The People’s Committee of Thanh Hoa and the Ministry of Planning and Investment on Wednesday held a forum to promote investment in the Nghi Son Economic Zone (EZ) and surrounding areas.

Deputy PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc emphasized the role of the Nghi Son EZ as a driving force for economic growth in Thanh Hoa and its surrounding areas.  

So far, the EZ has attracted 65 projects which valued at US$ 16.8 billion especially the over US$ 9 billion Nghi Son refinery.  

The locality was asked to effectively tap its potentials and advantages to lure more investment; improve human resources; apply modern science-technology; speed up the administrative reform; facilitate investment; protect the environment and ensure social welfare.

The Government leader also urged Thanh Hoa to boost trade linkages with Lao border provinces and successfully realize policies to lure more investment to border-gate economic zones.

According to Thanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee Chairman Trinh Van Chien, the province is located in an area which connects other localities with Laos and feature the three advantageous terrains - midland, delta and coastal area, 

The province posted a GDP growth rate of 11.2% in 2011-2013. Of its  over 3.4 million population, 2.1 million are in the working age and 46% of them are trained.