On the morning of April 24, 2026, during the first session of the 16th National Assembly, a historic milestone was established: the National Assembly officially approved the Resolution to establish Dong Nai as a Centrally-run city. With this new status, Dong Nai is not only a source of pride for local residents but is also expected to become a vital growth engine, leading the development of the Southeast region and the entire country.
A 300-year journey and a historic turning point
The history of the Bien Hoa - Dong Nai region is deeply rooted in the southern expansion efforts of our ancestors. From a wild and pristine land, through more than 300 years of formation and development, Dong Nai has risen to become the "industrial capital" of the country. The decision to make Dong Nai the 7th Centrally-run city (following Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Can Tho, and Thua Thien Hue) is the result of a tireless process of effort and meticulous preparation in all aspects.
Dong Nai becomes the 7th Centrally-run city
Following a high-speed roadmap in 2026, this policy received absolute consensus from the central to the local levels. On March 25, 2026, the 2nd Plenum of the 14th Central Committee approved the policy, creating the premise for the Government to finalize the project. Shortly thereafter, the Ministry of Construction recognized Dong Nai as a Grade I urban area on April 16, 2026. The establishment of 10 new wards, such as Trang Bom, Long Thành, Nhon Trach, and Dau Giay, has created a solid backbone for the administrative apparatus of the new city.
Impressive figures
With a natural area of over 12.7 thousand km2 and a population of nearly 4.5 million people, Dong Nai currently ranks among the top 5 most populous localities in Vietnam. This represents an abundant labor resource, a vast consumer market, and a driving force to accelerate the development of urban infrastructure.
The greatest highlight of Dong Nai is its solid industrial foundation. Bien Hoa II Industrial Park, along with dozens of other modern industrial zones, has made the province a leading magnet for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Today, the city is shifting strongly toward a new-generation industrial model, exemplified by the Bau Can - Tan Hiep project by KN Holdings Group, which focuses on high technology and sustainability.
A transportation "Capital" and strategic connection hub
Dong Nai currently holds the record for the locality with the highest number of expressways passing through it in the country (10 out of 86 routes). A synchronous transportation infrastructure system with all five modes—road, water, rail, air, and pipeline—has turned this area into a massive "connecting construction site."
In particular, the super-project Long Thanh International Airport (expected to begin commercial operations in late 2026) is likened to a "milestone of the century." This is not just an airport, but the nucleus for forming the first "Airport City" model in Vietnam. Surrounding the airport, satellite towns like Nhon Trach are being oriented to become international-class logistics and service centers.
The super-project Long Thanh International Airport
In tandem with aviation, the system of seaports (such as Phuoc An Port) and river ports acts as a "gateway" for trade, helping Dong Nai break through to become a logistics hub not only for the region but also on an international scale.
Vision: A civilized City with a human-centric approach
Speaking on the future orientation, the Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, Nguyen Kim Long, emphasized: "The ultimate goal that Dong Nai aims for is to build a civilized, modern, and happy city; where economic development must go hand-in-hand with cultural development."
In its new position, Dong Nai City focuses on four main pillars:
- Digital transformation and innovation: Utilizing data and science-technology as new developmental resources.
- Eco-smart urban areas: Developing central wards like Tran Bien and satellite urban areas toward a green, clean, and sustainable direction.
- Global logistics center: Maximizing the advantages of Long Thanh Airport and the seaport system.
- Improving quality of life: Ensuring every citizen enjoys the fruits of economic development, from education and healthcare to cultural spaces.
Expectations of the People
Expectations of the People
Mr. Nguyen Huu Quyen, a resident of Bien Hoa ward for nearly 30 years, shared his emotion regarding the transformation of his homeland: "We expect comprehensive development. Not just high-rise buildings or expressways, but job opportunities, a quality living environment, and a government apparatus that serves the people more effectively."
Becoming a Centrally-run city is not just an administrative title; it is a ticket for Dong Nai to enter a new era of development. With the resilient "Spirit of the East" and innate potential, Dong Nai City is certain to become a dynamic growth pole, contributing to bringing Vietnam further on the global economic map.