Reporting at the conference, Mr. Ngo Van Mit – Director of the Provincial Statistics Department said that in the first 6 months of 2024, in the context of the world economy gradually recovering, it still faces difficulties and challenges, continuing to greatly affect the socio-economic development of the country in general and of Binh Duong province in particular. 

The overview of the press conference

However, with the effort of the political system and the joint efforts and consensus of the people and the business community in the area, the socio-economic situation of the province has achieved many positive results in most fields. 

Specially, the Gross Domestic Product (GRDP) in the first 6 months of 2024 increased by 6.19% over the same period in 2023. It is estimated that the export turnover of goods reached 16,3 billion US dollars, up to 10.3% and imports were 11,5 billion US dollars, up 9.9% compared to the same period. Investment capital for the development of the whole society is estimated at 68,900 billion VND, up 6.8% over the same period. State budget revenue reached 26,830 billion VND, achieving 56% of the plan in 2024, increasing 13.4% at the same period. 

Mr. Ngo Van Mit – Director of the Provincial Statistics Department announces statistics on the province's socio-economic situation in the 6 months of 2024

The survey results of the Statistics Department also pointed out certain limitations and difficulties such as the progress of disbursement of public investment capital, the real estate market is still inactive, which has led to a decrease in some production sectors, raw material consumption markets, etc. have not stimulated economic growth in other sectors. Credit growth is still low, only reaching 2.5% of outstanding balance growth compared to the target of 15% of outstanding balance in 2024. This shows that there is no shortage of capital, but the demand for loans for production and business of enterprises is not there. This is the reason why many businesses have not had new orders and plans to expand production. Meanwhile, many small businesses need to borrow capital but do not meet all the conditions for borrowing. 

​At the meeting, the representative of VNRA informed of the planning of the An Binh railway station in Binh Duong province according to the planning documents of railway routes and stations in the Ho Chi Minh City hub area for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050, organized by the VNRA. The An Binh railway station, which is researched, updated, and adjusted in position from the left to the right of the existing North-South unified railway line, is a combination of functions (passengers, goods, maintenance, repair to overhaul level).

Overview of the meeting.

The An Binh railway station is planned to become the main cargo station in Ho Chi Minh City, oriented to be a station combining the function of organizing international intermodal transport. It is expected that by 2050, it will transport about 23 million tons of cargo and 25 million passengers.

The representative of VNRA speaks at the meeting.

Mr. Nguyen Anh Minh – Director of the Department of Transport said that in response to the development needs of the province as well as the railway planning network in the region, in order to plan and develop An Binh railway station synchronously, Binh Duong province has proposed the VNRA and the WB to consider adjusting the planning of An Binh railway station from the left side of the existing North-South railway line to the right side of the line belonging to Song Than 1 Industrial Park, with a land lease term until 2045 and an area of about 190 hectares. The new location will create many advantages for implementing related plans in the coming time while meeting the socio-economic development needs of the Southeast region in the new period.

Mr. Nguyen Anh Minh – Director of the Department of Transport speaks at the meeting.

The representative of WB affirmed that WB would support Viet Nam, including Binh Duong in terms of railway development projects. WB hoped that Binh Duong would positively cooperate with them and exchange information so that the plan would be completed as scheduled. WB would consider providing financial resources, technical expertise, and international experts with experience in this field.

WB representatives speak at the meeting.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Mai Hung Dung – Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC hoped that after the meeting and the field survey, WB would consider and provide the province with technical expertise so that the province could complete the planning of An Binh railway station. From there, An Binh railway station will be developed into an integrated railway industrial development area, ICD commercial areas, commercial centers, auto mechanical services, port bonded warehouse service centers, etc. Thereby creating favorable conditions for the socio-economic development of the province in particular and the national railway system in general.

​Accordingly, implementing the Prime Minister's Decision No. 338/QD-TTg on April 03, 2023, approving the Scheme "Investing in the construction of at least 1 million social housings for low-income people and industrial park workers in the term 2021-2030", Binh Duong province is assigned a development target of 86,877 apartments by the government, which compared to the forecast demand of 115,836 social housings in the term 2021 – 2030. From 2021 to 2025, it is forecasted to be 36,377 units/ 61,836 units; from 2026 – 2030 is 40,500 units/ 54,000 units according to the forecast.

Based on the survey's results, it is forecasted that by 2025, there will be 42,816 people working at enterprises inside and outside industrial parks, civil servants, and armed forces in need of social housing, equivalent to 42,816 households, with an are​a of 1,926,720 m2 of construction floor. From 2026 – 2030, there will be 86,396 people equivalent to 86,396 apartments, with an area of 4,319,800 m2.

Thus, the total number of people needing social housing is 129,212 people, equivalent to 129,212 units.

According to the project, in the term 2021 – 2030, Binh Duong is expected to invest in about 160,325 social housing (155,289 apartments and 5,036 townhouses, of which the number of units for lease is about 32,065). The total land area is about 470.4 hectares, the construction floor area is estimated at 9,253,924 m2, meeting about 552,458 people with a total investment of about 84,756 billion VND, higher than the target assigned by the government in Decision No.338/QD-TTg dated April 3, 2023.

From 2021 to 2025, it is expected to allocate about 136.1 hectares of investment land area to complete about 42,445 social housing units, with a construction floor area of 2,612,721 m2, meeting about 138,326 people with a total investment of about 23,817 billion VND; from 2026 to 2030, it is expected to allocate about 334.3 hectares of land area, invest in completing about 117,880 social housing units, with a construction floor area of 6,641,203 m2, meeting about 414,132 people with a total investment of about 60,939 billion VND.

The land fund recovered by the State has not yet been put into use or the land fund is being managed by State enterprises, including commercial and service land, production and business land in 26 areas with about 121.9 hectares, which is expected to be invested in about 18,789 units, equivalent to 2,598,732 m2 of construction floor,  the population is about 116,204 people with a total investment of about 17,294 billion VND, to be included in the land fund for the development of social housing and housing for workers.

In the period of 2021-2025: It is expected to implement 10 projects with a land area of about 44.5 hectares, build about 17,418 social housing units, equivalent to 989,153 squares of construction floor, population of about 65,812 people with a total investment of about 9,168 billion VND.

From 2026 through 2030: Continuing to implement social housing projects with a land area of about 143.9 hectares, about 56,351 units, equivalent to 3,200,150 m2 of construction floor, population of about 212,916 people with a total investment of about 29,661 billion VND.

Accordingly, the Department of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs (DOLISA) will effectively carry out the activities of the Month of Action on occupational safety and hygiene, fire prevention and fighting in 2024; deploy legal documents guiding the Law on Occupational Safety and Hygiene to enterprises, organizations and individuals, raising awareness and responsibility of employers and leaders to ensure safe working conditions and occupational hygiene for employees during the working process and at the workplace.

At the same time, DOLISA will regularly inspect and examine occupational safety and hygiene at enterprises and business establishments, especially in areas with high risks of occupational accidents such as construction works, confined workspaces, places using equipment with strict requirements on occupational safety (boilers, pressure equipment, lifting equipment, refrigeration systems, etc.), and electricity. It will also regularly inspect and examine organizations and enterprises with the function of training on occupational safety and hygiene; conduct technical safety inspections of machinery, equipment, and materials with strict requirements on occupational safety; handle organizations and individuals violating regulations on occupational safety and hygiene, etc.

Document.

The goal of the seminar is to promote businesses in the province to have multi-dimensional perspectives on the dual transformation trend and to have more useful information to promote the journey of businesses' digital transformation. They are to improve business efficiency, enhance competitiveness, and aim for sustainable development. It contributes to the socio-economic development of Binh Duong Province.

The seminar will take place from 7:30 to 11:30 on July 16^th, 2024, at the Convention and Exhibition Center of Binh Duong Province (Le Loi Street, Hoa Phu Ward, Thu Dau Mot City).

The participants include Leader of the Provincial People's Committee, Department of Enterprise Development, departments and branches, People's Committee of Districts and Cities, the Provincial Business Associations, and operating and investing businesses in the province.

The seminar's main contents include report on the result of development and support businesses in 2023, mission directions in 2024, policies and programs to support businesses, digital transformation, and green transformation trends in Viet Nam and globally, safety information, Binh Duong's digital economic picture and digital platform ecosystem solutions to support digital transformation of businesses, cooperatives, and business households, solutions of capital arrangement for businesses, etc.

If enterprises are interested, register and confirm participation in the seminar before June 31^st, 2024. Contact Mr. Nguyen Quoc Binh for more detailed information (Phone number: 0392.576.847).

To join the seminar, enterprises register through the address: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=4h46Bf_7hECBo_g-t34XvQ4bzz1zVExCmt9NUpezLg1URFBXM1RKRjc5VTNVNEYxMUEzQlBDVFpCMC4u 

Or scan the below QR.

Feepayers are organizations and individuals that submit dossiers of requests for appraisal of environmental impact assessment reports and environmental improvement and restoration plans in the province.

Specifically, the fee for appraisal of environmental impact assessment reports:

In the case of projects with 02 groups or more: The fee rate for each project group has the highest fee rate.

Fee rates for appraisal of environmental improvement and restoration plans:

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment (Sub-Department of Environmental Protection) and the Provincial Industrial Park Management Board are responsible for collecting fees and remitting all collected fees into the State budget as prescribed.

Sources of expenses for appraisal and collection of tolls shall be allocated by the State budget in the estimates of toll-collecting organizations according to the regimes and norms of State budget expenditure in accordance with law.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Nguyen Loc Ha – Vice Chairman of the PPC and members of the PPC. It was also connected online to districts and cities in the province.

Most of the socio-economic indicators reach 50% or more

In the first 6 months of 2024, the socio-economy of Binh Duong has some positive achievements. Out of 36 indicators, most of which have reached 50% or more up to now, 06 indicators have exceeded the year plan, and 01 has decreased compared to the same period, i.e., attracting foreign investment. The PPC will focus on directing and giving specific plans for each month, and each quarter of the rest 6 months, striving to achieve the highest possible targets.

The province's GRDP increased by 6.19% compared to the same period in 2023, which was 3.55%. Specifically, industry and construction increased by 5.81%; services increased by 7.36%; product taxes minus product subsidies increased by 7.2%; agriculture, forestry, and fishery increased by 3.29%.

Overview of the meeting.

Industrial production activities in the first 6 months of the year have improved, and the province's key export industries have gradually recovered. However, some other industries, especially the supporting industry, are still facing difficulties such as the high cost of raw materials and transportation, the export market being very competitive, etc.

The industrial production index is estimated to increase by 5.63% compared to the same period in 2023 (2.65%). Particularly, the processing industry increased by 6.0%; electricity and gas production and distribution decreased by 14.88%; water supply and wastewater and waste treatment increased by 19.81%; the mining industry decreased by 0.88%.

The electricity sector has proactively taken measures to ensure sufficient electricity supply for daily life, production, and business; and promoted the use of electricity economically and efficiently among people and businesses. The work of planning for electricity development, electricity supply, investment management, relocation, compensation, and site clearance related to electricity projects and works, etc. has always been taken care of.

As of May 15, 2024, domestic investment has attracted more than 27,000 billion VND in registered capital (up 12.1% over the same period). As of May 30, 2024, foreign investment has attracted nearly 589 million USD (reaching 64.4% over the same period).

Total retail sales of goods and service revenue is estimated at 166,180 billion VND, up 13% over the same period (same period increased by 12.2%).

Import-export activities remain at a fairly high growth rate compared to the same period last year. Export turnover is estimated to reach nearly 16.3 billion USD, up 10.3% over the same period last year (down 19%); import turnover is estimated to be more than 11.5 billion USD, up 9.9% over the same period last year (down 17%).​

In the first 6 years of 2024, the industrial production index is estimated to increase by 5.63% compared to the same period in 2023.

Mr. Nguyen Tran Hieu - Director of Binh Duong Customs Department said that in the first 5 months of 2024, the province's export turnover recovered compared to 2023, i.e., increasing by 11%, although lower than the national growth rate, i.e., 16%. However, compared to other provinces in the Southeast region, Binh Duong has a fairly high growth rate. Its main export industries gradually recovered, such as wood, wood products, textiles, iron, and steel of all kinds.

Mr. Ngo Van Mit - Director of the Provincial Statistics Office estimated that in the last 6 months of 2024, the world situation continues to be unstable with more difficulties and challenges, strongly affecting production, business, import, export, and investment attraction activities. However, the province's socio-economy still has many improvements. Compared to figures from 2021 to the present, the province's economic growth in the first 6 months of the year is quite good. To achieve the growth target of 8% in 2024, the province must grow by 8.5% in the third quarter and recover by 10.7% in the fourth quarter.

Promote disbursement of public investment capital

At the meeting, the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) reported on the disbursement of public investment capital, orientation, and primary tasks for the last 6 months of 2024.

As of June 17, 2024, the value of public investment capital disbursement in 2024 was 3,766 billion VND, reaching 24.7% of the capital plan assigned by the Prime Minister and 17.1% of the capital plan assigned by the Provincial People's Council (same period reached 12.8%).

Although all levels and sectors have made great efforts, the disbursement rate of the province has not yet reached the expected level. Mr. Lai Xuan Dat – Deputy Director of the DPI said that the disbursement of public investment capital was slow in the first months of the year due to difficulties and problems in mechanisms and policies because of the delay in issuing documents guiding the implementation of the Bidding Law, affecting the implementation of some projects due to the need to adjust documents, forms, etc. according to new regulations.

The leader of DPI reports on the disbursement of public investment capital in the first 6 months of 2024.

In addition, many contents in the Law on Bidding do not have specific instructions, and there are many different interpretations, leading to difficulties in the implementation process. Some conventions of the Law on Public Investment, the guiding Decree, and related Laws are still overlapping, and not specifically stipulated, affecting the implementation and disbursement of public investment capital.

Besides, compensation and site clearance work is still a "bottleneck" affecting project construction progress. The order and procedures for land acquisition, compensation, and resettlement support for projects are lengthy and complicated, and compensation and support policies are not suitable for reality. Coordination in resolving difficulties and problems for investors is sometimes and, in some places, not timely, affecting the project implementation progress. In the first months of the year, some newly started projects need to carry out investment procedures such as designing construction drawings and estimates, contractor selection plans, organizing contractor selection, etc., so there is no volume of implementation for disbursement.

To speed up the disbursement of public investment capital, the PPC requests departments and branches to prioritize and focus resources on public investment, shorten appraisal and approval time; and strengthen coordination with investors and district-level People's Committees to promptly remove difficulties according to their functions and tasks. Regarding cases beyond authority, they must promptly report and propose to competent authorities for consideration and resolution.

They should regularly inspect, monitor, and take strict measures to handle cases of project implementation time extension due to the weak capacity of contractors or consultants. The PPC also requires investors to fully implement and ensure the time of periodic and ad hoc reporting regimes as required by competent authorities to serve the work of advising on public investment planning.

The departments and branches must further strengthen the role and responsibility of leaders of sectors and localities in directing and removing difficulties and obstacles in disbursing public investment capital, especially obstacles related to site clearance, etc.​

Mr. Vo Van Minh – Chairman of the PPC concludes the meeting.

Concluding the Meeting, the Chairman of the PPC assessed that the province's socio-economic situation achieved positive results, especially in the fields of domestic budget collection and good domestic investment attraction; and key projects were vigorously implemented.

He pointed out some shortcomings and problems. For example, GRDP growth has not created a strong change, the first quarter increased by 5.27%, the second quarter increased by 6.52% and the first 6 months increased by 6.19% (ranked 5th in the region and 34th in the country). Besides, foreign investment attraction has decreased sharply.

The Chairman of the PPC requested departments, branches, and localities to focus on solutions to organize contact and work directly with each association, enterprise, and project to promptly remove difficulties.

At the same time, there is a need to speed up the expansion of industrial parks and invest in new industrial clusters according to the planning; develop criteria for developing ecological and high-tech industries; complete the policy of relocating enterprises from southern localities to industrial parks and clusters in northern localities of the province.

It is necessary to focus on resolving difficulties, drastically promoting the disbursement of public investment capital. They must also urgently complete the Provincial Planning for the period 2021 - 2030, with a vision to 2050, submit it to the Prime Minister for approval, and organize a Conference to announce the planning.

Besides, they must well implement social security work, and support the material and spiritual life of the people, especially workers in difficult circumstances; effectively implement solutions to develop the labor market, connect labor supply and demand; focus on training new occupations, consulting, introducing jobs for workers to maintain jobs, stabilize production.

Accordingly, it is expected to organize dialogues with the foreign branches and enterprises in 2024 in 04 main markets, i.e, Japanese, Chinese English, and Korean languages, to inform the socio-economic situation, the situation of attracting foreign investment of the province, as well as listen to opinions, proposals of representatives of enterprises, business associations and consulates general of countries in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). At the same time, the dialogues promptly remove difficulties, and obstacles, and create conditions to support the production, and business activities of enterprises.

Expecting time: 04 sessions from June to September 2024, with 04 markets mentioned. In particular, the dialogues with Japan, and China (Taiwan) will be held in June 2024, and July 2024 respectively. In August 2024, the dialogue will be held with foreign enterprises that are English-speaking countries. The last dialogue with South Korea will be held in September 2024.

Venue: The Provincial Convention and Exhibition Center.

Delegations: The Consulates General of countries in HCMC, the Association of Foreign Enterprises in Binh Duong province, HCMC, and foreign trade promotion agencies in HCMC; enterprises are investing in Binh Duong. 

The dialogues aim to continue to accelerate cooperation activities to attract foreign direct investment in Binh Duong province as well as implement measures to support businesses, contributing to improving the Provincial Competitive Index (PCI) of Binh Duong province.  

Discussing with the leader of ADB, Mr. Mai Hung Dung said that as the province is the northern gateway of Ho Chi Minh City, over the past 27 years, Binh Duong has always been considered one of the leading localities in Viet Nam in terms of socio-economic development and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). Along with economic development, Binh Duong also pays special attention to environmental protection.

Many projects on environmental protection, wastewater collection, and treatment, etc. in the province have received active support from ADB, especially projects implemented by BIWASE such as the South Thu Dau Mot Water Supply and Environmental Sanitation Project, Tan Hiep Water Plant, Solid Waste Treatment Plant combined with Power Generation at Binh Duong Waste Treatment Complex, etc.

The Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC believed that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) would be an opportunity for the two Parties to further strengthen and cooperate, promoting the socio-economic development of Binh Duong province, especially in implementing the Binh Duong Provincial Planning for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050, through programs and projects funded by ADB in Binh Duong province.

Mr. Mai Hung Dung, Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC receives and works with Mr. Shantanu Chakraborty, Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Viet Nam.

Mr. Shantanu Chakraborty, Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Viet Nam congratulated Binh Duong on its achievements. He said that ADB and Binh Duong province have a long history of cooperation, having supported each other in successfully implementing many environmental improvement projects.

Mr. Shantanu Chakraborty affirmed that the MOU would be an important milestone in the cooperative relationship between the two sides. He believed that it would further deepen and open strategic approaches and cooperation opportunities in various fields, contributing to Binh Duong province in making the goal of sustainable development and responding to climate change come true.

ADB highly appreciated Binh Duong's orientation and would be willing to accompany the province in the next development stage. After the reception, ADB hopes to have more in-depth discussions with Binh Duong to assess the impact factors of the projects. And Binh Duong province needs to further strengthen discussions with the Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Ministry of Finance to agree on projects as well as loan procedures.

Binh Duong PPC and ADB sign a MOU on cooperation.

Also at the meeting, Binh Duong PPC and ADB signed a MOU on cooperation. According to the MOU, the two Parties agree to establish a partnership based on equality and mutual benefit to promote sustainable and comprehensive socio-economic development of Binh Duong Province with the effective implementation of the "Master Plan of Binh Duong Province for the period of 2021-2030, with the vision to 2050".

ADB is committed to supporting Binh Duong Province in implementing programs and projects in the following fields: Addressing the challenges of climate change, Supporting sustainable poverty reduction, Promoting rural development and food security, Building cities more livable, Accelerating gender equality, Fostering regional cooperation and integration, Promoting private sector development, Strengthening local governance capacity and effectiveness, Promoting the development of local innovation and startup ecosystems, Supporting applied scientific and technological research at higher education institutions, etc.

Binh Duong agrees to facilitate and provide necessary guidance on administrative procedures for projects, commits counterpart funds for programs and projects supported by ADB, etc.

Mr. Mai Hung Dung, Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC presents a souvenir to Mr. Shantanu Chakraborty, Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Viet Nam.

​The reception was attended by Mr. Nguyen Loc Ha, Vice Chairman of the PPC; Ms. Nguyen Thi My Hang - Chairwoman of the Provincial Viet Nam Fatherland Front Committee; Ms. Nguyen Truong Nhat Phuong – Vice Chairwoman of the Provincial People's Council and leaders of ​provincial departments.

 ​​

Mr. Vo Van Minh – Chairman of the PPC receives and works with the Delegation of Henan Province, China.

At the reception, Mr. Vo Van Minh - Chairman of the PPC expressed his pleasure to welcome the Delegation of Henan Province to Binh Duong. Informing about the province's socio-economy, he said that Binh Duong is among Viet Nam's leading localities regarding socio-economic development and foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction speed. Accumulated to May 15, 2024, the province has had 4,300 investment projects from 65 countries and territories with a total capital of more than 40.7 billion USD, etc.

The Chairman of the PPC said that there are many opportunities for cooperation between the two provinces, contributing to the development of Viet Nam and China in general and the two provinces in particular. He wished to further strengthen the cooperative relationship between the two localities through cooperation topics.

Mr. Vo Van Minh – Chairman of the PPC presents a souvenir to Mr. Sun Yunfeng - Vice Governor of the People's Government of Henan Province.

Mr. Sun Yunfeng - Vice Governor of the People's Government of Henan Province, China expressed his excitement to visit and work with Binh Duong Province. He highly appreciated the province's dynamic and creative economic development, as well as its potential and advantages, especially on the quality of provincial government administration in management, planning, FDI attraction, trade, and services.

Mr. Sun Yunfeng informed that Henan has a population of 100 million people, which is an industrial and agriculture center, and a transport hub of China. Its economic scale ranks 6th in China.

He emphasized that this business trip of their Delegation aimed to promote cooperation between the two provinces in terms of logistics, trade economics, tourism, etc. He said that Binh Duong and Henan have many similarities and can take advantage of each other's strengths to cooperate and develop together.

He welcomed Binh Duong and Vietnamese enterprises to Henan to promote trade and investment cooperation. The Vice Governor of the People's Government of Henan Province also hoped that future cooperation would bring good achievements to the two provinces.

The leaders of Binh Duong and Henan sign an MOU on Cooperation, Exchange, and Friendship between the Binh Duong PPC and the Government of Henan, China.

On this occation, the leaders of the two provinces signed an MOU on Cooperation, Exchange, and Friendship between the Binh Duong PPC and the Government of Henan, China.

The delegates take a group photo.

Attending were Mr. Vo Van Minh - Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee (PPC); Members of the Provincial Standing Party Committee; Ms. Nguyen Thi My Hang - Chairwoman of the Provincial Viet Nam Fatherland Front Committee; Ms. Nguyen Truong Nhat Phuong - Vice Chairwoman of the Provincial People's Council and delegates of the Provincial People's Council.

Passing documents submitted for approval of Binh Duong Provincial Planning

The major and important content considered and passed at the Meeting is the documents submitted for approval of Binh Duong Provincial Planning for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050. The consideration and passing of the Plan aims to ensure conditions and procedures for submission to the Prime Minister, serving as a basis for implementing the goals and strategies that Binh Duong province is implementing in the period from now to 2030 and vision to 2050.

Delegates attend the Meeting

Mr. Vo Anh Tuan - Chief of the PPC Office said that Binh Duong Provincial Planning complies with the 2017 Planning Law, especially closely following Resolution No.24-NQ/TW of the Politburo on socio-economic development and ensuring national defense and security in the Southeast region until 2030, with a vision to 2045 and Resolution No.31-NQ/TW of the Politburo on directions and tasks for developing Ho Chi Minh City to 2030, with a vision to 2045. These two Resolutions have pointed out major directions, meeting development requirements in the new period for Binh Duong, requiring the province to include solutions in planning to gain advantages.

The content of Binh Duong Provincial Planning has been carefully and seriously researched, analyzed, and built on a fairly complete information and data system about the current status, potential, and development capabilities, ensuring feasibility. Planning to build a development strategy, connecting urban, transportation, and social infrastructure with the Southern Key Economic Region and Ho Chi Minh City, to seize opportunities and promote the socio-economic development of Binh Duong.

Mr. Vo Anh Tuan - Chief of the PPC Office presents the Proposal on Provincial Planning

According to the Plan, the development goal by 2030, Binh Duong along with other provinces and cities in the Southeast region will become an important driving force of the country, promoting and spreading development to localities in the region, one of the dynamic and comprehensive development centers, a modern industrial and service center, an urban area with sustainable development following the green growth model, adapting to climate change, a strong region in defense - security and international cooperation and competition. The average economic growth rate in the 2021-2030 period will reach about 10%/year.

Vision to 2050, Binh Duong will become a modern urban, industrial, and service area with regional and international stature, one of the driving forces promoting national economic development with the main growth drivers being industry, services, and innovation, with a solid economic base and high competitiveness; people having income levels similar to developed countries; inclusive and harmonious economic development between regions.​

Delegates vote to approve the Provincial Planning documents

The delegates unanimously voted to approve the Provincial Planning documents to submit to the Prime Minister in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Highly unified regimes and policies for a number of subjects

Also at the Meeting, deputies focused on reviewing, discussing, and deciding on several issues: Public investment; collection and management levels of fees related to environmental protection activities; regulating spending tasks, and support policies for people performing the task of supporting environmental protection at district and commune levels. At the same time, approving the Project to build forces to participate in protecting security and order at the grassroots; stipulating criteria for establishment and number of members; level of support, and conditions to ensure operations for this force.

Colonel Ta Van Dep - Director of the Provincial Public Sercurity presents the Project on building a force to participate in protecting security and order at the grassroots level

According to the draft Resolution, the security and order protection team will be arranged in hamlets and neighborhoods in communes, wards, and towns; Each hamlet or neighborhood establishes a security and order protection team. The security and order protection team in the commune is arranged with 03 - 05 members; The security and order protection team in the area of the ward or town is arranged from 05 to 09 members.

Regarding support policy, monthly support is from 4.5 million - 5 million VND/month. The level of support for training when summoned and patrolling at night is 150,000 VND/person/night; on duty at a key defense commune-level administrative unit, they will receive an additional support level of 70,000 VND/person/day. Monthly support for paying Social Insurance is according to regulations on Voluntary Social Insurance at the lowest rate; Annually, 100% of health insurance premiums are supported for those participating in household health insurance.

Through verification, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai - Head of the Legal Committee of the Provincial People's Council assessed that the monthly support level for members of the Grassroots Security and Order Protection Team is equivalent to the level of support currently enjoyed by part-time police officers in the area and higher than the level of support currently enjoyed by the Civil Guard. Support policies are necessary and appropriate to local conditions, in order to contribute to mobilizing and encouraging these forces to actively participate in maintaining security and order, meeting task requirements in the new situation.

Ms. Tran Thi Minh Hanh - Head of the Economic - Budget Committee of the Provincial People's Council presents the verification report of draft Resolutions in the field of Economy - Budget

Regarding the draft Resolution on collection levels and environmental protection fee calculation units for mineral exploitation, Ms. Tran Thi Minh Hanh - Head of the Economic - Budget Committee of the Provincial People's Council evaluated and compared with the fee level being applied in Resolution No. 03/2017/NQ-HDND dated July 20, 2017, the fee level for salvage mining of minerals increased, specifically 02 types of minerals kaolin and feldspar have decreased revenue due to reduced central regulations. These fee levels are equivalent to those of neighboring provinces such as Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, Long An, etc. According to the Economic and Budget Committee of the Provincial People's Council, these toll rates apply the maximum toll rate of the toll rate bracket as prescribed by the Central Government, suitable for localities with high socio-economic development rates and large populations such as Binh Duong province and in accordance with current legal regulations.

For support policies for people performing the task of supporting environmental protection at district and commune levels in the province: Working day support of 220,000 VND/person/day, lunch support of 40,000 VND/person/day. The Economic and Budget Committee of the Provincial People's Council proposed to supplement regulations on arranging the number of supporters to not exceed 10 people/city; no more than 05 people/district; and no more than 02 people/commune, ward, town.

The meeting also agreed to pass a Resolution allowing 21 projects to ensure the conditions for extending the implementation time and disbursement of capital from the 2023 Public Investment Plan to 2024 to create conditions for investors to continue completing works and projects approved by competent authorities.

Delegates vote to approve draft Resolutions

Speaking to conclude the meeting, Chairman of the Provincial People's Council Nguyen Van Loc affirmed that the 15^th Meeting (thematic) - Provincial People's Council term X has completed the proposed content and program with 07 important Resolutions passed.

He requested the PPC to urgently complete procedures and documents according to regulations to submit to the Prime Minister for approval of the Provincial Planning in June 2024. Immediately after being approved by the Prime Minister, the PPC is requested to organize the announcement of the Planning to widely propagate the planning content to all levels, branches, and all classes of people. All levels and branches thoroughly grasp and uphold the sense of responsibility in the management of the Planning, ensuring that the Plan is implemented effectively and synchronously, making maximum use of resources to serve the rapid, comprehensive, and sustainable development of the province.

In addition, the PPC directs units to use and disburse public investment capital before December 31, 2024, by regulations, ensuring the progress of projects.

Organizing widespread propaganda of the Resolution on new fee levels, thereby raising awareness and responsibility of organizations and individuals for environmental protection in the province. Developing regulations and instructions on specific tasks of people in charge of supporting environmental protection at the grassroots level; At the same time, using funding sources for environmental protection for the right purpose, according to the right regime, economically and effectively.

Urgently promulgating Regulations on the organizational structure of the Grassroots security and order protection team to ensure that this force officially goes into operation from July 01, 2024. Organizing the Launching ceremony of forces participating in protecting security and order at the grassroots to create pervasive power, support from the people, and an excited atmosphere, and mobilize forces to participate in protecting security and order in neighborhoods and hamlets in the province, contributing to creating a stable environment, serving local socio-economic development.

Chairman of the Provincial People's Council Nguyen Van Loc speaks to conclude the Meeting

The Chairman of the Provincial People's Council also requested the PPC to focus on directing departments and branches to urgently develop and complete reports and draft Resolutions to submit to the 16^th Meeting - regular session in mid-2024, ensuring timely progress for the Committees of the Provincial People's Council to verify according to regulations. Provincial People's Council deputies continue to enhance their roles and responsibilities in performing the function of supervising the observance of the law and the implementation of Resolutions of the Provincial People's Council.

Along with that, conducting serious and effective voter contact; informing voters about the results of this Meeting, and recording feedback and recommendations of voters to convey to the PPC and functional agencies for consideration, resolution, and meeting the legitimate aspirations and beliefs of voters and people.

07 Resolutions passed at the Meeting:

1. Passing the documents submitted for approval of Binh Duong Provincial Planning for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050.

2. Extending the implementation and disbursement time of the 2023 public investment plan from the provincial budget to 2024.

3. Regulating collection rates and environmental protection fee calculation units for mineral exploitation in Binh Duong province.

4. Regulating the rates, collection, payment, and management of fees for appraisal of environmental impact assessment reports and plans for environmental improvement and restoration in Binh Duong province.

5. Regulating environmental protection tasks and support policies for people performing the task of supporting environmental protection at district and commune levels in Binh Duong province.

6. Approving the Project to consolidate and unify the organization and build forces to participate in protecting security and order at the grassroots level in Binh Duong province.

7. Regulating criteria for establishing a Team and the number of members of the Security and Order Protection Team; levels of support, training, policies for people participating in the security and order protection force, and operating costs of the grassroots security and order protection team in Binh Duong province. 

​At the meeting, the Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC Mai Hung Dung briefly introduced the socio-economic situation of Binh Duong province. Accordingly, in 2023, the province's socio-economic situation continued to achieve positive results in all fields. The gross product in the province (GRDP) increased by 6%; GRDP per capita reached 172 million VND. To date, the province has attracted 4,300 investment projects from 65 countries and territories with a total registered capital of 40.7 billion USD. Binh Duong currently ranks third in the country in attracting foreign investment capital, after Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi. China currently ranks first among 65 countries and territories with foreign investment projects in Binh Duong province with 1,710 projects and a total investment capital of about 10.4 billion USD.

Binh Duong Province has established a cooperative relationship with Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province (China) since 2013. It is expected that Binh Duong will promote friendly cooperative relations with Ha Nam province in the near future.

Mr. Mai Hung Dung - Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC receives and works with Mr. Fang Tian Ye - Deputy General Director of Shanghai Technology Exchange, China

Appreciating the results achieved by Binh Duong province in recent times, Mr. Fang Tian Ye said that the Shanghai Technology Exchange was established in 1993 to organize transactions in various scientific and technological achievements and technical services to accelerate the transfer of science and technology in China. To date, it has attracted the participation of a total of 20 universities and research institutes, 30 trading service organizations, and 60 enterprises including state-owned and listed companies. More than 5,000 scientific and technological achievements are currently participating in the Exchange, with companies with an estimated transaction value of 1 billion yuan planning to list.

On this visit and working with Binh Duong, he wished to seek opportunities for cooperation in the field of science and technology, especially implementing projects to develop science and technology and promote innovation in Binh Duong province.

Mr. Mai Hung Dung - Standing Vice Chairman of the PPC presents a souvenir to Mr. Fang Tian Ye - Deputy General Director of Shanghai Technology Exchange, China

Welcoming Mr. Fang Tian Ye's proposal, Permanent Vice Chairman of the PPC Mai Hung Dung said that currently, Binh Duong is preparing steps to establish a concentrated information technology park of about 50 hectares to attract high-tech investors, semiconductor chip technology, and electronic circuits. The province has also agreed on the policy of investing in a Software Park, associated with a multi-level school system, with a scale of 100 hectares in Tan Uyen City to train science and information technology human resources for the whole region.

At the same time, the province has planned a suitable land fund in the Culture - Sports - Health - Education - Science - Technology Complex in Bau Bang district to form high-quality universities to serve the training of human resources for the entire region.

With the above orientations, the Permanent Vice Chairman of the PPC wished that the leaders of the Shanghai Technology Exchange create all conditions for Binh Duong to connect with Chinese technology enterprises to transfer technology as well as cooperation in the field of science and technology.

Delegates take a group photo

Attending were Vice Chairmen of the PPC along with members of the PPC, and leaders of departments, branches, and localities.

Investment attraction is expected to reach the set target​​

According to the report, in May 2024, the province's socio-economic situation continues to develop stably. Industrial production, trade - services, and exports all increased. Budget revenues and expenditures are in accordance with estimates. Foreign affairs and international cooperation continue to promote effectiveness. Political security, social order, and safety are maintained, and traffic accidents reduce all 3 criteria.

The industrial production index in May 2024 is estimated to increase by 1.34% compared to the previous month. Accumulated in the past 5 months, it increased by 4.68% over the same period.

Total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue increased by 13.8% over the same period; accumulated 5 months, up 13.1% over the same period. The 5-month average consumer price index increased by 2.88%. Gold price increased by 23.15%.

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Overview of the Meeting

Export turnover is estimated at 3 billion USD, up 9.4% over the previous month. Accumulated 5 months reached 13.8 billion USD, up 13.9% over the same period. Import turnover is estimated at 2 billion USD, up 6.6% over the previous month. Accumulated 5 months reached 9,4 billion USD, up 9.4% over the same period.

As of May 21, 2024, the total value of public investment disbursement reached 3,357 billion VND, reaching 15.3% of the Provincial People's Council plan and 22% of the plan assigned by the Prime Minister.

As of May 15, 2024, domestic investment attracted 7,000 billion VND of registered business capital. Accumulated in 5 months, it has attracted 27,000 billion VND (up 12.1% over the same period). By May 30, 2024, foreign investment attracted 102,6 million USD. Cumulatively in 5 months, it has attracted 588,7 million USD (reaching 64.4% over the same period).

According to the leadership of the Provincial Industrial Zones Authority, it is expected that by the end of 2024, the province's foreign investment attraction will reach the set target of 1,8 billion USD.

Cumulative 5-month budget revenue is estimated at 30,813 billion VND, up 10% over the same period, reaching 47% of the Provincial People's Council's estimate.

The province's socio-economic situation in the first 5 months of 2024 has improved

Mr. Le Van Danh - Deputy Director of Binh Duong Provincial Customs Department said that up to now, the unit has collected 7,042 billion VND in budget, reaching 42% of the 2024 target plan. In 5 months, 5,800 enterprises came to complete customs procedures at Binh Duong Customs Department, up 4% over the same period last year, showing an improvement in production and business activities. The prevention of revenue loss through inspection and supervision of the implementation of customs procedures, tax management, post-customs clearance inspection, specialized inspection, internal inspection, and fight against smuggling and trade fraud is paid attention to and implemented effectively by the Binh Duong Customs Department.

Regarding the labor situation, Mr. Trinh Duc Tai - Director of the Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs said that during the month, 625 enterprises needed to recruit 6,000 workers, provided 12,000 people with job counseling, and 7,000 people received jobs. The Department advised the PPC to implement a model for collecting information about employees. The Department has coordinated with the Police to speed up implementation progress. In the spirit of "being sure of what have done", the model has been deployed more than 30%; basically, it will be completed in July. According to the assessment, from now until the third quarter of 2024 there will still be many difficulties, the Department will closely monitor the operations of enterprises and the employment of workers. At the same time, directing the Employment Service Center through forms of strengthening the connection between labor supply and demand.

Review the investment policy of the An Dien Inland Port Project

The meeting reviewed the investment policy of the An Dien ICD Project proposed by Ben Cat Logistics Joint Stock Company in An Tay ward, Ben Cat City.

As reported by the Department of Planning and Investment, the project has a total registered investment capital of more than 255,5 billion VND and is expected to come into operation in the first quarter of 2028.

The project aims to build a modern ICD, with a synchronous warehouse system and equipment. The land area used for the project is expected to be about 79,710 m², with throughput capacity from 58,500 to 93,600 TEU per year in the 2020-2025 period. This is part of Binh Duong's logistics development strategy, to meet the increasing demand for goods transportation and promote the regional economy.

Mr. Lai Xuan Dat - Deputy Director of the Department of Planning and Investment reports on the An Dien ICD Project

According to the assessment of the Department of Construction, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Department of Industry and Trade, and Department of Transport, the An Dien Inland Container Depot (ICD) project is consistent with general planning, land use planning, zoning planning, and ICD system development planning.

The An Dien ICD project not only plays the role of an important logistics center but also is a focal point for organizing transportation associated with the activities of seaports, airports, inland waterway ports, railway stations, and road border gates.

 Ben Cat city area also is planning An Tay ICD, Rach Bap ICD together with other ICDs, creating a synchronous ICD network connecting with road DT744, Ring Road No.3, National Highway 13, and seaports in Dong Nai, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.

The Department of Planning and Investment has conducted an appraisal and confirmed that the An Dien ICD project fully meets the conditions to be considered and approved by the PPC for investment policy as well as investor approval. When the project comes into operation, it will be a focal point for organizing transport, connecting goods transport vehicles, promoting multimodal transport, reducing logistics costs, and improving regional economic efficiency.

At the meeting, delegates also discussed and considered the following contents: Draft decision to transfer and receive technical infrastructure assets of Chom Sao - Suoi Don drainage axis and Binh Hoa drainage system; draft additional funding beyond the 2024 estimate for a number of agencies and units as proposed by the Department of Finance; Draft Proposal and Resolution on adjusting investment policies for the BOT Project to upgrade and expand National Highway 13; Report on the results of implementing the pilot project of a number of small-scale green growth models, etc.

Chairman of the PPC Vo Van Minh concludes the meeting

Concluding the meeting, the Chairman of the PPC Vo Van Minh assessed that the province's socio-economic situation in May and the first 5 months of 2024 had many bright spots, especially in the field of domestic revenue and high exports. However, industrial production growth is still low; The disbursement of public investment is higher than in the same period but lower than the national average; Many important schemes and projects of the province have been approved but there are still problems and slow implementation.

In the coming time, the Chairman of the PPC requested departments, branches, and localities to continue to focus on reviewing and removing difficulties and obstacles in production, business activities, and real estate projects; accelerate investment, construction of works, projects and disbursement of public investment capital. To effectively deploy solutions to manage State budget revenues and expenditures, the province will establish a Steering Committee to increase budget collection and prevent revenue loss. Carrying out social security work well, continuing connection and recruitment activities, and grasping the labor and employment situation; Urgently developing criteria to attract investors in industrial parks.

Regarding the contents presented at the Meeting, the Chairman of the PPC basically agreed and requested the departments and branches to adjust and complete the contents and submit them to the PPC for consideration and approval.

​The working session was attended by Mr. Nguyen Loc Ha – Vice Chairman of the PPC and leaders of departments and branches.

At the meeting, the Chairman of the PPC Vo Van Minh emphasized that the VGU is a symbol of the strategic cooperation between Viet Nam and Germany. He hoped that with its mission, VGU would play an active role in human resource training, serve the socio-economic development of Binh Duong now and in the future, and contribute to turning Binh Duong into a workforce training center of the Southeast region.

Overview of the reception.

The Chairman of the PPC believed that with its quality training and modern facilities, VGU would soon make it into the Top 200 universities worldwide. In the coming time, Binh Duong and VGU will collaborate to implement scientific research projects and effectively apply them to the province's socio-economic development.

Mr. Vo Van Minh – Chairman of the PPC welcomes and works with Prof. Dr. René Thiele – President of VGU.

Prof. Dr. René Thiele expressed his gratitude to start working at VGU and contribute to fostering the friendly and cooperative relationship between Viet Nam and Germany. He said that VGU is a modern institute with the functions to ensure conditions for a research-oriented university according to German and international standards. This is the key foundation for VGU to reach its goal of training a quality workforce.

Prof. Dr. René Thiele highly appreciated the dynamic and innovative development of Binh Duong. He said that the two sides have many opportunities to cooperate in different areas. VGU promotes international cooperation in terms of education and technology, which not only serves its development goals but also contributes to the development of Binh Duong and the Southeast region.

Mr. Vo Van Minh – Chairman of the PPC presents a souvenir to Prof. Dr. René Thiele – President of VGU.

The delegates take a group photo.

VGU's training programs are built and developed based on cooperation with leading German partner universities, ensuring excellence in training and research. It focuses on training and research in science, engineering, high technology, information technology, architecture, economics, and management. Those are the training and research strengths of the Federal Republic of Germany which meet the human resource needs to serve the industrialization and modernization goals of Viet Nam. Hopefully, in the future, both sides will create successful marks in the cooperation process.