17/06/2026
๐ Meet the Board: Natalie Sagasti Jusid
We are delighted to launch Meet the Board, a new series introducing the leaders behind the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam.
For our first edition, we are pleased to feature Natalie Sagasti Jusid, Chairwoman of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam.
๐ป๐ณ What brought you to Vietnam?
"Honestly, before coming to Vietnam, I had never imagined myself living in Southeast Asia. But life has a funny way of bringing unexpected opportunities, and in my case, I decided to take one. I received an offer from the Spanish company Rolser to move to Vietnam and oversee the production of the bags used in their shopping carts at their Ho Chi Minh City branch. That was 16 years ago, and looking back, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Vietnam has given me amazing experiences, both professionally and personally, and over the years it has truly become my second home."
๐ค What has surprised you most about doing business in Vietnam?
"What has surprised me the most has been the attitude of local suppliers. Since we work very closely with them, I've been able to experience firsthand their commitment, flexibility, and willingness to collaborate. Whenever a problem arises or there is an urgent need, they make a genuine effort to find solutions and meet deadlines. This work ethic and customer-oriented mindset have been a great support throughout the years and are among the reasons why I consider Vietnam such an attractive place to do business."
๐ What do you see as the biggest opportunity currently for Spanish companies in this market?
"Vietnam offers significant opportunities for Spanish companies, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, machinery, renewable energy, food products, and consumer goods. It is a dynamic economy with a young population and sustained growth, and it is increasingly establishing itself as one of Asia's leading manufacturing hubs. Companies that can bring quality, technology, and specialized expertise will find a market with enormous potential for development and expansion."
๐ก What advice would you give to a Spanish company considering investing in Vietnam for the first time?
"My main advice would be to invest time in understanding the local business culture and building strong, trust-based relationships with local partners.
Vietnam is a highly attractive market, but success does not depend solely on offering a good product or service. It is equally important to understand the local way of doing business, be patient during the initial stages, and surround yourself with reliable collaborators. A strong local presence and a well-established network can make all the difference in achieving long-term success."
โจ In one word, how would you describe Vietnam's future?
"Bright."