On March 27, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha signed a decision approving the adjustment of the construction planning for Van Phong Economic Zone (EZ) in the central province of Khanh Hoa to 2040, with a vision to 2050.

The multi-sectoral EZ has a total area of about 150,000 hectares, of which the water surface area covers about 79,000ha and the mainland and island part spans around 71,000ha.

It plays a leading role in attracting investment and creates a driving force for economic development in neighbouring regions and across the country as a whole. Focusing on the marine economy, Van Phong EZ features an international container transshipment port, logistics services, urban areas, tourism hotspots, and a strong industrial sector.

As a centre for high-class tourism and entertainment services, the zone offers unique products to build its brand and enhance its competitiveness.

By 2050, Van Phong EZ will become a dynamic, intelligent, sustainable, and unique marine economic centre, not only contributing to socioeconomic development but also ensuring national defence and security.

The zone will help Vietnam to become a strong maritime nation with sustainable and prosperous development. It will be a highly competitive economic location based on key industries and the area's natural advantages, acting as a gateway to trade with the world of both the South Central Coast and the Central Highlands.

By 2030, the functional areas will cover about 14,900ha of construction land. Among them, urban residential development will cover about 3,140 hectares, mixed residential development for service residents will make up about 950ha, and agricultural residential development will account for about 950ha. The rural development area will be spread across 2,660ha and other functional areas will be developed on a further 8,150ha.

By 2040, the functional areas will increase to about 22,000ha. Among them, urban residential development will cover about 5,400ha, mixed residential and service development around 1,750ha, and rural residential development roughly 1,400ha. The land for the construction of other functional areas will expand to about 13,450ha.

Van Phong EZ is home to service and tourism development zones with eco-friendly entertainment, luxury resorts, golf courses, casinos, theme parks, and yacht exhibitions. It will feature sightseeing and experience activities, with key areas in Hon Lon, the Hon Gom peninsula, Dai Lanh, and Doc Let.

Industrial production and the industrial park will cover a total area of about 2,721ha in Ninh Diem 3, Van Luong, Ninh An, Ninh Diem, and Ninh Tho.

By 2030, the seaport and logistics centre will extend across north and south Van Phong, with the area for aviation development covering 500ha in Van Thang commune. Golf courses are located on Hon Lon island and in the Dam Mon and Tuan Le-Hon Ngang areas.

In terms of the tourism sector, it will promote renowned and unique scenic spots on Diep Son island, Son Dung beach, Mui Doi, Dai Lanh beach, Hon Ong, and Vung Dam Mon. Some other beautiful locations are also on the list of key tourism attractions, such as the Tuan Le-Hon Ngang area, Khai Luong mountain, Hon Lon island, and Doc Let beach.