Hanoi, Oct. 23 -- The new metropolis formed from the merger of Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau is projected to generate a Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of 2.97 quadrillion VND (120.8 billion USD) in 2025, eyeing to become a regional powerhouse with global influence.

Yet, structural bottlenecks threaten its ability to lure foreign investors, multinational corporations, and major financial groups.

A regional powerhouse takes shape

The merger unites three complementary economic engines, described by experts as the "three legs of a tripod" forming a dynamic, self-sustaining urban ecosystem.

Ho Chi Minh City anchors the region as a financial and commercial hub, hosting major banks, securities firms, insurance com...