Mekong Delta targets higher GDP growth
Mekong Delta targets higher GDP growth
Authorities in the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta have outlined a major development plan that calls for an annual increase in GDP growth of 11-12 per cent a year from now to 2020.
Industrial production and the services sector would account for 60 per cent of the economy, while agricultural production would drop to under 40 per cent, the Southwestern Region Steering Committee said.
To meet the target, the Delta, the country's largest rice, fruit and fishery area, plans to diversify its products and begin intensive farming in specific regions.
Specialised cultivation zones will be used to grow high-quality, high-yield products, especially rice, fruit and short-term industrial trees.
Cultivation will also be expanded for plants used to make industrial materials and animal feed.
Under the plan, aquaculture, which is a major activity in the Delta, will include more multi-purpose irrigation works and operate under strict environmental guidelines.
Small- and medium-d industries will also be developed, and the Southwest seas will be exploited for the gas, electricity and fertiliser industries.
In addition, eco-tourism and waterway tourism will be expanded, while Kien Giang Province's Phu Quoc Island will become an international tourism and trade centre.
Can Tho City, the Delta's major city, will expand its industry, trade and services sectors to serve as a commercial hub for the entire area.
By 2015, the Delta is expected to complete several targets, including inland water and road transport infrastructure.
Roads between HCM City and the Southeast region will be expanded, and the Tra Noc Airport in Can Tho City will be upgraded into an international airport.
Construction of flood-proof residential areas in flood-prone areas will also be completed by 2015, and clean water and electricity supply will be ensured.
Also by 2015, the region will enhance vocational training so that area residents' skills reach those of other regions in the country.
Modernising provincial and district level hospitals is also part of the development plan to 2020.
vietnamnews
