Driving forces for the development of the "green economy"

The merger of Phu Tho, Vinh Phuc, and Hoa Binh provinces creates a vast new development space with rich potential, especially in the tourism sector. For the new Phu Tho province's tourism to achieve a breakthrough and become a leading "green economy" sector, it needs to meet many stringent requirements, based on the harmonious exploitation of the unique cultural, ecological, and geographical advantages of all three regions.

Abundant tourism resources

The biggest advantage of Phu Tho province after the merger is its possession of a diverse and rich source of tourism resources, ranging from UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage (Hung King worshiping belief, Xoan singing) to scenic spots and nature reserves. Therefore, the core requirement is to develop closely linked tourism products, forming a "heritage - ecological - experiential tourism belt" instead of fragmented development in each former locality.

A clear connecting axis needs to be established: the link between "spirituality" (Phu Tho), "green resort" (Vinh Phuc), and "local" ( Hoa Binh ). Phu Tho, with its Hung Temple, is identified as the center of the Hung King worshiping belief, attracting tourists with its historical significance and national origins. Vinh Phuc offers strengths in high-end resorts and entertainment with Tam Dao National Park and Dai Lai tourist area, dubbed the "Da Lat of the North." Hoa Binh contributes unique ethnic minority cultural identities and community tourism in Ban Lac - Mai Chau, and Hoa Binh Lake with its potential for ecotourism and exploring majestic natural landscapes.

This collaboration will open up greater opportunities, driving the development of the "green economy" on established foundations, thereby creating a diverse journey that allows tourists to experience everything from culture and history to pristine nature, from luxury resorts to community tourism, meeting the growing demands of the "green tourism" market.

With its abundant and distinctive tourism resources, Phu Tho's "green economy" will open up new opportunities after the merger by effectively utilizing existing tourism resources.

In 2024, Phu Tho province welcomed over 9 million visitors, many of whom chose to relax at Thanh Thuy hot springs and experience the ecological environment of Xuan Son National Park. This increase demonstrates the great potential of environmentally friendly tourism and indicates that the "green economy" has the opportunity to develop significantly. To effectively exploit the potential and strengths of tourism products in the province, the Provincial Tourism Promotion Center has developed eight attractive tours, offering visitors unique heritage journeys, historical sites, and stunning landscapes in the ancestral land. These tours, including "Journey to the Source - Deep Spiritual Realm," "Fragrance of the Muong Land," "Green Ancestral Land," "Golf & Mice Tourism," and "Tourism Linking with the Expanded Northwest Provinces," promise to bring new and exciting experiences to domestic and international tourists. These efforts aim to promote the "green economy" in the area, thereby driving the positioning of Phu Tho's tourism brand on the national tourism map.

Brand positioning: “Green Economy”

To become a key economic sector, Phu Tho's tourism industry must undergo a strong transformation from a traditional development model to a "green economy" model, aiming for sustainable development. Many requirements must be met for Phu Tho to achieve a breakthrough in the "green economy," one of which is environmental protection. Accordingly, the exploitation of natural resources must go hand in hand with strict conservation measures, especially in sensitive areas such as Xuan Son National Park, Tam Dao, and Hoa Binh Reservoir. Investment in wastewater and waste treatment systems meeting international standards should be encouraged in resorts and hotels. Furthermore, responsible community tourism development is necessary, ensuring economic benefits reach local people while respecting and preserving the cultural values ​​and identities of ethnic minorities in Hoa Binh, Phu Tho, and Vinh Phuc provinces. This not only helps preserve heritage but also creates authentic and unique experiences for tourists – a growing trend, especially among international tourists, who consider experiential tourism a key element of exploration. Alongside this, the use of renewable energy should be promoted by encouraging tourism businesses to switch to solar and wind energy, thereby reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the granting or recognition of sustainable tourism certifications to pioneering businesses should be encouraged to enhance their reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.

To create opportunities for tourism development, continued and comprehensive investment in transportation infrastructure and services is necessary. Specifically, focus on inter-regional transportation infrastructure: Strong investment is needed in routes connecting key tourist destinations (Viet Tri - Tam Dao - Hoa Binh Lake - Mai Chau), addressing traffic bottlenecks, especially on railways and highways. Develop accommodation, food and beverage services, and entertainment facilities that meet international standards to satisfy the needs of tourists, particularly the high-end resort segment in Vinh Phuc and Hoa Binh. Apply information technology in promotion, tour booking, and electronic payments to enhance the tourist experience and management efficiency. Train high-quality human resources and strengthen regional linkages. Emphasize training tour guides and tourism managers who are knowledgeable about local culture, possess professional service skills, and have expertise in sustainable tourism. Leveraging Hanoi's "gateway" to the Northwest to develop cross-regional tourism tours and routes (Phu Tho - Yen Bai - Ninh Binh - Son La...), this cooperation will expand the market and optimize the efficiency of resource exploitation.

The merger of Phu Tho, Vinh Phuc, and Hoa Binh provinces presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Phu Tho's tourism industry to thrive. However, realizing the dream of becoming a leading green economic sector requires strong government determination in policy planning, responsible investment from businesses, and community consensus. When these requirements are met, the expanded "ancestral land" will not only be a sacred destination but also a "green lung," a sustainable tourism brand with rich cultural identity, a leading destination in Northern Vietnam.

National Assembly

Source: https://baophutho.vn/dong-luc-cho-kinh-te-xanh-phat-trien-244058.htm