HCM City calls for stronger US investment in four strategic sectors
VOV.VN - Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Thanh Nghi called on US businesses to invest in the city’s four strategic sectors during his meeting with Daniel J. Kritenbrink, former US Ambassador to Vietnam and now a senior leader at The Asia Group, on July 15.

HCM City is looking to attract more US investment in four priority areas, namely developing an international financial centre; high-tech industries, smart cities, infrastructure, and digital transformation; clean energy transition; and high-quality human resource training, Nghi told Kritenbrink.
Nghi highlighted the deepening Vietnam - US bilateral relationship, especially in science, technology, innovation, and investment. He noted that in 2024 alone, two-way trade between HCM City and the US reached over US$10.7 billion, a 42% increase compared to 2023, contributing significantly to the overall bilateral trade. The US currently ranks as the 9th largest investor in the city.
He expressed appreciation for Kritenbrink’s contributions to fostering Vietnam - US relations, particularly in the lead-up to the comprehensive strategic partnership upgrade in 2023.
He also introduced HCM City’s recent administrative reforms, including the implementation of a two-tier government model and the expansion of administrative boundaries by integrating parts of Binh Duong and Ba Ria - Vung Tau provinces, all aimed at transforming the city into a dynamic and modern mega-urban area.
The official reaffirmed that HCM City is always proactive in supporting businesses and is fully committed to creating favourable conditions for US investors to collaborate effectively and sustainably in the city.
Kritenbrink, for his part, commended HCM City’s development strategy and affirmed that The Asia Group would continue to act as a bridge between US businesses and the Vietnamese government, promoting effective investment cooperation.
He said he has spent two working days in HCM City as part of this visit and expressed a desire for a long-term partnership with the city. He also mentioned current challenges, including trade and tariff policies between the US and Vietnam, but remained optimistic that solutions would soon be found to support the business community.