The provincial People's Committee recently submitted a report to the Prime Minister outlining the master plan for the reconstruction and revival of Pho Hien, once a thriving international port town during the 16th and 17th centuries.

At its peak, Pho Hien was the second-largest commercial port in Đại Việt, second only to the imperial capital of Thang Long. Its strategic location along major river routes made it a bustling trade hub that welcomed merchant ships from 12 countries, including Japan, China, Siam (Thailand), the Netherlands, England, and France.

Pho Hien’s cultural richness is reflected in its unique architectural heritage, such as Chuong Pagoda, Thien Hau Temple, An Vu Communal House, Dong Do Quang Hoi Assembly Hall, Catholic churches, and townhouses displaying a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences.

However, this invaluable heritage is now at risk of being lost due to the passage of time and historical upheavals.

Restoring Pho Hien has become a strategic and urgent cultural mission.

The proposed project spans 1,708.9 hectares across several wards and communes in Hung Yen City, including Minh Khai, Hien Nam, Lam Son, Hong Chau, and the communes of Quang Chau, Hoang Hanh, and Tan Hung.

With an estimated budget of VND 47,241 billion (USD 1.87 billion), the project is scheduled for implementation from 2025 to 2035.

Once restored, ancient Pho Hien is expected to become a major cultural and historical destination on both national and international levels. Authorities also aim to submit Pho Hien for UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

The project is also expected to create at least 10,000 stable local jobs and boost Hung Yen’s regional economy, turning Pho Hien into a new cultural, economic, and tourism hub in the Red River Delta.

In early April, the Government Office issued Official Dispatch No. 2844, conveying Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh’s directive to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The ministry was tasked with leading a coordination effort involving the Ministries of Finance, Construction, Agriculture and Environment, and Justice to urgently review Hung Yen’s proposal and submit detailed solutions to the Prime Minister.

On April 11, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong signed Official Dispatch No. 1542, requesting related ministries to provide input on the necessity, investment policies, funding sources, incentives, and land clearance schedule to compile a comprehensive report for the Prime Minister.

Trong Tung