HCMC TO INVEST VND1.6 TRILLION IN CAN GIO ECOTOURISM

Can Gio mangrove forest was recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2000 - PHOTO: VNA

HCMC – The HCMC People’s Committee has approved a VND1.6-trillion plan to develop ecotourism, resort tourism, and entertainment services in the Can Gio protected forest.

The project, which covers 34,800 hectares, of which 93.31% is forested, is intended to promote sustainable tourism and preserve the local ecosystem. Under the plan, development activities must comply with regulations in line with national and sectoral planning as well as the city’s socio-economic development goals.

The project is expected to attract 400,000-500,000 visitors annually by 2030, with an average growth rate of 12-15% per year. Annual tourism revenue is projected at VND300-600 billion.

The plan outlines four ecotourism routes, including the Dan Xay – Vam Sat route (11.47 km), a route connecting Dan Xay with Binh Khanh and Thanh An mangrove forests (20.4 km), the Dan Xay – Thieng Lieng route (9.75 km), and an inter-regional route of nearly 11.8 km. These routes will mainly utilize existing forest trails, patrol roads, inland waterways, and local transport infrastructure.

In addition, the project will develop seven ecotourism and entertainment sites in Binh Khanh, An Thoi Dong, Thanh An, and Can Gio communes, with a maximum construction height of 18 meters to ensure harmony with the mangrove landscape.

Can Gio is known as the “green lung” of HCMC, featuring a mangrove ecosystem recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. The area is also home to a whale worship festival, a national intangible cultural heritage.

All construction must follow sustainable development principles to minimize environmental impact. Thanks to major projects such as the Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio, Can Gio will transform into an international tourism destination that balances high-end resort development with nature conservation.

The plan also highlights benefits for local communities through the development of community-based tourism, services, and sustainable livelihoods. With improved infrastructure and expanded cultural activities, Can Gio is positioning itself as an emerging tourist destination of HCMC.

Source: The Saigon Times