On October 3, the Ministry of Construction announced Vietnam's official urban and rural development master plan for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision extending to 2050.

The plan sets ambitious goals, including the development of a smart urban network and the establishment of 3-5 internationally recognized cities by 2030.

The master plan outlines a vision for four major urban zones: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Can Tho.

These zones will include key national, regional, and provincial urban centers, with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City identified as the primary growth hubs driving the country’s economic and social development.

The Hanoi metropolitan area will encompass cities such as Hai Phong, Quang Ninh, Hung Yen, Bac Ninh, and several others, while Ho Chi Minh City will include adjacent provinces like Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Long An.

The regions around Da Nang and Can Tho will similarly integrate surrounding provinces, with the goal of creating dynamic urban centers that fuel economic growth and innovation.

The plan sets a target of achieving over 50% urbanization by 2030, increasing to 70% by 2050. Vietnam also aims to expand its network of urban centers to between 1,000 and 1,200 by 2030, with a focus on creating cities that offer living standards comparable to the top four ASEAN nations.

By 2030, the average living space in urban areas is expected to reach 32 square meters per person, and urban economic zones are projected to contribute about 85% to the country’s GDP.

Alongside urban development, the plan also focuses on rural growth, with a vision for cohesive and balanced development that bridges the gap between urban and rural areas.

The Ministry of Construction emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural identity and preserving historical and architectural heritage in rural regions, even as they become increasingly urbanized.

Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Viet Hung stressed the need for a resilient urban network capable of adapting to climate change while promoting green, modern, and smart city growth.

The plan also prioritizes sustainability and aims to ensure that rural areas have access to social services and infrastructure on par with urban centers.

As part of this strategic vision, the plan will facilitate better integration between urban and rural areas, ensuring that as urbanization progresses, the unique cultural and historical value of rural areas is preserved.

Tran Thu Hang, Head of the Department of Planning and Architecture at the Ministry of Construction, highlighted the importance of aligning urban and rural planning within a national framework to ensure strategic and sustainable growth.

This marks the first time such a plan has been codified into national law, reflecting Vietnam’s commitment to building a unified system of urban and rural areas that balances modern development with cultural preservation.

Hong Khanh