Can Tho

Can Tho is the fourth-largest city in Vietnam and the largest city in the Mekong Delta region. Located on the south bank of the Hậu River, a distributary of the Mekong River, it is often nicknamed the "Western Metropolis" (Tây Đô) due to its significant role in the region [1]. The city is celebrated for its unique riverine culture, characterized by bustling floating markets, traditional craft villages, and a picturesque network of rural canals [1, 2].

Historically, the area of Can Tho has been an important hub in the Mekong Delta. Its strategic location made it a vital trading post, attracting farmers and merchants from across the delta. Over 120 years of development have cemented Can Tho's status as a leading center for economics, culture, science, and technology in the region [2].

• Can Tho's estimated population for 2025 is 2,007,500 people [3].
• The city spans a total area of approximately 1,438.96 km² [4].
• Can Tho operates under the Indochina Time (ICT) zone, with a UTC offset of +07:00 hours [5].
• It is located approximately 169 kilometers (105 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City [1].
• The city is known for its tropical wet and dry climate (Aw), featuring distinct rainy (May to November) and dry (December to April) seasons [1].
• The Mekong Delta, where Can Tho is situated, contributes over 50% of Vietnam's national rice production [2].
• Can Tho is home to Can Tho University, a key educational institution in the Mekong Delta [1].
• The Can Tho Bridge, connecting the city with Vinh Long province, is the longest cable-stayed bridge in Southeast Asia [1].

Can Tho is an independent municipality, holding the same administrative level as other provinces in Vietnam [1]. It was established as a centrally-governed city in early 2004, following the division of the former Can Tho Province into Can Tho City and Hau Giang Province [1]. The city's governance is overseen by the Can Tho People's Council [1].

The city's administrative divisions include five urban districts (Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, Binh Thuy, O Mon, and Thot Not) and four rural districts (Phong Dien, Co Do, Thoi Lai, and Vinh Thanh). Ninh Kieu, known for its port, serves as the central, most populated, and wealthiest district [1]. Can Tho borders several provinces, including An Giang, Vinh Long, Ca Mau, and Dong Thap [1].

Can Tho is recognized as the economic engine and a vital commercial center for the Mekong Delta region. Its economy in 2018 was largely driven by services (59% of Gross Regional Domestic Product - GRDP), followed by industry and construction (33%), and agriculture/fisheries (8%) [6]. The city aims to evolve into a hub for tourism, trade, goods distribution, and high-tech urban agriculture [6].

The region is Vietnam's most productive area for agriculture and aquaculture, contributing significantly to the national output of rice and fish. While not heavily industrialized, Can Tho holds the third position among Vietnam's seven regions in industrial gross output [7]. Industrial activities are concentrated in Can Tho itself, along with Long An and Ca Mau provinces, with Can Tho serving as the region's economic focal point [7]. The city has a large freshwater port and two industrial parks, further solidifying its economic importance [1].

Can Tho boasts a developing business environment, particularly in agriculture and related industries, due to its strategic position as a central economic hub in the Mekong Delta. The city actively seeks to promote a diverse economy and attract investment, with a focus on high-tech agricultural processing and distribution [6, 7].

Efforts are underway to enhance the business landscape, including the development of resilient infrastructure to support economic growth [6]. The presence of Can Tho University also provides a valuable human resource base, particularly in fields related to agriculture and technology, which can benefit businesses operating in the region [1]. The city's official website serves as a portal for information and administrative services for businesses and residents alike [8].

Can Tho's infrastructure is crucial for its role as the Mekong Delta's economic and transportation hub. The city is well-connected nationally via National Route 1A and boasts Can Tho International Airport, which facilitates both domestic and international travel [1]. A significant infrastructural achievement is the Can Tho Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge over the Hau River, which is the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia and significantly improved connectivity between Vinh Long province and Can Tho City, replacing a previous ferry system [1, 7].

The city's urban planning emphasizes integrated and sustainable development, leveraging its natural terrain and preserving existing waterways. New lakes, ponds, and canals are also being created to enhance drainage and urban aesthetics [6]. Public transportation options within the city include taxis, motorbikes (Grab), buses, vans, and coaches. For inter-city travel, hydrofoil express boats link Can Tho with Ho Chi Minh City [1].

Can Tho is advancing as a center for science and technology within the Mekong Delta, a key aspect of its development strategy. The city strives to promote high-tech, large-scale agriculture, integrating technological advancements into its primary economic sector [6]. Can Tho University serves as a significant educational and research institution, contributing to human resource development in fields such as agriculture, medicine, and technology [1, 7].

The city's focus on technological innovation is also evident in its efforts towards sustainable development. For instance, the Climate Action Plan, approved by the City People's Committee, includes initiatives for low-carbon and climate-resilient agroindustry supply chains, demonstrating a commitment to applying technology for environmental and economic benefits [6]. The local media, including Vietnam Television, also plays a role in disseminating information and supporting local development, including technological advancements [1].