Authorities in Vietnam have granted Liberty Mutual approval to operate a general insurance company in the country.

Edmund F Kelly, Liberty Mutual's chairman, president and chief executive, said: “We are pleased that the government of Vietnam has granted us a license to enter its growing insurance market. Vietnam's entry into the World Trade Organisation creates exciting opportunities for us as increased trade will add further momentum to the country's growth and prosperity.”

Liberty Insurance will offer home, auto, travel and health insurance to individuals and property, liability, marine cargo and commercial auto to SMEs throughout Vietnam.