Firms prioritize productivity over headcount growth; pay slips for mid-level and below in many sectors, while digital and AI skills heat up.
Entering 2026, Vietnam's labor market is forecast to diverge sharply: opportunities and pay rise clearly for scarce-skill groups, while many general and mid-level roles face downward pressure. It is a "two-speed" picture that both workers and employers need to read carefully.
According to 2026 salary and market reports, four trends stand out: a flexible workforce, fast reskilling, shifting labor norms, and a shortage of high-quality talent. Project-based and freelance work is rising notably in IT, digital marketing, content creation, e-commerce and logistics — but with challenges around income stability and long-term career paths.
The 2026 salary trend shows recommended pay for most senior leadership roles adjusted down 1–5% versus 2025; finance and banking are the exception, where the recommended minimum for CEO roles rises 7–12%. For mid-level and below, declines are common across most sectors. Raises increasingly concentrate on specialized, scarce technical roles rather than across-the-board increases.
Companies focus on roles truly needed for business operations, favoring skilled, experienced people who adapt quickly. As a result, opportunities for freshers keep narrowing, while experienced and scarce-skill talent is in high demand.
Demand for roles in artificial intelligence, data analytics, automation and cybersecurity is climbing fast, while suitable supply remains limited. AI is expected to surge in 2026, driving operational efficiency and productivity — and demand for people who can apply the technology.
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