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Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone Announced as New Strategic Growth Driver


On the afternoon of 16 January, a conference announcing the Prime Minister’s decision to establish the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone was held in Hai Phong, marking a strategic development step for the city. Covering 20,000 hectares, including 2,909 hectares of reclaimed land, the economic zone is expected to become a new driver of economic growth and raise Hai Phong’s standing in the region and internationally.

Perspective view of the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone.

The Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone is planned as a multi-sector economic zone with development pillars including high-tech industry, modern logistics services, smart urban areas, eco-tourism and a pilot free-trade zone. It is not only a key economic project but also a foundation for Hai Phong to affirm its role as an international marine economy and logistics center, contributing to the Hanoi–Hai Phong–Quang Ninh development triangle.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha hopes the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone will attract foreign investors through renewable and clean energy and a “no carbon tax” approach.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasized that Hai Phong has all the elements of “favorable timing, favorable location and public support” to develop strongly and make a breakthrough. He expects the economic zone to attract investors through outstanding advantages such as renewable energy, clean energy and a modern business environment suited to sustainable development and reduced environmental impacts.

According to the plan, by 2030 the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone will become the city’s main economic driver and reach 80% of the capacity of the Dinh Vu–Cat Hai Economic Zone. The project is expected to contribute VND 550,000 billion to the state budget and create 301,000 jobs, helping improve local livelihoods and promote growth across the region.

In recent years, Hai Phong has achieved impressive results, affirming its role as one of the country’s economic growth engines. In 2024, the city’s economy ranked 5th among 63 provinces and cities, with GRDP growth of 11.01%. Hai Phong also led the country in attracting foreign investment, with nearly USD 5 billion, notably in green and environmentally friendly projects.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha presents the Prime Minister’s decision establishing the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone to Hai Phong city leaders.

The Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone is not only an economic project but also expresses a strategic vision for sustainable development. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasized that all planning, design and infrastructure development in the zone must be implemented synchronously, integrate multiple objectives, follow green transformation trends and adapt to climate change. Transport, irrigation, energy and telecommunications must be developed with a long-term vision to avoid unsustainable development and major losses during natural disasters.

The Deputy Prime Minister also asked Hai Phong to introduce special policy mechanisms and reform administrative procedures to create an open investment environment and attract strategic investors. Investor-selection criteria must be scientific, practical and aligned with green and sustainable development objectives, creating a model economic zone that leads in innovation and digital transformation.

Perspective view of the layout and development space of the Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone.

The Southern Hai Phong Coastal Economic Zone is expected to be an important stepping stone for the city to become a symbol of sustainable development, not only in Vietnam but also on the regional map. It will vividly demonstrate the aspirations and determination of Hai Phong’s authorities and people to build a modern, livable city with comprehensive economic, social and environmental development.

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