New Growth Pole in Mekong Delta: Expectations for Marine Economy in Dinh An Economic Zone

The Dinh An Economic Zone in Vinh Long province is steadily establishing its role as a new growth pole for the Mekong Delta region, serving as a gateway to the East Sea. The recently adjusted master plan, extending to 2040, has expanded the development space to over 39,000 hectares, further creating room for the formation of a large-scale marine economy, logistics, and industrial hub in the region. Unlike conventional, self-contained industrial parks, Dinh An is designed as a multi-functional economic zone encompassing heavy industry, renewable energy, port logistics, as well as coastal urban development and eco-tourism. A unique aspect of this plan is its expansion capability through land reclamation, providing ample space for national and international mega-projects. A prominent highlight in Dinh An's development is its clean energy sector. Leveraging high wind speeds and solar radiation, the province has already seen 15 wind power projects operating commercially, contributing over 1.52 billion kWh of electricity and generating approximately 300 billion VND for the local budget in 2025. By 2030, the province plans to implement 22 near-shore wind power projects with a combined capacity of 2,283 MW, alongside a 105-hectare green hydrogen production facility. Alongside energy, transportation infrastructure and logistics are identified as the 'lifelines' to activate the full potential of the marine economy. Projects to upgrade National Highways 53 and 53B, along with the coastal corridor road, are being vigorously promoted to overcome traffic isolation. Notably, accelerating the progress of the Dai Ngai Bridge and upgrading the deep-water port system, including berth No. 1 at Dinh An Port (expected completion in 2026, capable of receiving vessels up to 50,000 DWT), will transform Dinh An into a low-cost logistics hub for agricultural and aquatic products from the entire Mekong Delta to international markets. With clear planning and superior preferential policies, Dinh An has become a safe and attractive destination for leading economic groups. As of the end of 2025, the economic zone has attracted 47 projects with a total registered capital exceeding 68,870 billion VND, contributing over 2,590 billion VND to the provincial budget. Mr. Nguyen Quynh Thien, Vice Chairman of the Vinh Long Provincial People's Committee, stated, 'The province is determined to materialize the adjusted plan for the Dinh An Economic Zone with the action motto of 'clear responsibilities, clear timelines, clear products.' Marine economic development must go hand-in-hand with the preservation of mangrove ecosystems and the lives of coastal residents. The coastal city of Dinh An will be a modern living space that retains the cultural identity of the riverine region.' He expressed confidence that with a methodical roadmap, strong political will, and the collaboration of the business community, the Dinh An marine economic growth pole will achieve a new leap forward, elevating Vinh Long to the position of a leading dynamic marine economic center in the Mekong Delta region.