Vietnam Entrepreneurs' Day (October 13): Origin and Meaning
October 13 is observed annually as Vietnam Entrepreneurs' Day, honoring the country's business community. Behind this observance lies a history spanning nearly eight decades, from President Ho Chi Minh's 1945 letter to the industrial and commercial sectors to the government's official decision in 2004.
Historical context
After the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945, Hanoi's business community was among the first social groups received by President Ho Chi Minh. On October 13, 1945, when entrepreneurs formed the "Cong Thuong Cuu Quoc Doan" (Industrial and Commercial National Salvation Group) and joined the Viet Minh, he wrote a letter of encouragement published in Cuu Quoc newspaper issue 66.
In the letter, he addressed them respectfully as "the Gentlemen," affirming: "While other sectors of the nation strive to secure complete independence, the industrial and commercial sector must work to build a solid and prosperous economy and finance." He also emphasized: "National affairs and family affairs always go hand in hand. A prosperous national economy means the prosperity of industrial and commercial businesses." This letter, under 200 words, is considered the first document of the Party and State concerning Vietnamese businesses and entrepreneurs.
Official decision in 2004
On September 20, 2004, Prime Minister Phan Van Khai signed Decision No. 990/QD-TTg, designating October 13 annually as "Vietnam Entrepreneurs' Day." The decision aimed to promote the role and tradition of entrepreneurs, encourage all social strata to contribute to business development, and meet the requirements of industrialization and modernization.
The decision required that annual observances be practical, economical, and effective, avoiding formalism, ensuring:
- Educating entrepreneurs on patriotism, self-reliance, and creativity; encouraging emulation in production and business; enhancing discipline, ethics, and business culture.
- Commending and rewarding businesses and entrepreneurs who perform well and comply with Party and State policies.
On October 13, 2004, at the annual meeting between the Prime Minister and over 500 businesses, Prime Minister Phan Van Khai announced this decision.
Deep significance
Vietnam Entrepreneurs' Day carries multiple layers of meaning. First, it honors entrepreneurs as the primary material production force of the economy. The 2013 Constitution states: "The State encourages and creates conditions for entrepreneurs, enterprises, and other individuals and organizations to invest, produce, and do business; to sustainably develop economic sectors, contributing to national construction." The 13th Party Congress documents affirm: "Developing the private economy is truly an important driver of the economy."
Second, it recalls the patriotic and self-reliant tradition of the business community. President Ho Chi Minh placed entrepreneurs within the great national unity bloc and the political system. His teachings on production being "fast, abundant, good, and cheap," and on honesty in business, remain relevant.
Third, it is an occasion to commend exemplary entrepreneurs and spread the spirit of innovation. General Vo Nguyen Giap, in a May 7, 2004 letter, emphasized that entrepreneurs must be "the head and conductor of the enterprise, with the will to rise in the spirit of innovation and creativity, thinking what no one has thought, doing what has no precedent."
Achievements and prospects
According to Nhan Dan, Vietnam now has nearly 900,000 active enterprises, about 14,400 cooperatives, and over 5 million business households. The enterprise sector contributes over 60% of GDP and about 30% of total employment. Vietnamese businesses and brands have increasingly reached regional and global markets.
Since the first Enterprise Law in 1999 paved the way for freedom of business, the entrepreneurial force has grown significantly in both quantity and quality. Vietnam Entrepreneurs' Day is not only a commemoration but also a reminder of entrepreneurs' mission in national construction and defense.
