In this episode of Startup and Nation, I sit down with Huynh Cong-Thang and Gaku Echizenya at the Sushi Tech Conference in Tokyo. Thang co-founded InnoLab Asia and is a key player in Vietnam's growing startup ecosystem, fostering connections between policymakers, startups, and corporations both domestically and internationally. Gaku, a Japanese entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in Ho Chi Minh City, heads Vietnam's largest recruitment service. 

We discuss Vietnam's rapid economic growth, new infrastructure developments, and the vibrant startup scene. We also touch on the opportunities and challenges in Vietnam’s market for foreign entrepreneurs and the importance of local partnerships. Tune in to learn more about Vietnam's potential as a center of innovation in Southeast Asia.

00:00 Introduction: Huynh Cong-Thang and Gaku Echizenya

01:32 Conference Insights: Networking and Partnerships

02:47 Gaku's Journey and Perspective on Vietnam

03:38 Thang's Vision for Vietnam's Future

04:58 Challenges and Opportunities in Vietnam's Ecosystem

07:44 Infrastructure Developments and Future Potential

10:45 Building the Startup Ecosystem: Programs and Partnerships

15:45 Success Stories and International Collaborations

17:26 Cultural Challenges and Tips for Foreign Entrepreneurs

17:57 Navigating Daily Life in Vietnam

18:34 Business Ethics: Japan vs. Vietnam

19:31 Advice for Foreign Startups in Vietnam

22:24 Understanding the Vietnamese Market

24:32 Building Partnerships in Vietnam

29:33 Reflections on Sushi Tech Conference