Son La province promotes investment attraction and completes the province's socio-economic infrastructure system.

In 2024, Son La Province continues to prioritize synchronized infrastructure development. The province has been assigned by the Prime Minister as the managing authority for implementing the Hoa Binh – Moc Chau expressway project within its jurisdiction, with the investment policy approval already completed. Significant progress has been made in transport infrastructure, with 201 out of 204 communes now having paved roads leading to their centers, an increase of three communes compared to 2023. Additionally, 100% of communes, wards, and townships are now covered by 4G networks and fiber-optic internet. Urban planning efforts have also been strengthened, with the completion of general, subdivision, functional area, and detailed plans, providing a foundation for investment attraction. The province's urbanization rate is expected to reach 18.5% by the end of 2024. The investment and business environment continues to improve, with efforts focused on attracting investment in sectors where Son La has competitive advantages. In 2024, the province has approved investment policies and selected investors for 14 projects with a total registered capital of 1.737 trillion VND. The role of enterprises and cooperatives in economic and social development has been increasingly affirmed. The province saw the establishment of 320 new enterprises, a 17.6% increase from 2023, along with 75 new cooperatives.

Focusing on resolving obstacles in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects. Efforts continue to address challenges in executing major infrastructure projects. Investment in completing the infrastructure system of Mai Son Industrial Park will be accelerated, while new industrial parks in Van Ho and industrial clusters will be developed. Infrastructure development for Moc Chau National Tourist Area will be prioritized alongside the urban expansion of Son La City. Additionally, infrastructure at Long Sap International Border Gate will be upgraded step by step, modernizing facilities to facilitate expanded immigration, import-export activities, and boost economic, social, and tourism development in the Northwest region, particularly in Son La Province. Provincial planning will be implemented in alignment with general, zoning, construction, and urban planning regulations, ensuring consistency and compliance with legal requirements. Further investments will be made to enhance agricultural and rural infrastructure, adapting to climate change. Key focus areas include irrigation projects supporting the restructuring of the agricultural sector, integrated with the new rural development program. These initiatives aim to ensure proactive irrigation for advanced agricultural production while mitigating the effects of drought.

Implementing the Urban development program of Son La Province (2021-2025), gradually building and developing a comprehensive urban system with synchronized, modern, green, smart, and sustainable infrastructure while ensuring harmony with rural development. The province is also focusing on improving social infrastructure, promoting socialization to attract investment in healthcare, education, culture, and sports infrastructure. These efforts aim to enhance the quality of life for residents. Additionally, the development of telecommunications and information technology infrastructure is being accelerated to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, laying the foundation for e-government development integrated with smart cities.

Boosting investment mobilization for key development projects. Son La province is intensifying efforts to mobilize socialized investment for development, with a strong focus on attracting investment in key projects that drive growth across various sectors. Priority is given to infrastructure projects, industrial parks and clusters, new urban areas, residential zones, as well as commercial, service, and tourism developments. Resolving bottlenecks that hinder delayed investment projects is a key objective. The province is also leveraging private sector resources to develop synchronized infrastructure in a transparent and public manner, ensuring a balanced approach that benefits the government, investors, and society.

Lê Hồng

Translated by Huyen Vu