In furtherance of the national sea strategy up to 2020, the Prime Minister on April 28 issued Decision No. 568/QD-TTg to approve a master plan on Vietnam’s island economy development, setting forth sustainable economic growth targets for islands and coastal areas nationwide.
During 2010-20, island economy in general and island tourism in particular are set to grow 14-15% and 20% annually, and expected to contribute 0.5% to the gross domestic product.
Offshore islands will be built into defense strongholds to guard national sovereignty. Navy, airforce, borderguard, coastal guard and military zones on offshore islands will be reinforced with modern equipment to stand ready for combat in all circumstances.
For islands with favorable natural conditions, infrastructure will be built for marine economy development and international economic exchange. Big island ports wil be upgraded to accommodate ships of around 1,000 tons.
Such tourist attractions as Con Dao, Phu Quoc and Van Don islands will have modern passenger ship landings. By 2020, each island district will have at least 1-2 secondary schools, and about half of general schools there will attain national standards.-