Kien Giang seeks special policies to accelerate APEC 2027 projects

THE HANOI TIMES — The southern province of Kien Giang has proposed that the government grant it special policies and powers to accelerate infrastructure projects in preparation for the APEC 2027 summit.

The province plans to implement 30 strategic projects with a total estimated investment of VND220 trillion (US$8.5 billion) for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Week 2027.

Of these, 18 are public investment projects worth about VND52 trillion ($2 billion), and 12 are private-invested ones with a total value of VND168 trillion ($6.5 billion).

The province proposes to use 1,000 hectares of protected forests, poor forests, grasslands and shrubs in Phu Quoc (in 19 locations) to develop technical and transport infrastructure, sewage and waste treatment systems, reservoirs, and cultural, sports and tourism facilities, Chairman of the Kien Giang Provincial People's Committee Nguyen Thanh Nhan said on April 21 with Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung.

With only two years left to prepare for the event, Nhan urged the government to consider piloting special mechanisms for mineral exploitation and aviation infrastructure development.

These efforts are aimed at supporting APEC 2027 and promoting sustainable development in Phu Quoc, he said.

The province also requested that the government cover 70% of the public investment costs, while the province commits to providing the remaining 30%, Nhan added.

Regarding the expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport, Kien Giang proposed direct investment under the Law on Investment and the Law on Civil Aviation, rather than public-private partnership (PPP), he said.

"If all the proposed projects are completed, they will transform Phu Quoc's image and help attract about 15 million visitors by 2030 and 25 million by 2035, with projected tourism revenue reaching about $20 billion," Nhan said.

Both Phu Quoc and Kien Giang must take full advantage of support from the central government and the private sector to achieve sustainable and well-balanced development, said Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung.

He emphasized the importance of several key projects, including upgrading Phu Quoc International Airport, building the APEC Convention Center, connecting roads, water reservoirs, and sewage and waste treatment plants.

The Deputy PM urged the province and Phu Quoc to implement these projects quickly without compromising long-term quality. He also stressed the need for careful consideration before taking forest land for development.

"Phu Quoc's greatest asset is its forests and natural environment, which are key to attracting international tourists and developing luxury tourism. Kien Giang needs to be very careful about adjusting forest areas."

Deputy Prime Minister Dung ordered provincial authorities to review all projects involving forest land, assess existing plans, and propose solutions to remove obstacles. He also called for the cancellation of any projects that are long overdue or unfeasible.

He emphasized the need for efficient and sustainable use of resources, especially land and water, and urged the province to plan for the long-term use of these projects after APEC 2027.

"It is important to avoid corruption, waste and the influence of vested interests," he said.

The deputy prime minister also encouraged Kien Giang to explore plans for green and digital transformation on Phu Quoc Island, including the use of green transportation and environmental protection.

After the meeting, the Government Office will prepare a report for the Prime Minister to review and make appropriate decisions to support these projects and ensure the success of APEC 2027.

On April 21, Deputy PM Nguyen Chi Dung visited several key projects in Phu Quoc to assess their progress, including the provincial 975 road, Duong Dong 2 water reservoir, and Phu Quoc International Airport.