In a significant administrative restructuring, the province of Dong Nai has undergone a merger with Binh Phuoc, resulting in a new administrative framework that will see the retention of certain commune-level units while introducing a host of new ones. According to a report from cafef.vn on May 11, 2025, the newly formed Dong Nai province will consist of 95 administrative units at the commune level, which includes 88 new units and 7 that will remain unchanged.
The seven unchanged units comprise five wards and communes from the newly established Dong Nai province: Tam Phuoc Ward, Phuoc Tan (in Bien Hoa City), Thanh Son commune (in Dinh Quan district), Dak Lua commune (in Tan Phu district), and Phu Ly commune (in Vinh Cuu district). Additionally, two communes from Binh Phuoc province—Bu Gia Map commune and Dak O commune (both located in Bu Gia Map district)—will also remain intact. These units have been confirmed to meet the necessary standards for natural area and population size as outlined in the National Assembly Standing Committee's resolution.
The restructuring process has seen Dong Nai province develop 50 plans for the arrangement of new commune-level administrative units, while Binh Phuoc has created 38 such plans. Once the arrangement is complete, Dong Nai is projected to have 95 commune-level units, comprising 23 wards and 72 communes. This represents a reduction of 175 administrative units, achieving a decrease of 64.81% compared to the previous configuration.
Public opinion on the restructuring has been overwhelmingly positive, with a reported consensus rate exceeding 94% in Dong Nai and over 96% in Binh Phuoc among household representatives. The Ministry of Home Affairs has indicated that 86 out of the 88 administrative units formed after the restructuring meet the standards for natural area and population size. However, two units did not meet the population size standards but could not be merged with adjacent units.
Following the merger, Dong Nai province will cover a total area of 12,737.2 square kilometers and boast a population of approximately 4.2 million people. With this population, Dong Nai ranks third in the country, following Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
In a related development, VTC News reported on the same day that the 2025 arrangement of commune-level administrative units will result in a total of 3,321 such units across the nation, which includes 2,636 communes, 672 wards, and 13 special zones. The restructuring has led to the formation of 3,193 new administrative units, while 128 units will remain unchanged.
This reorganization marks a significant decrease of 6,714 administrative units, representing a reduction rate of 66.91%. The Ministry of Home Affairs has outlined plans for the leadership and management structure of the new commune-level units, emphasizing the need for a core administrative team to facilitate the transition.
The Ministry has also proposed maintaining the current staffing levels of district and commune-level civil servants to ensure a smooth transition into the new administrative framework. This includes a review and potential streamlining of staff to enhance the quality of the workforce, ensuring that within five years, the structure aligns with government regulations.
As part of the restructuring process, the Ministry of Home Affairs has detailed plans for the organization of public service units under the newly formed commune-level administrations. For instance, in the education sector, existing public schools—such as middle schools, primary schools, and kindergartens—will be transferred to local commune-level governance. Meanwhile, vocational education centers and continuing education centers will be reorganized to provide services across multiple communes.
In the health sector, existing health stations will continue to operate to meet the healthcare needs of local populations. The Ministry has indicated that these health stations may be restructured into a single public service unit under the new commune administration, but for now, they will serve as essential points for healthcare delivery.
Overall, the restructuring of commune-level administrative units in Dong Nai and Binh Phuoc is a significant step towards improving governance and administrative efficiency in the region. The high levels of public support and the comprehensive planning by the Ministry of Home Affairs suggest a well-coordinated effort to adapt to the new administrative landscape.
As the changes take effect, local governments will be tasked with ensuring that the transition is smooth and that the needs of residents are met effectively. With a focus on maintaining essential services and improving administrative efficiency, the newly formed Dong Nai province is poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this significant restructuring.
