Vietnam's urban development law introduces special mechanisms for designated areas

HANOI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Law on Urban Development took effect Thursday, introducing mechanisms and policies to promote the development of special-class cities and special economic zones, local media outlet Voice of Vietnam reported.

This photo taken on Dec. 15, 2025 shows a demolition site in Hanoi, Vietnam. (Photo by Vu Trung Kien/Xinhua)

Under the law, the southern hub of Ho Chi Minh City and other special-class cities may pilot new mechanisms and policies that differ from existing laws or National Assembly resolutions, as well as measures addressing issues not yet covered by legislation.

Those cities are authorized to pilot new models for local government organization, economic models based on science, technology and innovation, and solutions to issues that have a serious and direct impact on residents' quality of life or the city's socio-economic development.

The law also contains a dedicated chapter on mechanisms and policies for developing special economic zones.

Communes, wards and special administrative units may be recognized as special economic zones if they meet criteria including a strategic location and the presence of an international airport or a first-class or special-class seaport, the report said.