New economic space: “Golden” opportunity for trade and logistics

On September 11, Ho Chi Minh City hosted the forum “Developing Trade and Logistics in Ho Chi Minh City” with participation from experts, businesses, and government agencies. The event reviewed current realities and discussed measures to unlock private sector potential, seen as a key driver for the city’s transformation into a modern, sustainable megacity.

One key topic was the impact of merging Ho Chi Minh City with Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau provinces, creating a new economic space. This integration is expected to form a “super economic region” with strong competitiveness, optimized supply chains, improved logistics, and new momentum for trade and services.

Saigon Co.op, operating about 460 outlets, plans to expand into new urban and rural areas. The retailer is also investing in e-commerce and logistics, including a large warehouse in Le Minh Xuan to serve the western part of the city and neighboring provinces. Saigon Co.op prioritizes Vietnamese goods, accounting for 90% of its offerings.

Bach Hoa Xanh has built seven warehouses across the new metropolitan area and is rolling out a “green channel” for fresh produce to strengthen links with local suppliers. Meanwhile, Lotte Mart has invested in digital transformation and delivery services, extending delivery ranges up to 300 km with partners like Giao Hang Nhanh and Viettel Post.

Harnessing Resolution 98 for regional growth

Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Business Association, highlighted the strategic significance of the expanded economic space: Ho Chi Minh City leads in trade, services, and high technology; Binh Duong specializes in manufacturing; and Ba Ria-Vung Tau has strengths in seaports, oil, gas, and logistics. Together, they form a powerful integrated ecosystem, particularly favorable for exports and supporting industries.

To maximize potential, he stressed the need for coordinated mechanisms and coherent policies. Resolution 98 enables the city to extend stimulus lending to neighboring provinces and support businesses in key sectors such as engineering, digital transformation, logistics, and clean energy.

So far, 18 projects worth over VND 1,500 billion have been considered. Logistics firms receive up to 50% interest subsidies for warehouse construction and 100% for green infrastructure, while social housing projects benefit from 0% interest for seven years.

The forum opened new directions for Ho Chi Minh City’s trade and logistics in the context of regional integration. With combined efforts from enterprises, local authorities, and policymakers, the city is moving closer to its goal of becoming a dynamic, sustainable modern megacity.