Ho Chi Minh City to Receive Strong, Substantive Decentralization Under Special Urban Law Draft

Ho Chi Minh City is on the cusp of a significant administrative overhaul, with a draft special urban law poised to grant the metropolis unprecedented levels of autonomy. The proposed legislation, discussed at a recent consultation with experts, aims to solidify the city's special status by translating existing pilot mechanisms into a stable, long-term legal framework. This move is seen as crucial for the city's continued growth and its ability to overcome decades of institutional hurdles. The draft law, modeled after Hanoi's special urban law, focuses on decentralizing power, with the city's People's Council, the People's Committee (UBND), and its Chairman set to receive nearly 300 distinct authorities. This extensive delegation of power, ranging from policy-making to administrative procedures, is designed to enhance the city's proactive capacity and accountability. Vietnamese experts and officials, like KTS Ngo Viet Nam Son and TS Tran Du Lich, emphasize that such decentralization is vital for Ho Chi Minh City to effectively address its unique challenges and capitalize on its potential. The core principle is to grant the city the freedom to enact policies suited to its specific context, particularly in areas not related to national security, defense, or foreign affairs. This approach reflects a broader national strategy to empower major economic hubs and foster rapid development, a perspective that is central to Vietnam's economic planning. The emphasis on granting substantial powers underscores the government's recognition of Ho Chi Minh City's critical role as the nation's economic engine and its need for agile governance to compete on a regional and global scale. This legislative push is not merely about administrative reform; it's about empowering Vietnam's most dynamic city to truly lead.

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The special urban law is a law that helps Ho Chi Minh City untangle institutional bottlenecks that have persisted for decades.