09:46 31/03/2024

Vietnam's Group Breaks Ground on $2 Billion Phu Quoc Tourism Complex

The massive resort and entertainment project on southern Hon Thom Island underscores Vietnam's ambitions for its "pearl island" destination while raising questions about sustainability.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, provincial and business leaders walking to the ground breaking ceremony (source: The Labourer)
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, provincial and business leaders walking to the ground breaking ceremony (source: The Labourer)

Sun Group, a major Vietnamese developer, has commenced construction on its Hon Thom – Phu Quoc Beach Resort and Entertainment Complex.

The VN 50,000 billion ($2 billion) project encompasses 310 hectares on Hon Thom Island, part of the An Thoi archipelago off the coast of Phu Quoc in the southern Kien Giang province.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, highlighting the government's support for the tourism initiative.

Prime Minister Chinh praised Sun Group's track record in driving tourism development in locations like Da Nang, Lao Cai, and Quang Ninh. He urged the company to continue its pioneering role in transforming the areas it enters but underscored the need for legal compliance and effective operations.

The Prime Minister further stressed the importance of operating within the framework of government policy and emphasized a vision that balances development with social security and cultural growth.

The Hon Thom complex promises a host of attractions, including a water park, theme park, aquarium, and performance venues, positioning it as a significant expansion of Phu Quoc's tourism offerings.

This aligns with the island's trajectory toward becoming a major tourism and marine eco-tourism hub, as envisioned in a 2004 government decision.

The centerpiece of the development is a 6-star Ritz Carlton Reserve Hon Thom resort, with its design emphasizing harmony with Phu Quoc's natural environment. Eco-tourism is also a focus, with planned activities including coral viewing, swimming, dolphin interactions, and nature exploration.