Northern Vietnam province Ninh Binh addresses challenges faced by Japanese firms

Officials in Ninh Binh have taken prompt measures to resolve difficulties faced by Japanese businesses operating in the northern province.

Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Truong Quoc Huy and Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Pham Quang Ngoc on Wednesday met with Japanese investors to listen to their concerns and discuss solutions to challenges affecting business operations.

At the meeting, Iwakoshi, general director of Shikoku Cable Vietnam at Dong Van Industrial Zones 2 and 3, outlined several issues, including occasional power outages affecting production, insufficient drainage systems leading to flooding on factory premises, and tree coverage in industrial zones that obstructs visibility and poses traffic risks.

Representatives of other Japanese firms also requested support in labor recruitment, particularly after the Lunar New Year holiday, citing a roughly 10% reduction in the workforce, and called for streamlined administrative procedures to facilitate business operations.

In response, Party chief Truong Quoc Huy reaffirmed the province’s commitment to supporting Japanese investors, pledging to swiftly remove obstacles and create favourable conditions for businesses.

Provincial Chairman Pham Quang Ngoc noted that the province is directing relevant departments to address business challenges, including coordinating with the electricity sector to minimize power outages and investing in pumping infrastructure to reduce flooding at Dong Van Industrial Zone 2.

To tackle labor shortages, the province is developing social housing to attract and retain workers in industrial zones. Infrastructure projects, including road networks connecting key economic centers such as Nam Dinh, Phu Ly, and Hoa Lu, are being prioritized to ensure stable employment. Local authorities have also been instructed to facilitate administrative procedures for investors.

Ngoc encouraged businesses to provide timely feedback to help the province create the most supportive environment for investment.

According to the Management Board of Ninh Binh Industrial Zones, the province currently hosts 114 Japanese projects with a total registered investment of $1.46 billion.

Ha Nam, Nam Dinh and Ninh Binh province were recently merged to form the new Ninh Binh province, which borders Hung Yen, Phu Tho, Thanh Hoa, Hanoi, and the East Sea.