Philippines–Vietnam Diplomacy: Vietnam’s President To Lam’s Manila state visit moved ties up to an “enhanced strategic partnership,” with new defense, digital transformation, tourism and education agreements signed as both sides also reaffirmed South China Sea positions and maritime security cooperation. US–Vietnam Trade Pressure: The U.S. launched a third probe into Vietnam’s intellectual property practices, with analysts saying the push is tied as much to the trade deficit as to IP enforcement. Energy & Travel Costs: A war-driven spike in fuel and jet fuel costs is squeezing tourism across Southeast Asia, putting peak summer travel at risk for Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam Economy Watch: Vietnam’s manufacturing PMI improved in May as new orders returned to growth, though input costs kept rising. Vietnam Food Industry: Pangasius prices in Vietnam jumped on high export demand and raw material shortages, boosting short-term profits for farmers while raising fingerling costs. Green & Digital Push in Industry: Vietnam urged textile, garment and footwear firms to accelerate digital and green transition, including circular economy steps. Sports: Vietnam’s indoor volleyball teams qualified for the Asian Games in September, joining the Philippines’ final entries in the sport.