The recent discussions surrounding the administrative restructuring in Vietnam have taken center stage as local authorities unveil ambitious plans to merge Dak Lak and Phu Yen provinces. The Standing Committee of the Dak Lak Provincial Party Committee recently convened for its 115th specialized conference to assess the Project on arranging commune-level administrative units in Dak Lak and the proposed merger with Phu Yen. This initiative is anticipated to reshape local governance significantly, with projections indicating the new province will comprise 102 commune-level administrative units.
Currently, Dak Lak province is home to 180 commune-level administrative units. However, following the proposed arrangements, this number is expected to drop dramatically to 68 new units, which will include 7 wards and 61 communes. This represents a reduction of 112 units, or approximately 62.22%. The restructuring aligns with Resolution No. 60-NQ/TW, dated April 12, 2025, from the 11th Conference of the 13th Central Party Committee.
In detail, the city of Buon Ma Thuot will comprise five wards: Buon Ma Thuot, Tan An, Tan Lap, Thanh Nhat, and Ea Kao, along with Hoa Phu commune. Buon Ho town will feature Buon Ho ward, Cu Bao ward, and Ea Drong commune. Further, districts such as Ea Sup, Buon Don, Cư M'gar, and others will see a reorganization of their existing communes to fit the new administrative framework.
During the conference, the Dak Lak Provincial Party Committee also deliberated on the merger with Phu Yen. A comprehensive plan is being developed to allocate budgets and resources for upgrading and renovating administrative facilities in light of the changes. This includes ensuring transport for civil servants and officials transitioning from Phu Yen to the new provincial headquarters in Dak Lak.
According to the roadmap, the new commune-level administrative apparatus is set to officially commence operations on August 15, 2025, while the provincial-level apparatus will be functional no later than September 15, 2025. The Standing Committee expressed strong support for the proposed administrative unit arrangements, emphasizing the need for a streamlined governance structure to enhance operational efficiency and meet developmental needs.
Bí thư Tỉnh ủy Nguyễn Đình Trung acknowledged the serious preparations undertaken by relevant agencies and highlighted that the restructuring is a significant policy direction from the Party and State aimed at optimizing the administrative apparatus and improving operational effectiveness.
Meanwhile, the Phu Yen Provincial Party Committee has also been active in discussing its own administrative restructuring. The committee recently held a conference to evaluate plans for arranging provincial-level administrative units. The proposed adjustments will see Phu Yen's existing 106 commune-level units reduced to 34, comprising 27 communes and 7 wards, achieving a significant decrease of 67.92%.
The new Phu Yen Ward will be formed by merging existing wards and communes, including Phu Dong, Phu Lam, Phu Thanh, and parts of Hoa Thanh commune. This reorganization is aimed at creating a more efficient administrative framework while catering to the local population's needs.
Phu Yen, with a natural area of 5,025.99 km² and a population exceeding 1 million, currently comprises 9 district-level administrative units, including 6 districts, 2 towns, and 1 city. The restructuring aims to streamline governance and enhance the efficiency of public administration in the region.
In addition to the administrative changes, the new Phu Yen Ward is strategically located to take advantage of infrastructure developments, including an airport, expressway, and high-speed railway. This positioning is expected to foster economic growth and development in the region, particularly with plans to establish the VSIP industrial park, which is anticipated to stimulate local socio-economic development.
Both Dak Lak and Phu Yen officials are keenly aware of the challenges posed by these significant changes. They emphasize the importance of transparency and public consensus throughout the restructuring process. As noted by Cao Thị Hòa An, the Bí thư Tỉnh ủy of Phu Yen, the adjustments must be clear, concise, and closely aligned with central government regulations while fostering high public support.
As Vietnam continues to evolve its administrative frameworks, the merging of Dak Lak and Phu Yen provinces represents a bold step towards enhancing local governance. The anticipated benefits include improved efficiency in public service delivery, better resource allocation, and a more robust framework to support socio-economic development.
The proposed administrative restructuring is not merely a bureaucratic exercise; it is a reflection of the government's commitment to adapt to changing socio-economic conditions and to enhance the effectiveness of governance at the local level. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on effective implementation and the ability to address any arising challenges promptly.
