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| Hue City leaders visiting the beer production line at Carlsberg Vietnam Brewery |
Destination for foreign capital
Amid the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day, many projects were launched and inaugurated, reflecting Hue’s appeal in attracting investment, especially FDI. Economic and industrial zones are increasingly positioned as prime destinations for global investors.
At Gilimex Industrial Park, the first phase of the EON Industry Vietnam helmet plant has commenced operations. After just 17 months of construction, a modern factory spanning over 4 hectares has been completed, creating jobs for more than 800 workers. The first batches shipped from Hue have entered international markets, marking the footprint of a global corporation in the Ancient Capital.
The company plans to expand into phases 2 and 3, raising its workforce to over 1,600 and diversifying production to include motorcycle helmets and sports protective gear. "A representative of EON Industry Vietnam said the choice of Hue was attributed to the strong support of local authorities, along with the availability of infrastructure and human resources. Beyond being a project of EON Industry Vietnam, it reinforces confidence in Hue as a promising investment destination in the region.
A further testament is the expansion of the Carlsberg Vietnam brewery at Phu Bai Industrial Park. With an investment of nearly USD 90 million, Carlsberg has boosted output by 50%, making it the group’s largest brewery in Asia. More than just expanding its scale, the company has set a benchmark for green production: using renewable energy, conserving water and energy, and treating 100% of wastewater to international standards.
In the service-commerce sector, Aeon Mall Hue has brought a significant shift by delivering a modern shopping experience that reshapes consumer habits, enhances quality of life, and fuels the growth of retail and tourism. This illustrates that FDI extends beyond heavy industry, helping to diversify the local economic structure.
The Kim Long Motor Hue manufacturing and assembly complex is expected to be a game-changing driver. Once completed, it could make Hue one of Vietnam’s foremost automotive hubs, fostering the development of satellite companies and supporting industries. More than creating jobs, Kim Long Motor will lay the groundwork for the mechanical and automotive sector in central Vietnam.
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| Workers in FDI enterprises |
Leveraging advantages to retain FDI
In the midst of an intense national race for FDI, Hue has highlighted its own strengths: a strategic Central Vietnam location, direct connectivity with the East-West Economic Corridor, and an equilibrium between cultural heritage and industrial growth. By the end of August, total implemented investment was estimated at over VND 24,075 billion, reaching 63.7% of the plan, up 12.1% year-on-year. The city approved 35 new projects and adjusted 18 others, with a total registered capital of VND 30,015 billion, including 9 FDI projects worth USD 32 million.
These figures are mirrored in GRDP growth, with industry and construction surging well beyond last year’s levels. FDI has emerged as a vital force, bringing not only capital but also technology, markets, and modern management. Local businesses are increasingly involved in supply chains, logistics, construction, and materials. Workers enjoy more stable jobs and higher incomes. An industrial-service ecosystem is taking shape, boosting Hue’s competitiveness and output value.
During the Hue City People’s Committee’s August press briefing, Chief of Office Tran Huu Thuy Giang, addressing questions on growth momentum and budget revenue for the rest of the year, highlighted the role of FDI projects—particularly the Kim Long Motor Hue Complex and the Kanglongda Hue Plant. These are expected to serve as key drivers of Hue’s economic development in the period ahead.
Yet to keep FDI anchored, Hue cannot be complacent. The city’s biggest challenge lies in infrastructure and human resources. Chan May Port and Phu Bai International Airport must continue to be upgraded to handle cargo and passenger volumes. Economic and industrial zones such as Chan May-Lang Co, Phu Bai, and Phong Dien require comprehensive investment, while social infrastructure must be developed in parallel to meet the needs of workers and experts.
According to Nguyen Van Phuong, Deputy Secretary of the City Party Committee and Chairman of the Hue People’s Committee, to sustain FDI inflows, the city government will be a constant partner to investors at every stage from exploring the business environment to commercializing products. Hue will also push forward with streamlined, transparent, and effective administrative reforms and be ready for direct dialogue to promptly address obstacles.