Unlocking growth drivers for the southern economic region

Participants at the 2026 Vietnam Economic Forum in Ho Chi Minh City, organised by Nguoi Lao Dong on June 9, noted that the Southeast region continues to play its role as the country's key economic engine. The forum focused on the southern economic region as a driver of double-digit growth.

Experts at the Vietnam Economic Forum in Ho Chi Minh City on June 9

According to Dr. Tran Du Lich, for Vietnam to achieve its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2045, the southern region must take the lead in transforming its growth model from one reliant on capital and low-cost labour to one driven by science, technology, innovation, and labour productivity.

"The importance of adopting a 'regional mindset' in investment attraction rather than having localities pursue investment independently," Lich said.

He added that under the new regional structure, Ho Chi Minh City will continue to serve as the core hub and a destination for multinational corporations, but should also aspire to become a launchpad for entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia.

According to Lich, the resolutions, special policy mechanisms, and strategic infrastructure projects being implemented by the central government, ministries, and local authorities are expected to unlock new development opportunities for the entire region.

"Regional coordination must be more substantive, linked to specific projects and clear objectives. Investment in expressways, ring roads, logistics, seaports, airports, and economic corridors must be synchronised to create an integrated development space connecting Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, and neighbouring localities," he added.

Pham Van Xo, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Import-Export Business Association, stressed the need to harmonise institutional frameworks and reduce logistics costs for businesses.

"What is most important at this stage is to maximise the unique strengths of each locality within a unified development space," Xo said. "Every province and city has its own competitive advantages, ranging from industrial production and logistics to seaports and cross-border trade. When effectively integrated, these strengths can form a complete regional value chain."

According to World Bank statistics, Vietnam's logistics costs remain relatively high, accounting for approximately 16–20 per cent of GDP, significantly higher than many countries in the region. Transportation, warehousing, transshipment, and waiting-time costs continue to undermine business competitiveness.

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