Dong Nai: urban development opportunities

(ĐN)- As of July 1, the official merger of the former Binh Phuoc and Dong Nai provinces into the newly established Dong Nai has created a significantly expanded space for socio-economic development. Among the many implications, the restructured province now holds fresh opportunities in the field of urban planning and development.

An urban scene in Tran Bien ward, Dong Nai province.

A new structure, a new urban outlook

With the reorganization, Dong Nai now operates under a two-tier local government model across 95 communes and wards. According to Chairman Khuong Nguyen Duc Chuong of the provincial Architects’ Association, this administrative shift redefines not only the geographic scope but also the very concept of urban development within the province.

Under Resolution 1210/2016/UBTVQH13 issued by the National Assembly Standing Committee, Vietnam currently classifies urban areas into six tiers based on criteria such as population size, density, non-agricultural labor ratio, and infrastructure development.

Mr. Chuong noted that, following the merger, several urban areas in Dong Nai could see their classification upgraded due to increased population and land area. Furthermore, the mechanisms for managing urban zones will also need to adapt to this new administrative reality. “There will undoubtedly be substantial changes,” he said. “This calls for a revision of classification criteria and management practices to suit the evolving landscape, enabling faster infrastructure upgrades and urban expansion.”

An urban corner of Binh Phuoc ward, Dong Nai province.

Strategic vision and growth potential

Chairman Vo Tan Duc of the provincial People's Committee emphasized that one of the province's key development goals is to establish high-end urban, tourism and resort zones.

Dong Nai ranks among the largest provinces nationwide in terms of land area, population, and economic scale. These advantages are further amplified by its longstanding industrial base and a series of major infrastructure projects such as Long Thanh international airport, Phuoc An port, expressways and belt roads.

Dr. Mai Chiem Hieu, Deputy Head of Political Economy at the HCM city-based Academy of Politics, highlighted Dong Nai’s strategic position. “With Long Thanh airport, Phuoc An port, and strong connectivity to the Central Highlands, Southwest, and South Central regions, Dong Nai is poised to become an economic hub,” he said.

He added that the province should focus development around three core areas including Long Thanh, Nhon Trach and the former Bien Hoa. “Bien Hoa should be shaped into a modern administrative and political center, offering high-quality services. In particular, the banks of the Dong Nai river could be developed into a vibrant waterfront zone—similar to the Han river model in Da Nang.”

A diverse urban future

With expanded territory, numerous industrial zones, and strategic infrastructure, Dong Nai now has the potential to develop a wide variety of urban forms. These include cities integrated with transport infrastructure, industrial urban zones, and transit-oriented developments (TODs).

According to Dr. Ngo Viet Nam Son, architect and chairman of NgoViet Architects & Planners, the post-merger urban map could evolve significantly. Industrial growth may shift northward toward the former Binh Phuoc area, thereby freeing up space in areas like Long Thanh and Bien Hoa for more intensive urban development.

Moreover, this industrial shift would naturally spur urban growth in the former Binh Phuoc territory, as transportation infrastructure will need to be expanded and upgraded. The influx of labor and population migration would create the momentum necessary for developing industrial cities.

“Of course, investments must go beyond transportation. Social infrastructure such as housing, schools and healthcare must also be developed to ensure incoming residents find all the conditions needed for a fulfilling life.” noted Dr. Son.

Reported by P. Tung