PM urges HCMC for policy changes to attract $200B investment by 2030

The city’s latest development plan for this decade has outlined key projects, but it needs to mobilize resources from the people and local and foreign businesses to implement its plan, Chinh said at a forum Saturday.

Under the plan, HCMC by 2030 aims to become a global city characterized by a high-quality workforce, modern service and industrial sectors, and a leading hub for green economy, digital economy, and social innovation.

It targets a GRDP per capita of at least VND385 million by 2030, and to grow its permanent population to 11 million.

The plan outlines the development of a synchronized transportation network, including roads, railways, waterways, seaports, airports, static traffic systems, and dry ports.

Key projects include roads along the Saigon River from Cu Chi to Can Gio and southern coastal routes. For rail, the plan incorporates new tracks and 12 urban railway lines.

The PM praised the comprehensive planning approach, which tackles bottlenecks in transportation, human resources, and funding. He emphasized that effective implementation is critical to generating tangible outcomes for residents.

"A well-crafted plan attracts good advisors, quality projects, and reputable investors, fostering development," he said.

"The plan must align with global trends such as green economy, digital economy, creative economy, digital transformation, and cloud computing," he added.

The PM acknowledged the successful completion of the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line, the first of its kind in the city. He encouraged the city to further explore the potential of its underground spaces.

He also mentioned discussions with billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, chairman of Vietnam’s biggest private company Vingroup, about constructing a subway system from downtown HCMC to the suburban district of Can Gio, noting Vuong’s enthusiasm for the project.

Chinh suggested that assigning significant projects to large enterprises could help unlock new development drivers and resources.

Ho Chi Minh City was urged to pilot bold mechanisms and policies for key projects such as the international financial center, Can Gio port, and connectivity between Tan Son Nhat and Long Thanh airports.

He also suggested establishing an urban planning exhibition center to provide transparent information on the city’s plans and showcase key projects.

"Investors visiting the center will understand the city's vision, including its underground and maritime spaces, as well as urban and rural development strategies," he explained.

This approach will allow investors to align their goals with the city’s aspirations without needing direct meetings with officials, Chinh said, adding that such practices are commonly used worldwide to attract investment.

HCMC chairman Phan Van Mai, at the same forum, outlined key projects in the plan, including an expressway, ring roads, bridges, rails and ports.

The city will also prioritize projects that foster innovation and technological advancement, including startup innovation centers, data centers, and the Thu Duc Science and Technology Park.

Industrial parks and key urban areas will continue to be developed.