Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has suggested that billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, Chairman of Vingroup, construct a subway system connecting Ho Chi Minh City’s downtown area to the Can Gio district. The proposal was announced during the conference to unveil Ho Chi Minh City’s Master Plan for 2021-2030 with a vision to 2050.

Vision for Ho Chi Minh City’s development

At the conference, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chairman, Phan Van Mai, outlined the overarching goal of the master plan: to transform the city into a global, modern, and innovative urban hub.

This vision includes high-quality human resources, green and digital economies, and a leadership role in Southeast Asia as a center for finance, culture, education, and technology.

The city aims to achieve an average annual GRDP growth rate of 8.5-9% by 2030, with GRDP per capita projected to reach $14,800-$15,400.

The plan also involves developing specialized agricultural zones, strengthening key industries, establishing Ho Chi Minh City as the e-commerce hub of Southeast Asia, and dividing the city into three distinct sub-regions: the central urban core, Thu Duc City, and the suburban area.

Focusing on sustainable growth

Speaking at the event, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung emphasized the master plan’s importance, not only for Ho Chi Minh City but for the nation’s overall socio-economic development.

He highlighted the need to prioritize five key tasks:

Investing in transportation infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity within the city, with neighboring provinces, and internationally.

Expediting major projects, such as the Long Thanh International Airport, the Can Gio International Transshipment Port, and the International Financial Center.

Enhancing digital infrastructure and addressing environmental issues like air pollution and flooding.

Attracting strategic investments with advanced technology and sustainable practices.

Developing a high-quality workforce to support modern and green growth.

"Two strengthens and three pioneers"

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh commended the comprehensive vision of the master plan and outlined specific directives for its implementation.

He proposed "two strengthens and three pioneers" to ensure the plan’s success: Strengthen investments in human capital to improve workforce quality; Strengthen connectivity through transportation, digital infrastructure, and diverse supply chains.

The "three pioneers" include: Developing strategic infrastructure in transportation, healthcare, sports, and digital systems; Promoting innovation, science, technology, and digital transformation; Attracting, training, and retaining top talent.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for flexibility, encouraging city leaders to adapt and update the plan as new challenges arise.

Subway proposal to Can Gio

During the conference, the Prime Minister revealed his discussion with billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong about building a subway system from Ho Chi Minh City’s center to Can Gio.

“Mr. Vuong agreed enthusiastically to this idea,” the Prime Minister said, encouraging city officials to involve major corporations in implementing critical infrastructure projects.

Nguyen Van Nen, Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City’s Party Committee, pledged that the city would execute the approved master plan effectively, with the support of the central government, businesses, and residents.

“With unity and determination, Ho Chi Minh City is confident in achieving rapid and sustainable development,” he concluded.

Ho Van