The event attracted a large number of overseas Vietnamese from many countries, offering many practical ideas to contribute to the remarkable development of Ho Chi Minh City in the new era.
Mr. Johnathan Hanh Nguyen - Chairman of the Inter-Pacific Group (IPPG), an overseas Vietnamese in the US, proposed four solutions to attract overseas Vietnamese resources and modernize technology for Ho Chi Minh City.
Making investment procedures transparent is the first solution he emphasized. Accordingly, Ho Chi Minh City needs to establish a “one-stop” process specifically for high-tech projects and overseas Vietnamese businesses, shortening licensing time and creating maximum convenience for investors.
Second, Mr. Johnathan Hanh Nguyen proposed developing MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) and underground infrastructure. The construction of underground commercial and entertainment centers linked to the metro system not only creates a highlight for tourism but also increases the attraction for investors and tourists.
Third, smart urban planning is the key to solving traffic and environmental problems. Mr. Hanh Nguyen recommended that Ho Chi Minh City soon deploy a smart urban pilot area, applying digital technology to infrastructure management to improve efficiency and quality of life for people.
Finally, Mr. Johnathan Hanh Nguyen called for building a platform to connect overseas Vietnamese, expanding online conference channels and establishing an in-depth database on the overseas Vietnamese community. This will help overseas Vietnamese easily invest and accompany the city.
Dr. Tran Hai Linh - Chairman of the Vietnam - Korea Business and Investment Association (VKBIA), commented that Ho Chi Minh City is a center for attracting investment, innovation and international integration. The city is leading the country in the fields of high technology, financial services, e-commerce, logistics and tourism.
According to him, Ho Chi Minh City is aiming to develop into a smart city and an international financial center, making the most of 4.0 technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. However, to achieve the goal, the city needs the participation of Vietnamese intellectuals, businessmen and experts abroad in key projects.
Sharing the same view, Associate Professor Dr. Bui Quoc Bao, a French expatriate, said that Ho Chi Minh City needs outstanding policies on income and housing to attract Vietnamese experts and scientists abroad. He also proposed establishing expert groups to solve each "specific problem" the city is facing.
Ho Chi Minh City continues to be the leading locality in the country in attracting remittances. In 2024, the amount of remittances sent to Vietnam is estimated to reach 16 billion USD, of which Ho Chi Minh City alone will receive more than 9.5 billion USD.
Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Council Nguyen Thi Le affirmed the important role of the overseas Vietnamese business community in promoting product consumption and protecting the city's brand in the international market.
Many overseas Vietnamese such as Mr. Johnathan Hanh Nguyen, Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Luan, Mr. Vo Ta Han have returned to the country to establish companies, build factories, and create jobs for local workers.
Informing overseas Vietnamese, Ms. Nguyen Thi Le emphasized that 2025 is the final year of implementing the 5-year socio-economic development plan for the 2021-2025 period, creating a breakthrough foundation for the 2026-2030 period.
Ho Chi Minh City aims for double-digit economic growth in 2025, prioritizing promoting growth associated with controlling inflation, ensuring major balances and maintaining high surpluses.
