On January 14, Tran Anh Dung, Standing Vice Chairman of the Nam Dinh Provincial People’s Committee, announced the decision. The new economic zone spans two coastal districts, Nghia Hung and Hai Hau, in Nam Dinh.

The establishment of the Ninh Co EZ aims to maximize advantages in high-quality human resources and strategic location for economic, trade, and service connectivity with neighboring areas.

It integrates investment attraction and economic development with national defense, security, and the preservation and promotion of the region’s marine ecosystems, historical sites, and cultural values.

A comprehensive and multifaceted coastal economic zone

Ninh Co is envisioned as a comprehensive, multi-sectoral coastal economic zone and a key driver of Nam Dinh’s economic breakthroughs.

It will feature modern infrastructure and a favorable business environment, establishing itself as a maritime economic hub that complements other coastal economic zones in the region.

This development is expected to fuel growth in the Red River Delta and the Gulf of Tonkin economic belt, create jobs, and enhance the income and skill levels of local residents.

The development roadmap for the Ninh Co EZ is divided into three phases.

Phase I (2024–2026) will focus on completing construction plans and initiating significant projects.

Phase II (2026–2030) will emphasize comprehensive infrastructure development, particularly in urban, industrial, and service sectors.

Phase III (post-2030) aims to finalize a modern, synchronized economic and social infrastructure system.

Economic and social impact projections

Once operational, the Ninh Co EZ is anticipated to deliver significant economic and social benefits, including an average annual economic growth rate of 14–15% during the 2026–2030 period.

By 2030, the zone is expected to contribute 25–30% of Nam Dinh’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) and generate approximately 3 trillion VND (around 126 million USD) in state budget revenue.

Industrial zones within the EZ are projected to achieve an occupancy rate of 74–75%, create jobs for nearly 55,000 workers, and uphold environmental sustainability, particularly in coastal ecosystems.

Additionally, the EZ will play a vital role in bolstering national defense and security in the region while contributing to the province’s urbanization rate, which is expected to reach 45.6% by 2030.

Trong Tung