Brian Jeffrey
Prime Minister Discusses Quang Nam’s Development Plans
On February 8, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with the Standing Committee of the Quang Nam Provincial Party Committee to discuss the province’s development initiatives.
During this meeting, Le Van Dung, Chairman of the Quang Nam People’s Committee, sought the Prime Minister’s consent for a special development framework for the region.
The proposals included significant initiatives such as enhancing Chu Lai Airport, developing a seaport and logistics center, establishing a pilot free trade zone in the Chu Lai Open Economic Zone, transforming Chu Lai into a hub for automotive and mechanical industries, and improving essential national highways.
Furthermore, Chairman Dung highlighted a list of vital investment projects, including the estimated $450 million enhancement of Chu Lai Airport and a $260 million investment in Quang Nam Seaport.
In his closing comments, Prime Minister Chinh commended Quang Nam’s progress in 2024, especially in areas of economic advancement, social welfare, and infrastructure development. He encouraged the province to target a double-digit growth rate for 2025.
However, he noted that despite its expansive infrastructure, Quang Nam is not utilizing its resources effectively. While the province has access to an airport, seaports, and highways, their potential remains untapped. Additionally, he pointed out the need for a more skilled workforce.
He urged provincial officials to maintain a close relationship with citizens and businesses to foster growth and stressed the importance of decentralizing authority, enhancing governance, and having a targeted strategy for infrastructure to optimize resource allocation.
The Prime Minister proposed that Quang Nam leverage its coastal road as a corridor for development. The land to the east should be designated for services and businesses, while industrial and urban expansion should be focused to the west, ideally integrating real estate projects near the mountains.
Concerning the Chu Lai Airport proposal, he encouraged the province to act swiftly.
Emphasizing Chu Lai Airport’s strategic importance for the province, he stated that it is a significant competitive advantage. He insisted on developing the airport to the highest international standards (4F) and integrating it into a comprehensive urban development plan and aviation ecosystem.
Quang Nam has been authorized to manage the selection of investors and collaborate with the Ministry of National Defense, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to address any challenges. Any issues beyond provincial jurisdiction should be escalated to Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, with all processes needing completion by mid-2025.
“Quang Nam must ensure land issues are resolved by February and that investor selection aligns with approvals from the Ministry of Transport. Contracts should be granted to enterprises that commit to completion within two years,” stressed Prime Minister Chinh.
Additionally, he endorsed Quang Nam’s plan for developing the Cua Lo shipping channel to accommodate larger vessels and establishing a logistics center in Chu Lai, urging for prompt action to ensure the center is operational by June 2027.
Regarding the upgrade of national highways, the Prime Minister expressed his support for utilizing state budget funds to facilitate these projects.
