Vietnam and Germany Advance Cooperation in Skilled Workforce Development

Vietnam and Germany are taking new steps to strengthen cooperation in workforce development, vocational training, and skilled labor mobility as both countries seek to address long-term labor market needs.

In April 2026, representatives from Vietnam and Germany held discussions in Berlin on expanding bilateral cooperation in labor and vocational training. During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between relevant authorities, training institutions, and employers to support the development and mobility of skilled workers.

The discussions followed the Vietnam–Germany Labor Cooperation Forum held in Leipzig in late 2025 and reflected growing interest in establishing long-term workforce partnerships between the two countries. According to public statements released after the meeting, labor cooperation is increasingly viewed as an important pillar of Vietnam–Germany relations.

Germany continues to face labor shortages across several sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, construction, logistics, healthcare, and industrial services. As demographic changes and workforce aging affect labor availability, German employers and institutions are exploring sustainable international recruitment and training partnerships.

In parallel, the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam (AHK Vietnam) has launched several initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation in vocational education and skilled workforce development. In June 2026, AHK Vietnam organized a delegation program in Germany that brought together training institutions, recruitment organizations, and industry stakeholders to explore cooperation opportunities in vocational training and talent development.

Further initiatives are planned throughout 2026, including delegation visits by German companies and organizations to Vietnam to gain direct insight into the country's vocational education system, workforce capabilities, and talent development landscape.

Vietnam's skilled workforce has attracted increasing attention due to its strong technical foundation, growing international experience, and ability to adapt to industrial working environments. Over recent years, Vietnamese workers have participated in projects and industries across numerous international markets, contributing to sectors such as manufacturing, construction, engineering, and industrial production.

The continued expansion of Vietnam–Germany cooperation reflects a broader trend toward international workforce partnerships, where vocational training, skills development, and labor mobility play an increasingly important role in supporting economic growth and industrial competitiveness.

*Sources: Vietnam News Agency (VNA), Voice of Vietnam (VOV), AHK Vietnam, April–June 2026.*