On the sidelines of the forum, there will be an exhibition displaying products of local businesses, slated for October 17, and a business matching programme between Vietnamese and foreign firms on October 19.

Held by the municipal People’s Committee, the annual forum aims to consult domestic and foreign experts about the city’s socio-economic development, as well as its key projects, targets and programmes, said Chu Tien Dung, Chairman of the HCM City Business Association.

During the 2019 forum, municipal leaders, experts and representatives of financial and investment organisations at home and abroad will look into the situation, prospects, opportunities and challenges facing the city in resource attraction and financial service development.

Besides, the delegates will discuss international experience in the field, the ecosystem for the sustainable development of an international financial centre, national policies and the role of municipal authorities in this regard, he said.

Dr. Vu Thanh Tu Anh, Dean of Fullbright School for Public Policy and Management, highlighted HCM City’s strategic position in the southern key economic zone, and its significant contributions to the national economy.

HCM City’s objective is not only to maintain its leading position nationwide but also to narrow the development gap between it and other cities in Southeast Asia and Asia at large.

Anh, however, pointed out that HCM City is facing direct competitions with many other major urban areas in the region, and suggested the city seek breakthrough solutions to attract the attention of financial investors, while building strategies and orientations in financial service development in order to meet demands of both investors and businesses. 

Source: VNA