Vietnamese lawmakers debate cultural development, advocate for investment in theaters and stadiums

During a discussion on a resolution for cultural industry development, National Assembly delegate Nguyen Van Than of Ho Chi Minh City voiced his strong disagreement with the notion that Vietnam should postpone building cultural infrastructure like theaters and stadiums due to perceived poverty. He argued that such modern facilities are crucial for attracting affluent tourists and boosting the economy. Than advocated for a strategic approach to attract both state and private investment, suggesting public-private partnerships (BOT, BT) for projects like stadiums and theaters, citing the success of the recent Ho Guom Theater as an example.

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We are currently building infrastructure, including parks, theaters, and stadiums. Many people have the opinion that we are still poor and should not be doing this. But I oppose this weak mindset.

He further proposed the development of cultural applications, such as classical music and tourism apps, and called for supportive tax policies to encourage private sector investment in the cultural industry. Than believes that tax reductions would incentivize businesses to invest, as the state could share a portion of the costs. This perspective highlights a forward-thinking approach within Vietnam's legislative body, prioritizing long-term cultural and economic development over short-term austerity.

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Reducing taxes is how businesses will pour in. Instead of having to spend 100 dong, the state shares a few dong with the business. This is very good, because taking profits out is difficult.

Other delegates, like Truong Minh Vu, also from Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the significant earning potential of the cultural industry in the city, proposing the concept of 'strategic investors' for cultural and creative entertainment. Nguyen Thi Viet Nga from Hai Phong supported the idea of a venture capital-like cultural fund, seeing it as a necessary step to transition from a preservation-focused mindset to one that embraces risk and fosters innovation in cultural creation. This reflects a broader understanding among some policymakers of the need to adapt to a dynamic global content market and support experimental cultural products.

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Culture in Ho Chi Minh City is not a sector that pays, but a sector that earns a lot of money with the concept of the cultural industry.