern. While male workers earn an average of VND9 million (approximately Rs 29,500) monthly, female workers, on the other hand, bring in VND7.9 million (approximately Rs 25,900).
This disparity underscores ongoing issues in wage equity across the workforce.
Key growth sectors such as wholesale, healthcare, and manufacturing are creating new opportunities for job seekers. In contrast, declining employment in real estate, education and construction signals shifting economic priorities.
Furthermore, employers face a widening skills gap. High-demand roles in sales, marketing, and operations are increasingly difficult to fill. Meanwhile, job seekers are gravitating toward tech-focused fields such as e-commerce, digital marketing, and logistics. This mismatch between demand and preferences poses recruitment challenges.
The future of recruitment reveals a mixed outlook. Industries such as furniture manufacturing, food processing, and rubber production are projected to see significant hiring. Conversely, sectors such as coal mining and agro-forestry are expected to experience job declines.
For Vietnam’s workforce, adaptability will be crucial. Embracing skills aligned with emerging sectors will enable workers to thrive in the nation’s dynamic and shifting labour market. Employers, too, must adjust strategies to bridge the skills gap and meet changing demands.
