Vietnam taps Samsung hub and Ha Long Bay province as growth zones

EconomyBac Ninh and Quang Ninh set for central government status as Hanoi seeks to boost investment and industryA Samsung Electronics factory in Bac Ninh province. Vietnam's largest exporting locality is expected to become a centrally governed city under a government plan to create new growth poles. © ReutersMAI NGUYEN and YUJI NITTAAugust 18, 2026 14:30 JSTHANOI -- Vietnam is seeking to turn two of its biggest FDI destinations, Bac Ninh and Quang Ninh, into central government-run cities, a move it hopes will accelerate the growth of the Samsung manufacturing hub and the home of Ha Long Bay.