The Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Tien Giang plans to solicit investment of nearly VND16.4 trillion (US$713 million) in 19 projects at conference in its capital, My Tho, on August 9.

The projects range from industrial park infrastructure, industrial zones, high-tech agriculture, processing industries, and tourism.

Speaking at a news briefing onJuly 27 Le Van  Huong, chairman of the province People’s Committee, said a key focus of the promotion would be feasibility.

“The number of projects … might be quite modest, but we want to select only projects that are feasible. We want to make sure that at least 90 per cent of the projects on the list are successful, and some can be started immediately after the conference.”

Tran Thanh Duc, deputy chairman of the province People’s Committee, said one of the biggest strengths of the province is manpower.

“Enterprises which have invested in the province have given very good feedback about our workforce. The people here are very hardworking, disciplined and quick to acquire new knowledge and skills.”

He said some companies in neighbouring provinces, especially in the textile and garment and leather footwear sectors, hire people from Tien Giang to work as team leaders.

Another advantage for the province in attracting investors is its location just 60km from HCM City, he said.

Thanks to this geographical advantage and 32km coast, the province exports even more than Can Tho City, he said. The city is the delta’s economic powerhouse.

The province’s exports were worth $1.27 billion in the first half of this year.

Duc said the province has released a booklet listing the proposed investment projects with details of tax breaks and land lease incentives for investors.

At the conference the province will also issue in-principle investment approvals to 22 projects and grant approval for feasibility studies for nine others involving total investments of VND15.65 trillion ($680 million).

An exhibition on the province’s socio-economic achievements and key local products will also be held from August 7 to 10 on the sidelines of the conference.

According to its Department of Planning and Investment, Tien Giang is one of the fastest growing provinces in the delta with annual growth of 8 per cent.

Last year the province saw 640 new businesses being established.—VNS