Brian Jeffrey
On November 21, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MCST) convened a meeting in Da Nang to discuss the implementation of Prime Minister’s Directive 30.
This directive focuses on enhancing Vietnam’s cultural industries, detailing responsibilities for the MCST and other governmental bodies, particularly in significant regions.
Deputy Minister Ho An Phong emphasized this directive as a major shift in society’s view, recognizing cultural industries as essential for economic development. It aims to foster private sector engagement and transform the cultural sector from being a simple service provider to effectively managing cultural assets.
Deputy Minister Phong pointed out Vietnam’s abundant strengths in areas like cinema, creativity, design, and cuisine. Currently, cultural industries account for 4.04% of the country’s GDP, leaving ample room for further growth.
As part of promoting Vietnam as a filmmaking locale in Hollywood, 17 major film companies have shown interest in producing films in the country by 2025.
“They’ve already completed many projects in Thailand, which has become quite repetitive,” said Deputy Minister Phong. “They are captivated by Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, skilled workforce, and cost-effective production options. Our cinematic prospects are vast.”
However, challenges remain for the cultural sector. Tran Thi Phuong Lan, the Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the Central Propaganda Department, noted a lack of specific policies and frameworks for developing cultural industries, leading to fragmented and inadequate investments.
“Understanding the importance of cultural industries is crucial,” Lan asserted. “Misconceptions can create obstacles in policy-making and strategic planning.”
Thanh Thuy, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, shared similar views, stating that while investing in culture might require substantial resources and take time to produce results, it is vital for sustainable development at the national level.
Ho Chi Minh City has outlined eight key focus areas in its cultural growth strategy, aspiring to become a UNESCO Creative City in cinema and a leading cultural industry center in Southeast Asia. The city is prioritizing initiatives like training programs, designating land for film studios and cultural service facilities, and addressing tax and land-use issues for businesses.
Nguyen Phuong Lan, President of the Vietnam Association for Film Promotion and Development, highlighted the need to leverage societal resources to elevate cultural industries. In the film sector, this includes enhancing marketing efforts and incentivizing independent filmmakers.
Writer Ngo Thao stressed the significance of having qualified cultural professionals, calling for improved wages and protections for those in the industry. “Investing in art carries risks, and there is a need for policies to support its growth,” he remarked.
Dieu Thuy
