In the context of deep globalization and increasingly fierce competition for investment among countries and localities, innovation and creativity in investment promotion activities have become key factors for enhancing local attractiveness and maintaining competitive advantages. In 2024, Hai Phong City has made remarkable strides in investment promotion by intensifying the application of technology, improving the investment environment, diversifying promotional methods, and establishing effective international networks. These achievements not only contribute to strengthening investment attraction but also affirm the city's position and role as an industrial hub in the Northern Key Economic Region.
- Proactively researching markets and expanding connections with strategic partners
One of the most notable innovations is Hai Phong’s proactive expansion of cooperation and connections with both traditional and potential partners in countries such as South Korea and Japan, as well as with Vietnamese representative agencies in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Through online and in-person information exchanges, the city has promptly updated market demands and investment trends, thereby formulating tailored promotion strategies for each partner.
Notably, the city is actively seeking cooperation with international organizations and new enterprises in Africa and Canada, helping diversify its partner network and reduce dependence on a few traditional markets.
- Developing digital databases and modern technological platforms
Alongside market research, building a modern data platform has significantly improved the effectiveness of investment promotion. Hai Phong has completed the development of investment promotion websites such as haiphongdpi.gov.vn and heza.gov.vn, integrating bilingual English-Vietnamese AI-based consultation tools to provide user-friendly experiences for investors.
In addition, the creation of a VR360 digital map of urban and economic zones offers vivid, intuitive images to help investors easily access planning information. The city also manages an effective industrial cluster planning information system at www.cumcongnghiephaiphong.vn, closely linked with the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s supporting industry portal (vsi.gov.vn), the FTA website, and various social media platforms.
- Enhancing multilingual investment promotion materials and publications
A noteworthy effort is the release of investment promotion documentaries in six languages, along with a series of publications introducing the investment environment in industrial zones, economic zones, lists of prioritized projects, incentive mechanisms, etc. Thematic brochures, quarterly investment newsletters, and Hai Phong tourism promotion publications for 2024 have also been widely distributed.
The use of QR codes on documents allows investors to quickly access detailed information, enhancing communication effectiveness and reducing costs.
- Developing a clear, targeted list of key investment projects
The city has issued lists of projects that are either encouraged or restricted from receiving investment under Decision No. 1338/QĐ-UBND (2022), clearly identifying 158 project types across nine priority industrial groups, ranging from high-tech to supporting industries.
At the same time, Decision No. 1675/QĐ-UBND (2023) approved a list of FDI investment calls for the period 2023–2025, with orientation toward 2030. The city prioritizes attracting investment in fields such as eco-industrial parks, semiconductor chip production, clean energy, the Nam Do Son Port logistics center, and new industrial clusters.
- Promoting the investment environment both domestically and internationally
Hai Phong has actively organized and participated in many international events such as the Vietnam Development Bridge Forum, the WCS 2024 Conference in Singapore, investment promotion events with the Canadian trade delegation, and port and logistics seminars with the Danish Embassy, among others.
Promotion activities have also been expanded through Hai Phong expatriate networks, as well as foreign community associations in the city, thereby amplifying Hai Phong's image and investment potential.
Alongside investment promotion, the city has also vigorously promoted its tourism and cultural offerings through major events such as the Do Son Tourism Festival, the Red Flamboyant Flower Festival, and the Cat Ba Fishing Village Festival, which have been widely featured in national media and digital platforms.
- Enhancing capacity of promotion staff and disseminating investment regulations
Hai Phong places strong emphasis on staff training to improve their ability to engage with international investors. Foreign language classes, seminars, forums, and training sessions on investment laws are regularly organized to ensure a professional, market-savvy investment promotion team.
- Strengthening enterprise support and on-site investment promotion
On-site investment promotion is prioritized through the assignment of staff to closely monitor major FDI projects. Any difficulties or bottlenecks encountered during implementation are promptly addressed by relevant authorities.
The city is also promoting policies to develop rural industrial clusters to reduce labor pressure on urban areas and facilitate access to clean land resources. In 2024, four new industrial clusters were established, raising the total to 17 clusters with a total area of nearly 684 hectares.
Hai Phong is also guiding the installation of solar power systems, backup power stations, and collaborating with the Northern Power Corporation to accelerate power projects for industrial parks such as Trang Due and Deep C2.
- Expanding international cooperation and investment promotion networks
The city has organized over 150 working sessions with international investors, and participated in numerous investment promotion programs in Japan, South Korea, the United States, Indonesia, and Taiwan. As a result, a series of projects have increased their capital or commenced new operations, such as LG increased its capital by USD 2.35 billion, Heesung (South Korea) raised its investment from USD 154 million to USD 279 million, DEEP C added USD 169 million….
Additionally, hundreds of international delegations visited Hai Phong in 2024, including those led by the President of Bulgaria, the President of Indonesia, the Deputy Prime Minister of Laos, and senior leaders from major cities in South Korea, China, and Iran. One notable achievement is the launch of the Hai Phong – Lijiang flight route, opening up potential for tourism and trade cooperation between the two localities.
With determination and proactive innovation in investment promotion, Hai Phong has been affirming its position as an attractive destination for both domestic and foreign investors. The harmonious combination of modern technology platforms, comprehensive databases, flexible incentive policies, and a professional promotion team provides a solid foundation for the city to continue thriving in industrial development, service expansion, and international integration. If this momentum is sustained, Hai Phong is well-positioned to become a leading industrial and logistics hub in Southeast Asia.