But Mr. Khai a Russian-trained technocrat regarded as a relative liberal in Vietnam on economic issues didn't appear eager to accelerate the opening of the economy. Asked whether Hanoi should shift away from its policy of protecting domestic industry to encourage competition, the prime minister said Vietnam wasn't yet in a position to do so. He also suggested the government shouldn't focus too much on exports. Instead, he said, Vietnam should look to the domestic economy to spur growth. Still, Hanoi may be able to stave off pressures to accelerate reform for some time.
Private estimates are substantially lower.
Nothing short of fundamental economic changes will stop Vietnam's slide, economists say. Vietnam's leaders are living in a fool's paradise if they think they are going to be isolated.