Chapter 14 An exploration of Vietnamese entrepreneurs

Based on secondary data and relevant literature, this chapter outlines the common and unique features of entrepreneurs in Vietnam. As an emerging economy, Vietnam provides a context in which to explore the interaction between an old centrally-planned economy influenced by state governance and a new form of robust capitalism, as well as the influence from more developed countries. The cultural features and traits of the Vietnamese people, along with the socio-economic and political characteristics of Vietnam, are key aspects that are investigated. The development of entrepreneurship in Vietnam is a product of the combination of both old and new ideologies and the mixed market mechanism (a socialist-oriented market economy). Through such development, entrepreneurs in Vietnam remain on the path towards fine-tuning their operation and position in the current economy.