“Localities must achieve higher growth rates than those set in Resolution No. 25/NQ-CP, especially those serving as growth engines of the country,” Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang said.

Among 34 provinces and cities following recent administrative mergers, eight were tasked with achieving double-digit growth in 2025. Quang Ninh was assigned to obtain the highest growth of 12.5%, followed by Hai Phong (12.2%), Bac Ninh (11.5%), and Ninh Binh (10.6%). Phu Tho, Hue, Quang Ngai, and Can Tho were assigned to reach a growth rate of 10%.

Most of others must deliver 8–9% growth. Two "locomotives" - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City - were allocated 8.5% growth; Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Da Nang 9%; Tay Ninh 9.3%; Ha Tinh 8.7%; Khanh Hoa 8.5%; and Hung Yen 9%. Only Lai Chau, Dien Bien, and Lam Dong are set at 7.5%.

At the government's meeting for July, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged localities to quickly devise growth scenarios. To reach 8.5% nationally, Hanoi must expand 9.3% in the second half and Ho Chi Minh City has to reach 10.3%. For those with double-digit targets, the challenge is greater - Quang Ninh must grow 13.9%, Hai Phong 13.1%, Bac Ninh 12.4%, Ninh Binh 10.4%, and Can Tho 11.9%.

Some provinces are aiming beyond their assigned goals. Though set at 8%, Thai Nguyen targets 8.5% growth. Its plan projects third-quarter growth of 10.2% and fourth-quarter growth of 10.4%, bringing second-half expansion to 10.3%.

To spur growth, Thai Nguuyen will accelerate public investment disbursement—at least 75% by the end of Q3 and 95% by year-end, striving for 100%,” local leaders said. The province also aims to attract US$4.6 billion in foreign investment to boost industry and exports.

Hai Phong expects to exceed its quota. Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Le Ngoc Chau forecast third-quarter growth at 13.92% and full-year expansion at 12.35%, surpassing the 12.2% target.

Quang Ninh has pledged to fully disburse public investment this year while speeding up key transport projects such as the riverside road linking the Ha Long–Hai Phong expressway to Dong Trieu and upgrades to National Highway 279.

Growth boost from projects

On August 19, 250 projects were simultaneously inaugurated or launched across 34 provinces and cities, with combined investment of VND1.28 quadrillion (US$48.73 billion).

Deputy Minister of Construction Le Anh Tuan said these projects could contribute more than 18% of the country's GDP in 2025 and over 20% in subsequent years.

Quang Ninh alone inaugurated or broke ground for 50 projects worth more than VND135 trillion, including 14 state-funded and private sector-financed works and 22 new investment commitments exceeding VND110 trillion. Provincial leaders called them key drivers of socio-economic growth.

In Hai Phong, nine projects were launched, including May Chai bridge, Dong Viet bridge approach roads, and new T2 terminal at Cat Bi International Airport, which will raise capacity to 5 million passengers annually. “These projects will not only improve infrastructure and social services but also create fresh momentum for growth and urban expansion,” a city leader said.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City also began major works. At the groundbreaking for the VND11.8 trillion Ngoc Hoi bridge, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh said the project will enhance connectivity with neighbouring provinces such as Hung Yen, helping the city to obtain growth above 8% in 2025 and double digits in coming years.

PM directs solutions to achieve 2025 economic growth target

The Prime Minister urged the promotion of industrial production in tandem with market restructuring, product diversification, and the development of supply and production chains.