Throughout the millennia-long history of nation-building and defense, Hai Phong has consistently held a position of strategic importance. This eastern gateway of Vietnam not only serves as a solid defense bastion in the Northeast but is also the cradle of prehistoric marine culture—the origin of the Dai Viet civilization.
Dating back thousands of years, the Cai Beo Culture—identified by archaeologists as “the beginning of Vietnam’s prehistoric marine culture”—has positioned Hai Phong as a key center in the development of early indigenous civilizations. The land, rivers, and sea here have shaped a people known for their resilience, bravery, bold thinking, frankness, generosity, and unwavering aspiration for progress.
The Port City: Bravery Forged in the Flames of War
With a proud tradition of patriotism and indomitable revolutionary spirit, Hai Phong has been both a military-economic stronghold and a birthplace of major revolutionary movements. In the early days of the national resistance against French colonialism, Hai Phong made its mark with the courageous battle at the City Opera House in November 1946. Throughout the nine-year war against the French, Hai Phong stood as both a frontline stronghold and a solid rear base.
Particularly after the Geneva Accords in 1954, while many northern localities were liberated, Hai Phong continued to be “the last to leave” the battlefield, enduring 300 intense days and nights to safeguard the city, defeating all post-war schemes of the French. On May 15, 1955, the last French soldiers withdrew from Nghieng Wharf in Do Son. Just two days earlier, on May 13, the Vietnamese People’s Army had triumphantly marched into the city to the cheers of tens of thousands of residents under the radiant red blossoms of flame trees—the eternal symbol of this port city.
That moment marked the dawn of a new era, as Hai Phong rose from the ruins, step by step rebuilding itself and increasingly contributing to the nation’s revolutionary cause.
During the war against the United States, Hai Phong was once again a frontline target, enduring heavy bombardments from U.S. air and naval forces. Yet, the city’s military and civilian population stood firm, safeguarding key supply routes in the North and securing the country’s primary international gateway. Hai Phong also made significant contributions in manpower and resources—fulfilling the vow of “not one kilogram of rice short, not one soldier missing”—joining the nation in achieving the historic victory of Spring 1975 and the reunification of Vietnam.
Hai Phong: A Vanguard of Renovation
Beyond its battlefield heroism, the people of Hai Phong have shown boldness and innovation in economic development. From the early years of the Doi Moi era, Hai Phong was entrusted by the Central Government to pilot new policies in industrial management and international cooperation. The city pioneered initiatives like the “Waves of the Coastal Region” (Sóng Duyên Hải) movement in industrial production, contract-based agricultural reforms, and various models of economic innovation, thereby shaping foundational elements of the Party's renovation policies.
The spirit of “thinking big, acting boldly, acting decisively” has been more than a slogan—it is a reality proven through decades of comprehensive, impactful achievements.
Milestones After 70 Years of Liberation
As of the end of 2024, Hai Phong remains the only locality in Vietnam to sustain double-digit economic growth for 10 consecutive years—an impressive record affirming its strength and sustainable development potential. The city ranks among the national leaders in terms of economic scale, labor productivity, state budget revenue, foreign direct investment (FDI), and per capita income.
Hai Phong also excels in culture, healthcare, education, sports, science and technology, and social welfare. The city leads in many sectors and is increasingly recognized as a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable locality at both the national and international levels.
Preservation and promotion of cultural and historical values have received considerable attention. Both tangible and intangible heritage are safeguarded, helping to reinforce Hai Phong’s unique identity as a city rich in tradition and maritime legacy.
In addition, national defense and security have been strengthened; foreign affairs and international integration have been enhanced; and the effectiveness of local government and administrative systems has significantly improved.
A Vision to Reach Regional and Global Heights
Building on a solid foundation forged over the past 70 years, Hai Phong is now presented with an exceptional opportunity to become a leading city in Vietnam’s industrialization and modernization process—on par with major urban centers across Asia.
To realize this vision, the city must focus on the following key strategic tasks:
First, continue to strengthen the Party and political system, ensuring transparency, unity, and enhanced leadership capacity. Build a contingent of officials with integrity, vision, capability, and a strong commitment to public service.
Second, review and complete socio-economic development planning, especially in the context of spatial expansion toward a modern, green, smart urban model connected to rivers and the sea. Hai Phong must affirm its role as a modern marine economic center and a top logistics hub in the region.
Third, invest in both physical and digital infrastructure, positioning innovation and high technology as driving forces for development. Promote the establishment of world-class urban areas, industrial parks, service zones, and tourism centers.
Fourth, unlock and optimize all available social resources to make Hai Phong a regional center of education, healthcare, and science–technology. Accelerate administrative reform and improve the investment environment, aligning with global standards for sustainable development.
Fifth, bolster national defense and security, expand diplomatic outreach, and maintain a peaceful, stable environment conducive to rapid and sustainable growth.
The Port City: Radiant Today, Brilliant Tomorrow
Today, Hai Phong is not only a modern urban center adorned with the vibrant red of flame trees each summer—it also stands as a shining symbol of a renewed, resilient, and globally integrated Vietnam. Seventy years of proud progress provide a strong foundation for the city to advance with bold vision and great aspirations.
With its heroic traditions, steadfast revolutionary spirit, and the concerted determination of its entire political system and citizenry, Hai Phong is poised to reaffirm its position as a driving force in northern Vietnam’s development, contributing decisively to the nation's journey into a prosperous and thriving future.