On September 18, 2024, nearly 400 influential leaders, experts, and business representatives from Southern provinces and cities gathered for the first-ever Policy Dialogue co-hosted by the Vietnam Business Forum (VBF) and the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. Under the theme “Driving Sustainable Growth: Optimizing Economic Ecosystems, Technology, and Energy” the event focused on fostering collaboration to address key economic areas, including Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and the Southeast region.
The dialogue provided a vital platform for sharing experiences and proposing strategic solutions to overcome global challenges such as geopolitical instability, energy price volatility, and supply chain disruptions. Mr. Vo Van Hoan, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, highlighted the city’s commitment to green growth and high-tech industries while enhancing cooperation with Southeastern provinces and the Mekong Delta. This collaborative spirit was echoed by Mr. Michael Vu Nguyen, VBF Co-Chair, emphasized the importance of improving logistics, workforce skills in AI and technology, and streamlining administrative procedures to create a more favorable investment environment. Vice Chair of VBF, Mr. Nitin Kapoor, reiterated the FDI sector’s commitment to supporting local recovery efforts after Typhoon Yagi and strengthening long-term investments in the Southern region’s green economy.
The event included comprehensive sessions led by our Working Group Heads, Co-Heads, and a special expert from IFC and Boeing, covering a wide range of strategic topics. It was structured into two main discussion sessions. The first session focused on optimizing the economic ecosystem, exploring the development of logistics and supply chains, human resource advancement, and reforms in investment and taxation procedures. The second session centered on driving future sustainability, with an emphasis on alternative energy solutions, smart technology, and initiatives to reduce emissions in the aviation sector.
The sessions were met with immediate responses from provincial and departmental government authorities. Acknowledging these concerns raised in the dialogue, Mr. Vo Van Hoan, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, emphasized that city authorities are fully aware of the challenges, especially those highlighted during the sessions. He assured participants that the People’s Committee is committed to addressing these issues with transparency and appropriate actions. The event, marking a significant milestone in VBF’s collaboration with local government, strengthened the connection between provincial leaders and the foreign direct investment (FDI) community.