Government submits NA proposal on establishment of Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh cities

On August 6, Nguyen Tien Hai, Minister of Home Affairs, submitted a proposal to establish Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh cities to the National Assembly (NA). Minister Hai confirmed that the plan adheres to the political and legal requirements outlined in relevant regulations. The proposal is grounded in Resolution 17-NQ/TW, adopted on July 24, 2026, and Politburo conclusions in Conclusion 20-KL/TW and Conclusion 52-KL/TW, both of which endorse the creation of these cities for consideration by the 16th National Assembly at its first extraordinary session.

The establishment aligns with several regional master plans and urban development plans for Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh. Recent trends indicate that Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh provinces are crucial for economic growth in the country, with both provinces utilizing their strengths to become top regional economies. The government's proposal outlines that Quang Ninh City would be formed from the existing natural area, population, and administrative units of Quang Ninh Province, covering 6,231.27 square kilometers, housing 1,523,400 residents, and comprising 54 commune-level units, including 30 wards, 22 communes, and two special zones.

In contrast, Bac Ninh City would be established from the current area, population, and administrative units of Bac Ninh Province, spanning 4,713.75 square kilometers, accommodating 3,989,623 inhabitants, and consisting of 99 commune-level units, including 45 wards and 54 communes. The National Assembly's Committee for Legal and Judicial Affairs endorsed the necessity of creating these cities, with Chairman Phan Chi Hieu affirming the committee's support.

The committee confirmed that the proposed areas for the cities satisfy all seven legal criteria and five required conditions. The committee recommended approval of the resolutions for Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh cities by the National Assembly and urged the provinces to focus on developing these new cities as economic growth hubs following their establishment.

The committee emphasized the importance of optimizing administrative structures under the urban government model to ensure efficiency and effective service delivery, alongside promoting comprehensive cultural and social development and improved living standards for residents. The committee also endorsed the proposed effective dates for the resolutions, with Quang Ninh City's new status set to commence on September 1, 2026, and Bac Ninh City's on September 20, 2026.