The relationship between foreign direct investment, trade openness, and gross national income per capita in Vietnam

The rapid expansion of e-commerce in Vietnam has profoundly reshaped consumer purchasing behThis study examines the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI), trade openness, and gross national income (GNI) per capita in Vietnam over the period 2020–2024, using data sourced from the World Bank. The findings indicate a clear trajectory of economic recovery following major external shocks, notably the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic instability. Net FDI inflows and GNI per capita increased markedly from 2022 to 2024, with FDI exhibiting a positive and relatively robust linear association with GNI per capita. In contrast, although trade openness remained consistently high, it fluctuated in response to global economic conditions and did not demonstrate a stable positive linear relationship with GNI per capita. Overall, the results provide empirical evidence that, in a context of heightened economic volatility, FDI plays a more prominent role than trade openness in enhancing living standards in Vietnam.