HCM CITY — Fifty-seven businesses operating for more than 30 to 40 years were honoured for their contributions to the country’s socio-economic development on the occasion of Việt Nam Entrepreneurs Day today in HCM City. 

More than 800 delegates and representatives from state agencies and local and foreign business associations participated in the ceremony to celebrate the 13th Việt Nam Entrepreneurs Day, organised by the HCM City Business Association.

Of the honoured businesses, which were shortlisted from 400 businesses by the association, 23 have been operating for more than 30 years and 34 more than 40 years.

In addition, 79 products and services from 79 companies were also awarded as excellent products and services in 2017 during the ceremony. The selections were made by the HCM City Business Association, Department of Industry and Trade, Department of Science and Technology and the Việt Nam Standards and Consumers Association.  

The businesses were honoured for their excellent observance of state policies and achievements in production and business and constant improvement in the quality of their activities.

Chu Tiến Dũng, president of the HCM City Business Association, said the fourth industrial revolution was posing opportunities as well as challenges for businesses, requiring them to take initiative in renovation and apply cutting-edge technologies to increase productivity and product quality.

Many businesses had established their brands which satisfy customers in terms of quality and service, he added.

The businesses also contributed to creating more jobs while ensuring sustainable development, environmental protection and corporate responsibility.  

The HCM City Business Association had worked with agencies to provide timely assistance to businesses to ensure their smooth business operations, Dũng said.

The Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of the city reached 7.97 per cent in the first nine months of the year, while the city’s budget collection rose by 10.7 per cent compared to the same period last year, according to Dũng.

Nearly 30,000 new firms had been established so far this year, while 1,372 household businesses had been transferred to businesses in the first nine months, Dũng said. — VNS