On August 10, 2026, the Hai Phong People's Committee held a meeting with a central inter-sectoral delegation to evaluate a proposal for classifying certain localities as special administrative units. The proposal includes Cat Hai Special Economic Zone, Hai An Ward, and Dong Hai Ward, all of which are considered vital for the city's economic and security strategies.

The classification of special administrative units is intended for localities with unique geographical positions, large populations, and rapidly developing urban and industrial infrastructure. This classification aims to accurately reflect their status and provide a legal basis for the city to enhance decentralization and empower local authorities to manage resources effectively.

According to the report from the Department of Home Affairs, the selected localities play crucial roles in the city's development chain. The Cat Hai Special Economic Zone covers an area of 298.45 km² with a population of approximately 85,340. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site and the international Lach Huyen port, making it strategically important for national defense and security. Hai An Ward has an area of 22.23 km² and a population of 116,329, featuring Cat Bi International Airport and connections across five transportation modes. Dong Hai Ward spans 53.16 km² with a population of 108,560, serving as a hub for industrial infrastructure, ports, and logistics.

All three proposed localities meet the legal standards for classification. During the meeting, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Truong Hai Long emphasized that the selection of these areas aligns with the city's comprehensive urban, port, logistics, and marine economic development plans. He urged the Local Government Department to work closely with the Hai Phong Department of Home Affairs to finalize the documentation and present it for approval to the Minister of Home Affairs.

Vice Chairman of the Hai Phong People's Committee, Nguyen Minh Hung, instructed the Department of Home Affairs to collaborate with relevant departments and the three localities to address all feedback from the inter-sectoral delegation and complete the necessary documentation promptly.