The Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang has granted investment certificates to 20 new projects looking to develop Phu Quoc Island in 2014, raising the total number in the area to 194.

The authorities of Phu Quoc island district have introduced many policies to solve difficulties facing investors and enterprises operating in the locality.

Phu Quoc has proposed that the Prime Minister establish a Phu Quoc Economic Zone and issue clear guidelines for the development of the island.

Accordingly, investors running projects on the island will receive the highest support for industrial parks, export processing zones and economic zones.

During the 2014-2015 period, investment will be poured into building the transport system on the island, including a major axis connecting the northern and southern sections with roads around the island, in addition to an airport and a seaport. There are also to be a number of projects on socio-economic development, health care, education and the urban environment.

Investors in and outside the country are also being encouraged to inject money into building waste and sewage treatment systems, high-quality hospitals, and training centres for the trade and tourism sectors.

Work to protect the environment and deal with climate change and rising sea levels in connection with tourism development will be promoted during the period.

Kien Giang province’s authorities will also focus on amending, adjusting and completing plans to strictly manage land resources suitable with its socio-economic development plans.

Phu Quoc Island posts an annual economic growth rate of over 24.5 percent, a 5.2-fold increase from 2004 when the Prime Minister approved its overall development plan. Its per capita income in 2013 is estimated to reach 70.3 million VND (3,500 USD).-VNA