"In all activities of the business community today, the need to resolve administrative procedures remains a problem affecting business operations," said Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Business Association (HUBA).

Mr. Hoa made this statement during a meeting on March 6 between the Standing Board of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee and representatives of domestic and foreign businesses operating in the southern city.

The meeting was held to gather opinions, address obstacles, and identify solutions to stimulate economic development.

"Ho Chi Minh City is the 'locomotive.' We cannot continue with the old mindset but must adopt a serving mindset, viewing businesses as resources and drivers for development. The government should act as a midwife—supporting, assisting, guiding, and creating a level playing field," emphasized Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc, Chairman of the city People's Committee.

Representing the business community, HUBA proposed that the city prioritize improving administrative procedures. HUBA also expressed the desire for dedicated working sessions with various departments and agencies of the city to collaboratively identify and address obstacles, determining which procedures need to be simplified or eliminated.

The HUBA Chairman further recommended that Ho Chi Minh City activate new resources by integrating technology into development to drive economic breakthroughs.

He called for breakthrough policies to attract investment and encourage businesses to adopt and invest in technology. Additionally, he emphasized the need for flexible mechanisms allowing businesses to lease or transfer technology applications. 

From the perspective of foreign businesses, Mr. Travis Mitchell, Executive Director, AmCham Vietnam HCMC, highlighted the need to focus on infrastructure development.

According to him, many businesses have financial potential and are very interested in the City's market, but they are hesitant to invest in due to concerns about transport infrastructure, seaports, airports, and administrative issues.

He also urged the city to establish a clear and efficient communication channel to promptly address difficulties facing businesses during the investment process, fostering a more attractive environment for foreign investment.