The ongoing administrative restructuring in Vietnam is set to significantly reshape the landscape of local governance, with major changes anticipated across various provinces. The Ministry of Interior has confirmed that all provinces and cities have submitted their proposals for the arrangement of administrative units, marking a pivotal step in the country’s administrative reform process.
According to the Ministry of Interior, Hanoi is projected to experience the highest reduction in commune-level administrative units, with an expected decrease of approximately 76%. In contrast, Can Tho is expected to see the smallest reduction at around 60%. Overall, the nationwide goal aims to reduce commune-level units by 60% to 70%, with initial estimates indicating a near 67% reduction across the country.
As of May 4, 2025, the Ministry reported that it had submitted 26 out of 34 project proposals for rearranging commune-level administrative units to the Government, with an additional five proposals slated for submission on May 5, 2025. The remaining three proposals will be finalized in collaboration with local authorities and submitted before May 10, 2025.
In the context of specific provinces, Lam Dong province has submitted its plan for administrative restructuring, which includes a reduction of 86 communes, resulting in 51 remaining units, achieving a reduction rate of 62.77%. Dak Nong province has also reported a reduction of 43 communes, leaving it with 28, which translates to a decrease of 60.56%. Similarly, Binh Thuan province has reduced its administrative units by 76, now totaling 45, achieving a reduction rate of 62.81%.
In total, Lam Dong province will have 124 commune-level administrative units after restructuring, which includes 20 wards, 103 communes, and one special zone, reflecting a significant decrease of 205 units from its previous structure. Notably, four commune-level units in Lam Dong, Dak Nong, and Binh Thuan have been proposed to remain unchanged due to meeting both area and population standards.
Moreover, Dak Lak province has officially submitted its plan to arrange commune-level administrative units, retaining seven communes intact. Before the restructuring, Dak Lak had 180 administrative units, which will be reduced to 68, achieving a rate of 62.22%. This aligns with the targets set forth by the Party Central Committee.
In a broader context, Thai Nguyen province is also undergoing significant changes, with a total of 172 commune-level administrative units being reviewed. After the restructuring, the province will have 55 units, achieving a decrease of 117 units, or 68.02%. New wards such as Phan Dinh Phung, Linh Son, and Tich Luong have been established, reflecting the province's commitment to enhancing administrative efficiency.
The restructuring efforts are not just about reducing numbers; they aim to enhance governance and improve public service delivery. The People's Committees of the affected provinces have been proactive in planning budget allocations to invest in upgrading and renovating administrative offices to meet new operational standards.
Public opinion has been a critical element in this administrative overhaul, with surveys indicating strong support for the proposed changes. For instance, Lam Dong achieved an average approval rating of 97.32%, while Dak Nong and Binh Thuan reported 93.74% and 98.34%, respectively. This consensus reflects a commitment to improving local governance and responsiveness to community needs.
As part of these efforts, the Ministry of Interior has emphasized the importance of aligning the restructuring with the organization of the Party and social-political organizations at the same level. This holistic approach aims to ensure that the new administrative units are not only efficient but also capable of addressing the needs of the population effectively.
Overall, the administrative restructuring across Vietnam represents a significant shift in local governance, with the potential to enhance efficiency, accountability, and public service delivery. As these changes unfold, they will likely set a precedent for future administrative reforms in the country.
