Vietnam to Strengthen State Control Over Land Prices Amid Economic Growth

The Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam has reached a significant consensus on amending the Land Law and related legislation. General Secretary and President To Lam announced that the state will hold the authority to determine land prices, ensuring the livelihoods of those whose land is acquired. This decision is based on the principle that land is collectively owned by the people and managed by the state as a unique resource for national survival and development. The state will not re-examine legal land use rights established under previous policies. The law amendments aim to unlock land resources without privatizing land, while harmonizing the interests of the state, citizens, and businesses. Specifically, the state will regulate and control land prices and guarantee improved housing, living conditions, and livelihoods for affected individuals. However, Vietnam's economy faces challenges, including slowing growth and implementation hurdles. The General Secretary pointed out that despite progress in restructuring the political system, the "bottleneck" in policy execution remains the biggest issue, stemming from misaligned authority and responsibility, and insufficient resources, capacity, and oversight. The Central Committee also approved revisions to Party regulations, including new rules on what Party members are prohibited from doing. Resolutions were passed to establish Quang Ninh City and Bac Ninh City, strive for economic growth of 10% or more, renew Vietnam's development model, and develop the nation into a strong maritime power. Furthermore, resolutions on building a disciplined, safe, civilized, harmonious, and developed society, the National Security Strategy, and proactive response to climate change were endorsed. These decisions aim to strengthen mechanisms for policy implementation, clarifying responsibilities, authorities, conditions, deadlines, and deliverables for each task. The General Secretary emphasized that "the value and vitality of policies must be measured by actual results: bottlenecks resolved, new capacities created, smooth organizational operations, unlocked resources, enhanced productivity and competitiveness, a safer country, and more tangible benefits for the people." Crucially, responsibilities will be clearly delineated among the central government, provincial, and district levels. The central government will focus on strategic direction, institutional reform, and major resource allocation. Provinces will coordinate implementation and provide conditions for districts, which serve as the frontline for public governance, directly serving citizens and businesses. The central and provincial governments will not usurp the roles of lower levels, and provinces will assist districts facing capacity shortages. Ultimately, the speed of policy implementation must translate into tangible results, and political will into substantial change. Progress will be rigorously monitored and evaluated based on data and actual outcomes, serving as a key criterion for assessing officials, especially leaders. Those who dare to innovate will be protected, while avoidance, buck-passing, and formalism will be strictly dealt with. Information source: VnExpress