HCMC – Dutch companies have suggested multiple solutions for the business environment, traffic infrastructure, promotion activities and quality of urban life to help HCMC become more attractive to investors, heard a meeting between HCMC leaders and the Dutch Business Association in Vietnam on February 28.
Phuc Nguyen, chairman of the association, pointed out several obstacles facing Dutch investors, including administrative procedures, so he proposed the city streamline these procedures and further apply technology to handle processes.
The city should effectively tackle traffic jams, especially on routes leading to seaports and neighboring provinces, to attract foreign investors, according to representatives of Dutch firms.
Besides, the Dutch Business Association suggested HCMC should control air and noise pollution, address flooding and high tide issues sustainably and focus on the green and eco-friendly environment, the local media reported.
HCMC is growing fast, so the city should map out detailed plans for sustainable development and execute short- and long-term projects that can improve the quality of life, said Dutch Ambassador to Vietnam Kees van Baar.
In response to these recommendations and proposals from the Dutch association, HCMC Chairman Phan Van Mai said that the city is prioritizing green and circular economy, digital transformation and logistics services.
HCMC always welcomes foreign investors, moving toward becoming a key smart service, logistics and economic hub, Mai said, adding that as such, the city is willing to gather feedback from the business community and pledges to lift hindrances facing investors and create more favorable conditions for foreign enterprises, mainly Dutch firms.
In 2022, bilateral trade between HCMC and the Netherlands totaled US$1.6 billion. The Netherlands was the city’s fifth largest investor, registering 183 projects with total capital pledges of over US$5 billion.
