According to reports from VnExpress and other sources on June 18, 2026, the positive growth trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including industrial production, trade, foreign direct investment (FDI), international tourism, domestic consumption, and capital market recovery. Nonetheless, various challenges loom in the second half of the year, such as inflationary pressures, currency volatility, rising energy prices, increased logistics costs, potential changes in the trade balance, risks of slowing global trade, and geopolitical uncertainties.
In Ho Chi Minh City, price increases across daily expenses are evident. Residents report that costs for a bowl of noodles, a cup of coffee, and ride-hailing services have significantly risen. Some consumers noted that the price for breakfast and coffee, previously around 60,000 to 75,000 dong (approximately $3.40 to $4.30), has now surged to nearly 100,000 dong (about $5.70). Dining out has also become more expensive, with a local pho restaurant raising its base price from 40,000 to 50,000 dong. Prices for set meals at some restaurants have increased by about 10,000 dong. Coffee shops and beverage brands have also adjusted prices for some products by 5% to 10%.
The cost of living services is also on the rise. Prices for everyday services such as haircuts, laundry, food delivery, and parking have jumped by 5% to 20% this year. For instance, laundry fees for under 7 kg have increased from around 70,000 dong to between 90,000 and 99,000 dong. The rise in transportation and delivery costs is also a significant factor contributing to the increased cost of living.
Accumulating Cost Pressures
Experts attribute the recent price hikes in services to accumulated cost burdens over time. Rising fuel and raw material prices, logistics costs, rent, labor costs, taxes, electronic invoicing, and compliance with business operation standards have all contributed to a situation where companies have no choice but to raise prices. Dr. Dinh The Hien analyzed that this trend reflects a natural outcome of increasing transparency and standardization in the economy.
Statistically, the rise in prices is evident. The average Consumer Price Index (CPI) from January to May this year increased by 4.31% compared to the same period last year. The food and beverage sector rose by 4.77%, housing, electricity, water, fuel, and construction materials by 6.64%, and transportation by 5.22%. However, not all businesses are raising prices; some small restaurants are maintaining prices to avoid losing customers, even as raw material costs rise significantly.
Experts believe that while Vietnam's economy has shown recovery in the first half of the year, managing inflation, currency, energy, and logistics costs will be crucial in determining whether this growth can be sustained in the second half.
Meanwhile, citizens have expressed mixed reactions to the rising prices. One internet user remarked, "The increase in living costs is definitely noticeable," highlighting recent financial burdens. Another user noted, "Every time fuel prices rise, the costs of goods and services go up, but when fuel prices drop, the prices remain the same," expressing frustration over price rigidity. They added, "If I cook at home and avoid coffee or drinks, I can keep my daily expenses around 50,000 dong," suggesting that buying discounted ingredients and using simple recipes can help maintain a monthly food budget under 1 million dong.
Another user commented, "Costs keep rising, making it hard to generate profits even with increasing sales," questioning why vegetable prices are rising so rapidly, wondering if it is due to poor harvests.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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