At the Forum “Da Nang Free Trade Zone - New driving force for the development of Da Nang logistics industry” held on November 14, Dr. Tran Thi Hong Minh - Director of the Central Institute for Economic Management proposed a number of important policies to promote comprehensive development for Da Nang.
According to Dr. Tran Thi Hong Minh, investment in modern logistics infrastructure is a key factor. This includes not only seaports and airports, but also connecting transportation systems, warehouses, and advanced distribution centers. Synchronous and modern infrastructure will help reduce storage costs, shorten transportation times, and improve the competitiveness of the free trade zone.
For Da Nang, Tien Sa and Lien Chieu ports need to be upgraded synchronously to expand cargo handling capacity and meet increasing demand. At the same time, developing domestic logistics centers will contribute to connecting the free trade zone with neighboring areas and expanding the international market.
Dr. Tran Thi Hong Minh said that it is necessary to build a legal framework and flexible incentive policies to attract investment in free trade zones. Tax incentives and open customs mechanisms will help businesses reduce administrative procedures and facilitate international trade.
Dr. Tran Thi Hong Minh cited that China's Shanghai Free Trade Zone has been successful thanks to its policies of exempting import duties on raw materials and offering preferential export duties, helping to increase competitiveness and save costs. Da Nang can refer to this model to build similar incentives, combined with a transparent legal mechanism to protect investors' rights and create a stable and safe business environment.
The city government needs to closely coordinate with central agencies in developing infrastructure, simplifying administrative procedures and providing tax incentives, such as VAT exemption for goods in storage and land use incentives, to attract strong investment in the free trade zone.
Dr. Tran Thi Hong Minh expressed: "Digital transformation is an indispensable factor for the development of the free trade zone in Da Nang. Digitizing warehouse management processes, shipping tracking, and customs clearance will help reduce costs, increase operational efficiency, and support businesses to easily access international markets.
Applying blockchain technology in data management and traceability of goods, along with AI for supply chain analysis, will create a significant competitive advantage.
Around the world, many free trade zones have deployed digital platforms to save time and operating costs, and Da Nang can also take advantage of this opportunity to boost efficiency for logistics businesses and promote the city to catch up with modern digital economic trends."
