Haiphong

Haiphong (Hải Phòng) is Vietnam's third-largest city and the principal port city of the Red River Delta [1, 2]. It is recognized as a significant industrial, economic, cultural, medical, educational, scientific, commercial, and technological hub in the northern coastal region of the country [1]. Often referred to as the "City of Red Flamboyant Trees" due to the widespread cultivation of its namesake royal poinciana flowers, Haiphong seamlessly blends its rich historical background with contemporary advancements and charm [1, 2].

Founded in 1888, the city has historically held, and continues to maintain, substantial economic, social, scientific, technological, security, and defense importance for Northern Vietnam and the nation as a whole [1, 2]. Its strategic location makes it an indispensable gateway to renowned tourist destinations, including the scenic Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island [2]. Haiphong's role as a major port city further underscores its significance in regional and international trade and connectivity.

• Haiphong is the third most populous city in Vietnam [1].
• The city's total area, following its merger with Hai Duong province, is over 3,194.72 km² (1,233.49 mi²) [2, 6].
• In 2023, the city had a population of 2,130,898 [2].
• Haiphong is geographically situated on the northeastern edge of the Red River Delta and its coastline borders the Gulf of Tonkin [2].
• The city experiences a humid subtropical climate (Koppen: Cwa) [2].
• It is affectionately known as the "City of Red Flamboyant Trees" due to its association with Royal Poinciana flowers [1, 2].
• As of 2012, Haiphong was home to 4 universities and academies, 17 colleges, and 26 professional secondary schools [2].

Haiphong operates as a centrally-controlled municipality, a classification in Vietnam that grants it special administrative status equivalent to that of a province [2, 6]. A recent significant administrative reorganization, effective July 1, 2025, involved the merger of Haiphong city with Hai Duong province, creating a larger, expanded Haiphong city [6]. This restructuring aims to streamline government operations and has resulted in the elimination of the district level of administration, transitioning to a two-tier local administration model [6].

The city is organized into urban districts, rural districts, and a municipal city (Thủy Nguyên), which are further subdivided into commune-level towns, communes, and wards [2]. The Haiphong City People's Council serves as the legislative body responsible for policies and regulations, while the People's Committee acts as the executive branch, overseeing the implementation of laws and managing provincial departments [2]. The Communist Party of Vietnam maintains a central and guiding role across all levels of the administrative apparatus, with Party committees established to lead and ensure the implementation of Party guidelines and policies [7].

Haiphong stands as a vital economic center in Northern Vietnam and across the nation, historically holding a status equal to major cities like Saigon and Hanoi during French colonial rule [1, 2]. The city's economy is predominantly driven by its robust manufacturing sector, encompassing diverse industries such as food processing, light manufacturing, and heavy industries. Key products include fish sauce, beer, textiles, cement, iron, pharmaceuticals, and shipbuilding [2].

Haiphong has consistently demonstrated rapid Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) growth, positioning itself among Vietnam's fastest-growing localities [8]. Foreign direct investment (FDI) is a significant contributor to its economic vitality, with substantial projects from international investors, particularly in manufacturing [8]. While industry and services form the largest share of the city's GDP, the agriculture and fishery sectors also play a notable role, with rice being a primary crop and aquaculture experiencing rapid expansion [2].

Haiphong offers a highly favorable business environment, making it a strategic location for foreign investment. This is attributed to its advantageous geographical position, ongoing infrastructure improvements, and attractive government incentives aimed at drawing foreign direct investment (FDI) [8]. The city's commitment to fostering a conducive business climate is reflected in its strong performance on Vietnam's Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI), where it consistently ranks high, particularly for its labor policies and efficiency in processing administrative matters (Time Costs) [2, 8].

Notably, the Dinh Vu - Cat Hai Economic Zone provides a comprehensive suite of investment incentives, including favorable corporate income tax rates, tax exemptions, and reductions on personal income tax for individuals working directly within the zone [8]. Haiphong actively promotes foreign investments in high-tech industries, seaports-logistics, and tourism-commerce, positioning these sectors as the primary pillars for future economic growth and development [8].

Haiphong boasts a well-developed and multifaceted infrastructure crucial to its role as a key economic hub. The city is served by a comprehensive transportation network that integrates railways, roadways, airways, inland waterways, and maritime transport, providing essential connectivity for trade and logistics [8]. The Port of Haiphong, situated on the Cấm River, is among the largest ports in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, with ongoing expansion plans, including new terminals designed to accommodate larger vessels, further solidifying its capacity for international trade [2, 8].

Road connectivity is robust, with National Highways 5 and 10 linking Haiphong to Hanoi and other southern destinations. A modern expressway has significantly reduced travel time between Haiphong and Hanoi. Air travel is facilitated by Cat Bi International Airport, with plans for an even larger international airport in the future. The city also actively invests in developing its internal road network, including the construction of numerous new bridges to enhance regional connectivity [8].

Haiphong is actively cultivating a dynamic technology sector, with a strong emphasis on attracting foreign investment in high-tech industries [8]. The city's long-term development vision includes becoming a major, modern, smart, and multifunctional urban center, with science and technology serving as a key driver of progress [6].

Efforts are underway to accelerate digital transformation initiatives, including the provision of high-level online public services, aiming to streamline administrative procedures and enhance efficiency for citizens and businesses [6]. Additionally, software implementation is recognized as a growing industry within the city's diverse economic landscape, contributing to its evolving technological capabilities [2].