Top30 Thesis - Celebrating 30 Years Of Excellence in Economic Research And Training

In 1996, Vietnam stood at the cusp of economic transformation. Amid these reforms, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow emerged as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for Vietnam’s burgeoning economy. Against this dynamic landscape, the thesis titled “Foreign Direct Investment in Vietnam: Catalyst for Economic Growth” by Nguyen Van Phuong was one of the first to quantify the role of FDI during this critical period. By analyzing the symbiotic relationship between FDI and Vietnam’s economic growth, this thesis highlighted how FDI became a linchpin in Vietnam’s remarkable economic journey, showcasing the program’s dedication to Vietnam’s economic advancement.

In the landscape of Vietnam’s economic history, significant milestones often mark the trajectory of growth and development. One such milestone took place in November 1996, with the establishment of the State Securities Commission of Vietnam. Just two years later, on the 11th of July 1998, guided by Government Resolution No. 48/CP, Vietnam’s stock market officially came into existence. This momentous juncture heralded the birth of a dynamic financial ecosystem. Within this context, the thesis “Emerging Stock Markets and Economic Growth: An Application in Vietnam” by Nguyen Phong Chau, finds its significance. By exploring the intricate relationship between emerging stock markets and economic growth in Vietnam, this research showed how the stock market played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s financial landscape. This thesis reflected VNP’s commitment to documenting and
contributing to Vietnam’s economic development journey through rigorous empirical analysis.

On December 2, 1997, a momentous step in Vietnam’s economic history unfolded as the National Assembly passed the Law on the State Bank of Vietnam and the Law on Credit Institutions. These laws officially came into effect on October 1, 1998. This legislative milestone laid the foundation for modernizing and regulating Vietnam’s banking system, marking a crucial transition towards a market- oriented economy. In 1997-1998, Duong Nguyen Uyen Minh started a research journey that would explore the profound impact of this reform on Vietnam’s economic landscape. The thesis, titled “The Role of the Banking System in Economic Growth in Vietnam,” examined how this restructured banking system became a cornerstone of the nation’s economic development.

The global economy in 1998 witnessed the eruption of the Asian Financial Crisis. While this crisis primarily engulfed neighboring economies, it left an indelible mark on Vietnam’s economic consciousness. Against this backdrop of financial turmoil, Luong Thi Thu Ha undertook a research in 1999, encapsulated in the thesis “The Causes of the Asian Financial Crisis and Lessons for Vietnam.” This research investigated the complex web of factors that triggered the crisis, examining how vulnerabilities in Asian economies gave rise to financial turbulence. Through meticulous analysis, the thesis extracts valuable lessons that Vietnam could learn from this tumultuous episode to bolster its own economic resilience.

In the annals of Vietnamese academia, the year 1999 marked a watershed moment with Pham Khanh Nam’s groundbreaking thesis, “Evaluating Tourism Value of Hon Mun Island Using Travel Cost Method.” This seminal work stands as one of the earliest studies in Vietnam to venture into the uncharted territory of evaluating the value of the environment. It laid the foundational stones for the development of environmental economic studies in the years to come in Vietnam. What makes this thesis even more remarkable is that it not only blazed a trail but did so under the auspices of the visionary program, which pioneered the exploration of environmental economics methodologies. Pham Khanh Nam’s research on Hon Mun Island serves as a testament to the VNP’s commitment to innovation and an understanding of the interconnectedness of economic growth and environmental preservation, setting a standard that continues to guide environmental research in Vietnam.

In December 2000, Vietnam achieved a significant milestone by declaring the successful elimination of illiteracy and the provision of primary education to all of its citizens. This accomplishment was a testament to the nation’s dedication to nurturing human capital as it progressed toward economic reforms. As Vietnam celebrated this achievement, it also set its sights on the future. It was in this very year that Le Van Chon’s thesis, “Determinants of Enrollments in Vietnam’s Secondary Education,” came to fruition. This research holds particular significance because it examined the factors influencing access to secondary education. As Vietnam celebrated the triumph of universal primary education, this thesis possibly set the stage for the nation’s next policy target, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in and expansion of secondary education. Le Van Chon’s work in 2000 embodied the program’s dedication to understanding the dynamics of education’s role in Vietnam’s economic growth, laying the groundwork for future policies to achieve even greater heights of development.

In 2000, Vietnam marked a transformative moment with the adoption of the Enterprise Law, facilitating the private sector growth. A year later, Nguyen Tuan Khang started his research journey with the thesis, “Private Domestic SMEs and Their Role in Reducing Unemployment.” This research explores the vital role of private domestic SMEs in addressing unemployment. It exemplifies VNP’s commitment to empirical research driving Vietnam’s economic development.

In the late 1990s, Vietnam pursued expanded global trade, driven by the normalization of relations with the United States in 1996 and the signing of the bilateral trade agreement in 2001. In this pivotal year, Tran Thi Dong Luu’s thesis, “Impacts of the US Most Favored Nation Status for Vietnam on Textile and Garment Exports,” explored how these developments influenced Vietnam’s textile and garment exports. This research showcases the program’s dedication to empirically assessing the consequences of significant policy decisions on Vietnam’s economic growth and trade dynamics within a rapidly evolving global marketplace.

Against Vietnam’s notable economic achievements and the successful poverty reduction efforts in 2002, Pham Le Hoa’s thesis, “Determinants of Street Children’s Labor Hours in HCMC,” casts a compassionate gaze upon the lives of vulnerable urban youth within marginalized communities. This research explores the factors that influence the daily work hours of these children. It exemplified VNP’s commitment to understanding and advocating for those who often find themselves on the fringes of society. In a year marked by economic triumphs, this study highlighted the importance of inclusivity and social welfare, advocating for a more equitable and compassionate society that cares for those left behind.

In 2003, Vietnam witnessed a pivotal moment with the enactment of the Land Law, a transformational legislative change with far-reaching implications, particularly for the nation’s agricultural sector. In this evolving landscape, Nguyen Dinh Phuc conducted his thesis, “Land Holding and Income Diversification of Farm Households – A Case Study of Ha Tay Province.” This study examined landholding patterns among farm households and investigated how land reforms impacted the strategies for income diversification within rural communities. This thesis documented a crucial moment in Vietnam’s agricultural history and contributed significantly to our comprehension of the economic dynamics shaping the nation’s agricultural landscape.

In 2004, VNP witnessed a pioneering leap in research methodology, marked by Luong Vinh Quoc Duy’s groundbreaking thesis. His study, “Evaluation of the Impact of Dutch Lady Dairy Development Program on Income per Capita from Milk of Participating Dairy-Farming Households in the Project Areas,” was among the first in Vietnam to employ the method of Propensity Score Matching. This approach underlined VNP’s commitment to employing cutting-edge research techniques in making evidence-based decisions.

During the dynamic period of 2006-2007, Vietnam experienced an unprecedented supermarket boom, transforming the nation’s retail landscape. In this era of changing consumer habits and expanding market choices, Tran Thi Phuong Mai wrote her thesis, “Determinants of Shopping Behavior in Supermarkets of Individuals in HCMC.” As supermarkets’ proliferation reshaped how Vietnamese consumers accessed goods and services, this research was poised to uncover the determinants driving shopping behavior. In a period characterized by increased consumer choice and retail competition, her research provided a valuable understanding of the factors guiding supermarket consumer decisions, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the nation’s economic development and transformation.

In the years leading up to 2007, Vietnam faced intriguing demographic issues, with fluctuations in birth rates and an evolving understanding of maternal and child health. Notably, in 2007, the General Office For Population and Family Planning acknowledged that it was the first year when national targets for birth rate reduction were not met, as mandated by the National Assembly. This trend persisted into 2008, with most population indicators falling short of the set targets. Despite the nationwide trend, some provinces, previously considered to have achieved and maintained replacement-level fertility, experienced unexpected spikes in birth rates.

This intriguing shift in demographic patterns prompted a deeper exploration of the factors influencing maternal and child health. In this context, Nguyen Le Hoang Thuy To Quyen’s thesis, “Investigating the Effects of Maternal Health Knowledge on Child Health in Long An Province,” emerged in 2007. The research examined the complex relationship between maternal health knowledge and child health outcomes using data from Long An Province, an area experiencing its unique demographic dynamics.

In 2008, Vietnam stood at a crossroads of economic development, with an ever-growing private sector playing a vital role in the nation’s transformation. Against this backdrop, Nguyen Xuan Lam undertook a significant research initiative, captured in the thesis, “The Impact of Provincial Investment Climate on the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) of Private Sector Firms in Vietnam.” As Vietnam’s provinces varied widely in their approach to attracting investment and fostering business environments, this research sought to unveil the crucial link between provincial investment climate and private sector firms’ Total Factor Productivity (TFP). Based on empirical analysis, Nguyen Xuan Lam’s work documented this relationship and showcased VNP’s commitment to understanding the nuanced forces in Vietnam’s economic landscape. In a year marked by heightened interest in the private sector’s contribution to economic growth, this thesis provided valuable insights into the factors shaping the productivity of private firms, contributing to Vietnam’s ongoing economic development narrative.

Picture the year 2008 – the global economy was like a stormy sea, with financial tempests rocking nations worldwide. Vietnam, too, felt the ripples of this economic turbulence. In the midst of this financial maelstrom, Truong Hong Tuan emerged as a financial weather forecaster, armed with a groundbreaking thesis – “Will There Be a Currency Crisis in Vietnam? An Early Warning System Approach” in 2009. Imagine this research as a beacon in a sea of uncertainty, aiming to guide Vietnam safely through the treacherous waters of global financial instability. Truong Hong Tuan’s work wasn’t just another academic pursuit; it was a lifeline, a proactive response to the unpredictable nature of the global financial landscape. As financial markets became more interconnected, his research provided crucial understanding of potential currency crises, drawing from the lessons learned during the financial turbulence of 2008. This thesis exemplified the VNP’s commitment to comprehending and addressing economic challenges, offering guidance to navigate Vietnam’s financial landscape.

In late 2010, Vietnam’s National Assembly passed a pivotal amendment to the Law on Securities of 2006, revisiting crucial aspects of the securities market. This legislative shift marked a transformative year for Vietnam’s financial landscape, accompanied by a surge in research on the Vietnamese stock market. Among these studies was Nguyen Thi Bao Khuyen’s thesis, “Testing the Efficient Market Hypothesis: Evidence from the Vietnamese Stock Market.” This research contributed to our understanding of stock market efficiency, enriching the discourse on Vietnam’s financial development.

In 2011, Vietnam confronted an unprecedented challenge as its inflation rate soared to an alarming 18.58%. This staggering inflation rate marked the highest level recorded between 2000 and 2020, signaling a pivotal moment in the nation’s economic landscape. During this economic turbulence, Le Thi Diep Huong wrote her thesis, “An Estimate of the Threshold Level of Inflation for Vietnam’s Economic Growth.” This study sought to determine the crucial threshold at which inflation begins to impact Vietnam’s economic growth. Against the soaring inflation, this research exemplified the program’s mission to be a center of excellence in economic research. In a year with economic challenges, Le Thi Diep Huong’s work provided a better understanding on the threshold level of inflation, contributing to Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to achieve a sustainable and resilient economy.

In 2012, Vietnam’s credit growth was surprisingly lower than its accustomed vigor. In this extraordinary financial climate, Pham Tien Thanh wrote his thesis – “Impact Evaluation of Micro-Credit on Welfare and Poverty of Vietnam Rural Households.” This study examined the role of credit in alleviating poverty, precisely in a year when credit growth defied convention by plummeting to historically low levels.

In 2013, Vietnam embarked on a transformative journey with the approval of the comprehensive plan titled “The Overall Restructuring of the Economy Linked to the Transition of Growth Models towards Enhanced Quality, Efficiency, and Competitive Capacity for the Period 2013 – 2020.” This visionary plan, officially sanctioned by the Prime Minister of Vietnam through Decision 339/2013-TTg on February 19, 2013, set forth a blueprint for the nation’s economic evolution.

Aligned with the strategic economic restructuring was Phan Thach Truc’s thesis, which is on “The Impacts of Institutional Implementation on Provincial Economic Performance: The Case of Vietnam.” This research investigated the impacts of institutional implementation on the economic performance of provinces within Vietnam using an innovative methodology. It was a year marked by ambitious economic reform, making Phan Thach Truc’s work an indispensable contribution to understanding how institutions shape the economic destiny of regions, contributing to the nation’s enduring pursuit of economic excellence.

In 2014, Vietnam found itself at the intersection of significant economic developments. The country concluded crucial trade agreements with South Korea, Russia-Belarus-Kazakhstan, and the EU. Additionally, Vietnam actively participated in discussions on regional FTAs like RCEP, TPP, and EFTA. During this eventful year, Vietnam also celebrated a milestone victory at the World Trade Organization, winning its first case against anti-dumping measures imposed by the United States on Vietnamese frozen shrimp. Furthermore, Vietnam implemented anti-dumping measures for the first time, targeting certain imported cold-rolled stainless steel products.

In this dynamic economic environment, Nguyen Truong Toan’s thesis, “Quantifying Effects of EU Anti- dumping Duty on Vietnam Footwear,” emerged as a vital exploration of the impact of EU anti-dumping duties on Vietnam’s footwear industry. Amidst these significant economic events, this research contributed valuable insights into the complexities of international trade and their profound consequences on Vietnam’s economic landscape.

In 2013, Vietnam embarked on a transformative journey with the approval of the comprehensive plan titled “The Overall Restructuring of the Economy Linked to the Transition of Growth Models towards Enhanced Quality, Efficiency, and Competitive Capacity for the Period 2013 – 2020.” This visionary plan, officially sanctioned by the Prime Minister of Vietnam through Decision 339/2013-TTg on February 19, 2013, set forth a blueprint for the nation’s economic evolution.

Aligned with the strategic economic restructuring was Phan Thach Truc’s thesis, which is on “The Impacts of Institutional Implementation on Provincial Economic Performance: The Case of Vietnam.” This research investigated the impacts of institutional implementation on the economic performance of provinces within Vietnam using an innovative methodology. It was a year marked by ambitious economic reform, making Phan Thach Truc’s work an indispensable contribution to understanding how institutions shape the economic destiny of regions, contributing to the nation’s enduring pursuit of economic excellence.

In the realm of economic research, there are moments when the spotlight turns toward the most vulnerable and marginalized segments of society. One such moment was encapsulated in Nguyen Ngoc Nu’s thesis, “Economics of Charitable Giving – Understanding the Motivation of Donation Behavior,” in the year 2016.

While the broader economic landscape often emphasizes market dynamics and policy shifts, this thesis veered in a different direction – one that sought to uncover the motivations driving charitable giving. In a world where societal inequities persist, understanding why individuals and organizations choose to donate their resources is a profound inquiry.

Nguyen Ngoc Nu’s research examined the altruistic realm and economic underpinnings of donation behavior. It illuminated the motivations that drive individuals and entities to support those in need, reaffirming the importance of compassionate economics in a world where caring for the marginalized remains indispensable.

In 2017, Vietnam endured an exceptional year of natural disasters with a record-breaking number of 16 storms and 4 tropical depressions in the East Vietnam Sea. These natural disasters claimed the lives of 386 individuals and wreaked havoc estimated at 60,000 billion VND (approximately 2 billion USD) in material damages. Amidst this circumstance, Nguyen Ngoc Que Anh’s thesis, “The Willingness to Pay for Flood Insurance in Mekong River Delta,” proposed insurance to share the risks of natural disasters.

This research focused on understanding people’s willingness to invest in flood insurance, especially in the vulnerable Mekong River Delta region. In a year dominated by unpredictable weather extremes, this thesis explored the economic aspect of disaster resilience. It provided insights into how communities could protect themselves economically against the impact of natural disasters, offering a path toward greater financial security in the face of nature’s challenges.

In 2018, Vietnam witnessed explosive growth in its e-commerce sector, showcasing remarkable statistics. According to Statista, the total revenue generated by e-commerce companies in Vietnam reached an impressive 2.26 billion USD, marking an almost 30% surge compared to 2017. With these results, Vietnam swiftly became one of the top six largest e-commerce markets globally.

Amidst this digital commerce boom, Pham Nhu Man’s thesis, “Online Shopping vs. In-store Shopping: An Analysis of Choice Behavior,” took shape in 2018. This research investigated the choice of consumers between online shopping and traditional in-store purchases. Pham Nhu Man’s work highlighted the program’s dedication to understanding evolving consumer behaviors in an increasingly digital world. It provided significant findings on the choices individuals make when shopping, bridging the gap between traditional and online retail experiences.

In 2019, Vietnam marked a transformative year in global economic engagement. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) took effect on January 14, 2019, expanding trade opportunities. Vietnam also signed the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) with the European Union, ushering in a new era of trade potential.

As economies eagerly expand into global markets and encourage innovation, a critical question arises: What is the environmental toll? Balancing trade expansion with environmental preservation is not merely a concern but an imperative. During these periods of trade growth, we must reflect on the environmental impact. This thesis, “Trade Openness and Environmental Quality: Evidence from 24 Asia- Pacific Economies,” authored by Le Bui Xuan Dung in 2019, confronts the intersection of trade expansion and environmental responsibility. It offers insights into how trade openness influences the environment and how sustainability complements economic growth.

As we venture into a world of expanding trade opportunities, this thesis serves as a reminder that our progress must be two-fold: economic and ecological. It champions the idea that environmental sustainability is not a roadblock to growth but a pathway towards a brighter, more resilient future. Join us on this journey as we explore the intricate dance between trade openness and environmental quality, armed with knowledge, determination, and a commitment to leave a planet worth inheriting for generations to come.

In 2020, as global concerns deepened over the intertwined challenges of economics, environment, and energy, one thesis emerged to address the quest for an optimal solution. ‘The Optimal Structures of Energy Sources for Achieving Economic, Environmental, and Energy Goals,’ authored by To Hoang Anh, takes center stage.

Amidst the pressing need to balance economic development, environmental sustainability, and energy security, this thesis delves into the intricacies of energy source selection. It provides crucial insights into achieving a harmonious blend of energy sources that align with economic growth while safeguarding the environment and ensuring energy stability.

In a world grappling with the profound impacts of energy choices, this thesis stands as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where economics, environment, and energy goals are not conflicting but complementary. Join us on this intellectual journey as we explore the path to a more sustainable and prosperous world.

Amidst the unique challenges faced by Vietnam in 2020 and 2021, where the world grappled with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, our nation demonstrated resilience and adaptability. While 2020 saw relatively minimal disruptions to our economic activities, the year 2021 brought stringent lockdown
policies that posed significant hurdles.

In this volatile environment, the thesis “Tracking Growth during the New Wave of COVID-19 using Google Trends” by Vo Phuoc Tri, completed in 2021, made a significant breakthrough. This research harnessed the power of Google Trends data, a real-time reflection of internet users’ interests and concerns, to track economic growth. This thesis is innovative in its adaptation of the Artificial Neural Network algorithm to construct a Weekly Tracker. Fueled by Google Trends data, this tracker provides a dynamic and responsive tool for monitoring economic growth, offering insights into the intricate relationship between online search trends and economic performance.

In a time where traditional economic data may lag behind rapidly evolving situations, this thesis boldly ventured into uncharted territory by using high-frequency data to navigate the twists and turns of our macro economy. It stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of VNP and commitment to devising novel solutions to complex challenges.

Against the context of Vietnam’s commendable resilience during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the country experienced a significant shift in dynamics in 2021 and 2022. During this period, the government launched extensive vaccination campaigns to combat the pandemic’s challenges. Amid these transformative times, a remarkable thesis emerged, shedding light on a vital aspect of the pandemic’s repercussions. “The Influence of Vaccination on Business Confidence during the COVID-19 Pandemic,” authored by Tran Phuoc Bao Minh in 2022, offers an innovative perspective on the correlation between vaccination efforts and business confidence. This thesis analyzed the impact of vaccination strategies on fostering confidence within the business sector. It stands as a testament to VNP’s adaptability and commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the pandemic, utilizing cutting-edge research to explore a crucial aspect of the nation’s economic issues.

The year 2022 marked a significant turning point in Vietnam’s technological landscape as the nation embraced the massive integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into various sectors. This unprecedented introduction of AI technology held the potential to revolutionize industries, improve efficiency, and
redefine the way people work. However, as with any transformative technological advancement, questions arose about its potential impact on employment.

In this dynamic era, where AI technology and its implications were at the forefront of discussions, Nguyen Phu Quoc’s 2022 thesis, titled “Artificial Intelligence and Unemployment: An International Evidence,” emerged as a timely and groundbreaking exploration of the complex relationship between AI and labor markets. Through comprehensive international evidence, this thesis aimed to unravel the nuances of AI adoption and its consequences on employment, contributing valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the role of technology in the workforce.

In the midst of the challenging COVID-19 times, Vietnam witnessed a significant transformation in the way people lived and conducted their daily activities. The country’s digital landscape has evolved rapidly with the adoption of online platforms for studying, working, and meetings. Nowhere was this digital shift more apparent than in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), which endured stringent lockdowns in 2021. As onlinetransactions, particularly through e-wallets, surged, it became evident that trust and risk played vital roles in shaping the adoption of these digital financial tools. This thesis, “The Impacts of Trust and Risk on E-Wallet Adoption: A Case Study in HCMC” by Nguyen Huu Phat in 2022, explores the dynamics between trust, risk, and the adoption of e-wallets in the unique context of HCMC during the pandemic era. Through innovative research, it sheds light on the factors influencing the utilization of digital financial services in a rapidly changing digital landscape.