On April 13, 2025, the Hai Phong Enterprise Association was officially established, marking a significant milestone for the local business community. The event followed the issuance of Decision No. 451 by Hai Phong City, which recognized the Steering Committee for the establishment of the Association. This new organization aims to create a robust business ecosystem that fosters collaboration, innovation, and shared opportunities among its members.
The inaugural congress saw the approval of the Association's Charter and Regulations, as well as the election of an Executive Committee consisting of 30 dedicated and capable entrepreneurs representing various sectors within the city. Among the notable figures present were Hai Phong City Party Secretary Le Tien Chau, who was unanimously nominated as the Honorary Chairman of the Association, and Mr. Tran Van Thang, who was elected as the Chairman of the Hai Phong City Enterprise Association.
The Vice Chairmen elected included Mr. Nguyen Van Dung, General Director of Hai Phong Paint Joint Stock Company; Mr. Tran Tien Dung, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sao A D.C Joint Stock Company; Mr. Vu Ngoc Lam, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Container Joint Stock Company; Mr. Tran Ba Tinh, Chairman of the Member Council of Bach Dang Investment Co., Ltd.; and Mr. Do Huu Huynh, General Director of Lien Minh Import-Export Trading and Service Co., Ltd.
During the congress, a signing ceremony took place to establish Coordination Regulations between the Enterprise Association and the Hai Phong City People's Committee. This agreement signifies a strong commitment from both the city’s leadership and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) to support the local business community. The event also marked the awarding of official membership recognition from VCCI.
Currently, Hai Phong boasts nearly 43,000 registered businesses; however, only about 27,000 are actively operational. The contribution of the private economic sector has been substantial, accounting for 40-45% of the city’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) and over 60% of total domestic revenue from 2020 to 2024. Despite this, the local business landscape remains fragmented, lacking the necessary cohesion to effectively participate in national and global supply chains.
In his address at the congress, Secretary Le Tien Chau emphasized the importance of the Association's establishment at this juncture. He remarked that it represents not only a pivotal moment in the development of the local business community but also a testament to their solidarity, creativity, and determination to overcome challenges. He stated, "This association is a vital step towards building a strong network of businesses that can compete effectively on both national and global stages."
Chau also highlighted the strategic goals set forth by the central government for economic development, which includes a focus on strengthening the private sector. He underscored the mission of local businesses to take the lead in driving economic growth, stating that they must work towards becoming key players in the value chains both domestically and internationally.
Furthermore, the congress addressed the challenges faced by the business community, particularly the impact of global economic fluctuations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical instability. These factors have created significant pressure on production and business activities, leading to bottlenecks that hinder the community's potential.
One pressing concern is the anticipated imposition of countervailing duties by the United States, which could reach as high as 46% on Vietnamese goods. This development raises alarms among local entrepreneurs, particularly those in export-driven sectors such as textiles, footwear, electronics, and agriculture. The potential fallout could result in reduced competitiveness, diminished orders, and a threat to job security within these industries.
In light of these challenges, the establishment of the Hai Phong Enterprise Association comes as a timely initiative. It aims to unify the strengths of both large and small businesses in the region, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation necessary for navigating the complexities of today’s economy. The Association is poised to serve as a vital support system, helping its members to enhance their competitiveness and adapt to increasingly stringent global standards.
Mr. Tran Van Thang, the newly elected Chairman, expressed optimism about the future of the business community in Hai Phong. He noted that while many businesses are small and medium-sized with limited resources, the formation of the Association will empower them to share experiences, tackle challenges collectively, and ultimately thrive in a competitive landscape.
Thang stated, "Our goal is to build a resilient business community that not only excels in profitability but also contributes positively to societal welfare and the development of Hai Phong as a prosperous and civilized city." He reiterated the importance of collaboration among members to overcome barriers and leverage opportunities for growth.
The establishment of the Hai Phong Enterprise Association is seen as a crucial step towards creating a more interconnected and supportive business environment. By promoting collaboration and innovation, the Association aims to enhance the capacity of local enterprises to compete effectively in both domestic and international markets.
As the newly formed Association embarks on its first term, it carries the hopes of many local entrepreneurs who look forward to a future where they can stand united, proud, and resilient in the face of challenges. With strong leadership and a commitment to fostering a vibrant business ecosystem, the Hai Phong Enterprise Association is set to play a pivotal role in the economic development of the city.
