Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park: A Step Towards Eco-Friendly Industrialization in Ho Chi Minh City
On September 15, 2022, during a conference on eco-industrial park development in Vietnam, municipal vice chairman Vo Van Hoan announced a significant shift in Ho Chi Minh City’s industrial landscape. The Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park, located in Nha Be district, is set to be transformed into the city’s first “eco IP.” This initiative signifies a visionary approach aimed at integrating sustainable practices within industrial operations.
Collaborative Efforts for Eco Development
This ambitious transformation is backed by a collaboration between the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), and the Embassy of Switzerland. Together, these entities have been working since 2014 to shift conventional industrial parks in Vietnam toward greener production and environmental sustainability.
The project is designed to promote the transfer and application of clean technologies. It emphasizes minimizing hazardous waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollutants while encouraging effective management of chemicals. The expected outcome is to support the evolution towards a circular economy in Vietnam, thereby enhancing sanitation and environmental responsibility in industrial practices.
Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park: An Overview
Located on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park is the largest IP in the region, spanning an impressive 1,686 hectares. The park is strategically situated with robust infrastructure, offering convenient links to various transport routes—both air and road. This ease of connectivity is a crucial factor considering the park’s function as a major trade hub for southern Vietnam.
Central to Hiep Phuoc IP is Hiep Phuoc Port, which has long served as a vital gateway for trade and transshipment. The port cluster includes notable facilities like the Saigon Premier Container Terminal (SPTC) and New Port, making it an essential part of Vietnam’s marine logistics network. Positioned along the Soai Rap River, these ports create a vital link between Ho Chi Minh City and the Pacific Ocean via the beach town of Vung Tau.
Future Development Plans
Vice Chairman Hoan emphasized that future developments in Ho Chi Minh City will focus on creating green industrial parks, specialized IPs, high-tech parks, and combined green industrial and urban zones. This forward-thinking strategy highlights the city’s commitment to sustainable growth, ensuring that new industrial parks not only enhance economic productivity but also emphasize environmental stewardship.
The Role of Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone
In tandem with the transformation of Hiep Phuoc IP, municipal authorities are exploring plans to convert the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone (EPZ) into a complex that integrates high-tech, service, and residential developments. Since its establishment in February 1992 as Vietnam’s first export processing zone, Tan Thuan has played a pivotal role in promoting industrial growth. However, the area now faces challenges related to environmental pollution and a disparity between its budget contributions and its extensive scale.
The latest discussions reveal a shift in focus toward sustainable development, recognizing that the current state of the Tan Thuan EPZ is no longer aligned with the district’s growth strategies. Authorities are proactive in addressing these issues, seeking innovative solutions that prioritize both economic viability and environmental health.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the transition to eco-friendly industrial parks holds promise, it also presents challenges. Implementing advanced technologies and sustainable practices requires investment, training, and a cultural shift among businesses and workers. However, with the support of international organizations and governmental cooperation, Ho Chi Minh City is well-positioned to lead the charge toward sustainable industrialization in Vietnam.
As Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park embarks on its new identity as an eco IP, it not only reflects local ambitions but also aligns with global trends towards sustainability. The steps taken here could serve as a model for future developments across the nation, promoting a greener, more responsible industrial sector.