Vietnam Q1 growth slows as costlier Middle East energy tests 2026 target

Vietnam's Q1 2024 economic growth slowed due to higher inflation driven by costly Middle Eastern oil imports, threatening the 2026 growth target. The country's heavy dependence on energy imports exposes it to global price volatility, economic instability, and potential supply chain disruptions. Mitigation efforts focus on diversifying energy sources and strengthening domestic infrastructure to reduce vulnerability.

HANOI, April 4 : Vietnam's economy slowed in the first quarter from the three months prior, data showed on Saturday, as heavy exposure to Middle Eastern oil imports boosted inflation, presenting a challenge in reaching an annual growth target, authorities sai…