Many localities in Vietnam have recommended continuing the merging of administrative units at the commune level to align with economic and social development needs. Notably, Hai Phong is among the regions advocating for this initiative, emphasizing the necessity to expand development space following a year of operating a two-tier local government system.

In a report summarizing the first year of this governance model, the Hai Phong Municipal Party Committee urged the central government to consider broader arrangements for merging administrative units, particularly those that do not meet specified criteria regarding land area and population size. This approach aims to enhance regional connectivity and resource concentration for local development.

Similarly, leaders from Hai Chau Ward in Da Nang presented their recommendations during a recent conference, suggesting the central government explore adjustments to the boundaries of smaller communes and wards. This would facilitate infrastructure planning and improve public service delivery.

In Dong Nai, the Provincial Party Secretary pointed out significant disparities in population size and urbanization levels among different communes. He highlighted the necessity for regular assessments to propose adjustments that reflect the unique characteristics and development conditions of each locality.

Moreover, the Thanh Hoa Provincial Party Committee has also requested the central government to consider further merging administrative units to create more efficient governance structures and optimize budget expenditures. They noted that the current arrangement of 166 communes and wards does not adequately address existing administrative boundary challenges.

As of now, there are still 705 administrative units at the commune level that do not meet the required standards. The central authorities are currently reviewing these units to ensure that any restructuring aligns with cultural, historical, and geographical considerations.

The government aims to finalize these adjustments by 2026, following the guidelines set by the Politburo.