Phu Quoc and APEC 2027: Experts propose a special mechanism.

Leading economic experts proposed numerous groundbreaking solutions at a workshop in Phu Quoc, emphasizing the need for specific policies and visa relaxation to enable the island to achieve breakthroughs.

Phu Quoc stands before a historic opportunity with APEC 2027.

At the seminar "Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone – Taking Flight with APEC," held on December 12th in Sunset Town, leading experts discussed and proposed strategic solutions to help Phu Quoc maximize opportunities from the Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2027 forum. The event is seen as a springboard to reposition the island's brand on the international tourism and economic map.

The seminar “Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone – Taking Off with APEC” took place at the Sun Signature Gallery Convention Center, Phu Quoc on December 12th.

The workshop, co-organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Research and Sun Group , brought together many experts, scientists, and leaders from other special economic zones such as Con Dao and Van Don. All participants agreed that APEC 2027 is not only a diplomatic event but also a golden opportunity to promote Vietnam's image and create a boost for the remarkable development of Phu Quoc.

Leading experts in their respective fields attended the workshop.

Proposing a special mechanism for breakthrough

One of the key recommendations at the workshop was the need for Phu Quoc to have specific mechanisms and policies to maximize its potential. Associate Professor Tran Dinh Thien, former Director of the Vietnam Institute of Economics , suggested that Phu Quoc should have a special economic zone status directly under the central government instead of being under the provincial government. This would give the island greater autonomy, creating conditions to attract strategic investors and reach international standards.

Associate Professor Tran Dinh Thien contributed a paper on APEC 2027 - Opportunities and Challenges.

Sharing the same view, Dr. Nguyen Si Dung emphasized the necessity of strongly decentralizing power to Phu Quoc and extending the application period of land tax policies to create an attractive investment environment. Dr. Tran Du Lich also affirmed the role of strategic investors, who have the mission to work with the state to create sustainable development for the island.

Easing visa requirements and expanding international connections.

To attract high-quality international tourists and those staying for extended periods, experts suggest further relaxation of visa regulations. Currently, the 30-day visa-free policy is considered an advantage, but it is insufficient to meet the potential for growth. Associate Professor Pham Trung Luong proposes increasing the visa validity period to at least six months, facilitating business travel and attracting global talent.

Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan - Director of the Institute of Tourism Economics.

In addition, opening more direct flights from key markets is also emphasized as a crucial factor. Experts believe that policies are needed to encourage, and even decentralize, local authorities and businesses to proactively connect new flight routes, alongside the development of public transportation infrastructure and tourism logistics.

The APEC Convention and Exhibition Center will have the world's largest ballroom.

Green and sustainable development is a core objective.

Sustainable development and building "green destinations" is one of the topics receiving special attention. Mr. Tran Minh Khoa, Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone, said that the locality is actively implementing the Green Transformation project, aiming for Net Zero. One of the first steps is to put 100% electric buses into operation on main routes.

Mr. Tran Minh Khoa, Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone, shared information about the projects and initiatives for APEC 2027.

Experts also suggested that Phu Quoc should manage tourist numbers based on the destination's carrying capacity, focusing on the high-spending segment rather than chasing quantity. Along with that, building a national-level marine science park and applying technology to management are also considered important directions for Phu Quoc's smart and sustainable development in the future.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/phu-quoc-va-apec-2027-chuyen-gia-de-xuat-co-che-dac-thu-3314784.html