The meeting provided an important opportunity for both sides to assess cooperation prospects and discuss solutions to continuously improve the investment and business environment for Korean enterprises operating in Hai Phong.
Strong Korean investment presence in Hai Phong
During the meeting, Vice Chairman Hoang Minh Cuong highlighted that despite global economic challenges in 2025, Hai Phong maintained impressive growth with an estimated GRDP increase of 11.81%, continuing its position among Vietnam’s top-performing localities.
South Korea is currently Hai Phong’s leading investment partner, with:
•    321 projects 
•    Total registered capital: USD 15.47 billion 
•    Ranking first in foreign direct investment (FDI) scale in the city 
He also introduced the newly approved Free Trade Zone (FTZ) model of nearly 6,300 hectares, emphasizing that Hai Phong is prioritizing high-tech industries such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and green energy. The city reaffirmed its commitment to creating the most favorable conditions for foreign investors.
Korean side’s assessment
Mr. Seo Won Sam expressed appreciation for the warm reception and was impressed by Hai Phong’s dynamic development.
He highly valued the city’s focus on science, technology, and digital transformation, and also thanked local authorities for their timely support in helping Korean enterprises recover from damages caused by Typhoon Yagi.
Key concerns raised by Korean businesses
In an open and constructive discussion, Korean enterprises raised several practical issues aimed at improving the investment environment:
•    Faster processing of value-added tax (VAT) refunds 
•    Shortening administrative procedures for investment licensing and environmental permits 
•    More flexible guidance on fire safety standards during factory expansion or design adjustments 
•    Ensuring stable electricity supply for uninterrupted production 
•    Strengthening university–enterprise cooperation to develop high-quality workforce for high-tech industries 
Responses from Hai Phong authorities
Representatives of the Hai Phong Economic Zone Authority reaffirmed that the city is always committed to supporting investors.
Key commitments include:
•    Reviewing and reporting VAT refund bottlenecks to accelerate resolution with tax authorities 
•    Continuing to cut investment registration certificate processing time by 50% 
•    Ensuring stable electricity supply for industrial parks and economic zones 
•    Expanding cooperation between educational institutions and businesses to improve workforce quality 
The city also encouraged Korean enterprises to create more opportunities for local supporting industries to join global supply chains.
Conclusion
Closing the meeting, Vice Chairman Hoang Minh Cuong acknowledged all constructive feedback from the Korean delegation. He emphasized that the strong and multifaceted partnership between both sides forms a solid foundation to jointly resolve challenges and build a more transparent and efficient investment environment.
The city expressed hope that the Consul General will continue to serve as a bridge connecting more Korean investors to explore opportunities in Hai Phong, particularly in advanced and high-tech industrial sectors in the coming period.