On May 3, 2025, during a working session in Con Dao, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the strategic importance of developing Con Dao into a special administrative-economic zone. A key component of this vision is the construction of an international-standard airport with a 3,800-meter runway, aimed at addressing current infrastructure bottlenecks and promoting economic growth.
The Prime Minister instructed the Ba Ria-Vung Tau provincial authorities to spearhead the project, seeking investments through public-private partnerships. He also highlighted the necessity of integrating this development with other infrastructure projects, such as the Ho Tram–Long Thanh expressway, to ensure comprehensive connectivity.
This initiative is part of a broader plan to transform Con Dao into a modern, sustainable, and internationally recognized destination, balancing economic development with environmental conservation and historical preservation.
🔧 Infrastructure Solutions and Airport Development
Regarding infrastructure solutions, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to resolve critical bottlenecks—especially in air transportation. He assigned the Ba Ria–Vung Tau provincial government as the authorized body to seek public-private partnership investors for the planning and construction of an international airport in Con Dao.
For the airport expansion, the Prime Minister made it clear: land reclamation from the sea will not be permitted. Instead, the runway will be extended to 3,800 meters using cement and steel-based construction methods over existing land.
📈 Local Socioeconomic Progress in Con Dao
In his report to the Prime Minister, Mr. Nguyen Van Tho, Chairman of the Ba Ria–Vung Tau People’s Committee, stated that Con Dao has made notable socioeconomic progress in recent years.
The local government has heavily invested in infrastructure to improve public services and support the island’s tourism sector, which is considered the district’s economic spearhead—while also preserving its historical landmarks.
In addition, Con Dao was officially recognized by the Prime Minister as meeting new rural development standards in the past year.
Several key projects are progressing on schedule, including the national grid electricity supply project for Con Dao, which began construction in November 2024 and is planned for technical activation on September 2, 2025.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh spoke at the ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Con Dao.
