Vietnam: Workers may stage additional protests nearby shoe manufacturing company in Bien Hoa, Dong Nai Province, as of Jan. 10

Event

Workers of the shoe manufacturer Pou Chen may stage additional rallies outside its facilities in Bien Hoa, Dong Nai Province, as of Jan. 10, to demand the company pay higher bonuses. Thousands of employees protested at the site Jan. 7, blocking the nearby National Highway 1K. While there have been no reports of additional demonstrations, such gatherings are possible. Similar numbers of people may participate in any further action.

Authorities will likely enact increased security measures, including deploying additional personnel, during any further protests. Localized transport and business disruptions may occur, especially if demonstrators occupy National Highway 1K or nearby streets. Clashes are possible if authorities forcibly disperse any rally or if demonstrators attempt to breach security barriers. Mass arrests may occur if officials consider any protester to violate COVID-19 restrictions.

Bien Hoa is around 20 km (12 miles) north-northeast of Ho Chi Minh City.

Advice

Avoid any rallies as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions, and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. If any violence erupts, immediately depart the area. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.