Vietnam news in brief - February 13

PM orders completion of Chu Lai airport in two years

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered the central province of Quang Nam to complete the Chu Lai airport within two years, with investment procedures to be completed by mid-2025, the People's Committee said on February 13. The project will require VND11 trillion (US$440 million) to be built, with a capacity of 10 million passengers by 2030 and 30 million by 2050. The Ministry of Transport must approve the plan by the second quarter of 2025.

Vietnam showcases handicrafts at Surajkund International Fair

Five artisans from the Hanoi Handicraft Association are showcasing and promoting traditional handicrafts made from bamboo, rattan, and buffalo horn at the 38th Surajkund International Handicraft Fair, taking place from February 7-23, 2025, in India. In particular, the northern province of Dien Bien will send an art troupe to perform from February 14-17. This annual event brings together many countries to showcase handicrafts, cultural exchanges, and culinary traditions.

Quang Ninh expects 20 million visitors in 2025

Quang Ninh, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, aims to welcome 20 million tourists in 2025, generating $2 billion in revenue. During the Lunar New Year holiday, the province saw a 21% increase in visitors, earning $104 million. Quang Ninh is promoting tourism with QR codes, free Wi-Fi, and multilingual digital advertising.

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago has over 1,100 islets. Photo: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Agritechnica ASIA 2025 to be held in Vietnam

More than 200 companies from 25 countries will participate in Agritechnica ASIA 2025, which will be held from March 12-14 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City. The exhibition will showcase advanced agricultural technologies with a focus on key sectors such as rice, coffee and fruit production. It will provide a valuable platform for companies and farmers to explore sustainable solutions, foster innovation and increase productivity.

Soc Trang plans US$14 billion development by 2030

The southern province of Soc Trang plans to invest VND340 trillion (US$14 billion) in development planning by 2030, including VND130 trillion (US$5 billion) for 2021-2025 and VND210 trillion (US$9 billion) for 2026-2030. The province is focusing on infrastructure, seaports, logistics, renewable energy, and ecotourism. The authorities prioritize attracting investment, improving the business environment, and promoting sustainable growth.

Authorities step up measures against online travel scams

The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) has issued a directive urging local tourism departments to prevent online scams targeting travelers. Scammers are setting up fake websites and social media pages pretending to be legitimate businesses and offering fake discounts to deceive customers. VNAT advises people to book only through official channels and calls for stricter inspections to detect and shut down fraudulent platforms to ensure the safety of tourists and the integrity of the industry.

Haiphong Port to handle 215 million tons of cargo annually

Haiphong Port is planned to be divided into five zones with 70-74 berths, handling over 215 million tons of cargo per year. Key areas include Lach Huyen, Dinh Vu and Nam Do Son. By 2050, Lach Huyen, classified as a special seaport and serving as the northern gateway for Vietnam's maritime economy, will have 20 container berths.