Phu My Ward (HCMC): Driving growth through administrative reform

Phu My Ward has made a concerted effort to strengthen dialogue between government and businesses. 

Behind these remarkable figures lies tireless effort in administrative reform (AR) — a pivotal factor in creating a transparent, streamlined, and effective business environment. Phu My Ward has not only aimed to build a modern and professional government but has also committed to being a model of dedicated public service for both citizens and businesses.

Building a Modern, Efficient Government

The success of Phu My Ward in attracting large investment projects — especially in industry, tourism, and seaports — is closely linked to significant strides in administrative reform. A series of robust measures have been implemented to minimize the administrative burden for enterprises and investors, cutting costs, saving time, and enhancing competitiveness.

One top priority has been reducing the processing time for investment, land use, and construction-related procedures. Previously major obstacles, these processes have now been significantly shortened by local authorities — often beyond central government requirements. For example, building permits and project evaluations have become notably more streamlined through standardized procedures, elimination of redundant steps, and strengthened interdepartmental coordination. This enables businesses to kick-start projects sooner, introduce products and services to the market faster, and optimize capital flows.

To realize the goal of a service-oriented government, Phu My Ward pioneered the establishment of a centralized Public Administrative Service Center. This breakthrough consolidated all administrative procedures under one roof, eliminating the need for multiple visits to different departments. Now, businesses and citizens can submit paperwork, track progress, and receive results in a single, modern and user-friendly location. The center is staffed with well-trained professionals skilled in communication and customer service.

In parallel, the "interconnected single-window" mechanism has been enhanced to ensure smooth collaboration among related departments during the processing of applications. This system prevents buck-passing and overlapping responsibilities while promoting transparency. Each application is assigned a unique tracking code, allowing users to monitor progress online.

Transparency has also been prioritized. All procedures, required documents, processing timelines, and associated fees are clearly published on the province’s online portal, at the Public Administrative Service Center, and at related agencies. This helps businesses prepare complete applications with confidence, reduces corruption risks, and builds trust among investors.

Moreover, Phu My Ward has made a concerted effort to strengthen dialogue between government and businesses. Regular forums, investment promotion conferences, and online platforms give the business community direct channels to voice challenges and propose timely solutions. Provincial leaders and relevant departments actively listen and act decisively, demonstrating their strong commitment to accompanying enterprises. This openness and initiative have built solid, trustworthy relationships between the local government and investors.

Digital Transformation in Administrative Procedures

In this digital era, Phu My Ward recognises the importance of applying information technology to administrative reform as a key pillar for greater efficiency and service quality. The ward has taken the lead in digitizing processes, offering exceptional convenience to businesses and citizens.

One highlight is the vigorous rollout of online public services at levels 3 and 4. Hundreds of procedures across various sectors are now fully accessible online, allowing users to submit applications, track processing, and receive results from home or office. This is especially valuable in today's digitized business environment, where flexibility and speed are vital. The system reduces travel time and costs and minimizes face-to-face contact, limiting negative interactions.

Supporting this online shift, Phu My Ward has invested in building a synchronized and modern electronic information infrastructure. Shared databases interlink departments and standardize data, reducing manual errors and enhancing secure, effective data sharing. Digital document management software tracks an application’s journey from submission to final result, improving transparency and oversight.

Another key development is the increased use of digital signatures and electronic authentication. Legalizing transactions via digital signatures enhances security, legality, and trust in online administrative procedures. This is crucial for high-value legal activities such as business registration, investment licensing, or land-related procedures.

Additionally, Phu My Ward has embraced popular social media platforms like Zalo Official Account to disseminate information and engage with the public. Several departments now use Zalo OA not only to issue important announcements and procedural guidance but also to receive feedback and provide prompt responses. This user-friendly channel bridges the gap between authorities and the community.

Positive Feedback from Businesses and Investors

Phu My Ward’s unrelenting drive for administrative reform has earned high praise and positive feedback from both domestic and foreign businesses and investors — the clearest proof of its policy effectiveness.

Many companies express strong satisfaction with the speedy and convenient procedures. Mr. Nguyen Vu, General Director of Vu Son Energy Investment JSC, shared:

"Previously, it could take months or even a year to complete land and construction procedures. But thanks to streamlined processes and the support of the Public Service Center, timelines have been significantly shortened, saving us billions of dong in opportunity costs and helping us launch operations earlier."

In addition to faster service, the professional and dedicated attitude of civil servants has also received accolades. Ms. Nguyen Thi Lien, representing Thai Duong Trading, Tourism, and Services Investment JSC, remarked:

"I feel very comfortable working with provincial departments. Officials are not only competent but also friendly, always ready to help and guide us clearly. The shift from a ‘management’ mindset to a ‘service’ mindset is very noticeable."

Transparent regulations and procedures are another key reason businesses trust Phu My Ward. Investors appreciate that all information is publicly available, helping them prepare thoroughly and comply with laws without worrying about hidden fees or vague rules. This fosters a fair, healthy investment environment.

Notably, the efficiency of online public services has been especially praised by remote investors and large-scale businesses managing many procedures. Mr. Vu Dinh The, a construction investor from Hai Phong, stated:

"Being able to submit applications, track progress, and even receive results online saves us significant time and travel costs. The system is stable and user-friendly, demonstrating the province’s serious investment in technology."

These positive responses are not just compliments but powerful motivation for Phu My Ward to continue improving the quality of administrative reform. They confirm that reforms here have reached substantial depth, bringing tangible benefits to people and businesses alike. This not only reinforces Phu My Ward’s position as a top destination for investment but also contributes to building an increasingly livable and efficient environment.

The outstanding achievements in administrative reform have become a driving force for the socio-economic development of Phu My Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Ba Ria – Vung Tau province). With a government that is increasingly modern, effective, and citizen- and business-centered, Phu My Ward is confidently progressing toward higher and more sustainable development goals.