Vietnam's Lang Son Province Unveils Ambitious Development Plan to 2050

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has signed Decision No. 236/QD-TTg, dated March 19, 2024, approving the comprehensive master plan for Lang Son province. The plan covers the period from 2021 to 2030, with a broader vision extending to 2050. It encompasses the entire 831,018 hectares of the province, including Lạng Sơn city and the districts of Huu Lung, Chi Lang, Cao Loc, Loc Binh, Dinh Lap, Van Lang, Trang Dinh, Van Quan, Binh Gia, and Bac Son.

The plan's overarching goal is to transform Lang Son into a border province with a thriving economy, social stability, robust national defense and security, and a protected ecological environment. It envisions the province becoming a key growth driver and economic hub for the northern midland and mountainous region, serving as a vital bridge for economic and trade connections between Vietnam, ASEAN countries, China, and Europe.

By 2030, Lang Son strives to rank among the top five provinces in the region in terms of economic scale and per capita GRDP. The province will prioritize a structural shift toward industry, services, and tourism, alongside technologically advanced, high-efficiency commodity agriculture.

Key tasks outlined in the plan include streamlining administrative procedures, enhancing leadership, and upgrading infrastructure across transportation, industry, commerce, and telecommunications sectors. Human resource development through education and vocational training is emphasized, alongside tourism promotion, innovation support, and entrepreneurship. The plan also focuses on agricultural restructuring, cultural heritage preservation, strengthening national defense and security, and promoting international cooperation.

Lang Son aims to become a regional service hub and economic trading center, connecting Vietnam, ASEAN countries, and southwestern China. Development will focus on six service sectors, technological and economic growth, and fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. Tourism development is crucial, with plans to brand Lang Son as a prominent destination and upgrade infrastructure, particularly in the Mau Son National Tourist Area.

Special attention is given to the Dong Dang – Lang Son Border Economic Zone, with a goal to transform it into a modern hub for international logistics, tourism, trade, and services. This includes promoting cross-border services, large-capacity warehouses, and improved rest stops for long-haul trucks. Upgrades to 12 border gates are planned, with five key gates pioneering high-tech applications and trade facilitation.

The province will promote competitive and sustainable agriculture, forestry, and aquaculture practices, integrating agriculture with tourism. Emphasis is placed on eco-friendly approaches, branded products, integration into global supply chains, high-value agricultural products, modern livestock farming, and conservation of biodiversity and forest resources.