Specialized economic zone in Hai Phong city set to power growth of Vietnam's Red River Delta

The Hai Phong Specialized Economic Zone (SEZ) is expected to become a major growth engine for both Hai Phong and the wider Red River Delta, contributing more than 5% of the city’s GRDP after 2030.

Established under the Prime Minister’s Decision No. 288/QĐ-TTg dated February 12, 2026, the 5,300-hectare zone spans six communes: Thuong Hong, Nguyen Luong Bang, Bac Thanh Mien, Thanh Mien, Hai Hung, and Binh Giang.

Designed as a next-generation economic hub, the SEZ will feature integrated industrial parks and clusters, commercial and service complexes, non-tariff and logistics areas, logistics centers, and innovation hubs.

Detailed planning and the allocation of functional zones will be defined in the master construction plan subject to approval by competent authorities.

The zone aims to capitalize on Hai Phong’s strong industrial and logistics foundation, with a strategic focus on high-tech, high-value-added, and environmentally sustainable industries.

In addition to accelerating economic expansion, it will enhance international trade connectivity, strengthen supply chain integration, and align investment promotion with national defense and security, while preserving local historical and cultural values.

By 2030, the SEZ is projected to contribute 3-4% of Hai Phong’s GRDP, with its share expected to exceed 5% in the following years. Authorities plan to support this target through transparent, business-friendly policies, and a strong emphasis on high-quality workforce development.

The development roadmap is structured in three phases. In the 2025-2026 period, the city strives to complete the overall master plan and selected 1/2000-scale construction plans for key subzones.

During 2026-2030, it aims for finalization of procedures and implementation of investment and construction activities; initial effective operation of completed works and projects; continued synchronized development of technical infrastructure, particularly urban, industrial, and service infrastructure within the zone; and research and implementation of new production models and projects.

From 2031 to 2035, the city will complete a modern and synchronized socio-economic infrastructure system; accelerate urbanization to shape a smart, green urban area with high-quality services; and continue attracting investment in prioritized sectors and industries within the zone.

Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s six centrally governed cities, together with Hanoi, Danang, Hue, Can Tho, and Ho Chi Minh City. It was expanded on July 1, 2025, through the merger of the former Hai Phong city and Hai Duong province.

Currently among the country’s top three destinations for foreign direct investment, Hai Phong has attracted over $45.6 billion in accumulated registered FDI, positioning the new specialized economic zone as a key platform for the city’s next phase of growth.