In the final months of 2024, Vietnam’s M&A market is experiencing a strong resurgence, with numerous significant deals being announced, drawing widespread attention from both domestic and foreign investors. These transactions not only highlight the potential for economic growth but also reinforce the role of M&A as a strategic tool for business restructuring and expansion.
Some notable M&A transactions in recent months include:
- KIDO – Strategic Move in the F&B Sector KIDO Group continues to expand its control by increasing its stake in Hung Vuong Corporation to 75.39%, making it a subsidiary and acquiring full ownership of Hung Vuong Plaza. Additionally, KIDO sold a 51% stake in Kido Foods to Nutifood, marking a significant shift in the food and beverage (F&B) industry. With leading ice cream brands Celano and Merino, Kido Foods holds a 46.7% market share in Vietnam’s ice cream market, maintaining its leadership position for several years.
- Mitsui & Co Strategic Investment in Tasco Auto Another noteworthy deal is Mitsui & Co’s entry as a strategic shareholder in Tasco Auto, promising to boost development in the IT and transportation sectors, although the deal’s value has not been disclosed.
- Viconship Acquires Nam Hai Dinh Vu Port In the logistics sector, Viconship completed the acquisition of Nam Hai Dinh Vu Port for nearly VND 400 billion, securing 99.99% ownership. This transaction is expected to strengthen Viconship’s position in the logistics industry.
- Masan Group Expands Retail Market Share Masan Group announced a USD 200 million investment to acquire a 7.1% stake in WinCommerce from SK Group, further solidifying its position in retail with over 3,600 mini-supermarkets and more than 130 WinMart stores nationwide.
- Sabeco Gains Control of Sabibeco Sabeco also made headlines with plans to acquire Sai Gon Binh Tay Beer Company (Sabibeco), increasing its stake to 59.6%. This move will help Sabeco expand its product ecosystem and enhance its production capacity.
New Drivers for M&A
In the context of capital flow being restricted, many businesses are opting for divestments as a strategic solution to stabilize their finances. Companies such as Xây dựng Hòa Bình, Nam Long Investment, and Vinaconex have successfully divested from subsidiaries and major projects. This not only helps them restructure their debt but also allows them to focus on their core areas of business.
Additionally, experts suggest that the industrial real estate sector is becoming an attractive destination for foreign investors, with major deals like Mapletree Logistics Trust investing over USD 50 million into two Grade A warehouses in Bình Dương and Hưng Yên, or CapitaLand Investment planning to inject USD 70-110 million into Vietnam over the next two years.
The strong FDI flows, driven by free trade agreements (FTAs), will act as a catalyst for the development of IPOs and M&As. This not only enhances access to capital but also encourages innovation and strategic collaboration.
M&A is gradually becoming an indispensable strategy for Vietnamese businesses, particularly in the face of a volatile market. From large corporations to startups, leveraging M&A helps optimize resources and enhance competitiveness. With positive moves both domestically and internationally, Vietnam’s M&A market is poised to become even more dynamic in the near future, contributing to the sustainable development of the economy.
Recently, following ASL LAW’s success at the Vietnam Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Forum 2023, where ASL LAW was recognized as the Outstanding M&A Advisor for the period 2009-2023, ASL LAW was once again honored as the Outstanding M&A Advisor of 2023-2024 at the 16th Vietnam M&A Forum.
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