Hai Phong proposes special status for three administrative units

Hai Phong city in Vietnam has proposed recognizing three administrative units as special zones: Hai An ward, Dong Hai ward, and the Cat Hai special economic zone. This move aims to bolster resources for these strategically vital areas.

According to city officials, all three locations have scored above 90 points in administrative reviews, meeting criteria for population size, natural area, and preferential standards. Hai An ward, spanning 40.21 km2 with a population of 138,298, is crucial for port development, logistics, and multimodal transport. It hosts major projects like the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong railway and the expansion of Cat Bi International Airport.

Dong Hai ward covers 54.42 km2 and has a population of 51,129. It is a hub for seaports, industrial parks, and logistics services, focusing on becoming a center for high-tech industry and international trade. The Cat Hai special economic zone is the largest, with 245.74 km2 and 46,278 residents. It plays a strategic role in marine economy, logistics, industry, and tourism, featuring the Lach Huyen international gateway port and the VinFast manufacturing complex.

City authorities believe that classifying these areas as special administrative units will enhance resource allocation, prioritize infrastructure investment, and attract further investment, driving the city's development. A central working group has reviewed the proposal and requested further clarification on specific points before a final decision is made by higher authorities.