HANOI CITY WANTS NIGHTTIME ECONOMY TO CONTRIBUTE 5% TO GRDP BY 2030

Visitors and local residents inspect lanterns and Mid-Autumn Festival decorations at a night market - PHOTO: NGOC LUONG

HCMC – Hanoi City aims for its nighttime economy to contribute around 5% of the city’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) by 2030 under a new development plan approved by the municipal government.

The Hanoi People’s Committee approved the plan for 2026-2030, with a vision to 2045, on May 9. The city expects the nighttime economy to become a new growth driver for its service and tourism sectors.

The plan covers economic activities operating from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Authorities aim to expand services by leveraging Hanoi’s cultural, heritage, tourism and creative industry assets while maintaining urban order, public security and residents’ quality of life.

Hanoi expects to receive 35 million to 40 million visitors in 2026. International arrivals are projected to rise further as tourism recovers and more night-time tourism products are introduced, according to the plan.

The city targets night-time spending by tourists at 25% to 30% of total visitor spending by 2030. Average stays are expected to increase to between 2.5 and 3.5 days.

Authorities plan to establish three to five key nighttime economy zones. These include a cultural and heritage area in Hoan Kiem and Cua Nam, an entertainment area in Tay Ho, and a creative and industrial zone in Gia Lam.

The city also plans to develop three to five signature night events and products. Night cultural tourism offerings are expected to be introduced at all nationally recognized special heritage sites in Hanoi.

The plan identifies culture, tourism and creative industries as the foundation of the nighttime economy. Hanoi also intends to apply digital technology and smart-city management systems to oversee night-time activities.

Authorities are studying the deployment of AI-powered cameras and real-time sensors to improve security, fire prevention and crowd management at busy locations.

The city plans to build a digital ecosystem for the nighttime economy, including databases, digital maps and integrated management systems linking authorities, businesses and residents. Digital payments, e-commerce and multi-platform business models will also be promoted.

Hanoi currently has 11 night tours and nine pedestrian streets. Existing nighttime economy activities include heritage tours, art performances, walking streets and late-night food spaces.

Source: The Saigon Times