Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phạm Trung Lương, a member of the National Planning Advisory Expert Group, offers profound insights into the role of this mega-project in addressing the nighttime economy, attracting high-quality tourists, and shaping a new icon that propels Da Nang to Asian prominence.
Sir, following the merger, Da Nang has launched numerous key projects to boost tourism and its economy in this new era. Among these, the $80 trillion “Da Nang Downtown” mega-project is expected to create a new icon and drive tourism growth. From a tourism perspective, how do you evaluate this project’s role?
Post-merger, Da Nang has gained two critical functions: an International Financial Center and a Free Trade Zone. This positions Da Nang as a hub for major investors, who, from a tourism standpoint, represent high-end travelers. However, Da Nang’s current infrastructure and tourism offerings for this market segment remain limited.
As a leading tourism center in the Central-Highlands region and nationally, Da Nang requires robust tourism infrastructure to meet the demands of a “National Tourism Center.” With its unique international roles, Da Nang must leverage its economic development to enhance tourism. The Da Nang Downtown project, aligned with cultural industries and the nighttime economy, is timely and significant.
The Da Nang Downtown project promises “all-in-one” nighttime experiences, akin to global icons like Marina Bay Sands (Singapore) or One Bangkok (Thailand). It aims to solve Da Nang’s nighttime economy challenges. What’s your take on this?
The nighttime economy concept isn’t new, but its true essence—a complex with entertainment, dining, and shopping—remains unrealized in Vietnam. Developing a nighttime economy requires understanding its nature, adequate space, and minimal impact on residents.
Da Nang needs world-class nighttime economy clusters to thrive. Photo: Ánh Dương
If Da Nang Downtown fulfills its vision, it will pioneer Vietnam’s nighttime economy, offering 24/7 operations without disrupting community life.
Does Da Nang have the elements for a genuine nighttime economy compared to other localities?
Da Nang lacks specific policies for nighttime development, especially for entertainment like casinos. Vietnam’s pilot casino models are small-scale. For success, Da Nang needs clear policies, including regulated casino operations, as seen in Singapore’s successful model.
Tax exemptions for international tourists, such as VAT refunds at the point of purchase, would enhance shopping experiences. Policies must ensure service quality, prevent fraud, and streamline tourist experiences.
Da Nang Downtown aims to be Asia’s “new Marina Bay Sands.” Rendering: Sun Group
A 24/7 operational framework, supported by infrastructure like mini airports, is essential for sustainability.
How will the 69-story tower, inspired by the traditional ao dai, attract high-end tourists and talent to Da Nang?
The tower symbolizes Da Nang’s identity. Integrating a fashion center or ao dai museum would differentiate it, positioning Da Nang as Asia’s fashion hub.
The 69-story tower: Da Nang’s future icon. Rendering: Sun Group
Incorporating “green” and “smart” elements aligns with sustainable tourism trends, ensuring its global appeal.
Da Nang is now “worth living,” “worth visiting,” “worth staying awake for,” and “worth investing in.” As a tourism economist, how do you view these attributes?
Da Nang’s appeal lies in its environment, attractions, and potential. Its real estate remains undervalued compared to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, making it an attractive investment.
Da Nang aims to be Asia’s top livable, visitable, and investable city. Photo: Ánh Dương
Its cultural and natural diversity, coupled with remote work trends, makes it a desirable long-term destination.
Can Da Nang achieve its goal of becoming Asia’s top tourism hub?
With projects like Da Nang Downtown, Da Nang can significantly boost tourism revenue. Addressing infrastructure and waste management is crucial for sustainable growth.
Thank you, sir!
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