Director General of the General Statistics Office Nguyen Thi Huong speaks at the press conference. Photo: baochinhphu.vn

Foreign direct investment (FDI) registered in Vietnam as of March 20 totaled 5.45 billion USD; export turnover of goods estimated at nearly 79.2 billion USD; Consumer price index CPI increased 4.18%.

According to the General Statistics Office, tourism activities in the first quarter recorded a huge surge with more than 2.69 million international visitors, 29.7 times higher than the same period last year.

The GSO warned of many challenges facing Vietnam's economy in the second quarter. To achieve this year’s growth target of 6.5%, Director General of the General Statistics Office Nguyen Thi Huong recommends, “Sectors and levels need regular reviews to promptly remove obstacles, boost production and business, and provide capital support for the business sector. It’s necessary to effectively capitalize on the advantages of free trade agreements and adjust policies to attract more high-quality foreign direct investment."

"Tasks and solutions of the socio-economic recovery program should be in place, while administrative reform and IT application should be reinforced. Epidemic prevention and control activities should be bolstered and social security policies be effectively delivered,” she added.