Vietnam's ruling Communist Party is set to meet to pick new leaders and set key targets for the young, fast-growing economy.
The congress, held every five years, is where the one-party state's highest-level decisions are made, from economic and foreign policy direction, to the selection of party leaders, including its most powerful position, general secretary.
To Lam, who currently holds the mantle, is again considered the lead contender for the top job: a role chosen behind closed doors by party officials.
The 68-year-old has been driving ambitious reforms since being named general secretary in August 2024.
Vietnam's leaders have long sought to emulate the economic success of China, whose rapid growth was also fuelled by exports.
