From Dubai and Singapore to Shenzhen, this model has not only driven economic leaps but also reshaped entire urban landscapes. Vietnam, with Da Nang as its focal point, now stands on the brink of entering a similar developmental trajectory.
Free Trade Zones: Catalysts for Economic Growth
In simple terms, a free trade zone (FTZ) is akin to an “economic enclave” within a nation’s territory. Here, goods can be imported, produced, assembled, and re-exported with preferential tax treatments and streamlined procedures. This makes FTZs powerful magnets for international investment, fostering economic, social, and urban breakthroughs.
Shenzhen’s story is a testament to this. In 1980, when it embraced free trade policies, its GDP was a mere $270 million. By 2023, this figure had soared to over $475 billion—a staggering 1,800-fold increase. Transforming from a modest fishing village, Shenzhen has risen as a global tech hub, home to giants like Huawei and Tencent, earning its title as “Asia’s Silicon Valley.”
Dubai’s achievements are equally impressive. Established in 1985, the Jebel Ali Free Zone initially hosted just 19 companies. Today, it accommodates over 11,000 businesses from 157 countries, employing more than 160,000 workers. In 2024, it contributed 713 billion AED to non-oil trade, accounting for 36% of Dubai’s GDP—a clear demonstration of FTZs’ power in diversifying oil-dependent economies.
Singapore offers another remarkable example. Despite its limited resources, this island nation leveraged its strategic port location to develop FTZs, becoming a global trade gateway. Its success extends beyond logistics to fostering a transparent, stable business environment, propelling its per capita GDP to over $80,000—among the world’s highest.
A common thread across these FTZs is their integrated investment in infrastructure, advanced logistics, and superior legal frameworks. Once operational, they trigger a powerful ripple effect: rapid economic growth, vibrant social dynamics, rising property values, and accelerated development of surrounding urban areas.
Da Nang: Vietnam’s First Free Trade Zone
On June 16, 2025, the Prime Minister approved the establishment of Vietnam’s first free trade zone in Da Nang—a historic milestone heralding a new era for this Han River city.
Da Nang’s selection was no accident. Strategically located, it boasts the Lien Chieu Port—a deep-water harbor designed to accommodate 200,000-ton vessels, serving as a vital gateway for the East-West Economic Corridor. Moreover, the post-pandemic global supply chain shift has opened significant opportunities for Da Nang’s strengths in high-tech and semiconductor industries.
Rendering of the International Financial Center in Da Nang
The impact of the FTZ extends beyond economic metrics, reshaping the city’s urban fabric. Lien Chieu, home to the port, will emerge as an international logistics hub, featuring smart warehouses, high-tech factories, and modern transportation systems. This will attract billions in FDI annually and create jobs for 50,000 to 70,000 workers, including a significant influx of international experts and managers.
This transformation will spur demand for advanced social infrastructure. High-quality housing, international offices, bilingual schools, modern hospitals, shopping centers, and urban services will flourish. Lien Chieu, once a traditional industrial zone, will evolve into a dynamic, modern international seaport city.
In this context, well-planned urban developments will reap the benefits of the FTZ boom. The Lumia Da Nang is a prime example. Located on the extended Nguyen Tat Thanh axis, it offers quick access to Lien Chieu Port and the FTZ core. Spanning nearly 70 hectares, The Lumia is designed as a closed ecological urban area, featuring 30 modern amenities catering to living, working, entertainment, and commerce needs.
The Lumia Da Nang is adjacent to the extended Nguyen Tat Thanh Road, directly connecting to Lien Chieu International Port, the Free Trade Zone, and the city center
What sets The Lumia Da Nang apart is its dual investment value. It’s not just an ideal residence but also a versatile asset for rental, offices, retail, or tourism. As the influx of international experts to Da Nang grows, the project’s yield potential will rise, making its real estate a sustainable income generator.
Forward-thinking investors who act early will reap the greatest rewards. With its strategic location and modern planning, The Lumia Da Nang is poised to be a cornerstone of Da Nang’s remarkable transformation into Vietnam’s most livable city in the coming decade.
Da Nang Seeks $2 Billion Investment for Lien Chieu Port Project
The Lien Chieu Port project, a $2 billion endeavor in Da Nang, is set to revolutionize Vietnam’s maritime landscape. This ambitious initiative will undergo a competitive bidding process to select investors, aiming to establish a state-of-the-art container port and international transshipment hub. With a focus on modernity and global connectivity, the project promises to elevate Vietnam’s position in the international shipping industry.
Strategic Investment Opportunities: Affordable Options Under 1.9 Billion VND in Hai Phong’s Urban Core
In the heart of Hai Phong, where central apartment prices typically range between 2 to 3 billion VND per unit, Rose Residence emerges as a rare opportunity. Starting at just 1.9 billion VND, it offers an affordable yet premium urban living experience, perfectly suited for both homeowners and savvy investors alike.
Mobilizing Trillions of Dollars to Boost the Economy: Deputy Prime Minister’s Directive
The Deputy Prime Minister has urged swift action to address challenges and bottlenecks in key projects, aiming to inject trillions of dollars into the economy.
Prime Minister: Breakthrough Solutions Needed for Housing Policies and Real Estate Market
The Prime Minister has called for a significant increase in housing supply to balance market demand and supply dynamics. This initiative aims to identify and address bottlenecks, policy hurdles, and challenges within the housing and real estate sectors. By thoroughly analyzing these issues, the goal is to derive actionable insights and lessons, leading to innovative solutions. These measures are expected to drive substantial breakthroughs in housing policies and the real estate market by the end of this year and into the next, ultimately fostering robust growth.
Exciting Development: Hưng Yên Set to Welcome a 7,000 Billion VND Project in Its Most Vibrant Hub
Exciting developments are underway in Hưng Yên as the city prepares to launch a groundbreaking 7,000-billion VND social housing project in Phố Hiến Ward. This ambitious initiative promises to address the growing need for affordable housing, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant community. With its strategic location and thoughtful design, the project is poised to become a cornerstone of sustainable urban development in the region.
