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China–Vietnam Literary Translation Competition Brings Together 1,228 Students from 82 Universities
Oct,26 2026
China–Vietnam Literary Translation Competition Holds Award Ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City
The award ceremony of the second online China–Vietnam Literary Translation Competition took place at Hoa Sen University in Ho Chi Minh City on 20 October 2026. The competition brought together 1,228 students from 82 universities and colleges in China and Vietnam, providing a platform for young people to explore each other's literature and strengthen cultural understanding through translation.
The event was attended by Từ Châu, Acting Consul General of China in Ho Chi Minh City; Nguyễn Lệ Chi, General Director of Vietnamese publishing company Chibooks; Trịnh Bích Ngân, Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City Writers Association; Nguyễn Tuấn Đức, Vice Rector of Hoa Sen University; and more than 200 other guests.
Tô Oánh Oánh, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, also delivered a video address.
During the ceremony, Từ Châu encouraged young people in both countries to use literature as a medium and translation as a bridge for cultural exchange, helping to continue the traditional friendship between China and Vietnam.
The competition was jointly organised by the Consulate General of China in Ho Chi Minh City and Chibooks, hosted by the Vietnam Studies Centre at Beijing Foreign Studies University and Hoa Sen University, and supported by the China Writers Association and the Ho Chi Minh City Writers Association.
As part of the 2026 China–Vietnam literary exchange activities marking the 76th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the competition ran from 21 April to 15 October 2026. It featured two rounds focusing on poetry and prose translation and was open to students majoring in Chinese or Vietnamese language studies.
Students Recognised for Their Translation Skills
Nguyễn Ngọc Kim Ánh (阮玉金映) from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, won first prize in the Chinese-to-Vietnamese category. Trần Oánh Oánh (陈莹莹) from Sichuan International Studies University received first prize in the Vietnamese-to-Chinese category.
First-, second- and third-prize winners will have an opportunity to participate in next year's China Red Study Tour, according to the competition information.
The results reflect the work involved in translating literary texts between two languages. Translators need to understand the meaning of the original text while paying attention to tone, cultural references and the way ideas are expressed in the target language.
For students learning Chinese, literary translation can also provide a way to deepen their understanding of Chinese writing and culture. Reading beyond textbooks and working with authentic texts can help learners recognise expressions and cultural details that may not be obvious from vocabulary study alone.
Chinese Language Learning and Preparation for Study in China
Chinese language skills can support students in different ways, from understanding literature and communicating with local people to preparing for further education. The right learning route depends on each student's current level, academic goals and intended programme.
Students who want to develop their language skills can explore SICAS's Chinese Language and Culture Programme guide for information about language study options.
For students planning to pursue a university degree in China, language learning may also form part of broader academic preparation. Becoming familiar with Chinese language and culture before starting a degree can help students prepare for daily communication and understand their future learning environment.
SICAS is currently promoting its Pre-University Programme for the March 2027 intake. The programme offers six-month and one-year preparation options for international students preparing for undergraduate study in China. Students can review the March 2027 SICAS Pre-University Programme to understand the programme and consider whether it fits their plans.
Completing a preparatory programme does not guarantee admission to a degree course. Students must still meet the requirements of their chosen universities and submit separate undergraduate applications where required. Those considering the 2027 intake can also consult SICAS's 2027 undergraduate admission guide to learn more about application planning.
The competition in Ho Chi Minh City highlighted the role of language and literature in bringing young people from China and Vietnam together. For international students interested in China, learning Chinese can be a starting point for discovering the country's culture and exploring future study opportunities.
READ MORE
SICAS Pre-University Programme for March 2027: Prepare for University Study in China
Study in China in 2027: The Complete Guide to Undergraduate Admission