T&T GROUP AND THE SPIRIT OF "UNITED MIND" TO BUILD THE NATION

What event or business surprised you so much?

That is the T&T - SHB Cultural Festival 2025, with the inspiring message: "Steadfastly entering the new era" , taking place on March 15, 2025 at My Dinh National Stadium ( Hanoi ). The event not only attracted attention because of its large scale, but also because of the strong national spirit it spread, like a flame lighting up Vietnam's aspirations in the new development period.

More than 15,000 people, representing 80,000 employees in the T&T Group and SHB systems, gathered in a space designed in the style of the Olympic Games opening ceremony. The highlight of the event was the moment when the sacred flame was welcomed from Hung Temple (Phu Tho), lighting up the entire stadium. That flame is like a living symbol, continuing the spirit of patriotism, determination and national pride through many generations, to light the way for the country's development journey today. When 15,000 people sang the National Anthem in unison, a powerful and emotional unity was spread.

Looking back at that moment, Associate Professor, Dr. Ngo Tri Long clearly expressed his appreciation. He shared with an emotional voice: "The torch-raising ceremony from Hung Temple is not only a sacred ritual, but also contains cultural depth. It shows gratitude to ancestors, and at the same time sends a strong message:   Every step of T&T today originates from the values ​​of national origin and is associated with national pride. Preserving tradition to create sustainable competitive advantages".

But the significance of the event does not stop there. For Associate Professor, Dr. Ngo Tri Long, the T&T - SHB Cultural Festival 2025 has a greater significance. He commented:

"This event has become a great call, not only for T&T people but also for the entire private business community: Let's light a new flame of development - brave, humane, sustainable and bearing the mark of Vietnam.

In the context of Vietnam's goal of having the private economic sector account for about 70% of GDP by 2030, I believe that models like T&T will play a leading role.

T&T is not only organizing a cultural festival, they are creating a "new initiation ceremony" for the journey to conquer the peak of Vietnam's private economy .

Following his emotional eyes as he told about that "origin ritual", I understood that behind the grand cultural festival was a long journey that T&T had persistently built, not only with aspiration, but also with intelligence and perseverance.

In that same vein, I spoke to Associate Professor, Dr. Ngo Tri Long to learn about what makes up the identity of this enterprise. As an economic expert who always pays special attention to the private sector, and who loves to research the depth of Vietnamese business models, he could not hide his curiosity since witnessing the strong spirit spreading from the T&T - SHB 2025 Cultural Festival. What has enabled a business to evoke the spirit of the times like that?

Associate Professor, Dr. Ngo Tri Long shared without hesitation: "T&T is not simply an economic group. They are a vivid reflection of the nearly 40-year journey of innovation of the Vietnamese economy, a journey full of challenges but also full of confidence."

And so, in the long conversation, each slice of T&T appeared clearly through the story of someone who spent a lot of time studying their every move.

- In 1993, in a small alley in Hanoi, amidst the cries of vendors and the dust of old Dream motorbikes, T&T Group was born from a store that exclusively imported and distributed electrical products from Matsushita, Panasonic, National, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,... with a simple dream in the early days of innovation. It is hard to imagine that from that small seed, a "giant" multi-industry corporation has grown up.

Today, when T&T's wind turbines are tirelessly spinning on the sea in Ninh Thuan, when container trucks in cooperation with Amazon roll through Vietnam's international ports, and when Hanoi FC lifts the V-League Cup for the sixth time..., it can be seen that T&T has made a significant mark on the country's development journey. Looking back at the early days of Doi Moi until now, how do you feel about the growth and stature of a private enterprise like T&T?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: In the early 90s, when Vietnam began to open up and strongly implement innovation policies, T&T started doing business in the commercial sector, taking advantage of the wave of trade liberalization and incentives for private enterprises - although still in its infancy. It was a suitable step in the context of the country seeking a dynamic private economic force. From here, T&T gradually formed a sustainable foundation for future development steps.

The period when Vietnam joined the WTO (2007) marked an important turning point: T&T strongly shifted to financial, industrial and infrastructure investment. This was not an accidental shift, but a strategy to anticipate the wave of institutional reform, especially the process of equitization of state-owned enterprises and expanding the role of the private sector in essential sectors.

Since 2020, when Vietnam prioritized the transition to a green economic model and sustainable growth, T&T has quickly expanded into highly resilient fields such as renewable energy, green logistics, high-tech agriculture and healthcare.

As far as I know, domestically, T&T Group has put into operation 10 wind and solar power projects in the provinces of Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, Soc Trang, Gia Lai, Quang Tri... with a total installed capacity and connection to the national grid reaching nearly 1,000MW. The Group aims to have the total power generation capacity of renewable energy and low-carbon emission power plants reach about 12 - 15 GW by 2035, accounting for about 10% of the total installed capacity of Vietnam's power system.

I think the above figure shows the seriousness and long-term orientation in development. This also demonstrates the ability to link business strategy with national development priorities.

After more than 30 years of establishment and development, T&T's total assets have reached 45,000 billion VND, with a charter capital of 22,000 billion VND, 500 affiliated member companies and joint ventures. I think this is a clear demonstration of their sustainable development.

Another valuable point is the mindset of integrating and expanding the international market. T&T does not limit its vision to the domestic market but also proactively opens representative offices in Russia, Germany, the US, Australia, etc. to create a two-way investment and trade bridge, especially in the context of Vietnam promoting integration with trade agreements such as EVFTA and RCEP.

Over the years, the group has developed aquaculture areas in Vinh Long, An Giang, Can Tho and brought Vietnamese goods into modern distribution systems in large markets with high demands such as: America, Europe, Central America, Brazil, Middle East, China with an average annual export turnover of over 50 million USD. An encouraging result!

- Some people say that T&T's success comes from "knowing how to seize the opportunity". In your opinion, is that enough to explain their sustainable development over the past three decades?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: When it comes to "sensitivity", I want to emphasize that it is the ability to read policy signals and transform them into specific strategies, not just reacting quickly. T&T is not a business that only follows policies. I think they represent the model of "strategic response to policies", which means not only anticipating, but also accompanying and even contributing to expanding the national development space. Their entrepreneurial spirit can be summarized as "taking advantage of the push, creating a breakthrough", not just benefiting from a favorable environment.

But in essence, this is not just strategic acumen. What I see in T&T is a long-term vision built on a deep understanding of policy cycles and macroeconomic trends. They do not simply invest according to the moment, but gradually create a cohesive ecosystem from finance, industry and trade, logistics, to energy and agriculture, creating a solid internal strength and high risk tolerance.

I am particularly impressed by their scale of investment and openness beyond the domestic market. More than 60 member companies operating in multiple sectors are clear evidence of a sustainable development strategy, rather than following temporary policy "fever". Sensitivity is the foundation, but it is the long-term vision that helps T&T reach far and stand firm.

- So what is special about T&T Group's "DNA", in your opinion?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: In my opinion, T&T Group's "DNA" is made up of three core "gene codes" - these are the factors that have helped them not only stand firm, but also thrive amidst major fluctuations in the economy.

The first is strategic initiative. T&T does not wait for opportunities to come, they create them. The early bets on renewable energy, or the implementation of international cooperation deals in the healthcare sector after the Covid-19 pandemic are clear evidence of this pioneering spirit.

The second is the spirit of accompanying the country. They do not stand aside from major policies, but know how to turn macro orientation into internal development motivation. Infrastructure projects, logistics, or national sports socialization programs are typical examples of that attachment.

Third is the aspiration to reach international level. T&T is one of the few Vietnamese private enterprises with a systematic foreign investment strategy, especially in the fields of agriculture and logistics in Africa and Southeast Asia. They not only bring Vietnamese brands to the world, but also bring sustainable development models to emerging markets. Subsidiaries established abroad also have the "mission" of finding and establishing long-term partnerships with large corporations in the world in the fields in which T&T Group is investing. The total initial investment capital abroad of this group is currently about 100 million USD, aiming at the vision of becoming an international multi-industry economic group.

To me, T&T is a typical example of a private enterprise with "national" spirit: both sensitive to current events and steadfast with a long-term vision. In them, I see profound strategic management capacity, a strong spirit of integration and a desire to contribute practically to the sustainable development of the country in a period of many changes.

- What you just said, especially strategic management capacity, is perhaps the key that helps T&T boldly invest in 7 areas of operation that sound a bit spread out?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: T&T does not rush into every "hot" industry, but they select fields with high added value, long-term development potential, and especially must be suitable for their core competencies and the ecosystem they are building. For example, renewable energy, high-tech agriculture or logistics are all industries associated with the world's sustainable development trend.

You are right. T&T's management capacity is worth discussing. T&T soon identified that technology is not only an operational tool, but also a platform to create new values. Since 2022, the group has deployed HUMAX human resource management software, which has helped save more than 65% of the time spent on handling human resource issues compared to traditional processes. This approach not only improves efficiency, but also shows T&T's acumen in anticipating the digitalization trend, an important factor for sustainable development in the current era.

When operating processes are digitized, data connection between industries is done in a very modern and methodical way. In the agricultural sector, for example, they have built a closed production - processing - distribution chain, applying blockchain to trace the origin of products. This not only increases transparency, but also builds great trust from consumers, especially in the context of green and clean consumption on the rise.

- It seems that the core point lies in the "multi-industry - integrated ecosystem" model of T&T?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: Unlike many corporations that often expand into separate industries without connection, T&T has built a closed value chain between industries, with mutual links, aiming for long-term value, serving the community and contributing to realizing national development goals.

For example, they combine real estate, energy and transport infrastructure, creating green industrial parks that not only produce but also use clean energy, while optimizing efficiency through internal logistics systems.

They have created a new multi-industry model - both expanding horizontally and focusing on depth to create competitive advantages. That way of thinking and doing is the core "differentiating value" that helps them make their mark in every industry. The difference lies not only in products or services, but in the philosophy of sustainable development integrating economy, society and national brand. That is the reason why, despite participating in many fields, T&T does not fall into the "spreading trap".

- In the 32-year development journey of T&T Group, the SHB brand is one of the most prominent marks - from a local bank with an initial capital of 500 billion VND in 2007, it has become one of the Top 5 largest private banks in Vietnam, reaching out to the Cambodian and Lao markets very early. According to you, what helps T&T create such an ecosystem strength and such a strong transformation with SHB? Is it also related to the "gene codes" you mentioned above?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: I believe that SHB's success is the resonance of three important foundations: Long-term strategic vision, adaptability, continuous innovation, and a bold regional expansion mindset.

First of all , it is the long-term strategic vision. SHB has made a major turning point when transforming itself from a local bank serving small businesses to a financial institution with an international development orientation.

One of the decisions that showed that vision was the merger with Habubank in 2012, right at the time when the global financial crisis forced many banks to downsize. SHB went against the trend, choosing to merge - a bold move, to quickly expand its scale and customer base. Of course, there were challenges with system integration, but they seem to have handled it quite effectively.

The second is the ability to adapt and innovate continuously in the context of a volatile financial market. SHB invests heavily in digital transformation, develops digital banking services, and especially focuses on microfinance products, serving customers in remote areas, something that not all private banks do well. During the Covid-19 pandemic, they implemented online credit support packages, waived and reduced interest rates for small and medium enterprises, demonstrating social responsibility in addition to business goals.

Finally, regional expansion, seizing opportunities from frontier markets. SHB's opening of branches in Laos and Cambodia is not just a normal act of "going out to sea", but a strategic move to approach developing economies where the demand for finance and banking is high but service coverage is limited. These are markets where SHB's experience serving small and medium-sized customers in Vietnam can be effective. For example, at SHB Laos, they not only provide basic financial services but also deploy credit packages for small and medium-sized enterprises in the field of cross-border trade. This is a wise way to promote capital flows back to Vietnam and support bilateral trade.

To me, SHB's success is not only measured by capital growth rate or number of expanded branches, but also lies in how the enterprise maintains a balance between business development and creating social value.

They came at the right time, chose the right strategy, and acted with a creative spirit. That is the formula for a private bank to thrive in a challenging market like Vietnam and the region.

- In your opinion, what motivates T&T to continuously expand into "difficult" fields, playgrounds that require long-term vision and huge resources such as energy, transport infrastructure or logistics during this period?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: These are the sectors that play a "circulatory" role in the economy. Investing in these sectors not only helps T&T grow but also contributes to building a development foundation for other economic sectors, while improving national competitiveness.

For example, when T&T participates in seaport and logistics center projects in the North and Central regions, they not only expand the supply chain of goods but also promote domestic trade and exports, thereby creating positive impacts on the economy.

Furthermore, in the context of the state encouraging the private economic sector to become an important driving force, T&T has taken the lead in investing in areas that were previously monopolized by the state. For example, the wind power project in Quang Tri, with a total capacity of 144 MW, not only provides clean electricity but also creates jobs, develops local infrastructure, helps reduce pressure on the state budget, and supports the realization of Vietnam's emission reduction commitments at COP26. This is a very valuable contribution, especially in a province that is still facing many difficulties like Quang Tri.

I think that choosing the "backbone" sectors of the economy is a testament to T&T's spirit of service and social responsibility. This is a model of the positive role of the private economic sector in the country's development process, especially in the period when Vietnam is making efforts to transform its growth model and improve national competitiveness.

- It is surprising and impressive to look at the aspirations of T&T Group. They are determined to apply AI to the Vietnam SuperPort smart logistics project in Vinh Phuc, promote the development of renewable energy towards Net Zero 2050, and the aviation industrial complex - airport urban project in Quang Tri to contribute to bringing Vietnam into the global supply chain. Not to mention SHB bank is developing in the direction of strong digitalization, granting green credit, implementing ESG for sustainable development.

Why do you think they focus on these things to accompany the country in the new era?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: I completely share your impression, because I have the same feeling.

In the context of the global economy facing many uncertainties and the need to transform the growth model is increasingly urgent, the fact that a Vietnamese private enterprise sets such big goals and chooses to go first, go hard but go deep, not only demonstrates strategic vision, but is also a clear expression of the spirit of " devotion to the country" . They are proving that,   Private enterprises are the most important force to create breakthroughs in structural transformation and promote economic growth.

T&T is not simply pursuing short-term opportunities, but they are choosing to enter fields that have long-term structural transformation for the Vietnamese economy. Because, if they do not participate early, Vietnamese enterprises will always be "latecomers" in the value chain. And T&T - they clearly understand that "window of opportunity" of Vietnam.

The "inland super port" SuperPort in Vinh Phuc is not simply a logistics center, it is a revolutionary step forward - where technology, especially artificial intelligence, is integrated to shorten time, reduce costs and emissions. A very impressive move in the context of Vietnam's logistics costs accounting for nearly 20% of GDP, much higher than the global average. If we can master this problem, we will open a big door for trade and high-quality FDI capital flows.

Meanwhile, the aviation industrial complex - airport urban area in Quang Tri is a pioneering project. If successful, this could be a boost to help the Central region escape the state of "underdeveloped geo-economics", while connecting Vietnam to the global aviation components manufacturing value chain - a field with high profit margins and great added value.

In parallel, SHB Bank's green transformation and digitalization are typical of the sustainable banking trend. Providing green credit and implementing ESG standards shows that they are not only providing capital, but are also guiding customers to restructure their business models in an environmentally and socially friendly direction.

In fact, we are in a period when we need strategic "locomotives" to promote fundamental sectors such as logistics, energy, and aviation industry. This is a rare time for large corporations to assert their pioneering role in creating markets.

That is also how they realize national aspirations with the capacity of private enterprises. Commitments such as Net Zero 2050, developing international logistics, upgrading the aviation industry... are national goals.   When private enterprises dare to choose the difficult path, they are working hand in hand with the Government in shaping and creating the future of the country.

T&T Group is gradually showing its true form as a private enterprise that builds the nation, not only because they are strong in capital, but also because they have the ability to look far ahead, accept risks and commit to actions for goals greater than short-term profits. These are "qualities" that are essential for an economy that wants to develop sustainably and independently.

- With its "very Vietnamese aspiration", T&T Group is very determined with renewable energy, aiming for the Net Zero 2050 goal from implementing green power projects to researching new types of energy. More specifically, what do you think about the motivations that are urging them to strive to follow this path?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: In reality,   Vietnam's energy sector is currently at a crossroads, on the one hand it must ensure energy security for a rapidly growing economy, on the other hand it must reduce emissions in line with the commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

This is a complex problem, requiring a balance between development and sustainability. Currently, transmission infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth of power sources, especially solar and wind power in the Central and Central Highlands regions. The lack of synchronization between power source and grid planning has caused a "clean power bottleneck", affecting investment efficiency and market confidence.

In addition, Vietnam remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, with more than 50% of its electricity still coming from coal-fired power plants. This creates a double pressure from international financial market requirements (such as greening portfolios) and trade agreements, such as the EU’s CBAM.

In the context of limited State resources, the active participation of the private sector is a key factor in realizing green energy goals. T&T's strong investment in this field is a clear manifestation of its aspiration to lead the market in the energy transition period. T&T has been one step ahead, choosing renewable energy as a strategic spearhead right from when the legal framework and market were still in the early stages of formation.

On the other hand, T&T Group   is seeing great economic potential from the global energy transition trend. According to the World Bank's estimates, the development of offshore wind power in Vietnam alone can attract hundreds of billions of USD in investment capital and create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the future. T&T sees opportunities there, not only in the profit from power generation, but also in the role of intermediary in technology transfer, building supply chains, and expanding into regional markets.

Private enterprises like T&T are contributing to the formation of a "low carbon economy" in Vietnam, where energy is not only an input for production, but also a new growth driver, linked to innovation and sustainability. Investing in solar power projects in remote areas not only helps reduce pressure on the national transmission system, but also contributes to bringing electricity to places that have never had electricity before. At the same time, they also pursue a "community energy" model, where local people can participate in the operation process and directly benefit from the projects. That is how they create social value, not just financial value.

Clearly, T&T is positioning itself as a pioneer investor, an “architect” of the energy transition in Vietnam. They see both responsibility and opportunity, responsibility for the country’s green development future, and the opportunity to become a leading energy corporation in the region. And like every great revolution, the role of a pioneer is always both challenging and full of potential to move towards glory.

In the development journey, T&T Group advocates maintaining and developing strategic cooperation relationships in trade and investment with leading and prestigious enterprises in the world in most of the fields that the group pursues, to build a multi-dimensional, sustainable development ecosystem and approach international standards.

In the energy sector, T&T has joined hands with many big names such as Erex (Japan), TotalEnergies (France), Hanwha, Kospo, Kogas (Korea), UPC Renewables (USA)... Not only investing in wind power, solar power, LNG power, the group also promotes offshore wind power models, green hydrogen - leading trends.

T&T also expands cooperation in logistics (with YCH - Singapore), seaports (with Boskalis - Netherlands), e-commerce (with Amazon - USA), high-tech agriculture (with partners from P.Marom - Israel, Enza Zaden - Netherlands), building a raw cashew supply chain from Africa with the Association of Cereals & Other Products (Tanzania), Cotton and Cashew Association (Ivory Coast)...

When learning more about T&T's international cooperation story, I remembered a short conversation on the sidelines of a recent event with Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang - Senior Lecturer at the Institute of International Trade and Economics, National Economics University (NEU).

- What do you think about the development path based on strategic cooperation of Vietnamese private enterprises with leading, prestigious enterprises in the world?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang: I think that standing on the shoulders of "giants" is a smart and courageous strategy of Vietnamese enterprises. They know how to take advantage of technology, experience and global networks of international partners with their sharp thinking to go faster. There is no need to do too much, but knowing how to grasp the secrets and take advantage of reliable supports can help enterprises achieve benefits beyond expectations.

Competitiveness and connectivity can be likened to the image of an octopus spreading its powerful tentacles. Each tentacle brings a source of benefit, and when many tentacles work together, they create a very effective system of resonant values.

As the proverb says, “A single tree cannot make a forest, three trees together can make a high mountain”, I believe that the enterprise is building a “mountain of benefits” through integrating opportunities from international cooperation. This model not only demonstrates capacity and vision, but also shows the ability to forecast development trends sensitively.

- More specifically, in the context of e-commerce and smart logistics changing the way Vietnam participates in the global supply chain, how do you evaluate the role of private enterprises like T&T when they cooperate with large platforms like Amazon to process millions of orders each year?

Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang: In the current context of e-commerce, connecting has never been easier. Now, by simply joining e-commerce platforms, businesses can quickly access the global market. The important thing is to turn this ease into a popular advantage, expand the scale and create huge benefits.

Cooperating with international e-commerce platforms is a strategic move for Vietnamese enterprises. When linking with international e-commerce platforms, Vietnamese enterprises can achieve many goals at the same time: Attracting global customers, promoting their image, increasing product supply and forming a sustainable value chain. It not only helps optimize costs and maximize benefits but also promotes an innovative commercial model based on international connections.

By participating in this ecosystem, Vietnam not only benefits fairly, but also has the opportunity to excel if it knows how to connect more diversely and intelligently. This is the path for Vietnamese businesses to reach out, operate effectively and affirm their position on the world trade map.

- As private enterprises cooperate closely with global corporations to develop energy or logistics, how do you assess their efforts to overcome challenges in reducing dependence on foreign technology and capital, while taking advantage of international policies such as green standards to adapt?

Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang: Logistics, with costs currently accounting for about 16 - 18% of GDP according to the World Bank's report, is an indispensable "bloodline" in the flow of Vietnam's economy. Meanwhile, renewable energy is considered the "backbone" of sustainable development, serving not only modern factories and industrial parks (high technology), but also medium-sized manufacturing industries (medium technology), and the electricity needs of ordinary households.

Vietnamese businesses often start with limited resources, but through cooperation, they gradually grasp technology, processes and operational know-how. This helps them move from dependence to autonomy, even creating independent platforms.

I envision this process going through three distinct stages. In the first stage, we are at a disadvantage, "lightweight" compared to our big partners. In the second stage, through efforts to learn and develop, Vietnamese businesses strive to rise to the same level. In the third stage, with creativity and innovation, we can excel and shape our own path.

To achieve this, businesses need a strong internal foundation, from infrastructure to competitiveness. The important thing is to progress step by step: Starting from simple stages, gradually moving to complex stages, and finally taking on core stages, becoming a focal point in the global value chain.

Such a strategy not only helps Vietnamese enterprises affirm their position but also creates a breakthrough development model, bringing long-term and sustainable benefits. If implemented well, this will be the foundation for us to reach far on the world economic map.

- Starting from a weak position, the journey to rise is clearly not easy. But that difficult path is the fastest and most sustainable way for Vietnamese enterprises to not only integrate but also gradually rise to a leading position, don't you think?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang: Participating in potential fields such as logistics or e-commerce is like opening a door to countless opportunities. From the initial small opportunities, businesses can stand in a new position, expand their vision, and identify diverse and larger opportunities. The more opportunities they capture, the greater the benefits they gain, while the opportunity cost is significantly reduced. I think this is a new development philosophy: Starting from small opportunities to explore big opportunities, and then creating a chain of resonant opportunities, leading to outstanding values.

Any business that can apply this philosophy proves that they have the ability to predict trends and grasp the flow of the times. Investing in the right direction, being persistent and maximizing potential, even when having to take advantage of technology or resources from abroad, will help break the limits, expand domestic opportunities and reach out to international markets.

A country that invests in high-value sectors, such as renewable energy or logistics, will be seen by the world as a smart, creative nation. On the contrary, if we only focus on exploiting raw resources or primary processing, we will find it difficult to escape the stereotype of a low-level economy.

I believe that this strategy is like hitting two birds with one stone: bringing sustainable benefits to businesses while increasing national prestige.

*****

The sharing of Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thuong Lang made me understand more clearly the weight in the strategic choice that T&T is pursuing on its development journey in the new era. In fact, T&T is choosing to start from the smallest opportunities, then gradually expand the development space, create a resonant value chain, and patiently wait for the moment of a strategic breakthrough, enough to establish a larger position. They proactively seek international partners, aim to master technology, improve management and operation skills to develop high-tech projects, key areas contributing to promoting the country's economy.

Founder and Executive Chairman of T&T Group Do Quang Hien once shared that when establishing international cooperation relationships, T&T always sets conditions with partners, that they must transfer technology and train human resources for the Vietnamese side, so that within a certain period of time, the enterprise can be self-sufficient in technology and management. In this businessman's stance, foreign partners not only need to invest effectively but also must contribute to the sustainable development of Vietnam.

"If they only invest to make a profit and then withdraw, in the end, we cannot access technology, and people are not trained, then Vietnam cannot develop! I directly stated this point of view to my partners. And from their initial dislike, they have come to appreciate T&T Group very much," said Mr. Do Quang Hien, emphasizing that many partners have sent letters of appreciation for T&T's community spirit, when they always aim to help Vietnamese people access technology, so that Vietnam can develop sustainably.

"If you ask what Vietnam needs to become a developed country by 2045, I think the prerequisite is "people". To have a developed human resource, we must first focus on training, and the fastest way is to learn directly from foreign partners. There is nothing like practical experience, we need to learn while working, need to promptly transfer technology, and provide on-site training", businessman Do Quang Hien affirmed.

Continuing the conversation with Associate Professor, Dr. Ngo Tri Long, I asked:

- In your opinion, what spirit does businessman Do Quang Hien's above viewpoint on international cooperation reflect at T&T?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: That is a very clear declaration of T&T Group's proactive, self-reliant and sustainable development-oriented strategic thinking. Setting conditions with international partners is not only a requirement to comply with the law and ensure security and defense factors, but also a demonstration of patriotism, social responsibility and the aspiration to elevate the nation through the acquisition of global knowledge and technology.

T&T is showing a very modern international cooperation mindset: "Standing on the shoulders of giants" but not dependent, but full of courage and selective. They learn from the global elite to serve the goal of localizing knowledge, improving endogenous capacity, instead of becoming a "consumer market" or a "low-level processing point".

A specific example is in the field of high-tech agriculture, when T&T cooperates with European partners to produce plant varieties, the goal is not only to import products, but also to request the transfer of biotechnology, digital data, and supply chain management, so that Vietnamese people can gradually master the entire value chain. That is a long-term constructive approach.

What T&T is doing is not only developing their own corporation, but also contributing to redefining the role of Vietnamese private enterprises in the new era. A modern enterprise model, both integrating and maintaining its identity; both reaching out globally and keeping full responsibility to the country.

- Although I have never met businessman Do Quang Hien, through what T&T does, I feel a very strong entrepreneurial spirit, daring to think big, daring to do big. Do you think so?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: I highly appreciate the "proactive" leadership mindset with a clear pioneering spirit, not afraid to invest in difficult areas to take advantage of a less competitive environment. This mindset has helped T&T overcome volatile periods. For example, their investment in the African market with agricultural projects and food exports - this is something that not every Vietnamese enterprise dares to do. But T&T has done it, and that shows their vision beyond borders, a vision that I admire.

Mr. Hien's entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in three words "dare": Dare to think, dare to do and dare to take responsibility. That spirit is not simply bold, but also enlightened by a sustainable development mindset. Mr. Hien once shared: "I like to do things that others think are impossible and must go all the way. Money lost can be earned back, but reputation in the market cannot be overshadowed." That statement clearly shows the business philosophy of not chasing after immediate benefits but always valuing reputation and responsibility, because that is the solid foundation for building long-term and sustainable development.

A clear example is the decision to restructure SHB at a time when the bank was still facing many difficulties. Mr. Hien not only saved a financial institution, but also built a leading joint stock commercial bank. This success reflects not only financial ability, but also confidence in internal management capacity - a core factor that creates great leaders.

In my opinion, from a certain perspective, T&T Group is not just a corporation, but has the appearance of a "miniature Vietnam" present in almost all provinces and cities and reaching out internationally. From logistics, renewable energy, industry and trade, agriculture, to healthcare, education, sports..., all the fields that T&T is working on are associated with long-term orientation and the desire to contribute to the country's development strategy.

To do that, besides business talent, what is needed most is integrative thinking and the ability to see the big picture. Those qualities are only found in great leaders!

And if we talk about the entrepreneurial spirit of Do Quang Hien, we probably cannot ignore the sense of social responsibility, which is clearly demonstrated through community activities, especially in the field of sports. Football, athletics, youth table tennis tournaments... all bear the mark of a businessman but always oriented towards community benefits as an inseparable part of the philosophy of "business for society".

- What kind of person must it be to lead T&T from its small beginnings to becoming a multi-industry corporation with the appearance of a "miniature Vietnam" like today?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Tri Long: I have met Mr. Do Quang Hien many times at conferences. From his eyes, gestures to his demeanor, he always exudes a special aura: Steadfast, steadfast, but also alert and flexible. True to the image of a Tiger, ready to break through in the most unpredictable moments.

To turn a small business into a large multi-industry corporation, the leader not only needs vision, but also the ability to inspire and build trust, from shareholders, partners to the entire staff.

I always remember the saying that Mr. Hien once shared: "Take people as the subject, constantly innovate, create, improve learning - learn, learn more, learn forever according to the spirit of lifelong learning that Uncle Ho once advised". The saying seems simple, but reflects the spirit of innovation and continuous learning.

In the eyes of many people, Mr. Hien is a decisive person. But I am sure that this decisiveness does not come from instinct, but is tempered by experience and the ability to listen deeply.

- At the T&T - SHB Cultural Festival 2025, Mr. Do Quang Hien spoke with great spirit and responsibility: "T&T, SHB and enterprises in the system pledge to carry out Uncle Ho's teachings: 'The Hung Kings have built the country, we - our grandchildren must work together to protect the country'. Together, we join hands, with one heart, one mind, bright mind, reaching out, contributing to realizing the strategic goal set by the Party and State leaders: by 2030, Vietnam will become a developing country with modern industry and high average income; by 2045, it will become a developed socialist country with high income". How do you feel about this?

Assoc.Prof.Dr. Ngo Tri Long: The speech of Mr. Do Quang Hien was bold leadership, thick energy created, clearly showing the bravery of a businessman with strategic vision, who placed Vietnamese intelligence in the center of every development journey. It is not just "business to live", but "business to Kien Quoc" !

The spirit of the national business that Mr. Hien shows is not the slogan or the American word. It is the crystallization between the bravery of the market, business ethics, the spirit of exploration and the desire to accompany the country's destiny. He is one of the few entrepreneurs who put business development missions in parallel with the goal of raising the national level - a large thinking, the stature of the pioneers.

I have seen this spirit in some other businesses. However, each business has its own expression. For Mr. Hien, that expression is very persistent and drastic, through actual investment, methodical planning, and durability in every step.

If that spirit continues to be nurtured by a clear strategic foundation, enough personnel team, and a transparent commitment, Mr. Hien and the enterprise ecosystem led by him can completely become one of the important drivers to shape the appearance of Vietnam's economy in the coming period.

***

At the end of the conversation, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Ngo Tri Long slowly told me: "T&T is not only a large private enterprise, but also a clear symbol for Vietnam's rising aspirations in the next two decades."

It is not merely a comment, but the expectation of putting in a Vietnamese business model, not only at the scale of assets or revenue growth, but also in innovative thinking, modern management capacity and commitment to sustainable development.

Both he and I share the same belief that: If continuing to seriously invest in technology and people - the fundamental elements to enter the global playground, T&T Group can completely reach further, contributing to affirming the value and position of the Vietnamese brand on the world economic map.

And deeper than that, hopefully T&T will be together with other pioneering businesses, maintaining the spirit of "one -pointed" as three decades ago, and then gradually reaching out, contributing to affirming the role of the private economy in the national economy, not only a "growth motivation", but also a strategic partner in the journey to create the future for the country in the following decades.

"Multi -field, a belief", "constantly longing for dedication", "creating a long -standing value" is what T&T Group summarizes himself. Assoc.Prof.Dr. Ngo Tri Long emphasized the image:

"Indeed, T&T Group's aspirations are very Vietnamese aspirations! A Vietnam wants to play with the powers of the five continents with wisdom, technology and responsibility. But what is more valuable, they not only say, but actually act!" ./.

Source: https://reatimes.vn/tt-group-va-tinh-than-nhat-tam-kien-quoc-202250420100304477.htm?gi Dzl = T5NJCO-QHTDKITGP8G-EVJBAQZIR-FNMNNC3FJ6K -DV06UOWOWDD_VVHDR3GR_VYJBHTKOPV2QFZBR-HVM

Source: https://www.ttgroup.com.vn/tt-group-va-tinh-than-nhat-tam-kien-quoc