The 2025 Investment Legal Support Forum: Advancing Industrial Zone Infrastructure

On November 21, 2025, the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City hosted the 2025 Investment Legal Support Forum, with a critical theme: “Industrial Zone Infrastructure Development Investment: Legal Updates and Implementation Recommendations.” This event, organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Investment and Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) in partnership with the Vietnam International Arbitration Center (VIAC), aimed to tackle the pressing issues facing infrastructure investors and manufacturers within the industrial sector.

Challenges in Industrial Infrastructure

During the forum, Cao Thi Phi Van, Deputy Director of ITPC, highlighted significant challenges that infrastructure investors encounter. These challenges include:

• Land Access: Gaining access to land remains a significant barrier for many investors.
• Investment Approval Procedures: Cumbersome procedures can delay crucial project timelines.
• Site Clearance: The complexities involved in clearing sites for development can be daunting.
• Adoption of Green Models: Integrating sustainable practices into industrial park models is increasingly critical but often challenging.
• Worker Housing and Incentives: The need for suitable housing for workers and effective incentives is paramount to ensure the stability and attractiveness of industrial zones.

The Role of Industrial Parks

Prof. Dr. Le Hong Hanh, Chairman of VIAC, agreed with the Deputy Director’s assessment, underscoring the significant role industrial parks and export processing zones play in Vietnam’s economic landscape. He emphasized that these zones are not just economic catalysts; they are integral to the broader industrial strategy of cities like Ho Chi Minh City.

A Modern Approach to Expansion

In light of recent urban mergers, Ho Chi Minh City possesses an ideal platform for the modernization and expansion of its industrial zones. However, despite the city’s favorable positioning, numerous projects still encounter legal obstacles that hinder progress. Prof. Hanh expressed optimism that the forum could yield practical recommendations to address these legal bottlenecks.

Dialogues for Solutions

The forum featured two intensive dialogue sessions focusing on critical investment areas within industrial parks:

1. Investment in Technical Infrastructure: Discussing the need for updated and efficiently designed technical support systems to ensure that industrial zones operate smoothly and effectively.

2. Investment in Social Infrastructure: Acknowledging the growing demand for worker housing and social amenities within these parks, delegates explored sustainable models for integrating social infrastructure.

This dual focus recognized that successful industrial development cannot rely solely on technical investments but must also prioritize the well-being of workers and their communities.

Moving Toward a Transparent Investment Environment

Both ITPC and VIAC aim to collaborate closely with city authorities and the investor community. By removing legal hurdles and fostering transparency, they hope to create a more conducive environment for investment.

The forum served as a vital platform for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, and collectively devise strategies that will shape the future of industrial infrastructure in Vietnam.

Caption: Deputy Director of ITPC Cao Thi Phi Van speaks at the event.

In summary, the 2025 Investment Legal Support Forum highlighted the urgency and importance of evolving Vietnam’s industrial infrastructure landscape while fostering collaboration and innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by investors and the local government.