In 1986, Viet Nam began to introduce sweeping liberalization in all sectors of its previously hardline, centrally planned, and closed economy. Referred to as doi moi, this renovation has produced dramatic changes in the lives of Vietnamese farmers, workers, and their households. Agricultural production has soared. The country now welcomes foreign trade, investment, tourists, business people, students, and scholars. Personal incomes have increased, and Viet Nam is a new member of the Association ofSouth East Asian Nations (ASEAN). In this book, Vietnamese scholars describe the origins and impacts of these changes. They examine how the policy shift of doi moi has affected rural development, urban housing, household economy, and social welfare. Collaborating with Canadian scholars, they draw upon original field surveys, historical documents, and census material to study the evolution of doi moi and its implications for the future development of Viet Nam. Socioeconomic Renovation in Viet Nam illuminates the key questions and issues that policy advisers and decision-makers must wrestle with to ensure Viet Nam's successful emergence into the global family of nations. It will also appeal to development professionals; students and scholars in Asian studies, economics, and rural development; and businesses considering new investment in Viet Nam.