History And Development Of Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone And Contributing To Vietnam's Economic Development

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In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, where the pulse of Vietnam’s economic miracle beats strongest, the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone (“TTZ”) stands as a testament to three decades of visionary progress and relentless aspiration. This is not just a story of infrastructure and investment; it is a narrative woven with the dreams and ambitions of a nation emerging from the shadows of the past into the radiant promise of a new era.

 

Tan Thuan is where opportunity meets determination, where the confluence of international collaboration and local ingenuity has created a dynamic crucible for growth and development. It is a beacon of Vietnam's transformation, reflecting the country's journey from uncertainty to an inspiring future brimming with potential and contributing significantly to the economic development in Vietnam.

Here, every milestone is a chapter in a saga of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to economic excellence. As we delve into the history and achievements of Tan Thuan, we celebrate not just the zone’s contribution to Vietnam's economy, but also its role in shaping a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come, further enhancing the economic development in Vietnam.

 

Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone: A Three-Decade Legacy of Innovation and Growth

In 1991, the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone, under the joint venture between the Industrial Promotion Company (IPC), Vietnam Government Own Stated Company and Phu My Hung Holdings Group, formerly known as CT&D Group from Taiwan.

The Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone was the first export processing zone and industrial park project in Vietnam. It not only created employment opportunities for workers and attracted foreign currency but also significantly paved the way for foreign cooperation and investment policies. This project also opened the door for the development of the Nha Be area, as within the investment license for the export processing zone, we had designed a road connecting the eastern and western parts of the southern city area. 

 

Tan Thuan History

 

This road is Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard, a 17.8 km long route with a width of 120 meters, crossing through swampland, connecting the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone (north Nha Be) to National Highway 1A (south Binh Chanh). Construction of Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard began in 1996 and was completed in 2007. It has become a vital traffic artery of Ho Chi Minh City, linking key economic regions between the Southeast and Southwest, and serving as the backbone for the development of the southern city area.

 

Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone is divided into four functional areas: Export Processing Zone, Industrial Zone, Commercial Zone, and E-Office Park. This allows TTZ to adapt and provide flexible and suitable products and services to valued customers. Currently, TTZ has prepared nearly 50,000 square meters of office space, factories, and warehouses for enterprises to rent and set up their businesses quickly, saving time and costs.

 

With the advantage of being located in the center of neighboring cities and having complete infrastructure along with public utilities of Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone, Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone will become an ideal destination for investors in High Technology, Software, Research and Development, and High Value-Added business sectors, which goes along with our new calling investment direction.

 

Investment Overview of Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone

  • Total Investors: There are 254 investors from 22 different countries (as of 31 May 2024) involved in the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone. This indicates a diverse range of international interest and participation in the zone's activities.
  • Total Investment Capital: The total investment capital injected into the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone amounts to USD 2.403 billion (as of 31 May 2024). This substantial investment signifies confidence in the zone's potential and its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment.
  •  Area: The total area of the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone spans 300 hectares.

Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone (TTZ) Overview

Overall, the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone presents a compelling investment opportunity with its significant international investor presence, substantial investment capital, and expansive leased area, making it a key player in Vietnam's industrial and economic landscape.

 

Classifying investors by country and region

 (as of 31 May 2024)

Nation

Apartment Number Invested

Japan

64

Taiwan

44

Korea

12

Hong Kong

12

Vietnam

73

Singapore

11

Belgium

1

Seychelles

1

America

9

Malaysia

3

Germany

2

Brunei

2

Spain

1

British Virgin Islands

3

France

1

Italy

2

China

2

Denmark

1

Australia

1

Israel

1

Thailand

2

 

Key Milestones

. September 1991: Tan Thuan Corporation ("TTC") receives an investment license to establish the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone.

. February 1992: The groundbreaking ceremony for Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone takes place, marking the establishment of the first export processing zone in Vietnam.

. March 1993: The first company within the Export Processing Zone is granted an investment license.

. May 1996: TTC becomes an official member of the World Export Processing Zones Association (WEPZA).

. February 1997: TTC is honored as the first foreign-invested enterprise to receive Prime Minister's Commendation No. 001.

. May 1998: TTC is honored with the Third-Class Labor Medal by the President.

. September 1999: The UK magazine "Corporate Location" voted Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone as the most attractive export processing zone and industrial park in the Asia-Pacific region.

. November 1999: TTC is awarded ISO 9002 certification.

. August 2001: TTC is awarded ISO 9001-2000 certification.

. September 2001: TTC is awarded the Second-Class Labor Medal.

. January 2006: TTC is awarded the First-Class Labor Medal.

. August 2009: TTC is awarded the "Vietnam Golden FDI-2009" title.

. January 2010: HEPZA certifies the master plan of the E-Office Park (Software Technology Park).

. April 2011: TTC is awarded the Third-Class Independence Medal.

. February 2012: TTC is commended by the Ministry of Planning and Investment.

. February 2012: TTC is commended by the Prime Minister.

. 2014 - 2016: TTC receives commendations from the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee.

. September 2016: TTC receives the traditional flag from the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee.

. October 2018: TTC receives commendation from the Prime Minister for "Achievements in Foreign Investment Activities in Vietnam in 30 years".

. January 2020: TTC receives commendation from the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee for "Recognizing the title of outstanding labor collective in 2019".

. November 2023: TTC receives Recognition for meeting the criteria of "For National Green Environment 2023".

Awards

  • ISO 9002
  • Third-class Labor Medal
  • First-class Labor Medal
  • Certificate of Commendation for TTC's Contribution
  • Certificate for Most Attractive Industrial Park by Euromoney's Corporate Location for National Green Environment 2023

Conclusion

In summary, the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone has been a vital contributor to Vietnam's economic development since its establishment in 1991. With over 254 investors from 22 countries (as of 31 May 2024) and a total investment capital of USD 2.403 billion (as of 31 May 2024), TTZ has created a dynamic environment for international trade and investment. Its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and favorable investment climate have made it an attractive destination for businesses seeking opportunities in Vietnam. Through generating employment, facilitating technology transfer, and promoting exports, TTZ has significantly contributed to Vietnam's GDP growth and socio-economic progress.

Tan Thuan Epz Overview

With its extensive experience and achieved potential, TTZ aims to serve investors by inviting new-wave investments to Tan Thuan EPZ. Moving forward, TTZ will continue to play a crucial role in driving economic development and fostering sustainable growth in Vietnam.