Hai Phong is currently experiencing strong development, continuously enhancing its competitiveness and deeply integrating with regional and global economies.

Strengthening connections and building a friendly environment between the international business community and foreign residents working and living in Hai Phong has become a key factor. This not only presents opportunities for business cooperation but also serves as a foundation for the city to assert its position in the global economic network.

Mr. Le Anh Quan, Standing Vice Chairman of the Hai Phong People’s Committee, shared that Hai Phong is not only an important gateway for international trade but also an attractive destination for foreign investors. Currently, the city hosts more than 1,040 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total registered capital exceeding 34.5 billion USD from investors originating from 38 countries and territories.

The foreign business community and expatriates living and working in Hai Phong have been growing both in scale and role in the local socio-economic life. Over 18,000 foreigners from 101 countries and territories currently reside and work in the city. They contribute not only to the economic development of the port city but also actively participate in image promotion, partner networking, and social welfare activities locally.

Mr. Le Anh Quan emphasized that besides creating a transparent and favorable business environment, it is necessary to build a cohesive business community and a friendly foreign resident community that deeply integrates into social life, contributing to shaping Hai Phong’s image as an open, friendly, and livable city.

Mr. Kees Van Baar, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Vietnam, stated that the Netherlands has been the largest EU investor in Vietnam for over a decade. In terms of trade, after many years in second place, the Netherlands became Vietnam’s largest EU trade partner in 2024. Hai Phong is currently attracting many Dutch companies, owing to its long maritime tradition.

The Ambassador acknowledged the efforts of the Hai Phong authorities in improving the business and investment environment and requested the city’s support for the operation of enterprises locally.

Bilateral cooperation between Hai Phong and the Netherlands is progressing well. The number of Dutch companies in Hai Phong is increasing, including Damen, Van der Leun, Alewijnse, Winel, Praxis, Steinweg, and recently, APM Terminals established an office in Hai Phong. Mr. Van Baar expressed his delight that the Hai Phong International Container Port—a strategic partnership between Hateco Group and APM Terminals—commenced operations in February 2025.