Thanks to a series of synchronized breakthrough policies, Ho Chi Minh City has successfully attracted 12 leading experts and scientists, especially in the fields of agriculture and biotechnology  -  sectors deemed critical for sustainable development.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Home Affairs has released a report on the implementation of the resolutions issued by the Politburo and the Government regarding the development and application of biotechnology for national sustainability through 2030, with a vision to 2045.

By the end of 2023, the department had advised the City People’s Committee to pass Resolution No. 27/2023/NQ-HDND, which stipulates income levels for experts, scientists and exceptionally talented individuals in key fields that the city needs to attract.

In July 2024, the People’s Committee issued Decision No. 38/2024/QD-UBND, establishing a clear and transparent legal framework to identify needs, recruit, and retain top experts and scientists. This move paved the way for effective implementation of recruitment processes.

As a result, by January 2025, the city’s Council for Attracting Experts, Scientists, and Talented Individuals had reviewed and approved the recruitment of 12 individuals into key roles. Out of these, 10 are in high-priority sectors such as agriculture, high-tech agriculture, biotechnology, and stem cell research.

Specifically, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (now the Department of Agriculture and Environment) was allocated 4 expert positions, while the Management Board of the High-Tech Agricultural Park was approved for 6 experts across 7 positions.

The city also emphasized that promoting Resolution 27/2023/NQ-HDND is a vital political task. It aims to build trust and secure broad support among civil servants, public employees, and the general workforce. Agencies and departments have been instructed to regularly assess and define their demand for high-level expertise to serve major city projects and initiatives.

Efforts to train scientific human resources have also intensified. In 2025, the Department of Home Affairs sent civil servants and researchers from the city’s Biotechnology Center to pursue PhDs in Japan and join research fellowships in South Korea. These programs are expected to improve the quality and capability of the local workforce.

The recruited experts have already made significant contributions and demonstrated leadership in their respective fields. They serve as both research leaders and mentors, helping train the next generation of talent for their organizations.

As Ho Chi Minh City prepares for the upcoming administrative restructuring  -  merging with Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau provinces and shifting to a two-tier local government model  -  it is also working to adjust its legal framework. The city plans to replace Decision 38/2024/QD-UBND to better reflect the new reality after the merger.

With strategic focus on investing in talent, fostering strong research groups at international standards, and creating favorable conditions for both domestic and international experts, the city is committed to achieving its sustainable development goals through 2030 and beyond.

Quoc Ngoc